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UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

-

FORM 20-F

-

(Mark One)

¨      REGISTRATION STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OR(g) OF THE

SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

OR

x      ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE

SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2013

OR

¨       TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE

SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from                      to                     

OR

¨      SHELL COMPANY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE

SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

Commission file number 1-10882

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Aegon N.V.

(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

-

Not Applicable

(Translation of Registrant’s name into English)

The Netherlands

(Jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)

Aegonplein 50, PO Box 85, 2501 CB The Hague, The Netherlands

(Address of principal executive offices)

J.H.P.M. van Rossum

Senior Vice President and Corporate Controller

Aegon N.V.

Aegonplein 50, 2501 CB The Hague, The Netherlands

+31-70-3448334

Jurgen_vanRossum@aegon.com

(Name, Telephone, E-mail and/or Facsimile number and Address of Company Contact Person)

Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act.

 

Title of each class   Name of each exchange on which registered
Common shares, par value EUR 0.12 per share   New York Stock Exchange

Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act.

Not applicable

(Title of Class)

Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act.

Not applicable

(Title of Class)

Indicate the number of outstanding shares of each of the issuer’s classes of capital or common stock as of the close of the period covered by the annual report: 1,909,654,051 common shares

Indicate by check mark if the Registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act

x Yes  No ¨

If this report is an annual or transition report, indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.  ¨  Yes  No  x

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 requirement for the past 90 days. x Yes  No ¨

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

x Large accelerated filer   ¨ Accelerated filer   ¨ Non-accelerated filer

Indicate by checkmark which basis of accounting the registrant has used to prepare the financial statements included in this filing

¨ U.S. GAAP x International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board   ¨ Other

If “other” has been checked in response to the previous question, indicate by check mark which financial statement item the registrant has elected to follow.

¨ Item 17   ¨ Item 18

If this is an annual report, indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). ¨ Yes  No x


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I  

 

Cross reference table Form 20-F

 

 

 

Item 1

 

 

Identity of Directors, Senior Management and Advisers

 

 

n/a  

 

 

 

Item 2

 

 

 

Offer Statistics and Expected Timetable

 

 

n/a  

 

 

 

Item 3

 

 

Key Information

 

3A

  Selected financial data   13-15  

3B

  Capitalization and indebtedness   n/a  

3C

  Reasons for the offer and use of proceeds   n/a  

3D

  Risk factors   85-87; 157-202; 319-334  

 

 

Item 4

 

 

Information on the Company

 

4A

  History and development of the company   12; 16-84; 279  

4B

  Business overview   16; 31-42; 47-52; 57-61; 68-84  

4C

  Organizational structure   12  

4D

 

Property, plants and equipment

 

  335  

 

Item 4A

 

Unresolved Staff Comments

 

  n/a  

 

Item 5

 

 

Operating and Financial Review and Prospects

 

5A

  Operating results   17-30; 43-46; 53-56; 62-67; 157-202; 263-267  

5B

  Liquidity and capital resources   88-91; 239-241; 268-269  

5C

  Research and development, patent and licenses etc.   n/a  

5D

  Trend information   8-10  

5E

  Off-balance sheet arrangements   271-275  

5F

  Tabular disclosure of contractual obligations   199-201; 271-277  

5G

  Safe harbor   n/a  

 

Item 6

 

 

Directors, Senior Management and Employees

 

6A

  Directors and senior management   6-7; 99-100  

6B

  Compensation   101-107; 215-217; 283-287  

6C

  Board practices   6-7; 93-100; 108-111  

6D

  Employees   335  

6E

  Share ownership   109-111; 282-287  

 

Item 7

 

 

Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions

 

7A

  Major shareholders   307-309  

7B

  Related party transactions   282-287  

7C

  Interest of experts and counsel   n/a  

 

Item 8

 

 

Financial Information

 

8A

  Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information   122-128; 310-315  

8B

  Significant Changes   n/a  

 

Item 9

 

 

The Offer and Listing

 

9A

  Offer and listing details   337  

9B

  Plan of distribution   n/a  

9C

  Markets   337  

9D

  Selling shareholders   n/a  

9E

  Dilution   n/a  

9F

  Expenses of the issue   n/a  

 

 

  Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013   LOGO  


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  II

 

 

Item 10

 

Additional Information

 

 

10A

 

Share capital

 

  n/a  

10B

 

Memorandum and articles of association

 

  338-339  

10C

 

Material contracts

 

  340  

10D

 

Exchange controls

 

  340  

10E

 

Taxation

 

  340-346  

10F

 

Dividends and paying agents

 

  n/a  

10G

 

Statement by experts

 

  n/a  

10H

 

Documents on display

 

  350  

10I

 

Subsidiary Information

 

  n/a  

 

Item 11

 

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

  87; 174-202  

 

Item 12

 

Description of Securities Other than Equity Securities

 

  n/a  

 

Item 13

 

Defaults, Dividend Arrearages and Delinquencies

 

  n/a  

 

Item 14

 

Material Modifications to the Rights of Security Holders and Use of Proceeds

 

  n/a  

 

Item 15

 

Controls and Procedures

 

  114-115  

 

16A

 

Audit committee financial expert

 

  96  

16B

 

Code of Ethics

 

  113  

16C

 

Principal Accountant Fees and Services

 

  346-347  

16D

 

Exemptions from the Listing Standards for Audit Committees

 

  n/a  

16E

 

Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers

 

  348  

16F

 

Change in Registrant’s Certifying Accountant

 

  348  

16G

 

Corporate Governance

 

  108-111  

16H

 

Mine Safety Disclosure

 

  n/a  

 

17  

Financial Statements

 

  n/a  

 

18  

Financial Statements

 

  122-288  

 

19  

Exhibits

 

  359  

 

 

  Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013   LOGO  


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1

 

Table of contents

 

Strategic information

  
Introduction      3   
Letter of the CEO      4   

Composition of the Executive Board and the Management Board

     6   
Aegon’s strategy      8   

 

Business overview

  
History and development of Aegon      12   
Selected financial data      13   
Business lines      16   
Results of operations      17   

¿     worldwide

     17   

¿     Americas

     25   

¿     The Netherlands

     43   

¿     United Kingdom

     53   

¿     New Markets

     62   
Risk management      85   
Capital and liquidity management      88   
In control statement      92   

 

Governance

  
Report of the Supervisory Board      93   
Members of the Supervisory Board      99   
Remuneration Report      101   
Corporate governance      108   
Differences between Dutch and US company laws      112   
Code of ethics      113   
Controls and procedures      114   

 

Consolidated financial statements

  
Exchange rates      120   
Consolidated income statement of Aegon N.V.      122   

Consolidated statement of comprehensive income of Aegon N.V.

     123   
Consolidated statement of financial position of Aegon N.V.      124   
Consolidated statement of changes in equity of Aegon N.V.      125   
Consolidated cash flow statement of Aegon N.V.      128   
Notes to the consolidated financial statements      129   
Remuneration      282   

Financial statements of Aegon N.V.

  
Income statement of Aegon N.V.      291   
Statement of financial position of Aegon N.V.      292   
Notes to the financial statements      293   

 

Other information

  
Proposal for profit appropriation      307   
Major shareholders      307   

 

Other financial information

  
Schedule I      310   
Schedule II      311   
Schedule III      313   
Schedule IV      314   
Schedule V      315   
Auditor’s report on the Annual Report on Form 20-F      316   

 

Additional information

  
Signatures      318   
Supervision      319   
Property, plants and equipment      335   
Employees and labor relations      335   
Dividend policy      336   
The offer and listing      337   
Additional company information      338   
Memorandum and Articles of Association      338   
Material contracts      340   
Exchange controls      340   
Taxation      340   
Principal accountant fees and services      346   

Purchases of equity securities by the issuer and affiliated purchasers

     348   
Quarterly results – unaudited      349   
Documents on display      350   
Glossary      351   
Disclaimer      357   
 

 

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Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013


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Introduction

 

Filing

This document contains Aegon’s Annual Report 2013 and will also be filed as Aegon’s Annual Report on Form 20-F with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

About this report

This report serves as Aegon’s Annual Report prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards, as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IFRS), and with Part 9 of Book 2 of the Dutch Civil Code for the year ended December 31, 2013, for Aegon N.V. (the company) and its subsidiaries (collectively known as Aegon). This report presents the Consolidated Financial Statements of Aegon (pages 122-288) and the Parent Company Financial Statements of Aegon (pages 291-305).

Presentation of certain information

Aegon N.V. is referred to in this document as “Aegon”, or “the company”. Aegon N.V. together with its member companies are referred to as “Aegon Group”. For such purposes, “member companies” means, in relation to Aegon N.V., those companies that are required to be consolidated in accordance with the legislative requirements of the Netherlands relating to consolidated accounts.

References to the “NYSE” are to the New York Stock Exchange and references to the “SEC” are to the Securities and Exchange Commission. Aegon uses “EUR” and “euro” when referring to the lawful currency of the member states of the European Monetary Union; “USD”, and “US dollar” when referring to the lawful currency of the United States of America; “GBP”, “UK pound” and “pound sterling” when referring to the lawful currency of the United Kingdom; “CAD” and “Canadian dollar” when referring to the lawful currency of Canada; “PLN” when referring to the lawful currency of Poland; “CNY” when referring to the lawful currency of the People’s Republic of China; “RON” when referring to the lawful currency of Romania; “HUF” when referring to the lawful currency of Hungary; “TRY” when referring to the lawful currency of Turkey; “CZK” when referring to the lawful currency of Czech Republic and “UAH” when referring to the lawful currency of Ukraine.

Aegon prepares its consolidated financial statements in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IFRS) and with Part 9 of Book 2 of the Netherlands Civil Code for purposes of reporting with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (‘SEC’), including financial information contained in this Annual Report on Form 20-F. Aegon’s accounting policies and its use of various options under IFRS are described in note 2 to the consolidated financial statements.

Other than for SEC reporting, Aegon prepares its Annual Accounts under International Financial Reporting Standards as adopted by the European Union, including the decisions Aegon made with regard to the options available under International Financial Reporting Standards as adopted by the EU (IFRS-EU). IFRS-EU differs from IFRS in respect of certain paragraphs in IAS 39 ‘Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement’ regarding hedge accounting for portfolio hedges of interest rate risk. Under IFRS-EU, Aegon applies fair value hedge accounting for portfolio hedges of interest rate risk (fair value macro hedges) in accordance with the EU ‘carve out’ version of IAS 39. Under IFRS, hedge accounting for fair value macro hedges cannot be applied to mortgage loans and ineffectiveness arises whenever the revised estimate of the amount of cash flows in scheduled time buckets is either more or less than the original designated amount of that bucket.

This information is prepared by reversing the hedge accounting impacts that are applied under the EU ‘carve out’ version of IAS 39. Financial information under IFRS accordingly does not take account of the possibility that had Aegon applied IFRS as its primary accounting framework it might have applied alternative hedge strategies where those alternative hedge strategies could have qualified for IFRS compliant hedge accounting. These decisions could have resulted in different shareholders’ equity and net income amounts compared to those indicated in this Annual Report on Form 20-F.

A reconciliation between IFRS-EU and IFRS is included in note 2.1 to the consolidated financial statements.

 

 

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4   Strategic information Letter of the CEO

 

Letter of the CEO

In 2013 we achieved strong results across our markets and experienced increasing demand for our core products and services, as we pursue our mission of helping individuals and families take responsibility for their financial future. Over the past year, we have made significant progress in enhancing the growth prospects for our business, strengthening our financial position, and in transforming our business to create value for our many stakeholders.

 

In each of our chosen markets, profound and lasting market changes are driving increased demand for reliable financial solutions. People are living longer than at any time in history; the post-war (“baby boomer”) generation is now entering retirement with an immense pool of accumulated and still-growing assets that will need to be managed for an increasingly longer retirement; governments are continuing to withdraw from traditional means of publicly-provided pension support; and companies have considerably decreased, or ended altogether, their contributions to employee retirement plans. In many developing markets, strong economic growth is creating a sizable and growing affluent middle class that will inevitably seek the same financial protection and long-term security solutions as those in more mature economies. All of these factors provide excellent growth opportunities for our business and confirm that our products and services have never been more needed. Moreover, they provide the basis for the broad range of actions we are taking to further transform our businesses and enhance our ability to interact better and more frequently with those who depend on us.

During 2013, we expanded our reach through promising new distribution agreements in our key markets. We continued to invest in our businesses in Central & Eastern Europe, Asia and Latin America, given the strong demand for protection and savings products in these developing economies. Meanwhile, we continued to review our products and services, broadening and deepening our capabilities in order to target opportunities, and ensuring that the products we offer deliver value for both our customers and Aegon, given our long-term risk-return criteria.

In the United States, we have brought nearly all of our businesses together under the well-recognized Transamerica brand, furthering the strategic integration of our operations which began three years ago. In what continues to be the largest market in the world for life insurance and retirement products and services, we have enhanced our leadership positions with new distribution partners, and developed new digital capabilities that will allow us to better serve our current and future customers’ diverse financial needs across their life-cycle.

At the center of our strategy is our focus on getting closer to our customers through an accelerated investment in technology. The nature of many of our products necessitates professional advice and, as such, we believe the financial advisor will continue to play an essential role in our business. New digital platforms have been introduced to provide intermediaries with the tools to operate more efficiently in a rapidly changing landscape. In the United Kingdom for instance, Aegon’s new pension platform, known as Aegon Retirement Choices, is demonstrating early success. We recognize that consumers increasingly research and wish to purchase financial services products online, as they do many other products and services. Consequently, we are committed to enabling our current and future customers to interact with us in the ways they choose. In the Netherlands, we launched new digital channels aimed at specific customer segments more likely to purchase life insurance and retirement solutions through digital rather than traditional channels.

In addition to enabling our businesses to connect and engage with customers better and with greater frequency, technology also delivers the tools to create a truly distinctive and relevant customer experience. We are committed to providing greater ease of interaction with our businesses, simplifying product explanations, and empowering customers with practical online tools that will both enable them to better understand their financial needs and provide greater clarity about the products and services available to address these needs. This approach, we believe, is essential to our focus on building customer loyalty and strengthening our competitive advantage in an increasingly crowded market.

Consistent with our strict risk-return discipline, we further strengthened Aegon’s risk profile by maintaining a solid balance sheet and further improving our capital position. The strong financial performance, combined with our actions to reduce costs across our organization during 2013, enabled us to continue the momentum of recent years. Clearly, our strategic priorities have delivered their intended benefits to our customers and businesses, and to our valued shareholders who have every reason to expect an attractive and growing return on their investment.

 

 

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Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013


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Essential to our long-term success is creating an internal culture of customer-centricity, innovation and shared responsibility. Equipping our leaders with the resources they require to promote this culture is among our most important objectives. During the past year, we have introduced a number of training and development programs to enhance the professional skills and competencies of employees at all levels. Mindful of the pace of technological advances in today’s digital environment, we also recognize the need to attract talented individuals from outside our industry who are able to embrace and accelerate the changes we are implementing. Encouraging new ways of thinking and responding to the considerable opportunities we have identified is a pre-requisite of management, and key to our long-term success.

Beyond what we have done to fulfil our commitments to our customers over the past year – paying just over EUR 20 billion in claims and benefits – our businesses have also contributed financially and our employees given generously of their time and talents to make a difference in the communities in which they live and work. Aegon takes seriously its broader commitments to the communities where we operate and to society at large. In addition to maintaining sound corporate governance standards and practices, we believe this can have a positive impact on issues related to the environment, responsible investment, financial literacy, and other socially sustainable concerns. This, we believe, is as critical to our long-term business success as our disciplined risk and financial management.

My Management Board colleagues and I wish to express our gratitude to the dedicated men and women of Aegon who have contributed to our solid results and strategic progress over the past year. Through their focused and determined efforts, we have enhanced our ability to better serve our current and future customers by delivering consistently high quality products and services, while strengthening our prospects for sustainable, profitable growth going forward. We also wish to reaffirm our commitment to you, our valued shareholders, who have likewise made possible the achievements of recent years through your abiding confidence and support.

Thank you for your ongoing interest in Aegon and in all that we are doing to assist our current and future customers in planning and achieving a secure financial future. Ensuring that we continue to be in a strong position to deliver on our promises remains our most important priority.

Sincerely,

 

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Alex Wynaendts

Chairman of the Executive Board of Aegon N.V.

and Chief Executive Officer

 

 

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6   Strategic information Composition of the Executive Board and the Management Board

 

Composition of the Executive Board

and the Management Board

 

Alex Wynaendts (1960, Dutch)

Chief Executive Officer

Chairman of the Executive Board

Chairman of the Management Board

Alex Wynaendts began his career in 1984 with ABN AMRO Bank, working in Amsterdam and London in the Dutch bank’s capital markets, asset management, corporate finance and private banking operations. In 1997, Mr. Wynaendts joined Aegon as Senior Vice President for Group Business Development. Since 2003, he has been a member of Aegon’s Executive Board, overseeing the company’s international growth strategy. In April 2007, Mr. Wynaendts was named Aegon’s Chief Operating Officer. A year later, he became CEO and Chairman of Aegon’s Executive and Management Boards.

 

 

Darryl Button (1969, Canadian)

Chief Financial Officer

Member of the Executive Board

Member of the Management Board

Darryl Button began his career by Mutual Life Insurance Co. of Canada and joined Aegon in 1999 as Director of Product Development and Risk Management of Aegon USA’s Institutional Markets operation unit. He was appointed Corporate Actuary of Aegon USA in 2002, followed by CFO of Aegon Americas in 2005. Between 2008-2011, Mr. Button took on the responsibilities of Chairman and executive management of Aegon’s Canadian operations, and in 2012 he joined Aegon’s Corporate Center as Executive Vice President and Head of the Corporate Financial Center. In 2013, Mr. Button was appointed as CFO and member of the Executive Board of Aegon. He is also a member of the Management Board.

 

 

Adrian Grace (1963, British)

Member of the Management Board

Chief Executive Officer of Aegon UK

Adrian Grace started his career with Leeds Permanent Building Society in 1979, before joining Mercantile Credit in 1984. In 2001, Mr. Grace joined Sage Group PLC as Managing Director of the Small Business Division. In 2004, Barclays Insurance asked him to join them as Chief Executive. Mr. Grace joined HBOS in 2007 as Managing Director of Commercial within the Corporate Division. In 2009, he joined Aegon UK as Group Business Development Director and on April 4, 2011, he became the Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Grace has been a member of Aegon’s Management Board since February 2012. He sits on the Board of the Association of British Insurers.

 

 

Tom Grondin (1969, Canadian)

Member of the Management Board

Chief Risk Officer of Aegon N.V.

Tom Grondin was appointed Chief Risk Officer of Aegon N.V. in August 2003 and a member of Aegon’s Management Board on January 1, 2013. His current responsibilities include managing the Risk and Compliance functions. In this role, Mr. Grondin is responsible for development and oversight of Aegon’s Enterprise Risk Management framework and Aegon’s internal Economic Framework. The Economic Framework has helped guide Aegon’s risk and business strategy over the years. He joined Aegon in 2000 in one of Aegon USA’s larger operations. Mr. Grondin had overall responsibility for pricing, profitability and risk management for the business. Prior to joining Aegon, he was employed as a consultant at Tillinghast–Towers Perrin and before that as asset liability manager at Manulife Financial.

 

 

 

 

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Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013


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Marco Keim (1962, Dutch)

Member of the Management Board

Chief Executive Officer of Aegon the Netherlands

Marco Keim began his career with accountants Coopers & Lybrand/Van Dien. Mr. Keim has also worked for aircraft manufacturer Fokker Aircraft and NS Reizigers, part of the Dutch railway company, NS Group. In 1999, he joined Swiss Life in the Netherlands as a member of the Board. Three years later, Mr. Keim was appointed CEO. In June 2008, he became CEO of Aegon the Netherlands and a member of Aegon’s Management Board.

 

 

Gábor Kepecs (1954, Hungarian)

Member of the Management Board

Chief Executive Officer of Aegon Central & Eastern Europe

Gábor Kepecs began his career with the Hungarian government before joining former state-owned insurance company Állami Biztosító. In 1990, he was appointed CEO, two years before Állami Biztosító was privatized and acquired by Aegon. Between 1992 and 2009, Mr. Kepecs was the CEO of Aegon Hungary. In that time, he has headed the expansion of Aegon’s businesses not only in Hungary but also across the Central & Eastern European region. Mr. Kepecs has been a member of Aegon’s Management Board since it was established in 2007.

 

 

Mark Mullin (1963, American)

Member of the Management Board

Chief Executive Officer of Aegon Americas

Mark Mullin has spent more than 20 years with Aegon in various management positions in both the United States and Europe. Mr. Mullin has served as President and CEO of one of Aegon’s US subsidiaries, Diversified, and as head of the company’s annuity and mutual fund businesses. In January 2009, he was named President of Aegon Americas and he became President and CEO of Aegon Americas and a member of the Management Board one year later.

 

 

 

 

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8   Strategic information Aegon’s strategy

 

Aegon’s strategy

Aegon is an international provider of life insurance, pensions and asset management products, with businesses in more than 25 markets in the Americas, Europe and Asia, and just over EUR 475 billion in revenue-generating investments. Aegon employs nearly 27,000 people, and has millions of customers across the globe.

 

Aegon’s purpose is to help people take responsibility for their financial future . To achieve this, the company strives to provide easy-to-understand products that help customers make better financial decisions for themselves and their families. As a company, Aegon believes that everyone, regardless of their income, deserves to retire with dignity and peace of mind.

Aegon’s ambition is to become a leader in all of its chosen markets. This means being the most recommended provider of life insurance and pensions among customers, the preferred partner among intermediaries and distributors, and the employer of choice for both current and prospective employees.

Recognizing the increasing demand for asset protection, accumulation and long-term retirement security products and services, Aegon is investing in new approaches to better serve the full range of customers’ financial needs throughout their life cycle. This includes accelerating investment in technology to enable Aegon’s businesses to interact directly with customers.

Fostering a truly customer-centric culture throughout the organization is at the core of Aegon’s strategy. This entails ensuring that every employee understands how he or she can contribute to a distinctive and consistently positive customer experience. To support this essential cultural mindset, a new coordinated approach to performance management has been implemented across Aegon’s businesses, with a strong emphasis on talent development and customer centricity. Compensation and incentives have been aligned accordingly. Aegon encourages new thinking and innovative approaches as it continues to transform its businesses.

In recent years, Aegon has taken steps to reduce costs, lower risk and free up capital for reinvestment in its businesses. It has divested businesses no longer considered core, or which have failed to provide sufficient returns or prospects for long-term growth. These actions have enabled Aegon to achieve a solid capital position, deal effectively with economic and market volatility, and position its businesses for future growth. At the same time, Aegon has invested in key areas of growth, such as emerging markets in Central & Eastern Europe, Asia and the Americas, while also restructuring its businesses to achieve greater operational efficiency and deliver a higher level of customer service. Better leveraging the broad expertise that

exists within Aegon across various businesses and geographies continues to be a key strategic objective.

Aegon’s strategy is supported by its ambition: to be a leader in all of its chosen markets . To support this ambition, Aegon has implemented four strategic objectives:

¿   To optimize its portfolio by investing in businesses that offer attractive returns and strong prospects for growth and, if necessary, closing or divesting business that do not meet Aegon’s risk-return requirements, or contribute to its long-term ambitions;  
¿   To enhance customer loyalty by improving customer service, investing in new distribution capabilities, and expanding the company’s online presence to connect better and more frequently with its customers;  
¿   To deliver operational excellence by improving efficiency and reducing costs, innovating and making better use of its resources around the world;  
¿   To empower employees by providing the tools, training and internal culture necessary to better serve the developing needs of its customers, while also enabling employees to realize their full potential.  

In 2013, Aegon took clear steps toward each of these objectives, helping position the company’s businesses for the future, and meet the risks and opportunities presented by long-term industry trends.

Optimize portfolio

Aegon targeted opportunities in its core markets in the Americas, Europe and Asia by:

¿   Investing in the rapidly-expanding ‘at-retirement’ market of people in their fifties and sixties who are actively preparing for retirement in the United States, the United Kingdom and the Netherlands. In the United Kingdom, Aegon is seeking to increase its share of the workplace savings and non-advised markets;  
¿   Repositioning in Central & Eastern Europe – by channeling other resources into new products and services, ceasing new investment in mandatory private pensions due to government restrictions, selling off pension operations in the Czech Republic, and expanding the life and pensions business in Romania;  
 

 

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Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013


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  ¿   Expanding into new markets – through the acquisition of Fidem Life, one of Ukraine’s leading providers in the emerging life insurance market, and the opening of a new office in Germany in the second half of 2013 to market variable annuities;
  ¿   Re-pricing, redesigning and withdrawing products, improving Aegon’s overall product mix to reduce capital requirements and improve profitability;
  ¿   Restructuring in Spain – by securing a twenty-five year joint venture and distribution partnership with Banco Santander, the country’s largest bank, and exiting some former joint ventures;
  ¿   Entering new distribution partnerships with other key banks, including Barclays Bank in the United Kingdom.

Enhance customer loyalty

Aegon is expanding digital distribution capability and improving understanding of customers’ changing needs by:

  ¿   Launching new online products in Spain and Turkey. Aegon now retails online in nearly all its markets, and has also expanded its digital marketing and social media efforts;
  ¿   Investing in emerging new business models. In the Netherlands, Aegon launched Kroodle, a social media platform to sell general insurance, and in recent years has begun distribution through the drugstore chain Kruidvat;
  ¿   Expanding the company’s variable annuities business, and launching other related products, such as a new series of mutual funds in the United States, and new additional risk riders with products in Central & Eastern Europe;
  ¿   Implementing a common measurement for customer loyalty. Aegon has implemented the Net Promoter Score (NPS) across its businesses, and is using NPS methodology to drive long-term improvements in products and customer service. The company has also established a Customer Intelligence Council to improve analysis of customer data and statistics, and launched the not-for-profit Transamerica Center for Health Studies to research and contribute to important health issues in the United States.

Deliver operational excellence

Aegon improved efficiency, supported intermediaries and expanded distribution through traditional channels by:

  ¿   Continuing to reduce costs where possible to allow for increased investments. Cost saving initiatives included the creation of a shared service center in the Americas, further cost reduction in the Netherlands, and restructuring both in the United Kingdom and at Aegon’s Corporate Center;
  ¿   Pursuing value over volume through a strict pricing discipline, an approach aimed at securing profitable, sustainable growth – while making sure that, before any new product or service is introduced, customer benefits are fully assessed and taken into account through an updated Pricing & Product Development Policy;
¿   Investing in a new online platform in the United Kingdom, called Aegon Retirement Choices. The platform provides independent financial advisors with a clear overview of Aegon’s product range, and helps them to provide the right advice to Aegon’s customers;  
¿   Opening up access to Aegon’s Global Ethics Line to make it easier for outside parties to report suspected misconduct and violations of the company’s Code of Conduct;  
¿   Completing a second transaction to reduce the risk associated with longer life expectancy in the Netherlands and cover EUR 1.4 billion in longevity reserves.  

Empower employees

Aegon strengthened employee engagement, and improved the working environment by:

¿   Introducing limited paid time off for volunteer work. By the end of 2013, 91% of Aegon’s employees worldwide had access to this benefit;  
¿   Helping employees establish new affinity groups in the United States and the Netherlands in support of broader efforts to improve workforce diversity;  
¿   Deepening Aegon’s regular talent review, which maps employees’ skills against the company’s long-term requirements;  
¿   Supporting employees impacted by company restructuring with social plans and programs to find new employment within and outside the company;  
¿   Implementing local action plans based on the findings from the 2013 Global Employee Engagement Survey. Aegon identified three main priorities: do more to explain the company’s business strategy to employees; strengthen employees’ focus on customers; provide additional opportunities for career development;  
¿   Developing an Employer Value Proposition, which sets out the advantages of working for Aegon among prospective employees. The Employer Value Proposition will support wider efforts in new recruitment.  

Market conditions

The global economy continued to recover in 2013, but growth was low in many countries, and business confidence remained depressed. Overall, world output expanded by 2.9%, the lowest annual rate of growth since the end of the previous recession in 2009. Growth is forecast to accelerate in 2014, but the global economy still faces significant downside risks.

In the United States, economic growth improved. There was further improvement in the US housing market. Unemployment decreased – though much of the decline in reported rates was attributed to people withdrawing from the labor force rather than to job creation. Cuts in government spending subdued economic growth, however.

 

 

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Table of Contents
10   Strategic information Aegon’s strategy

 

 

In Europe, growth rates continued to lag behind those of the United States and other developed economies. High rates of unemployment persisted, particularly in those countries hit hardest by the recent eurozone crisis. The German and French economies showed modest growth, while those of Spain and Italy remained in recession. Meanwhile, the UK economy showed stronger growth. In the Netherlands, the economy contracted. Many European countries continued to struggle with structural, economic and financial sector reform.

Overall growth in emerging markets was relatively strong, though at a much lower rate than in previous years. In China, the world’s second largest economy, growth slowed to 7.6%, with export markets sluggish and the Chinese economy re-focusing on internal consumption. In Central & Eastern Europe, growth rates improved, due in part to a stronger performance from the region’s main trading partners in Western Europe.

Share prices in both the United States and Europe rose to new highs on signs of renewed economic growth. The Dow Jones Industrial Average ended the year up nearly 26%; over the same period, the FTSE-100 gained almost 15%. The long-term yield on US bonds also increased significantly on expectations of tapered debt purchases by the Federal Reserve. Short-term interest rates remained at historical lows of close to zero. In the United States, the Federal Reserve began to tighten monetary policy at the end of the year in response to further significant improvement in unemployment rates. Yields on 10-year German bonds improved, due in part to increased demand from eurozone banks.

Increased financial stability in the eurozone strengthened the euro. By the end of 2013, the euro had gained just over 3.6% against the US dollar, and more than 3% against sterling. Slower economic growth brought depreciation in many emerging market currencies, including the Brazilian real, the Indian rupee and the South African rand.

Economists are optimistic about further economic growth in 2014. Nevertheless, the global economy faces considerable risks, particularly from the future direction of Federal Reserve monetary policy and the management of the US government budget. Uncertainty also persists with regard to structural economic reform in Europe, and continued weak labor markets on both sides of the Atlantic. Emerging market growth remains relatively high, but may be impacted as the global economy adjusts to historically low GDP growth rates, especially in China and India.

Long-term industry trends

The life insurance and pensions industry is in a period of significant change for several reasons. These include shifts in the global economic balance, aging populations, changing demographics, new legislation, and the increasing trend of customers who research financial services products and then purchase online.

The world’s population is growing older. By the middle of the century, the United Nations estimates that worldwide almost 1.5 billion people will be over the age of 65. More than three quarters will live in less developed economies. Rising life expectancy will increase the length of retirement. At the same time, governments are no longer able to afford generous state pensions. This means greater demand for life insurance, pensions and other long-term savings and investment products as individuals seek ways to achieve a secure financial future.

There is change in the way insurance and pension products are sold and purchased. The regulatory environment has changed significantly in many of Aegon’s markets. In the United States, for example, there has been major healthcare and financial services reform. In the United Kingdom and the Netherlands, new legislation has effectively ended commissions for brokers and other intermediaries. As a result, financial services providers like Aegon, and financial advisors and intermediaries, are seeking to interact better and more regularly with their customers to serve their broader needs. Meanwhile, new technology is increasing the ability of customers to research and buy financial products online. Emerging competition from online-only providers has begun to challenge established business models.

The economic recovery remains uncertain. Despite improvement, economic growth remains uncertain. Financial volatility has increased, and interest rates are at historical lows, which may restrict profits for insurance companies and other financial service providers. Increased volatility means customers are more aware of financial risk.

Companies are held to higher standards of corporate behavior. There is increasing pressure on companies to be responsible employers, investors and purchasers of goods and services. Many companies increasingly recognize the connection between financial performance and responsible resources management.

 

 

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Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013


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11

 

 

 

Solvency II and related developments

Solvency II will become operational on January 1, 2016; to ensure a smooth transition, many national prudential frameworks are undergoing adjustment. Aegon continues to remain on track with its preparations.

Aegon has allocated considerable resources to the development of its partial internal model. This model is currently in the pre-application phase with Aegon´s College of Supervisors.

Aegon aims to contribute to the resolution of any outstanding issues relating to Solvency II by active participation in discussions with several industry bodies. In particular, it provides input to measures to address long-term guarantee issues. At the request of their national supervisory authorities, a number of Aegon companies participated in the recent long-term guarantees assessment. In accordance with Solvency II requirements, Aegon has set up risk management processes and governance structures. Aegon actively manages its business in a market-consistent and risk-sensitive manner. These processes and structures include product pricing, asset and liability management, capital management, and business strategy setting. The company is also optimizing its reporting process to be aligned with the requirements to be introduced by Solvency II.

Aegon is on track with embedding Solvency II requirements into its existing business processes in a business-as-usual environment, while keeping abreast of the latest national, EU and international policy and regulatory developments relevant to insurance groups. To ensure that Aegon is not disadvantaged competitively by the implementation of Solvency II, or related wider international developments, Aegon contributes to discussions with European and International regulators and supervisors. For example, Aegon is participating in the EU-US dialogue and global initiatives by the International Association of Insurance Supervisors (IAIS) to establish a common framework for the supervision of internationally active insurance groups (ComFrame) and develop a basic international capital standard.

 

 

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Table of Contents
12   Business overview History and development of Aegon

 

Business overview

History and development of Aegon

Aegon N.V., domiciled in the Netherlands, is a public limited liability company organized under Dutch law. Aegon N.V. was formed in 1983 through the merger of AGO and Ennia, both of which were successors to insurance companies founded in the 1800s.

 

Aegon N.V., through its member companies that are collectively referred to as Aegon or the Aegon Group, is an international life insurance, pensions and asset management company. Aegon is headquartered in the Netherlands and employs, through its subsidiaries, nearly 27,000 people worldwide. Aegon’s common shares are listed on stock exchanges in Amsterdam (NYSE Euronext) and New York (NYSE).

Aegon N.V. is a holding company. Aegon’s businesses focus on life insurance, pensions and asset management. Aegon is also active in accident, supplemental health, and general insurance, and has some limited banking activities. The company’s operations are conducted through its operating subsidiaries.

The main operating units of Aegon are separate legal entities organized under the laws of their respective countries. The shares of those legal entities are directly or indirectly held by three intermediate holding companies incorporated under Dutch law: Aegon Europe Holding B.V., the holding company for all European activities; Aegon International B.V., which serves as a holding company for the Aegon Group companies of all non-

European countries; and Aegon Asset Management Holding B.V., the holding company for some of its asset management entities.

Aegon operates in more than 25 countries in the Americas, Europe and Asia, and serves millions of customers. Its main markets are the United States, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom.

The company encourages product innovation and fosters an entrepreneurial spirit within its businesses. New products and services are developed by local business units with a continuous focus on helping people take responsibility for their financial future. Aegon uses a multi-brand, multichannel distribution approach to meet its customers’ needs.

Aegon has the following reportable operating segments: the Americas, which includes the United States, Canada, Brazil and Mexico; the Netherlands; the United Kingdom; and New Markets, which includes a number of countries in Central & Eastern Europe, and Asia, Spain, France, Variable Annuities Europe, and Aegon Asset Management.

 

 

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Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013


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13

 

Selected financial data

The financial results in this Annual Report are based on Aegon’s consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IFRS).

 

Application of the accounting policies in the preparation of the financial statements requires management to apply judgment involving assumptions and estimates concerning future results or other developments, including the likelihood, timing or amount of future transactions or events. There can be no assurance that actual results will not differ materially from those estimates. Accounting policies that are critical to the presentation of the financial statements and that require

complex estimates or significant judgment are described in the notes to the financial statements.

A summary of historical financial data is provided in the table below. It is important to read this summary in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and related notes included elsewhere in this Annual Report.

 

 

Selected consolidated income statement information                       
In EUR million (except per share amount)      2013           2012  1)           2011  2)           2010  2)           2009  2)   
Amounts based upon IFRS                       

Premium income

     19,939           19,049           19,521           21,097           19,473   

Investment income

     7,909           8,413           8,167           8,762           8,681   

Total revenues 3)

     29,805           29,327           29,159           31,608           29,751   

Income/ (loss) before tax

     1,147           1,866           938           1,940           (410)   
Net income/ (loss)      980           1,543           887           1,777           239   
Earnings per common share                       

Basic

     0.36           0.68           (0.05)           0.77           (0.13)   

Diluted

     0.36           0.68           (0.05)           0.69           (0.13)   

Earnings per common share B

                      

Basic

     0.01           -           -           -           -   

Diluted

     0.01           -           -           -           -   

 

1     As described in Note 2 of the Consolidated Financial Statements, comparative information related to previous periods was  retrospectively restated for the changes in accounting policies on IFRS 10, IFRS 11 and IAS 19.

2     The consolidated financial statements, comparative information related to previous periods was retrospectively restated for the changes in accounting policies on IAS 19.

3     Excluded from the income statements prepared in accordance with IFRS are receipts related to investment-type annuity products  and investment contracts.

 

       

        

        

Selected consolidated balance sheet information                       
In million EUR (except per share amount)      2013           2012  1)           2011  2)           2010  2)           2009  2)   
Amounts based upon IFRS                       

Total assets

     353,745           364,832           345,091           331,995           298,540   

Insurance and investment contracts

     282,107           276,358           270,679           270,693           248,903   

Borrowings and trust pass-through securities 3)

     12,159           13,846           10,040           8,604           7,314   

Shareholders’ equity

     20,059           23,449           20,036           16,806           11,812   
  1   As described in Note 2 of the Consolidated Financial Statements, comparative information related to previous periods was retrospectively restated for the changes in accounting policies on IFRS 10, IFRS 11 and IAS 19.
  2   The consolidated financial statements, comparative information related to previous periods was retrospectively restated for the changes in accounting policies on IAS 19.
  3   Includes subordinated borrowings and excludes bank overdrafts.

 

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Table of Contents
14   Business overview Selected financial data

 

 

Number of common shares               
In thousands      2013         2012         2011         2010         2009   

Balance at January 1

     1,972,030         1,909,654         1,736,049         1,736,049         1,578,227   

Share issuance

     120,713         -         173,605         -         157,822   

Stock dividends

     38,716         62,376         -         -         -   
Balance at end of period      2,131,459         1,972,030         1,909,654         1,736,049         1,736,049   
              
Number of common shares B               

In thousands

     2013         2012         2011         2010         2009   

Balance at January 1

     -         -         -         -         -   

Share issuance

     579,005         -         -         -         -   

Stock dividends

     -         -         -         -         -   

Share withdrawal

     -         -         -         -         -   
Balance at end of period      579,005         -         -         -         -   

 

Dividends

Aegon declared interim and final dividends on common shares for the years 2010 through 2013 in the amounts set forth in the following table. The 2013 interim dividend amounted to EUR 0.11 per common share. The interim dividend was paid in cash or stock at the election of the shareholder. The interim dividend was payable as of September 13, 2013. At the General Meeting of Shareholders on May 21, 2014, the Supervisory Board will, absent unforeseen circumstances, propose a final dividend of

EUR 0.11 per common share (at each shareholders option in cash or in stock), which will bring the total dividend for 2013 to EUR 0.22. Dividends in US dollars are calculated based on the foreign exchange reference rate as published each working day at 14:15 hours by the European Central Bank on the business day following the announcement of the interim dividend or on the business day following the General Meeting of Shareholders approving the relevant final dividend.

 

 

       EUR per common share  1)           USD per common share  1)   

Year

     Interim           Final           Total           Interim           Final           Total   

2009

     -           -           -           -           -           -   

2010

     -           -           -           -           -           -   

2011

     -           0.10           0.10           -           0.13           0.13   

2012

     0.10           0.11           0.21           0.12           0.14           0.26   

2013

     0.11           0.11 2)           0.22           0.15           -           -   

 

  1 Paid at each shareholder’s option in cash or in stock.
  2 Proposed.

 

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From May 2003 to May 2013, Aegon had common shares and class A and class B preferred shares. The annual dividend on Aegon’s class A and class B preferred shares was calculated on the basis of the paid-in capital on the preferred shares using a rate equal to the European Central Bank’s fixed interest percentage for basic refinancing transactions plus 1.75%, as determined on NYSE Euronext Amsterdam’s first working day of the financial year to which the dividend relates. Apart from this, no other dividend was paid on the preferred shares. This resulted in a rate of 2.75% for the year 2012. Applying this rate to the weighted average paid-in capital of its preferred shares during 2012, the total amount of annual dividends Aegon made in 2013 on its preferred shares for the year 2012 was EUR 59 million. In addition, Aegon paid a 2013 interim dividend on the preferred shares of EUR 24 million, covering the period from January 1, 2013 until the cancellation of all preferred shares in May 2013.

Exchange rates

Fluctuations in the exchange rate between the euro and the US dollar will affect the dollar equivalent of the euro price of Aegon’s common shares traded on NYSE Euronext Amsterdam and, as a result, are likely to impact the market price of Aegon’s common shares in the United States. Such fluctuations will also affect any US dollar amounts received by holders of common shares upon conversion of any cash dividends paid in euros on Aegon’s common shares.

As of March 3, 2014, the USD exchange rate was EUR 1 = USD 1.3763.

The high and low exchange rates for the US dollar per euro for each of the last six months through February 2014 are set forth below:

 

 

Closing rates      Sept. 2013         Oct. 2013         Nov. 2013         Dec. 2013         Jan. 2014         Feb. 2014   

High (USD per EUR)

     1.3537         1.3810         1.3606         1.3816         1.3682         1.3806   

Low (USD per EUR)

     1.3120         1.3490         1.3357         1.3552         1.3500         1.3507   

 

The average exchange rates for the US dollar per euro for the five years ended December 31, 2013, calculated by using the average of the exchange rates on the last day of each month during the period, are set forth below:

 

 

 

Year ended December 31,      Average rate  1)   

2009

     1.3955   

2010

     1.3216   

2011

     1.4002   

2012

     1.2909   

2013

     1.3303   

 

  1 The US dollar exchange rates are the noon buying rates in New York City for cable transfers in euros as certified for customs purposes by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York.

 

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Table of Contents
16   Business overview Business lines

 

Business lines

 

Americas

Includes Aegon’s businesses and operating units in the United States, Canada, Brazil, and Mexico.

 Life & Protection

Products with mortality, morbidity and longevity risks, including traditional and universal life, as well as endowment, term, and whole life insurance products. Accident and health business, including supplemental health, accidental death and dismemberment insurance, critical illness, cancer treatment, credit/disability, income protection, and long-term care insurance.

 Individual Savings & Retirement

Primarily variable annuity products and retail mutual funds. Currently fixed annuities are not actively sold.

 Employer Solutions & Pensions

Includes both individual and group pensions, as well as 401(k)-type of pension plans, and stable value solutions.

 

 

 

The Netherlands

 Life & Savings

Products with mortality, morbidity, and longevity risks, including traditional and universal life, as well as employer, endowment, term, whole life insurance products, mortgages, saving deposits, and annuity products.

 Pensions

Individual and group pensions usually sponsored by, or obtained via, an employer.

 Non-life

General insurance, consisting mainly of automotive, liability, disability, household insurance, and fire protection.

 Distribution

Independent distribution channel, offering both life and non-life insurance solutions.

 

 

 

United Kingdom

 Life

Immediate annuities, individual protection products, such as term insurance, critical illness, and income protection.

 Pensions

Individual pensions, including self-invested personal pensions and income drawdown products. Group pensions, sponsored by, or obtained via, an employer. Also includes the tied-agent distribution business.

 

 

New Markets

Includes all businesses and operating units in Central & Eastern Europe, Asia, Spain and France, as well as Aegon’s variable annuity activities in Europe and Aegon Asset Management.

 Central & Eastern Europe

Active in the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Turkey, and Ukraine. Includes life insurance, individual and group pension products, savings and investments, as well as general insurance.

 Spain

Distribution partnerships with Spanish banks, offering life insurance, accident and health, and general insurance and investment products.

 France

Partnership with French insurer and pension specialist AG2R La Mondiale.

 Asia

Direct and affinity products are marketed in Asia through Aegon Direct & Affinity Marketing Services. Aegon offers life insurance to high-net-worth individuals via the Transamerica brand. Aegon has joint ventures in China, India, and Japan. Products include (term) life insurance in China and India, and variable annuities in Japan.

 Variable Annuities Europe

Variable annuities offered by Aegon companies operating in Europe and international/offshore bonds for the UK market.

 Aegon Asset Management

Asset management products, including equity and fixed income, covering third party clients, insurance-linked solutions, and Aegon’s own insurance companies.

 

 

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17

 

Results of operations

Results 2013 worldwide

 

Underlying earnings geographically

            
Amounts in EUR millions      2013           2012           %   
Net underlying earnings      1,541           1,424           8%   

Tax on underlying earnings

     405           427           (5%
Underlying earnings before tax geographically             

Americas

     1,369           1,366           0%   

The Netherlands

     355           325           9%   

United Kingdom

     98           110           (11%

New markets

     236           274           (14%

Holding and other activities

     (113        (224        50%   
Underlying earnings before tax      1,945           1,851           5%   

Net fair value items

     (1,133        (41        -     

Gains / (losses) on investments

     502           407           23%   

Impairment charges

     (121        (176        31%   

Other income / (charges)

     (52        (162        68%   

Run-off businesses

     14           2           -     

Income before tax (excluding income tax from certain proportionately consolidated joint ventures and associates)

     1,155           1,881           (39%

Income tax from certain proportionately consolidated joint ventures and associates included in income before tax

     8           15           (47%

 

Income tax

 

     (174        (338        49%   

Of which Income tax from certain proportionately consolidated joint ventures and associates included in income before tax

     (8        (15        47%   
Net income      980           1,543           (36%

Commissions and expenses

     5,809           5,765           1%   

of which operating expenses

     3,328           3,177           5%   

 

This Annual Report includes the non-IFRS financial measure: underlying earnings before tax. The reconciliation of this measure to the most comparable IFRS measure is presented in the table above as well as in note 5 of the consolidated financial statements. This non-IFRS measure is calculated by consolidating on a proportionate basis the revenues and expenses of Aegon’s joint ventures in Spain, China and Japan and Aegon’s associates in India, Brazil and Mexico.

The table also includes the non-IFRS financial measure: net underlying earnings. This is the after-tax equivalent of underlying earnings before tax. The reconciliation of net underlying earnings to the most comparable IFRS measure is presented in the table above. Aegon believes that its non-IFRS measure provides meaningful information about the underlying operating results of Aegon’s businesses, including insight into the financial measures that senior management uses in managing the businesses.

Aegon’s senior management is compensated based in part on Aegon’s results against targets using the non-IFRS measure

presented herein. While many other insurers in Aegon’s peer group present substantially similar non-IFRS measures, the non-IFRS measure presented in this document may nevertheless differ from the non-IFRS measures presented by other insurers. There is no standardized meaning to these measures under IFRS or any other recognized set of accounting standards and readers are cautioned to consider carefully the different ways in which Aegon and its peers present similar information before comparing them. Aegon believes the non-IFRS measure shown herein, when read together with Aegon’s reported IFRS financial statements, provides meaningful supplemental information for the investing public to evaluate Aegon’s businesses after eliminating the impact of current IFRS accounting policies for financial instruments and insurance contracts, which embed a number of accounting policy alternatives that companies may select in presenting their results (that is, companies may use different local generally accepted accounting principles (GAAPs)), and this may make the comparability difficult from period to period.

 

 

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Table of Contents
18   Business overview Results of operations – Worldwide

 

 

New life sales             
Amounts in EUR millions      2013           2012           %   

Americas

     464           520           (11%)   

The Netherlands

     206           246           (16%)   

United Kingdom

     1,014           936           8%   

New markets

     228           253           (10%)   
Total life production      1,911           1,955           (2%)   
            
Gross deposits (on and off balance)             
Amounts in EUR millions      2013           2012           %   

Americas

     28,424           27,042           5%   

The Netherlands

     1,338           1,484           (10%)   

United Kingdom

     281           37           -   

New markets

     14,287           10,909           31%   
Total gross deposits      44,330           39,472           12%   

 

 

Worldwide revenues geographically 2013

  

 

Americas

  

    
 

 

The
Nether-

lands

  
  

  

    

 

United

Kingdom

  

  

    

 

New

Markets

  

  

    
 
 
 
 

 

Holding,
other
activities
and
elimina-

tions

  
  
  
  
  

  

   

 

Segment

total

  

  

    
 
 
 
 

 

Associ-
ates and
Joint
Ventures
elimina-

tions

  
  
  
  
  

  

   

 

Consoli-

dated

  

  

Amounts in EUR millions                      

Total life insurance gross premiums

     6,187         3,515         6,537         1,349         (59     17,529         (416     17,112   

Accident and health insurance premiums

     1,787         243         -         170         -        2,200         (10     2,190   

General insurance premiums

     -         487         -         194         -        681         (44     637   

Total gross premiums

     7,975         4,245         6,537         1,713         (59     20,410         (471     19,939   

Investment income

     3,370         2,310         2,054         233         -        7,968         (58     7,909   

Fees and commission income

     1,273         328         80         583         (238     2,026         (76     1,950   

Other revenue

     4         -         -         2         4        10         (3     6   
Total revenues      12,622         6,883         8,670         2,531         (293     30,413         (608     29,805   

Number of employees, including agent employees

     12,256         4,282         2,400         7,651         302        26,891         (3,417     23,474   

 

By product segment             
Amounts in EUR millions      2013           2012             

Life

     1,017           1,068           (5%)   

Individual Savings & Retirement

     507           490           3%    

Pensions

     386           352           10%   

Non-life

     12           15           (20%)   

Distribution

     16           15           7%    

Asset management

     95           101           (6%)   

Other

     (111)           (224)           51%    

Associates

     24           34           (29%)   
Underlying earnings before tax      1,945           1,851           5%    

 

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Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013


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19

 

Results 2013 worldwide

Aegon’s 2013 net income amounted to EUR 849 million. Increased underlying earnings before tax of EUR 1,945 milion were impacted by a loss of EUR 1,309 million on fair value items driven by losses on the hedging programs and long-term economic assumption changes. This was partly offset by lower impairment charges and lower other charges since 2012 included a charge of EUR 265 million in relation to the acceleration of product improvements for unit-linked insurance policies.

 

Net income

Net income decreased to EUR 980 million compared to EUR 1,543 million in 2012. Higher underlying earnings, realized gains on investments, lower impairments and other charges were more than offset by losses from fair value items.

Underlying earnings before tax

Aegon’s underlying earnings before tax in 2013 increased 5% to EUR 1,945 million compared to EUR 1,851 million in 2012. Underlying earnings before tax rose from business growth, deleveraging, the positive effects of favorable equity markets and the net positive impact of one-time items. These positive one-time items were only partly offset by the loss of earnings due to divestments in Spain and Aegon Asset Management, and the impact of unfavorable currency exchange rates.

 

  ¿   Underlying earnings before tax in the Americas improved slightly to EUR 1,369 million. Growth in Variable Annuities and Pensions offset the impact of unfavorable currency exchange rates, lower earnings from Fixed Annuities, higher sales and employee related expenses, and additional investments in technology. At constant currencies, underlying earnings increased by 3%.
  ¿   In the Netherlands, underlying earnings before tax increased 9% to EUR 355 million. Higher Pension earnings, driven mostly by a benefit resulting from observed mortality of EUR 25 million and improvement in Non-life more than offset lower earnings in Life & Savings, due mostly to reduced policy charges on unit-linked products of EUR 28 million as part of the acceleration of product improvements to unit-linked insurance policies.
  ¿   Underlying earnings before tax in the United Kingdom amounted to EUR 98 million in 2013, a decline of 11% compared to 2012. The positive impact of higher equity markets was more than offset by adverse persistency of EUR 22 million following the implementation of the Retail Distribution Review and investment in technology.
  ¿   Underlying earnings before tax from New Markets declined 14% to EUR 236 million. Higher earnings in Asia and Aegon Asset Management, which benefitted from higher asset
   

balances, were more than offset by lower earnings in Central & Eastern Europe due to the introduction of the insurance tax in Hungary and divestments in Spain and Aegon Asset Management.

  ¿   Total holding costs decreased 50% to EUR 113 million, mainly as a result of lower net interest costs following debt redemptions, lower operating expenses and a gain of EUR 18 million related to interest on taxes.

Fair value items

The results from fair value items amounted to a loss of EUR 1,133 million. The loss was mainly driven by equity macro hedges (EUR 590 million) and long-term economic assumption changes (EUR 405 million) in the Americas and a loss of EUR 118 million in the guarantee portfolio in the Netherlands, which mainly the result of the tightening of Aegon’s credit spread and model refinements.

In 2013, to reflect the low interest rate environment, Aegon lowered its long-term assumption for 10-year US Treasury yields by 50 basis points to 4.25% and extended the uniform grading period from 5 years to 10 years. Aegon also changed its assumed returns for US separate account bond fund to 4% over the next 10 years and 6% thereafter from its previous assumptions of 4% over the next 5 years and 6% thereafter. In addition, Aegon changed its long-term equity market return assumption for the estimated gross profit in variable life and variable annuity products in the Americas from 9% to 8%. In total, these assumption changes led to a negative impact on earnings of EUR 405 million in 2013. Both the assumptions for the bond fund and that for the long-term equity market are gross assumptions from which asset management and policy fees are deducted to determine the policyholder return.

The loss on fair value hedges in the Americas was mainly driven by the loss on the equity macro hedges, which have been set up to protect Aegon’s capital position, as a result of strong US equity market performance in 2013. Aegon restructured its equity hedges as the equity collar hedge expired at the end of the year.

 

 

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20   Business overview Results of operations – Worldwide

 

 

 

Realized gains on investments

Realized gains on investments amounted to EUR 502 million and were driven primarily by adjustments to the asset mix in the Netherlands during the second half of the year to bring it in line with the new regulatory yield curve, as well as normal trading activity.

Impairment charges

Impairment charges improved by EUR 55 million to EUR 121 million in 2013, mostly due to recoveries on investments in subprime residential mortgage-backed securities in the United States.

Other charges

Other charges amounted to EUR 52 million, which is a 68% improvement from 2012 and included a charge of EUR 192 million related to a write-off of intangibles related to the Polish pension fund business following a legislation change coming into force in January 2014. In addition, 2013 included a charge of EUR 71 million due to increased accruals in connection with Aegon’s use of the U.S. Social Security Administration’s death master-file and a EUR 25 million charge in the Netherlands following the Koersplan court verdict and restructuring charges mainly in the Americas and the United Kingdom (EUR 108 million in total). These charges were partly offset by gains from the sale of joint ventures with Unnim and CAM of EUR 102 million and EUR 74 million respectively, and gains from the recapture of certain reinsurance contracts amounting to EUR 200 million in the Americas.

Run-off businesses

The results of run-off businesses improved to EUR 14 million, mainly due to a deferred policy acquisition cost (DPAC) true-up of EUR 11 million in BOLI/COLI (bank/corporate owned life insurance).

Income tax

Income tax amounted to EUR 174 million resulting in an effective tax rate of 15%, driven mostly by the combined effects of negative fair value items taxed at nominal rates, tax credits, and tax exempt items. There was also a tax charge of EUR 50 million in the Americas related to hedging losses in 2013, and a benefit of EUR 93 million in the United Kingdom from a reduction in the corporate tax rate from 23% to 20%.

The effective tax rate on underlying earnings for 2013 was 21%

Commissions and expenses

Commissions and expenses in 2013 increased 1% compared to 2012 to EUR 5,809 million. Operating expenses increased 5% to EUR 3,328 million, driven mainly by higher sales and employee performance related expenses due to growth in the Americas, restructuring costs in the Americas and United Kingdom, and higher investments in technology to support future growth.

Production

Compared to 2012, Aegon’s total sales increased 6% to EUR 7.2 billion as higher gross deposits more than offset lower new life sales. Gross deposits increased 12% to EUR 44.3 billion, driven by variable annuities and mutual funds in the United States and Aegon Asset Management. New life sales were down 2%. Higher pension production in the United Kingdom was offset primarily by lower universal life sales in the Americas due to product withdrawals and product redesign, resulting from focus on value creation, as well as adverse currency movements.

Capital management

The 2013 gross leverage ratio, which is calculated by dividing the total gross financial leverage by the total capitalization, was 30.0%.

Aegon’s Insurance Group Directive (IGD) ratio decreased to 212%, mainly due to the impact of IAS 19 and the switch to the swap curve for regulatory solvency calculations in the Netherlands. The combined risk-based capital ratio of Aegon’s life insurance subsidiaries in the United States was approximately 440% of the Company Action Level (CAL) risk-based capital. The IGD ratio in the Netherlands, excluding Aegon Bank, was approximately 240%. The Pillar I ratio in the United Kingdom, including the With Profit fund, was approximately 150% at the end of 2013.

On February 10, 2014, Aegon called for the redemption of the USD 550 million in junior perpetual capital securities with a coupon of 6.875% issued in 2006. The redemption was effective March 15, 2014, when the principal amount of USD 550 million was repaid with accrued interest.

Dividends from business units

Aegon received EUR 1.5 billion of dividends from its business units during 2013, split between EUR 0.9 billion from the Americas, EUR 0.5 billion from the Netherlands and EUR 0.1 billion from Aegon Asset Management and Central & Eastern Europe. Capital contributions of EUR 0.5 billion were paid to Aegon’s operating units, including EUR 0.4 billion to the United Kingdom.

 

 

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Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013


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21

 

Results 2012 worldwide

 

Underlying earnings geographically             
Amounts in EUR millions    2012        2011        %    
Net underlying earnings      1,424           1,247           14%     

Tax on underlying earnings

     427           297           44%     
Underlying earnings before tax geographically             

Americas

     1,366           1,286           6%     

The Netherlands

     325           298           9%     

United Kingdom

     110           14           -     

New markets

     274           249           10%     

Holding and other activities

     (224)           (303)           26%     
Underlying earnings before tax      1,851           1,544           20%     

Net fair value items

     (41)           (416)           90%     

Gains / (losses) on investments

     407           446           (9%)     

Impairment charges

     (176)           (388)           55%     

Other income / (charges)

     (162)           (267)           39%     

Run-off businesses

     2           28           (93%)     

Income before tax (excluding income tax from certain proportionately consolidated joint ventures and associates)

     1,881           947           99%     

Income tax from certain proportionately consolidated joint ventures and associates included in income before tax

     15           9           67%     

Income tax

     (338)           (60)           -     

Of which Income tax from certain proportionately consolidated joint ventures and associates included in income before tax

     (15)           (9)           (67%)     
Net income      1,543           887           74%     

Commissions and expenses

     5,765           6,250           (8%)     

of which operating expenses

     3,177           3,420           (7%)     

 

New life sales

            
Amounts in EUR millions    2012        2011        %    

Americas

     520           418           24%     

The Netherlands

     246           254           (3%)     

United Kingdom

     936           852           10%     

New markets

     253           311           (19%)     
Total life production      1,955           1,835           7%     

 

Gross deposits (on and off balance)

            
Amounts in EUR millions    2012        2011        %    

Americas

     27,042           23,028           17%     

The Netherlands

     1,484           2,048           (28%)     

United Kingdom

     37           56           (34%)     

New markets

     10,909           6,556           66%     
Total gross deposits      39,472           31,688           25%     

 

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22   Business overview Results of operations – Worldwide

 

 

Worldwide revenues geographically 2012

Amounts in EUR millions

   Americas      The
Nether-
lands
     United
Kingdom
     New
Markets
     Holding,
other
activities
and
elimina-
tions
     Segment
total
     Associ-
ates and
Joint
Ventures
elimina-
tions
     Consoli-
dated  
 

Total life insurance gross premiums

     6,541         3,004         6,047         1,374         (73)         16,893         (693)         16,200     

Accident and health insurance premiums

     1,833         220         -         188         -           2,241         (11)         2,230     

General insurance premiums

     -         475         -         144         -           619         -           619     
Total gross premiums      8,374         3,699         6,047         1,706         (73)         19,753         (704)         19,049     

Investment income

     3,654         2,273         2,337         319         -           8,583         (170)         8,413     

Fees and commission income

     1,177         329         133         524         (263)         1,900         (44)         1,856     

Other revenue

     5         -         -         3                 13         (4)         9     
Total revenues      13,210         6,301         8,517         2,552         (331)         30,249         (922)         29,327     

Number of employees, including agent employees

     11,967         4,457         2,793         7,160         473         26,850         (2,443)         24,407     

 

By product segment         
Amounts in EUR millions      2012         2011         %     

Life

     1,068         992         8%     

Individual Savings & Retirement

     490         476         3%     

Pensions

     352         227         55%     

Non-life

     15         51         (71%)     

Distribution

     15         -         -      

Asset management

     101         60         68%     

Other

     (224)         (303)         26%     

Associates

     34         41         (17%)     
Underlying earnings before tax      1,851         1,544         20%     

 

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Results 2012 worldwide

Aegon’s 2012 net income of EUR 1,543 million and underlying earnings before tax of EUR 1,851 million were higher than in 2011, as a result of business growth, implemented cost reduction programs, the non-recurrence of certain charges in the United Kingdom, and favorable markets. Sales and deposits increased compared to 2011 despite repricing and product changes made to reflect the continued low interest rate environment. Growth was driven mostly by pensions, variable annuities, mortgages, and asset management. Aegon has continued to maintain a strong capital position while maintaining its commitment to delivering sustainable earnings growth with an improved risk-return profile.

 

Net income

Net income increased to EUR 1,543 million, driven by higher underlying earnings, more favorable results on fair value items, lower impairments, and lower other charges. These were only partly offset by higher tax charges and lower realized gains.

Underlying earnings before tax

Aegon’s underlying earnings before tax increased 20% to EUR 1,851 million in 2012. This was the result of business growth, implemented cost reduction programs, the non-recurrence of certain charges in the United Kingdom, and favorable equity markets and currency movements.

Underlying earnings before tax from the Americas rose to EUR 1,366 million. The 6% increase compared to 2011 was mainly due to growth of the business and a strengthening of the US dollar against the euro. The positive effects of business growth and favorable equity markets were partly offset by lower fixed annuity earnings (as the product was de-emphasized) and lower Life & Protection earnings, mostly the result of the non-recurrence of favorable items in 2011, recurring charges for Corporate Center expenses implemented in 2012, higher performance-related expenses, and an increase in employee benefit expenses.

In the Netherlands, underlying earnings before tax increased to EUR 325 million. The 9% increase compared to 2011 was mainly due to cost savings, lower funding costs, and the wind up of several contracts in Pensions, partly offset by a higher claim ratio and investments in banking activities. Higher earnings in Life & Savings driven by lower funding costs on its growing mortgage portfolio more than offset lower earnings in Pensions and Non-life, mostly driven by unfavorable claim experience.

In the United Kingdom, underlying earnings before tax increased to EUR 110 million. This improvement in earnings compared to 2011 was driven by the implementation of the cost reduction

program and the non-recurrence of charges and execution expenses related to a program to correct historical issues within customer policy records, partly offset by the benefit of changes to employee benefit plans recorded in 2011. Earnings were negatively impacted in 2012 by additional DPAC amortization related to adverse persistency and investments in new propositions in the pension business.

Underlying earnings before tax from New Markets increased 10% to EUR 274 million as higher earnings from Aegon Asset Management and Asia more than offset lower underlying earnings from Spain and Central & Eastern Europe. Results in Spain were impacted by the divestment of the joint venture with Banca Cívica and the exclusion of results from Aegon’s partnership with CAM pending the exit from this joint venture.

For the holding, underlying earnings before tax amounted to a loss before tax of EUR 224 million. This EUR 79 million improvement compared to 2011 was driven mostly by lower expenses as Aegon’s Corporate Center expenses were now being charged, in part, to operating units. These charges reflected the services and support provided to operating units by the Corporate Center and amounted to EUR 64 million in 2012. Funding costs were also lower in 2012.

Fair value items

Results from fair value items amounted to a loss of EUR 41 million. Negative results in the Americas and in the United Kingdom on hedges due to higher equity markets partly offset by positive results on the guarantee portfolio in the Netherlands.

Realized gains on investments

Realized gains on investments amounted to EUR 407 million and were mainly the result of asset liability management and normal activity in the investment portfolio in a low interest rate environment.

 

 

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24   Business overview Results of operations – Worldwide

 

 

Impairment charges

Impairments decreased 55% in 2012 compared to 2011 to EUR 176 million and continue to be linked primarily to residential mortgage-backed securities in the Americas.

Other charges

Other charges in 2012 amounted to EUR 162 million and were primarily the result of a EUR 265 million charge in the Netherlands related to the acceleration of product improvements for unit-linked insurance policies and a BOLI wrap charge in the United States (EUR 26 million). Providing most of the offset against these charges were the book gain of EUR 100 million on the sale of Aegon’s minority stake in Prisma Capital Partners and the divestment of Aegon’s 50% stake in the joint venture with Banca Cívica (EUR 35 million).

Run-off businesses

The results of run-off businesses amounted to a gain of EUR 2 million, with positive results from the institutional spread-based business only partially offset by accelerated amortization of the pre-paid cost of reinsurance asset related to the divestment of the life reinsurance activities in 2011 due to increased transfers of clients from Aegon to SCOR.

Income tax

Net income contained a tax charge of EUR 338 million in 2012 (including a tax charge of EUR 15 million related to profits of joint ventures and associates), resulting in an effective tax rate of 18%. Deviation from the nominal tax rate is largely the result of tax exempt items in the United States and the Netherlands, tax credits which primarily relate to low income housing and renewable energy in the United States (EUR 69 million), benefits from a tax rate reduction in the United Kingdom (EUR 70 million), benefits from cross border intercompany reinsurance transactions (EUR 38 million), and a benefit related to the run-off of the company’s institutional spread-based activities in Ireland (EUR 51 million). These benefits were partly offset by charges for non-recognition and impairment of deferred tax assets (EUR 56 million), mainly in the United Kingdom.

Commissions and expenses

Commissions and expenses in 2012 decreased by 8% compared to 2011 to EUR 5,765 million, largely driven by lower operating expenses. Operating expenses decreased 7% compared to 2011 to EUR 3,177 million, mainly as a result of the implementation of cost savings programs in the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and the Americas.

Production

New life sales increased in 2012 compared to 2011 in the Americas and the United Kingdom, partially offset by decreases in the Netherlands and New Markets. Gross deposits increased by 25%, driven by variable annuity, retail mutual fund, retirement plan, and asset management deposits. New premium production for accident and health insurance increased by 19% for the year, mainly driven by travel and supplemental health insurance sales in the Americas and growth in Central & Eastern Europe.

Capital management

Aegon’s core capital excluding revaluation reserves and excluding remeasurement amounted to EUR 18.5 billion, equivalent to 76.7% of the company’s total capital base, at December 31, 2012 (2011: 73.5%). This is above the company’s capital base ratio target of at least 75% by the end of 2012.

Shareholders’ equity increased to EUR 23.5 billion, mainly as a result of net income and an increase in the revaluation reserves. The revaluation reserves increased EUR 2.6 billion during the year to EUR 6.1 billion, mainly a reflection of lower interest rates and credit spreads. Shareholders’ equity per common share, excluding preference capital and revaluation reserves, amounted to EUR 8.40 at December 31, 2012 (2011: EUR 8.19).

During 2012, Aegon aimed to maintain excess capital at the holding of at least EUR 750 million. At the end of the year, excess capital in the holding amounted to EUR 2.0 billion, an increase of EUR 0.8 billion compared to year-end 2011, as dividends received from business units were only partly offset by interest payments and operational expenses.

At December 31, 2012, Aegon’s Insurance Group Directive (IGD) ratio amounted to 228%, an increase from the level of 195% at December 31, 2011. Measured on a local solvency basis, the Risk Based Capital (RBC) ratio in the United States increased to approximately 495%, driven mainly by strong net income throughout the year and a capital management transaction in third quarter, offset by dividends paid to the holding company. The IGD ratio in the Netherlands increased to approximately 251%, driven mainly by a change in the yield curve to discount liabilities as prescribed by the Dutch Central Bank, offset somewhat during the year by interest rate movements. The Pillar I ratio in the United Kingdom decreased to approximately 126%.

 

 

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Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013


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Results 2013 Americas

 

     Amounts in USD millions             Amounts in EUR millions          
     2013     2012      %     2013     2012      %    
Net underlying earnings     1,328        1,288         3%        1,001        1,002         0%     

Tax on underlying earnings

    489        468         4%        368        364         1%     
Underlying earnings before tax by product segment              

Life & Protection

    752        746         1%        567        581         (2%)    

Fixed annuities

    205        255         (20%)        155        198         (22%)    

Variable annuities

    450        359         25%        339        280         21%     

Retail mutual funds

    33        25         32%        25        19         32%     

Individual Savings & Retirement

    688        639         8%        518        497         4%     

Employer Solutions & Pensions

    350        319         10%        263        248         6%     

Canada

    18        40         (55%)        14        31         (55%)    

Latin America

    9        12         (25%)        7        9         (22%)    
Underlying earnings before tax     1,817        1,756         3%        1,369        1,366         0%     

Net fair value items

    (1,288)        (98)         -          (971)        (76)         -      

Gains / (losses) on investments

    149        225         (34%)        112        175         (36%)    

Impairment charges

    (56)        (151)         63%        (42)        (117)         64%     

Other income / (charges)

    95        (37)         -          72        (28)         -      

Run-off businesses

    18        4         -          14        2         -      
Income before tax (excluding income tax from certain proportionately consolidated joint ventures and associates)     734        1,699         (57%)        553        1,322         (58%)    

Income tax from certain proportionately consolidated joint ventures and associates included in income before tax

    4        4         0%        3        3         0%     

Income tax

    (142)        (342)         58%        (107)        (266)         60%     

Of which Income tax from certain proportionately consolidated joint ventures and associates included in income before tax

    (4)        (4)         0%        (3)        (3)         0%     
Net income     592        1,357         (56%)        446        1,056         (58%)    

Life insurance gross premiums

    8,212        8,405         (2%)        6,187        6,541         (5%)    

Accident and health insurance premiums

    2,372        2,356         1%        1,787        1,833         (3%)    
Total gross premiums     10,584        10,761         (2%)        7,975        8,374         (5%)    

Investment income

    4,473        4,694         (5%)        3,370        3,654         (8%)     

Fees and commission income

    1,689        1,512         12%        1,273        1,177         8%     

Other revenues

    6        6         0%        4        5         (20%)    
Total revenues     16,752        16,973         (1%)        12,622        13,210         (4%)    

Commissions and expenses

    4,332        4,276         1%        3,264        3,329         (2%)    

of which operating expenses

    1,985        1,823         9%        1,496        1,420         5%     
             
     Amounts in USD millions             Amounts in EUR millions            
New life sales   2013     2012      %     2013     2012      %    

Life & Protection

    505        563         (10%)        380        438         (13%)    

Canada

    68        60         13%        51        47         9%     

Latin America

    42        45         (7%)        32        35         (9%)    
Total recurring plus 1/10 single     615        668         (8%)        464        520         (11%)    

 

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Table of Contents
26   Business overview Results of operations – Americas

 

 

      Amounts in USD millions              Amounts in EUR millions          
      2013      2012      %      2013      2012      %    

New premium production accident and health insurance

     902         905         0%         680         705         (4%)    
                 
      Amounts in USD millions              Amounts in EUR millions          
Gross deposits (on and off balance)    2013      2012      %      2013      2012      %    

Life & Protection

     11         12         (8%)         8         9         (11%)    

Fixed annuities

     552         371         49%         416         289         44%    

Variable annuities

     8,496         5,350         59%         6,402         4,163         54%    

Retail mutual funds

     4,301         3,437         25%         3,241         2,675         21%    

Individual Savings & Retirement

     13,349         9,158         46%         10,058         7,127         41%    

Employer Solutions & Pensions

     24,222         25,383         (5%)         18,251         19,755         (8%)    

Canada

     125         177         (29%)         94         138         (32%)    

Latin America

     18         17         6%         14         13         8%    
Total gross deposits      37,725         34,747         9%         28,424         27,042         5%    
                 
                      Weighted average rate      Closing rate as of  

Exchange rates

Per 1 EUR

                   2013      2012      December
31, 2013
     December 
31, 2012 
 

USD

           1.3272         1.2849         1.3780         1.3184    

CAD

                       1.3674         1.2839         1.4641         1.3127    

 

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Results 2013 Americas

Net income of USD 592 million for the year 2013 was negatively impacted by long-term economic assumption changes and losses on equity macro hedges, which have been put in place to protect Aegon’s capital position. Underlying earnings before tax increased to USD 1,817 million in 2013, mainly driven by higher earnings from variable annuities and pensions. New life sales decreased, primarily due to focus on profitability of universal life products, while gross deposits increased.

 

Net income

Net income for the Americas decreased to USD 592 million in 2013. Higher underlying earnings, other income as well as lower impairments were more than offset by the increase of the loss on fair value items. Results on fair value items amounted to a loss of USD 1,288 million, which were primarily the result of long-term economic assumption changes of USD 514 million and the loss on equity hedges of USD 804 million, which was primarily caused by rising equity markets. Realized gains on investments amounted to USD 148 million, while impairment charges improved to USD 56 million. Other income was USD 95 million, mainly related to gains of USD 265 million on the recapture of certain reinsurance contracts being partly offset by increased accruals of USD 94 million in connection with the company’s use of the U.S. Social Security Administration’s death master-file and restructuring charges of USD 48 million.

Underlying earnings before tax

2013 underlying earnings before tax increased 3% to USD 1,817 million as higher earnings in variable annuities and pensions from business growth and favorable equity markets more than offset lower earnings in fixed annuities.

  ¿   Life & Protection underlying earnings before tax increased 1% to USD 752 million, as growth of the business was partially offset by the negative impact of lower reinvestment rates due to the low interest rate environment.
  ¿   Underlying earnings before tax from Individual Savings & Retirement increased 8% to USD 688 million, as higher earnings from variable annuities and mutual funds more than offset lower earnings from fixed annuities. Earnings from variable annuities were up 25% to USD 450 million, primarily driven by higher net inflows and favorable equity markets. Earnings from mutual funds increased 32% to USD 33 million, resulting from growth of the business and favorable markets.
¿   Employer Solutions & Pensions underlying earnings before tax increased 10% to USD 350 million in 2013, which was primarily the result of strong net pension inflows and favorable equity markets.
¿   Underlying earnings before tax from Canada decreased to USD 18 million, primarily as a result of actuarial assumption changes and model refinements. In Latin America underlying earnings before tax were down to USD 6 million.

Commissions and expenses

Commissions and expenses increased by 1% to USD 4,332 million in 2013 compared to 2012. Operating expenses increased by 9%, to USD 1,985 million, primarily the result of higher sales and employee performance related expenses, investments to expand Aegon’s digital capabilities and restructuring costs.

Production

New life sales decreased 8% to USD 615 million in 2013, as lower universal life sales due to product withdrawals and product redesign were only partly offset by higher sales of term life products. New premium production for accident & health insurance was stable compared to 2012 and amounted to USD 902 million. This was the result of strong sales of the Medicare part D prescription plan product, which was introduced in 2012, being offset by the loss of two distribution partners for travel insurance and the termination of certain affinity marketing partnerships.

Gross deposits increased 9% to USD 37.7 billion in 2013. Gross deposits in variable annuities, retail mutual funds and retirement plans were all higher than in 2012. Variable annuities gross deposits were up 59% to USD 8.5 billion in 2013, which was primarily driven by Aegon’s continued focus on key distribution partners. The increase in retirement plan deposits was driven by plan takeover deposits and focusing on retirement readiness by growing customer participation and contributions.

 

 

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28   Business overview Results of operations – Americas

 

Results 2012 Americas

 

      Amounts in USD millions      Amounts in EUR millions  
                2012                2011                      %               2012                2011                          %  
Net underlying earnings      1,288         1,342         (4%     1,002         965         4%   

Tax on underlying earnings

     468         446         5%        364         321         13%   
Underlying earnings before tax by product segment                 

Life & Protection

     746         791         (6%     581         569         2%   

Fixed annuities

     255         287         (11%     198         206         (4%

Variable annuities

     359         360         0%        280         260         8%   

Retail mutual funds

     25         23         9%        19         16         19%   

Individual Savings & Retirement

     639         670         (5%     497         482         3%   

Employer Solutions & Pensions

     319         278         15%        248         200         24%   

Canada

     40         48         (17%     31         35         (11%

Latin America

     12         1         -        9         -         -   
Underlying earnings before tax      1,756         1,788         (2%     1,366         1,286         6%   

Net fair value items

     (98      (663      85%        (76      (477      84%   

Gains / (losses) on investments

     225         166         36%        175         119         47%   

Impairment charges

     (151      (349      57%        (117      (250      53%   

Other income / (charges)

     (37      (49      24%        (28      (35      20%   

Run-off businesses

     4         41         90%        2         28         (93%
Income before tax (excluding income tax from certain proportionately consolidated joint ventures and associates)      1,699         934         82%        1,322         671         97%   

Income tax from certain proportionately consolidated joint ventures and associates included in income before tax

     4         1         -        3         1         -   

Income tax

     (342      (27      -        (266      (20      -   

Of which Income tax from certain proportionately consolidated joint ventures and associates included in income before tax

     (4      (1      -        (3      (1      -   
Net income      1,357         907         50%        1,056         651         62%   

Life insurance gross premiums

     8,405         8,350         1%        6,541         6,004         9%   

Accident and health insurance premiums

     2,356         2,326         1%        1,833         1,672         10%   
Total gross premiums      10,761         10,676         1%        8,374         7,676         9%   

Investment income

     4,694         4,959         (5%     3,654         3,565         2%   

Fees and commission income

     1,512         1,066         42%        1,177         766         54%   

Other revenues

     6         2         -        5         1         -   
Total revenues      16,973         16,703         2%        13,210         12,008         10%   

Commissions and expenses

     4,276         4,922         (13%     3,329         3,540         (6%

of which operating expenses

     1,823         1,931         (6%     1,420         1,389         2%   

 

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      Amounts in USD millions     Amounts in EUR millions  
New life sales    2012     2011     %     2012     2011     %  

Life & Protection

     563        466        21%        438        334        31%   

Canada

     60        65        (8%     47        47        -   

Latin America

     45        51        (12%     35        37        (5%
Total recurring plus 1/10 single      668        582        15%        520        418        24%   
      Amounts in USD millions     Amounts in EUR millions  
      2012     2011     %     2012     2011     %  

New premium production accident and health insurance

     905        812        11%        705        584        21%   
      Amounts in USD millions     Amounts in EUR millions  
Gross deposits (on and off balance)    2012     2011     %     2012     2011     %  

Life & Protection

     12        12        -        9        9        -   

Fixed annuities

     371        313        19%        289        225        28%   

Variable annuities

     5,350        5,314        1%        4,163        3,821        9%   

Retail mutual funds

     3,437        2,785        23%        2,675        2,002        34%   

Individual Savings & Retirement

     9,158        8,412        9%        7,127        6,048        18%   

Employer Solutions & Pensions

     25,383        23,266        9%        19,755        16,727        18%   

Canada

     177        335        (47%     138        241        (43%

Latin America

     17        4        -        13        3        -   
Total gross deposits      34,747        32,029        8%        27,042        23,028        17%   
            
                    Weighted average rate     Closing rate as of  
Exchange rates                            December     December  
Per 1 EUR                  2012     2011     31, 2012     31, 2011  

USD

         1.2849        1.3909        1.3184        1.2982   

CAD

                     1.2839        1.3744        1.3127        1.3218   

 

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30   Business overview Results of operations – Americas

 

Results 2012 Americas

Aegon’s businesses in the Americas 1 continued to perform well in 2012. Sales of life, accident and health insurance all increased over 2011 on expanded distribution capabilities. Variable annuity, pension and retail mutual fund balances increased while fixed annuity balances continued to decline, a direct result of Aegon’s efforts to grow its fee-based earnings.

 

Net income

Net income from Aegon’s businesses in the Americas increased to USD 1,357 million in 2012. Better results from fair value items, lower impairments and higher realized gains on investments more than offset lower underlying earnings, lower earnings from run-off businesses and higher taxes.

Results from fair value items improved from USD (663) in 2011 to USD (98) million in 2012 as better than expected alternative asset performance and the impact of tightening credit spreads more than offset by the negative impact of the macro hedge caused by higher equity markets and the continued low interest rate environment. In addition, Aegon lowered its interest rate assumptions in 2011 which led to a charge of USD 237 million in 2011.

Gains on investments of USD 225 million were realized as a result of normal trading activity. Net impairments amounted to USD 151 million, down from USD 349 million in 2011, and continue to be primarily caused by mortgage related securities.

Underlying earnings before tax

Underlying earnings before tax from the Americas amounted to USD 1,756 million in 2012, a decrease of 2% compared to 2011. The positive effect of business growth and favorable equity markets was offset by lower Life & Protection earnings mostly the result of the non-recurrence of favorable items in 2011, recurring charges for Corporate Center expenses and higher employee benefit expenses.

  ¿   Life & Protection underlying earnings before tax decreased by 6% to USD 746 million, mostly the result of the non-recurrence of favorable items in 2011.
  ¿   Underlying earnings before tax from Individual Savings & Retirement decreased by 5% to USD 639 million in 2012 driven mostly by lower fixed annuity earnings due to declining account balances as the product is de-emphasized. Earnings from variable annuities were down slightly to USD 359 million as the benefit of higher account balances was offset mainly by the negative effect of policyholder assumption changes of USD 55 million. Earnings from retail mutual funds increased slightly to USD 25 million.
¿   Employer Solutions & Pensions underlying earnings before tax increased by 15% to USD 319 million in 2012 driven mostly by growing retirement plan account balances.  
¿   Underlying earnings before tax from Canada decreased to USD 40 million in 2012. In Latin America underlying earnings before tax increased to USD 12 million driven by improvements in both Brazil and Mexico.  

Commissions and expenses

Commissions and expenses decreased by 13% to

EUR 4,276 million in 2012, mainly due to lower amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs. Operating expenses decreased by 6% to USD 1,823 million, as cost savings and lower expenses related to the divestment of the life reinsurance business were only partly offset by higher performance related employee expenses, an increase in employee benefit expenses and costs to support growth.

Production

New life sales increased 15% to USD 668 million in 2012, primarily driven by strong indexed universal life sales as distribution expanded into the brokerage channel and by higher sales of certain products as they were withdrawn from the market. New premium production for accident & health insurance amounted to USD 905 million, up 11% on increased travel insurance sales following the addition of a new distribution partner in the second half of 2011.

Gross deposits amounted to USD 34.7 billion in 2012 compared to USD 32.0 billion in 2011. Gross deposits in variable annuities, retail mutual funds and retirement plans were all higher than in 2011. Variable annuities gross deposits increased in 2012 despite product re-pricing throughout the year to reflect the continued low interest rate environment and subsequent higher hedging costs. The increase in retirement plan deposits was driven by higher takeover deposits and successful efforts to increase inflows from the existing client base through higher contributions and larger participation count.

 

 

  1 As of the first quarter of 2012, Aegon has revised its financial reporting to reflect changes in its organization. Businesses in Asia, which were previously managed by Aegon Americas, are included in the Asia line of business within the ‘New Markets’ segment. For the full year 2011, the underlying earnings before tax generated by the Asian operations totaling EUR 37 million were previously reported under the ‘Americas’ segment. The 2011 and 2010 figures have been revised to reflect this change.

 

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Overview of Americas

Aegon Americas comprises Aegon USA, Aegon Canada and the operations in Brazil and Mexico.

 

Aegon USA

Aegon USA is one of the leading life 1 insurance organizations in the United States and the largest of Aegon’s operating units. Aegon USA administers millions of policies and employs approximately 11,000 people. Many of the Aegon USA companies operate under the Transamerica brand, one of the best known names 2 in the United States insurance business. Aegon USA companies have existed since the mid-19th century. Aegon USA’s main offices are in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and Baltimore, Maryland, with affiliated companies’ offices located throughout the United States.

Through these subsidiaries and affiliated companies, Aegon USA provides a wide range of life insurance, pensions, long-term savings and investment products.

Like other Aegon companies, Aegon USA uses a variety of distribution channels to help customers access its products as best suits their needs. Aegon USA has long-standing relations with banks across the United States, and also distributes products and services through agents, broker-dealers, Registered Representatives, the Internet, and direct and worksite marketing.

Aegon Canada

Based in Toronto, Aegon Canada offers a range of insurance products and financial services, primarily through its Transamerica Life Canada and Canadian Premier Life subsidiaries. At December 31, 2013, Aegon Canada had approximately 657 employees.

Aegon Brazil

In 2009, Aegon acquired a 50% interest in Mongeral Aegon Seguros e Previdência S.A., Brazil’s sixth largest independent (i.e. non-bank affiliated) life insurer. At December 31, 2013, Aegon Brazil had approximately 444 employees.

Aegon Mexico

In 2006, Aegon acquired a 49% interest in Seguros Argos S.A. de C.V., a Mexican life insurance company. At December 31, 2013, Aegon Mexico had approximately 84 employees. In December 2013, Aegon entered into a joint venture with Adminstradora Akaan S.A. de C.V. to create Akaan-Aegon S.A.P.I. de C.V. to explore financial service opportunities. This organization will initially focus on third party asset management.

Organizational structure

Aegon USA

Aegon USA was founded in 1989 when Aegon brought all of its operating companies in the United States under a single financial services holding company, AEGON USA, LLC. Business is conducted through its subsidiaries. The use of the term “Aegon USA” throughout this document refers to the operating subsidiaries in the United States, through which Aegon USA conducts business. Aegon USA has operating licenses in every US state, as well as the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, and Guam.

Aegon USA’s primary insurance subsidiaries are:

¿   Transamerica Life Insurance Company;  
¿   Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company;  
¿   Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company;  
¿   Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company of New York;  
¿   Monumental Life Insurance Company;  
¿   Stonebridge Life Insurance Company;  
¿   Stonebridge Casualty Insurance Company;  
¿   Western Reserve Life Assurance Co. of Ohio.  

Aegon’s subsidiary companies in the United States contain three divisions acting through one or more of the Aegon USA life insurance companies:

¿   Life & Protection;  
¿   Individual Savings & Retirement;  
¿   Employer Solutions & Pensions.  

These divisions, described in further detail below, represent groups of products that are sold through Aegon USA’s operating companies through distribution methods and sales channels. The business structure is designed to enable Aegon USA to manage and improve the efficiency of the organization and operating processes, identify business synergies, and pursue cross-selling opportunities. Coordinated support services complement operations by providing functional support in systems technology, investment management, regulatory compliance, and various corporate functions. Products are also offered and distributed through one or more of the Aegon USA licensed insurance or brokerage subsidiary companies.

 

 

  1 Source: LIMRA.
  2 Source: Brand Power Analysis.

 

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32   Business overview Results of operations – Americas

 

Overview of sales and distribution channels

Aegon USA

Aegon USA uses a variety of sales and distribution channels in the United States. These include:

  ¿   Independent and career agents;
  ¿   Registered Representatives;
  ¿   Independent marketing organizations;
  ¿   Banks;
  ¿   Regional and independent broker-dealers;
  ¿   Benefit consulting firms;
  ¿   Wirehouses;
  ¿   Affinity groups;
  ¿   Institutional partners;
  ¿   Third party administrators.

In addition, Aegon USA provides a range of products and services online, and uses direct and worksite marketing. Generally, Aegon USA companies are focused on particular products or market segments, ranging from lower income to high-net-worth individuals, and from small to large corporations.

Aegon Canada

Transamerica Life Canada (TLC) provides life insurance products to Canadian consumers. By working through a variety of distribution channels, TLC has acquired a national network of thousands of independent advisors. These advisors provide middle market Canadians with individual life insurance and protection products. Canadian Premier offers simplified life, group creditor and accident and sickness coverage. Distribution channels include:

  ¿   Independent and career agents;
  ¿   Independent managing general agencies;
  ¿   Agencies owned by Transamerica Life Canada;
  ¿   Bank-owned national broker-dealers and mutual fund dealers;
  ¿   Bank and credit union affinity partners.

Overview of business lines

Aegon USA

Life & Protection

Life & Protection (L&P), the largest of the three divisions, serves customers in a broad range of market segments. Consumers may choose to purchase directly or through career (or independent) agents, the worksite, or sponsored (or affinity) groups. L&P offers a comprehensive portfolio of protection solutions.

Products

Products offered include whole life, universal life, variable universal life, indexed universal life and term life insurance, and supplemental health, specialty insurance, and long-term care protection.

Term life insurance

Term life insurance provides protection for a stated period of time. Benefits are paid to policy beneficiaries in the event of the death of the insured during a specified period.

Universal life insurance

Universal life insurance pays death benefits, accumulates cash values at interest rates that adjust periodically, and has flexible premiums. Indexed universal life products have both interest rate guarantees and interest crediting linked in part to performance of an index, subject to a cap. Variable universal life products include varying investment options for cash values.

Whole life insurance

Whole (or permanent) life insurance provides life-long death benefit protection as long as required premiums are paid, while accumulating tabular cash values based on statutory requirements. Premiums are generally fixed and usually payable over the life of the policy.

Other life insurance

Life products also include life insurance sold as part of defined benefit pension plans, single premium products, and additional optional benefits.

Supplemental health and specialty insurance

Supplemental health insurance products are sold primarily through affinity markets and include accidental death, other injury, critical illness, hospital indemnity, Medicare supplement, retiree medical and student health. Specialty lines include travel, membership and creditor (installment, mortgage or guaranteed auto protection) products.

Long-term care insurance

Long-term care (LTC) insurance products provide benefits to policyholders who require care due to a chronic illness or cognitive impairment. LTC insurance serves as an asset protection tool by reimbursing policyholders for costly expenses associated with LTC services, and it may also help a family better manage the financial, health and safety issues that are associated with LTC.

Sales and distribution

The L&P division is organized by distribution channel, with a shared services support platform. Each channel focuses on a specific type of distribution method and target market. The L&P distribution channels include affinity markets, agency group, brokerage, worksite, and broker-dealer.

Affinity markets

The Affinity Markets group markets directly to consumers through either broad market or affinity relationships, including associations, employers, financial institutions, retailers, and other sponsor groups. Life, supplemental health, and specialty accident and membership products are offered through a variety

 

 

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of direct response marketing channels, including mail, phone, digital, direct response TV, and point-of-sale.

Agency

Transamerica Agency Group includes Transamerica Agency Network (comprising Independent Group and Transamerica Agency Network), Career Agency, Transamerica Senior Markets, Edgewood Financial Network and several independent marketing organizations. This group provides life insurance and supplemental health insurance products, as well as marketing services to closely-tied distribution groups serving the middle income and small business markets.

Brokerage

Transamerica Brokerage offers life and long-term care insurance products and services through independent brokerage distributors and financial institutions to high-net-worth, affluent, emerging affluent and middle income individuals, families and businesses. These products are designed for family protection, business needs, and estate and legacy planning.

Worksite

Transamerica Employee Benefits (TEB) offers life and supplemental health insurance products through employers, labor unions and trade associations. TEB’s comprehensive portfolio includes universal life, whole life and term life insurance, as well as accident, critical illness, cancer, hospital indemnity, medical expense indemnity, short-term disability, and dental policies. Some of these products provide insureds with lump sum or specified income payments when hospitalized, disabled or diagnosed with a critical illness. Others pay benefits for specific medical expenses and treatments, or cover deductibles, co-payments and coinsurance amounts not covered by other health insurance. In addition, TEB offers stop loss insurance to employers to protect against catastrophic losses under self-funded health plans.

Broker-dealer

Transamerica Financial Advisors, Inc. (TFA) is a full service, Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) registered independent broker-dealer and Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Registered Investment Adviser with approximately 5,000 Registered Representatives. TFA helps clients create, grow and protect wealth through a range of financial products and services.

Individual Savings & Retirement

Through its insurance companies, broker-dealers and investment advisors, Aegon USA offers a wide range of savings and retirement products and services, including mutual funds and variable and fixed annuities. The Individual Savings & Retirement (IS&R) division administers and distributes these products through a variety of channels, including wirehouse firms, banks, regional broker dealers, independent financial planners, and direct to consumer.

 

Products

Aegon USA’s fee-based business comprises asset management and insurance products that generate fee income by providing investment management, administrative or risk transfer services. Generally, fee income is sensitive to withdrawals and equity market movements.

Aegon USA’s operations provide various investment products and administrative services, individual and group variable annuities, mutual funds, collective investment trusts, and asset allocation services.

The operations in the United States provide the fund managers with oversight for the Transamerica mutual funds. Aegon USA selects, manages, and retains affiliated and non-affiliated managers from a variety of investment firms based on a number of qualitative and quantitative factors.

Mutual funds

Transamerica is a sub-advised or “manager of managers” fund platform. Fund managers can include those affiliated with Transamerica. Aegon USA earns investment management fees on investment products managed by unaffiliated sub-advisors and also earns direct investment management fees through affiliated managers acting as sub-advisors.

Variable annuities

Variable annuities are sold to individuals and retirement plans in the United States. Variable annuities allow policyholders to accumulate assets for retirement on a tax-deferred basis, and to participate in equity or bond market performance. Variable annuities allow policyholders to select payout options designed to help meet the policyholders need for income upon maturity, including lump sum payment, or income for a fixed period or life. Variable annuities have a maturity date at which benefits must be used or the contract surrendered. Commonly this date corresponds to the annuitant’s age, with a maximum age of 99 years.

Premiums paid on variable annuity contracts are invested in underlying funds chosen by the policyholder, including bond and equity funds, and types of asset-allocation funds. A fixed interest account is available on most products and the underlying funds are selected by a policyholder, within certain boundaries, based on the policyholder’s preferred level of risk. The assets and liabilities related to this product are legally segregated in separate accounts of the insurance company for the benefit of variable annuity policyholders. These separate accounts are classified as investments for the account of policyholders on Aegon’s statement of financial position. Variable annuity contracts contain riders, such as guaranteed minimum death, maturity, withdrawal, accumulation or income benefits.

The account value of variable annuities reflects the performance of the underlying funds. Aegon USA earns mortality and expense

 

 

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34   Business overview Results of operations – Americas

 

charges as well as various types of rider fees for providing guarantees and benefits. Generally, surrender charges are not a large form of revenue as policyholder surrender rates are typically lower when a surrender charge penalty remains. Collected surrender charges are typically used to recoup unamortized deferred acquisition costs.

A guaranteed minimum withdrawal benefit is offered on some variable annuity products Aegon USA has either issued or assumed from a ceding company. This benefit guarantees a policyholder may withdraw a certain percentage of the account value, starting at a certain age or duration, for either a fixed period or the life of the policyholder.

Certain variable annuity contracts also provide guaranteed minimum death benefits and guaranteed minimum income benefits. Under a guaranteed minimum death benefit, upon the death of the insured the beneficiaries receive the greater of the account balance or the guaranteed amount upon the death of the insured. The guaranteed minimum income benefit feature, which has not been offered on new business since 2003, provides for minimum payments if the policyholder elects to convert to an immediate payout annuity. The guaranteed amount is calculated using the total deposits made by the policyholder, less any withdrawals, and sometimes includes a roll-up or step-up feature that increases the value of the guarantee with interest or with increases in the account value.

These guaranteed benefits subject the company to interest rate risk and market risk. Poor market performance may cause the guaranteed benefits to exceed the policyholder account value.

Aegon USA addresses equity market, interest rate and market volatility risks through product design, including robust analysis of the underlying funds allowed within a product, and by using hedging strategies. Variable annuity products also contain policyholder behavior risk, mortality risk, and in the case of income riders, longevity risks, which are handled similarly to those in fixed annuities.

Fixed annuities

Fixed annuities include deferred annuities, fixed index annuities, and immediate annuities. These product lines have been de-emphasized due to the low interest rate environment. A fixed annuity exposes Aegon to interest rate risk and behavior and mortality risk. The insurer’s interest rate risk may be mitigated through product design, close asset liability management and hedging, although the effects of policyholder behavior cannot be fully mitigated. Immediate annuities have lower behavior risks than deferred annuities, but contain interest rate risk, and longevity risk if annuity payments are life contingent.

Income from fixed annuities is generated by spread on investment earnings over the credited rate, policy fees if

applicable, and surrender charges. Fees and surrender charges are not a large source of revenue on fixed annuities.

An immediate annuity is purchased with a single lump sum premium payment, and the benefit payments generally begin within a year of purchase. The benefit payment period may be for a fixed period or as long as the beneficiary is alive, or a combination of the two. Some immediate annuities and payout options under deferred annuities may also offer the owner or beneficiaries the option to surrender the annuity to have access to the account value if needed for unexpected events.

The policyholder may surrender the annuity prior to maturity and receive the cash value less surrender charges. Fixed annuities have a specified crediting rate that may be reset periodically at the company’s discretion after an initial guarantee period. Fixed annuity contracts in the United States also offer guaranteed minimum surrender values and payout options. Fixed annuities have a maturity date at which benefits must be used or the contract surrendered. Commonly this date corresponds to the annuitant’s age, up to a maximum of 95 years. Upon maturity of the annuity, the policyholder’s payout options include a lump sum payment, income for life, or payment for a specified period of time.

Minimum interest rate guarantees exist in all generations of fixed annuity products, as they are required by state non-forfeiture regulations. The average minimum interest rate guarantees of the in-force fixed annuity block is approximately 2.65%. The average current credited rate of the in-force fixed annuity block is approximately 3.25%. Equity indexed annuities offer additional returns that are index-linked to published stock market indices and proprietary indices, with a minimum cash value equal to a percentage of the premium increased at a minimum fixed or variable rate. Equity indexed annuities make up a small fraction of the in-force business. Certain fixed annuity products also offer a bailout provision. Under the bailout provision, if the crediting rate falls below the bailout rate, policyholders may surrender their contracts without incurring any surrender charges.

Sales and distribution

Aegon USA underwrites fixed and variable annuities through its various life insurance companies. Transamerica Capital Inc. (TCI), the underwriting and wholesaling broker-dealer, distributes variable annuities and mutual funds through major wirehouse firms, regional broker-dealers, and a large bank network. TCI serves these distribution channels through affiliated and external wholesalers.

From late 2009, Aegon USA reduced its sales of fixed annuities in response to lower market interest rates and lower investment returns. Similar market conditions continue to restrict sales of fixed annuities and, as a result, Aegon USA has de-emphasized their sale.

 

 

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TFA provides a range of financial and investment products, operating as a retail broker-dealer registered with the FINRA and an investment adviser registered with the SEC. Products offered by TFA include mutual funds, variable life insurance, variable annuities and other securities.

Employer Solutions & Pensions

Aegon USA offers retirement plans, pension plans, and pension-related products and services, as well as step-by-step guidance to people who are transitioning to, or living in, retirement related to five key areas, - lifestyle, investments, health care, protection and income.

Aegon USA covers a range of different retirement plans, including:

  ¿   401(k) - a type of deferred compensation plan sponsored by a corporation (including subchapter S), self-employed individual, sole proprietorship, partnership or non-profit organization;
  ¿   403(b) - a type of deferred compensation plan for certain employees of tax-exempt organizations and certain minister;
  ¿   457(b) - a type of deferred compensation plan sponsored by governmental and certain non-governmental employers in the United States;
  ¿   Deferred compensation plan - a plan or agreement that defers the payment of a portion of the employee’s compensation to a future date and which may also include a contribution made by the employer for the employee’s benefit;
  ¿   Defined benefit - a pension plan in which an employer promises a specified monthly benefit on retirement that is predetermined by a formula based on the employee’s earnings history, tenure of service and age;
  ¿   Defined contribution - a plan in which the contributions made to the plan by the employee and/or employer are allocated to the employee’s individual account under the plan. Examples of defined contribution plans include 401(k) plans, 403(b) plans, 457(b) plans, money purchase plans and profit-sharing plans;
  ¿   Profit-sharing - a type of defined contribution plan in which the employer may make a contribution, on behalf of the plan participants, to the plan each year, either out of the company’s profits or otherwise.

Products

Retirement plans

As of January 2013, Diversified Retirement Corporation, Transamerica Retirement Services, and Transamerica Retirement Management were rebranded Transamerica Retirement Solutions.

Transamerica Retirement Solutions is a leading provider of retirement plans in both the institutional market (mid- to large-sized organizations) and the emerging market (small U.S. employers).

In the institutional market, Transamerica Retirement Solutions offers a wide array of investment options designed to create a fully customized investment line-up for clients, and a personalized retirement funding strategy for their retirement plan participants. Transamerica Retirement Solutions’ open architecture investment platform provides access to a broad range of investment options, including institutional and retail mutual funds, registered or non-registered variable annuities, and a collective investment trust. The investment options offered in each plan are selected by the client or the client’s financial adviser.

In the emerging market, Transamerica Retirement Solutions offers fully bundled and partially bundled retirement plan solutions to small and mid-sized employers. These plans are predominantly supported by a group variable annuity product, where plan assets are invested primarily in separate account investment choices, including bond and equity investment choices, and cash equivalent choices. A fixed account cash vehicle may also be available on most plans. The investment choices are selected by the client or by the client’s financial adviser.

Single premium group annuities

Single premium group annuities (Terminal Funding) is a non-participating group annuity product. This product is commonly used for an insurance company takeover of a terminating defined benefit pension plan. The company receives a single deposit from the contract holder and in return guarantees the payment of benefits to participants. Usually these annuity payments are paid monthly for the life of the participant or participant and spouse, commencing immediately for retired participants or at some date in the future for deferred participants.

Transamerica Stable Value Solutions (SVS) provides synthetic guaranteed investment contracts (GICs) in the United States, primarily to tax-qualified institutional entities such as 401(k) plans and other retirement plans. SVS provides a synthetic GIC ‘wrapper’ around fixed-income invested assets, which are owned by the plan and managed by the plan or a third party money manager hired by the plan. A synthetic GIC is typically issued with an evergreen maturity and may be terminated under certain conditions. Such a contract helps to reduce fluctuations in the value of the wrapped assets for plan participants, and provides book value benefit-responsiveness.

Sales and distribution

Transamerica Retirement Solutions provides a comprehensive and customized approach to retirement plan management for mid- to large-sized defined contribution, defined benefit and non-qualified deferred compensation retirement plans. Transamerica Retirement Solutions’ institutional market clients are generally organizations with 250 to 100,000 employees and between USD 15 million and USD 2 billion in retirement assets.

 

 

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Transamerica Retirement Solutions’ retirement plan products and services are distributed through intermediaries such as retirement plan advisors, benefit consultants, and financial planners. Transamerica Retirement Solutions works closely with strategic alliance relationships and more broadly with many broker-dealers.

Transamerica Retirement Solutions also offers single premium group annuities in the United States, which are used by companies to decrease the liability of their defined benefit plans. The market is growing in this segment as more employers look to reduce the cost and complexity of their pension liabilities, often driven by widespread economic and sector restructuring.

For those individual plan participants who are in transition due to a lay-off, job change or planned retirement, Transamerica Retirement Solutions provides personal retirement services by telephone through a team of experienced registered representatives and investment advisors. In addition, Transamerica Retirement Solutions provides pre-retirees guidance and decision support to transition to and through retirement. Transamerica Retirement Solutions offers a variety of solutions, including Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs), advisory services, annuities and access to other insurance related products and resources. Each “plan for retirement” can be tailored to the goals and needs of the individual.

Latin America

Aegon’s business in Latin America comprises a 50% interest in Mongeral Aegon Seguros e Previdência S.A., a Brazilian independent life insurer, and a 49% interest in Seguros Argos S.A. de C.V., a Mexican life insurance company. Mongeral Aegon’s insurance activities include pension product distribution, individual and group life insurance products, and administrative services. Seguros Argos’s primary product is a twenty-year term life insurance product. Both insurance companies distribute their products in the worksite market. In December 2013, Aegon became a 50% owner of a joint venture with Adminstradora Akaan S.A. de C.V. to create Akaan-Aegon S.A.P.I. de C.V. to explore financial service opportunities. This organization will initially focus on third party asset management.

Run-off businesses

Institutional spread-based business

This business was put into run-off during 2009. The primary products included guaranteed investment contracts (GICs), funding agreements (FAs), and medium term notes (MTNs).

Guaranteed investment contracts and funding agreements

Guaranteed investment contracts (GICs) were generally issued to tax qualified plans, while FAs and MTNs were typically issued to non-tax qualified institutional investors.

GICs and FAs are spread-based products issued on a fixed-rate or floating-rate basis. They provide the customer a guarantee of

principal and a specified rate of return. Some spread products were issued by pledging, selling with the intent to repurchase, or lending investment securities that serve as collateral to these products. Practically all of the liabilities represented by the fixed-rate contracts were effectively converted to a floating-rate via swap agreements, and contracts issued in foreign currencies were converted at issuance to US dollars through swap agreements to eliminate currency risk. Usually, credited interest on floating-rate contracts resets on a monthly basis to various market indices. The term of the contract may be fixed, generally from six months to ten years, or have an indefinite maturity. Market-indexed contracts provide a return based on the market performance of a published index designated in the contract. Futures or swap contracts are used to hedge the market risk on market-indexed contracts and effectively convert such contracts to a floating-rate.

Medium-term notes

Aegon USA utilized consolidated special purpose entities to issue MTNs that are backed by FAs. The proceeds of each note series were used to purchase an FA from an Aegon insurance company, which was used to secure that particular series of notes. The payment terms of any particular series substantially matched the payment terms of the FA that secured that series.

Payout annuities

Payout annuities are a form of immediate annuity. Aegon USA no longer issues these contracts, but continues to administer the closed block of business. These contracts were typically purchased as a result of a lawsuit or claim, with the injured party receiving special tax treatment. Rather than paying the injured party a lump sum, the payments were structured as a lifetime annuity with mortality risk, a period certain annuity, or a combination of both.

Bank- and corporate-owned life insurance

Aegon USA services life insurance products sold to the bank- and corporate-owned life insurance (BOLI/COLI) market in the United States. BOLI/COLI helps institutional customers fund long-term employee benefits such as executive compensation and post-retirement medical plans. The corporation insures key employees and is the owner and beneficiary of the policies. New sales of BOLI/COLI were discontinued in 2010.

Clark Consulting specializes in the servicing and administration of bank-owned life insurance. Clark Consulting’s relationships and service model help maintain strong persistency for the block of business.

Life reinsurance

In August 2011, Aegon completed the divestment of its life reinsurance business, Transamerica Reinsurance, to SCOR, a global reinsurance company based in France. Under the agreement, Aegon divested its global life reinsurance activities

 

 

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with the exception of select blocks of business. The retained businesses comprise mainly variable annuity guarantee business.

Competition

Competitors of Aegon Americas’ companies include other large and highly-rated insurance carriers, as well as certain banks, securities brokerage firms, investment advisors, and other financial intermediaries marketing insurance products, annuities and mutual funds. Aegon USA leverages long-term relationships with many institutions to offer them product lines such as variable annuities, life insurance, mutual funds, and 401(k) products.

In the United States, the Life & Protection division faces competition from a variety of carriers. Leading competitors include AIG, Genworth, John Hancock, Lincoln National, MetLife, and USAA. In Canada, the primary competitors are Industrial-Alliance, Manulife Financial, Power Corporation (comprising Canada Life, Great West Life, London Life,), and Sun Life Financial. The result is a highly competitive marketplace and increasing commoditization in many product categories.

Aegon USA markets variable universal life, mutual funds, and variable annuities to middle-income clients with equity investment objectives. Variable annuity sales are often driven by the competitiveness of the living benefits offered by competitors, with most product development focusing on guaranteed lifetime withdrawal benefits, which guarantee lifetime withdrawals of a certain amount under certain conditions. There is continued interest, and strong competition among providers, in guaranteed lifetime withdrawal products. Aegon USA competes in the variable annuity marketplace. It maintains an effective wholesaling force, and focuses on strategic business relationships and products with competitive features, benefits and pricing. Aegon USA’s primary competitors in the variable annuity market are Jackson National, Lincoln National, MetLife, Nationwide, and Prudential.

The top five competitors in the mutual fund market are American Funds, Fidelity, Franklin Templeton, PIMCO, and T. Rowe Price.

The retirement plan market continues to evolve rapidly and is facing growing regulatory compliance pressures, continuing demand for technological innovation, pricing pressures, and provider consolidation. Aegon USA’s ability to achieve greater economies of scale in operations will be assisted by continued growth in key market segments, technology improvements, and process management efficiency.

In the defined contribution market, Aegon USA’s main competitors are Fidelity, Mass Mutual, New York Life, Principal Financial, Schwab, T. Rowe Price, and Vanguard. Aegon USA’s main competitors in the defined benefit segment are Mass Mutual, New York Life, Principal Financial, and Prudential. In the emerging market segment and the multiple employer plan segment, Aegon USA’s main competitors are American Funds, Fidelity, ING, John Hancock, and Principal Financial. In the single premium group annuity market, Aegon USA’s main competitors are John Hancock, Mass Mutual, MetLife, Mutual of Omaha, and Prudential.

Aegon USA has been a leading issuer of synthetic GICs 1 .

Regulation and supervision

Aegon USA

The Aegon USA insurance companies are subject to regulation and supervision in the states and jurisdictions in which they transact business, maintain offices or otherwise have a business presence. Regulators in each of those states and jurisdictions have broad powers to grant or revoke licenses to transact business, regulate trade and marketing practices, license agents, approve policy forms and certain premium rates, set reserve and capital requirements, determine the form and content of required financial reports, examine the insurance companies, prescribe the type and amount of investments permitted, levy fines and seek restitution, fines, sanctions or other monetary penalties for failure to comply with applicable regulations. The international businesses of Aegon USA are governed by the laws and regulations of the countries in which they transact business, maintain offices or otherwise have a business presence.

Insurance companies are subject to a mandatory audit every three to five years by their domestic state insurance departments, and every year by their independent auditors. In addition, examinations by non-domestic state insurance departments are conducted, on a targeted, random or cyclical basis. Some state Attorneys General have also commenced investigations into certain insurers’ business practices. Within the insurance industry, substantial liability has been incurred by insurance companies based on their past sales, marketing and operational practices. Aegon USA continues to focus on these compliance issues, and costs may increase as a result of these regulatory activities.

State insurance regulators have risk-based capital (RBC) standards for life insurance companies, established by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC). The RBC Model Act (Model Act) provides for various actions should an insurer’s adjusted capital, based on statutory accounting principles, fall below certain prescribed levels, which are defined

 

 

 

  1 Source: Reports from LIMRA International and the Stable Value Investment Association’s Stable Value and Funding Agreement Products as of the first three quarters of 2013.

 

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in terms of its risk-based capital. The adjusted capital levels of the Aegon USA insurance companies currently exceed all of the regulatory action levels as defined by the Model Act. Any modification of these adjusted capital levels by the regulators or rating agency capital models may impact Aegon USA. Previously, states adopted conservative reserving requirements for term and universal life products. These continue to cause capital strain for the life insurance industry and, in volatile market conditions, funding for these reserves is challenging.

The NAIC amended its Model Holding Company Act and Regulation to enhance disclosure to regulators about risk exposure to insurers from within their holding company system, for adoption by jurisdictions from 2012. Existing insurance holding company statutes and the regulations of each insurer’s domiciliary state in the United States already impose various limitations on investments in affiliates, and require prior approval of the payment of dividends above certain threshold levels by the licensed insurer to Aegon or its affiliates. In response to international developments, the NAIC also passed a new Own Risk and Solvency Protection Model Act and Guidance Manual, to come into effect in 2015. The NAIC passed a revised Model Standard Valuation Law (SVL) and Valuation Manual, which together established Principles-Based Reserving (PBR) in 2012. Seven states, none in Aegon USA’s domestic jurisdictions, passed the SVL in 2013. As adoption by a super-majority of states is required for PBR to be effective in any state, the effective date of PBR is expected to be 2016 or later. The NAIC will continue to consider changes to corporate governance and insurers’ use of captives through 2014. The impact of changes to the use of captives on the company cannot be predicted at this time. Proposals have included abolishing the use of captives or significantly restricting their use.

Although historically the federal government of the United States has not regulated the insurance business, many federal laws impact the insurance business in a variety of ways. US federal and state privacy laws and regulations impose restrictions on financial institutions’ use and disclosure, as well as the security of customer information, including obligations in the event of data security breaches. Congress is considering proposals intended to assist in combating cyberthreats. Proposals designed to assist the federal government in combating cyberthreats could impose additional obligations on companies to provide information relative to the effort. At this time, it is uncertain what impact, if any, these proposals may have on insurers.

In addition to the US Congress, non-traditional insurance regulators are increasingly involved in insurance matters traditionally reserved for State regulation; for example, the Federal Reserve Board, the Federal Insurance Office (FIO), the Securities & Exchange Commission and others have recently considered the regulation of captive reinsurance transactions.

The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (Dodd-Frank Act), enacted in 2010, established the Federal Insurance Office. While the FIO has no direct regulatory authority over US insurers, it does have certain authority to represent the US government in establishing international regulatory standards for insurers, and to represent the US insurance industry in international matters. The FIO is also authorized to monitor all aspects of the insurance industry, including identifying issues or gaps in the regulation of insurers that could contribute to a systemic crisis in the insurance industry of the US financial system. On December 12, 2013, the FIO submitted to Congress and released to the public a report on how to modernize and improve the system of insurance regulation in the United States. The report details strengths and weaknesses of the current US insurance regulatory system and outlines near-term reforms for states to undertake regarding capital adequacy, safety and soundness, reform of insurer resolution practices, and marketplace regulation. The report also outlines areas for federal involvement in insurance regulation, including pursuing national uniform treatment for reinsurers, adopting national standards for agent licensing and other provisions of The National Association of Registered Agents and Brokers Reform Act of 2013, and studying the use of personal information for insurance pricing and coverage purposes. The FIO is expected to continue to monitor state insurance activities, coordinate policy, and engage in other actions as necessary to pursue the recommendations made in its report. .

The Dodd-Frank Act has entrusted to the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve Board (the “Federal Reserve”) a significant regulatory role with respect to life insurers which are either designated as systemically significant or have a bank within the group. Finally, the International Association of Insurance Supervisors (IAIS), which includes the Federal Reserve, FIO and representatives of state regulators, is developing international capital and supervisory standards for internationally active life insurance groups, such as Aegon. It is still to be determined the extent to which these developments or the activities of the FIO and the Federal Reserve will impact Aegon USA and the regulation of insurance in the United States, or life insurers in the United States or internationally.

The Dodd-Frank Act also established the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, which has the authority to regulate the marketing practices of credit insurance and other financial products sold through banks. The Federal Reserve Board has also established certain disclosures relating to credit insurance sold in connection with a bank loan.

Federal laws and the rules of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) prohibit telephone solicitations to customers who have placed their telephone numbers on the National Do Not Call Registry. Additionally, proposals to place restrictions on direct mail are considered from time to time by the US Congress and states.

 

 

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These restrictions adversely impact the telemarketing efforts of Aegon USA, and new proposals, if enacted, will likely impact direct mail efforts. Proposed Federal Reserve Board disclosures regarding credit insurance provided in connection with a loan, if enacted as proposed, would adversely impact the market for credit insurance.

Many supplemental health insurance products offered by the Aegon USA companies, such as Medigap, are subject to both federal and state regulation as health insurance. The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA), enacted in 2011, significantly changes the regulation of health insurance and delivery of health care in the United States, including in certain respects, the regulation and delivery of supplemental health insurance products. Individual states are required to establish health care exchanges for the purchase of health care insurance by individuals. The extent to which employers may discontinue their provision of supplemental health insurance products to retired employees and the extent to which supplemental health insurance products may be sold through state exchanges may significantly impact Aegon USA’s supplemental health products business.

Additionally, certain policies and contracts offered by Aegon USA insurance companies are subject to regulation under the federal securities laws administered by the SEC and under certain state securities laws. The SEC conducts regular examinations of the insurance companies’ variable life insurance and variable annuity operations, and occasionally makes requests for information from these insurers in connection with examinations of affiliate and third party broker-dealers, investment advisors and investment companies. The SEC and other governmental regulatory authorities, including state securities administrators, may institute administrative or judicial proceedings that may result in censure, fines, issuance of cease-and-desist orders, or other sanctions against insurance companies or their distributors. Sales of variable insurance and annuity products are regulated by the SEC and the FINRA. The SEC, the FINRA and other regulators have from time to time investigated certain sales practices involving variable annuities and transactions in which an existing variable annuity is replaced by, or exchanged for, another annuity. Certain separate accounts of Aegon USA insurers are registered as investment companies under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the Investment Company Act). Separate account interests under certain annuity contracts and insurance policies issued by the insurance companies are also registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the Securities Act). Aegon USA insurance companies and other subsidiaries also own or manage other investment vehicles that are exempt from registration under the Securities Act and the Investment Company Act but may be subject to other requirements of those laws, such as anti-fraud provisions and the terms of applicable exemptions.

Some of the Aegon USA companies are registered as broker-dealers with the SEC under the Securities Exchange Act of

1934, as amended (the Securities Exchange Act) and are regulated by the FINRA. A number of Aegon USA companies are also registered as investment advisors under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. In accordance with Dodd-Frank Act requirements, the SEC studied and recommended a harmonized standard of care for broker-dealers, investment advisors and persons associated with these firms who provide personalized investment advice. The SEC has solicited comments on the costs and benefits of regulations to establish a harmonized standard of care; however, it has not set a date for proposal of those regulations. Legislation has been proposed in prior congresses that would establish a self-regulatory organization for the examination of investment advisors; however, no action was taken on the legislation. Finally, the SEC and Congress are considering changes to the regulation of money market funds. The impact of any future legislation regulations regarding investment advisors, money market funds, or other investment products cannot be predicted at this time.

The financial services industry, which includes businesses engaged in issuing, administering, and selling fixed and variable insurance products, mutual funds, and other securities, and also includes broker-dealers, continues to be under heightened scrutiny and increased regulation in various jurisdictions. Such scrutiny and regulations have included matters relating to so-called producer compensation arrangements, suitability of sales (especially to seniors), selling practices, unclaimed property reporting, revenue sharing, and valuation issues involving mutual funds and life insurance separate accounts and their underlying funds. Aegon USA companies, like other businesses in the financial services industry, have received inquiries, examinations, and requests for information from regulators and others relating to certain Aegon USA companies’ historical and current practices with respect to these and other matters. Some of those inquiries have led to investigations, which remain open or have resulted in fines, corrective actions or restitution. Aegon USA companies continue to cooperate with these regulatory agencies. In certain instances, Aegon USA companies modified business practices in response to those inquiries or findings. Certain Aegon USA companies have paid, or been informed that the regulators may seek, restitution, fines or other monetary penalties or changes in the way that business is conducted. The impact of any such fines or other monetary penalties is not expected to have a material impact on Aegon USA’s financial position, net income or cash flow. Over the years, there has been an increase in litigation across the industry, new legislation, regulations, and regulatory initiatives aimed at curbing alleged improper annuity sales to seniors. As many of the estimated 78 million baby boomers are reaching the age of 60, the industry will likely see an increase in senior issues presented in various legal arenas. In addition, certain industry practices in respect of market conduct have been the subject of investigations by various state regulators. Management expects any significant marketplace volatility to drive further regulation and litigation, which could increase costs and limit Aegon USA’s ability to operate.

 

 

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Some Aegon USA companies offer products and services to individual retirement accounts (IRAs), pension and welfare benefit plans that are subject to the federal Employment Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA). ERISA is administered by the US Department of Labor (DOL) and Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Accordingly, the DOL and IRS have jurisdiction to regulate the products and services sold by these Aegon USA businesses. The DOL has issued regulations defining the nature of fees to be paid for investment advice in these plans, as well as requiring increased fee disclosure from defined contribution plan service providers and to plan participants. The DOL has indicated that it will re-propose regulations regarding the scope of an “investment advice fiduciary” in IRAs and defined contribution plans, as well as further define the nature of a plan sponsor’s obligations regarding certain plan participants’ investment options selected through a plan’s brokerage window. Implementation of these and other regulations in the manner proposed could increase the cost and administrative burdens of the Aegon USA companies.

Finally, both the US Treasury Department and the DOL have published, in final and proposed forms, respectively, guidance to facilitate the offering of guaranteed lifetime income products (for example annuities), both as an investment option in a retirement savings plan or as a distribution from that plan. US federal legislation has also been proposed that is designed to increase savings in employer retirement plans and to facilitate managing those retirement savings as income in retirement through annuities. The likelihood of passage of these legislative proposals or finalization of the regulatory guidance cannot be predicted at this time. However, the proposed legislation and guidance, if enacted and finalized as proposed, would increase the awareness of the benefits of annuitization and/or would significantly reduce the administrative burden of offering annuities within a retirement savings plan or as a distribution option from the plan.

In an attempt to increase the number of workers covered by a retirement savings plan, California has enacted legislation that would permit non-governmental workers to join the state government workers’ retirement plan or a similar governmental plan. Certain steps must be taken, however, before the legislation can be implemented. Several other states are considering similar legislation. The opening of state retirement plans to non-governmental workers could impact the products and services sold by some Aegon USA companies to private employers in those states.

Although the insurance business is regulated at State level, the US federal tax treatment of life insurance, pension and annuity products is governed by the US federal tax code. Proposals to remove or decrease the value of these tax incentives for these products – both in and of themselves and relative to other investment vehicles – have been debated periodically in the US Congress and also have been proposed in the Executive

Administration’s annual budget for the US federal government. Executive Administration budget proposals must be enacted by Congress before they become law. The risk of tax law changes is heightened when additional revenue is sought to reduce the federal deficit. In addition, tax reform initiatives of the type currently being considered by congressional committees further increase the risk of changes to the tax incentives for short- and long-term savings products, to the tax treatment of derivatives used by life insurers to hedge product-related liabilities, and perhaps even to the taxation of life insurers. These changes, if enacted, would directly impact the cost and competitiveness of life insurance, annuity and pension products sold to ensure Americans’ financial and retirement security.

Moreover, legislative proposals which impose restrictions on executive compensation, or restrict employment-based savings plans or the tax benefits related thereto, could adversely impact the sale of life insurance products used in funding those plans and their attractiveness relative to other non-insurance products. Regulations announced under the Dodd-Frank Act that limit investment by banks in certain financial services products or increase the cost of issuing certain life insurance products would adversely impact the sale of life insurance products. In particular, the market for stable value products sold to defined contribution plans, as well as other insurance products, would be adversely affected if it was decided that these products should be regulated as derivatives. Finally, proposed legislation that would limit the ability of an insurer to access the US Social Security Death Master File records would adversely impact the efficient administration of its life insurance policies. The likelihood of enactment of any such legislation cannot be predicted at this time.

There have also been occasional legislative proposals in the US Congress that target foreign-owned companies, such as a proposal containing a corporate residency provision that would redefine some historically foreign-based companies as US corporations for US tax purposes.

Many details of the Dodd-Frank Act were left to study or regulation; therefore, the impact of the Dodd-Frank Act on Aegon USA, or the life insurance market in general, cannot be fully determined until the regulations implementing the Dodd-Frank Act are promulagated and the studies completed. For example, the Dodd-Frank Act established the Federal Stabilization Oversight Council (‘FSOC’), responsible for identifying ‘systemically significant’ companies which are to be subject to additional oversight and heightened and other prudential standards imposed by the Federal Reserve Board. While Aegon USA has not to date been identified by FSOC as systemically significant, the likelihood of future identification of Aegon USA as systemically significant and/or the impact of any designation of other insurers as systemically significant on the competitive position of Aegon USA cannot be predicted at this time.

 

 

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Aegon USA companies administer and provide both asset management services and products used to fund defined contribution plans, individual retirement accounts, 529 plans and other savings vehicles. Changes to defined benefit plans by sponsors in reaction to the financial economic environment and the enactment of funding relief provisions may impact the services Aegon USA companies provide to these plans. In addition, legislative and regulatory proposals are considered from time to time which relate to the disclosure and nature of fees paid by defined contribution plan sponsors and their participants. Other proposals that may be considered relate to the nature of education, advice or other services Aegon USA companies provide to defined contribution plan sponsors and their participants. Finally, as noted above, proposals to change the structure, or remove or decrease the US federal tax preferences of pension and annuity products, either as part of tax reform or pursuant to deficit reduction, would directly impact the cost and competitiveness of pension and annuity products and pension services sold to ensure Americans’ financial and retirement security. Aegon USA companies also provide plans used to administer benefits distributed upon termination of defined benefit plans.

Any proposals that seek to either restrict fees and services to, or investment advice in, employer plans, or change the manner in which Aegon USA companies may charge for such services in a way that is inconsistent with business practices, will adversely impact the Aegon USA companies that provide administration and investment services and products to employment based plans.

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act does not directly impact the business of life insurance. It is uncertain whether any of the new regulations to implement this law, anticipated over the next several years, will impact the nature or distribution of any of Aegon USA’s supplemental products.

The American Taxpayer Relief Act (ATRA), enacted in January 2013, made permanent, with some modifications, many of the tax cuts enacted in 2001 and 2003 during the Bush administration. The ATRA provisions that are most significant for the Aegon USA companies’ business include those: (a) on the estate tax (setting the unified estate and gift tax exemption threshold at USD 5 million (adjusted for inflation after 2011), and the maximum tax rate at 40%); (b) on Roth conversions (permitting participants in qualified retirement savings plans to convert otherwise non-distributable 401(k) plan balances to a Roth account if the plan so provides); and (c) increasing the top individual income tax rates to 39.6% and capital gains rates to 20%. Other provisions of ATRA, such as the phase-out of personal exemptions and limitations on itemized deductions, as well as the new 3.8% tax on net investment income (enacted by the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and first effective in 2013), will further increase the marginal income tax rate of certain high income households. Making the estate tax permanent will facilitate estate planning for Americans. The extent to which

the other tax law changes impact the purchase of life insurance and annuity products, as well as the participation of individuals in qualified retirement savings plans, is as yet uncertain.

Aegon Canada

Transamerica Life Canada (TLC) and Canadian Premier Life (CPL) are organized and regulated pursuant to the federal Insurance Companies Act (Canada). The primary regulator is the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions. In addition, TLC and CPL are subject to the laws, regulations and insurance commissions of each of Canada’s ten provinces and three territories in which it carries on business. The laws of these jurisdictions generally establish supervisory agencies with broad administrative powers that include granting and revoking licenses to conduct business, regulating trade practices, licensing agents, establishing reserve requirements, determining permitted investments, and establishing minimum levels of capital. TLC’s ability to continue to conduct its insurance business depends upon the maintenance of its licenses at both the federal and provincial/territorial levels. It is also governed by policy statements and guidelines established by the Canadian Life & Health Insurance Association.

The mutual fund and investment management operations of Aegon Canada are governed by the Securities Acts of each province and territory.

Asset liability management

The Aegon USA insurance companies are primarily subject to regulation under the laws of the states in which they are domiciled. Each state’s laws prescribe the nature, quality, and percentage of various types of investments that may be made by the companies. Such laws generally permit investments in government bonds, corporate debt, preferred and common stock, real estate, and mortgage loans. Limits are generally placed on other classes of investments.

The key investment strategy for traditional insurance-linked portfolios is asset liability management, whereby predominately high-quality investment assets are matched in an optimal way to the corresponding insurance liability. This strategy takes into account currency, yield and maturity characteristics. Asset diversification and quality considerations are also taken into account, along with considerations of the policyholders’ guaranteed or reasonably expected excess interest sharing. Investment-grade fixed income securities are the main vehicle for asset liability management, and Aegon USA’s investment personnel are highly skilled and experienced in these investments.

The Aegon USA companies manage their asset liability matching through the work of several committees. These committees review strategies, define risk measures, define and review asset liability management studies, examine risk-hedging techniques, including the use of derivatives, and analyze the potential use of new asset classes. Cash flow testing analysis is performed using

 

 

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computer simulations, which model assets and liabilities under projected interest rate scenarios and commonly used stress-test interest rate scenarios. Based on the results of these simulations, an investment portfolio is constructed to best match the cash flow and interest sensitivity of the underlying liabilities while trying to maximize the spread between the yield on the portfolio assets and the rate credited on the policy liabilities. Interest rate scenario testing is a continual process and the analysis of the expected values and variability for four critical risk measures (capital charges, cash flows, present value of profits, and interest rate spreads) forms the foundation for modifying investment strategies, adjusting asset duration and mix, and exploring hedging opportunities. On the liability side, Aegon USA has some offsetting risks, whereby some liabilities perform better in rising interest rate environments while others tend to perform well in falling interest rate environments. The amount of offset may vary depending on the absolute level of interest rates and the magnitude and timing of interest rate changes, but it generally provides some level of diversification. On the asset side, hedging instruments are continuously studied to determine whether their cost is commensurate to the risk reduction they offer.

Reinsurance ceded

Aegon USA reinsures part of its life insurance exposure with third party reinsurers under both quota share (traditional indemnity) reinsurance treaties, and excess-of-loss contracts. Aegon USA’s reinsurance strategy is consistent with typical industry practice.

Ceding reinsurance does not remove Aegon’s liability as the primary insurer. Aegon could incur losses should reinsurance companies not be able to meet their obligations. To minimize its exposure to the risk of such defaults, the creditworthiness of Aegon’s reinsurers is monitored regularly.

Aegon USA

These reinsurance contracts are designed to diversify Aegon USA’s overall risk and limit the maximum loss on risks that exceed policy retention levels. The maximum retention limits vary by product and class of risk, but generally fluctuate between USD 3,000 and USD 10 million per life insured.

Aegon USA remains contingently liable with respect to the amounts ceded should the reinsurance company not be able to meet its obligations. To minimize its exposure to such defaults, Aegon USA regularly monitors the creditworthiness of its reinsurers, and where appropriate, arranges additional protection through letters of credit or trust agreements. For certain agreements, funds are withheld for investment by the ceding company. Aegon USA has experienced no material reinsurance recoverability problems in recent years.

Aegon USA reinsures part of its life insurance exposure with third-party reinsurers under quota share (traditional indemnity) reinsurance treaties, and excess-of-loss contracts. Aegon USA’s reinsurance strategy is consistent with typical industry practice.

The Aegon USA insurance companies also enter into contracts with company-affiliated reinsurers, both within the United States and overseas. These contracts have been excluded from the company’s consolidated financial statements.

Aegon Canada

In the normal course of business, Transamerica Life

Canada reinsures part of its mortality and morbidity risk with third-party reinsurers that are registered with Canada’s Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions. The maximum life insurance exposure retained is CAD 1.25 million per life insured.

 

 

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Results 2013 the Netherlands

 

Amounts in EUR millions    2013       2012        
Net underlying earnings      274          260          5%    

Tax on underlying earnings

     81          65          25%    
Underlying earnings before tax by product segment         

Life & Savings

     243          267          (9%)   

Pensions

     111          67          66%    

Non-life

     (20)         (27)         26%    

Distribution

     18          16          13%    

Share in underlying earnings before tax of associates

                     0%    
Underlying earnings before tax      355          325          9%    

Net fair value items

     (65)         71          -     

Gains / (losses) on investments

     342          138          148%    

Impairment charges

     (32)         (29)         (10%)   

Other income / (charges)

     (36)         (279)         87%    

Income before tax

     564          226          150%    

Income tax from certain proportionately consolidated joint ventures and associates included in
income before tax

     -           (3)         -     

Income tax

     (141)                 -     

Of which Income tax from certain proportionately consolidated joint ventures and associates
included in income before tax

     -           3           -     
Net income      424          228          86%    

Life insurance gross premiums

     3,515          3,004          17%    

Accident and health insurance premiums

     243          220          10%    

General insurance premiums

     487          475          3%    
Total gross premiums      4,245          3,699          15%    

Investment income

     2,310          2,273          2%    

Fees and commission income

     328          329          0%    
Total revenues      6,883          6,301          9%    

Commissions and expenses

     997          1,036          (4%)   

of which operating expenses

     732          746          (2%)   
New life sales         

Amounts in EUR millions

     2013          2012            

Life & Savings

     40          46          (13%)   

Pensions

     166          200          (17%)   
Total recurring plus 1/10 single      206          246          (16%)   

Amounts in EUR million

     2013          2012            

New premium production accident and health insurance

     24          21          11%    

New premium production general insurance

     26          30          (13%)   
Gross deposits (on and off balance)      2013          2012            

Life & Savings

     1,338          1,484          (10%)   
Total gross deposits      1,338          1,484          (10%)   

 

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44   Business overview Results of operations – the Netherlands

 

Results 2013 the Netherlands 1

2013 net income increased to EUR 424 million compared to 2012 due to higher realized gains on investments and higher underlying earnings before tax which is partly offset by a loss on fair value items (compared to a gain in 2012). The increase in underlying earnings before tax was mostly driven by Pensions earnings and lower operating expenses following implemented cost reduction initiatives.

 

Net income

Net income from Aegon’s businesses in the Netherlands amounted to EUR 424 million. Realized gains on investments totaled EUR 342 million and were primarily the result of adjustments to the asset mix to bring it in line with the new regulatory yield curve and selective de-risking activities. Results on fair value items amounted to a loss of EUR 65 million, which was primarily driven by adverse real estate revaluations of EUR 74 million and a loss in the guarantee portfolio of EUR 118 million. This loss in the guarantee portfolio was mainly the result of the tightening of Aegon’s credit spread and model refinements. 2013 impairment charges amounted to EUR 32 million and other charges were EUR 36 million, which mainly included charges of EUR 25 million related to Koersplan (compared to a charge of EUR 265 million related to the acceleration of product improvements for unit-linked insurance products in 2012).

Underlying earnings before tax

Underlying earnings from Aegon’s operations in the Netherlands increased 9% to EUR 355 million compared to 2012 as higher earnings in Pensions more than offset lower earnings in Life & Savings.

  ¿   Earnings from Life & Savings declined 9% to EUR 243 million compared to 2012 and was impacted by EUR 28 million from reduced policy charges on unit-linked products, as part of the acceleration of product improvements for unit-linked insurance policies.
  ¿   Earnings from Pensions increased 66% to EUR 111 million compared to 2012, mainly driven by a benefit resulting from observed mortality of EUR 25 million and higher income on mortgage loan investments allocated to the investment portfolio of the Pension business.
  ¿   Non-life earnings improved to a loss of EUR 20 million in 2013. Higher investment income and lower claims on disability products more than compensated for lower profitability of the general insurance business. Distribution recorded a profit of EUR 18 million, up 13% from 2012. This was primarily driven by a continued focus on cost control.

Commissions and expenses

Commissions and expenses decreased by 4% in 2013 compared to 2012. Operating expenses decreased by 2% compared to 2012, to EUR 732 million, as realized cost savings and lower employee benefit expenses offset investments in the business.

Production

Total new life sales decreased 16% in 2013 to EUR 206 million. Individual life sales declined 13% to EUR 40 million in 2013, as the ongoing shift to banksparen products more than offset higher term life sales related to new mortgage production. Pensions sales declined 17% compared to 2012 as signing multiple new contracts was more than offset by the non-recurrence of a very large transaction in 2012. Production of mortgage loans in 2013 amounted to EUR 3.2 billion, up EUR 2.7 billion from 2012.

Premium production for accident & health amounted to EUR 24 million up from EUR 21 million in 2012. General insurance production declined 13% to EUR 26 million. Production was negatively impacted by the focus on profitable business.

Gross deposits decreased to EUR 1.3 billion, as a higher production of banksparen products was more than offset by a decline in traditional savings deposits.

 

 

  1 Throughout this report, Aegon the Netherlands refers to all Aegon companies operating in the Netherlands.

 

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Results 2012 the Netherlands

 

Amounts in EUR millions    2012       2011        
Net underlying earnings      260          238          9%    

Tax on underlying earnings

     65          60          8%    
Underlying earnings before tax by product segment         

Life & Savings

     267          185          44%    

Pensions

     67          98          (32%)   

Non-life

     (27)                 -     

Distribution

     16                  100%    

Share in underlying earnings before tax of associates

                     100%    
Underlying earnings before tax      325          298          9%    

Net fair value items

     71          156          (54%)   

Gains / (losses) on investments

     138          269          (49%)   

Impairment charges

     (29)         (15)         (93%)   

Other income / (charges)

     (279)         (164)         (70%)   

Income before tax

     226          544          (58%)   

Income tax

             (125)         -     
Net income      228          419          (46%)   

Life insurance gross premiums

     3,004          3,213          (7%)   

Accident and health insurance premiums

     220          216          2%    

General insurance premiums

     475          452          5%    
Total gross premiums      3,699          3,881          (5%)   

Investment income

     2,273          2,192          4%    

Fees and commission income

     329          329          -     
Total revenues      6,301          6,402          (2%)   

Commissions and expenses

     1,036          1,122          (8%)   

of which operating expenses

     746          823          (9%)   
New life sales                     
Amounts in EUR millions    2012       2011        

Life & Savings

     46          81          (43%)   

Pensions

     200          173          16%    
Total recurring plus 1/10 single      246          254          (3%)   
Amounts in EUR million    2012       2011        

New premium production accident and health insurance

     21          27          (22%)   

New premium production general insurance

     30          27          11%    
Gross deposits (on and off balance)    2012       2011        

Life & Savings

     1,484          1,968          (25%)   

Pensions

             80          -     
Total gross deposits      1,484          2,048          (28%)   

 

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46   Business overview Results of operations – the Netherlands

 

Results 2012 the Netherlands

Higher underlying earnings before tax in the Netherlands were driven by improved Life & Savings earnings and lower operating expenses following implemented cost reduction initiatives in 2011. Aegon’s business in the Netherlands realized EUR 89 million of the targeted EUR 100 million reduction in operating expenses. Net income was impacted by a one-off charge of EUR 265 million related to the acceleration of product improvement for unit-linked insurance products.

 

Net income

Net income from Aegon’s businesses in the Netherlands amounted to EUR 228 million and included a charge of EUR 265 million before tax related to the acceleration of product improvements for unit-linked insurance products. Realized gains on investments totaled EUR 138 million for the year and were mainly the result of asset liability management related trading activity and selective de-risking. Results on fair value items amounted to a gain of EUR 71 million and impairments amounted to EUR 29 million.

Underlying earnings before tax

Underlying earnings before tax from Aegon’s operations in the Netherlands increased 9% in 2012 to EUR 325 million as higher earnings in Life & Savings more than offset lower earnings in Pension and Non-life. Recurring charges for Corporate Center expenses amounted to EUR 16 million.

 

  ¿   Underlying earnings before tax from Aegon’s Life & Savings operations in the Netherlands increased to EUR 267 million, up 44% compared to 2011. This increase was driven by cost savings, a higher contribution from Aegon’s growing mortgage portfolio on lower funding costs, the non-recurrence of certain expenses and a benefit in the fourth quarter resulting from updated mortality tables of EUR 24 million.
  ¿   Underlying earnings before tax from the Pension business declined to EUR 67 million as the benefit of cost savings and the wind up of several contracts were more than offset by lower interest income, the non-recurrence of a employee benefit release in 2011 and a charge in 2012 of EUR 17 million resulting from updated mortality tables.
  ¿   Non-life recorded an underlying loss before tax of EUR 27 million in 2012 as a result of adverse claim experience on disability and general insurance products. Losses on these products led to the implementation of actions to improve future results with disability insurance products already showing improvements in 2012.
  ¿   In 2012, the distribution businesses recorded underlying earnings before tax of EUR 16 million, an improvement compared to 2011 due to cost savings and lower amortization of value of business acquired following an impairment in 2011.

Production

New life sales decreased by 3% in 2012 to EUR 246 million. The decline in Individual life sales to EUR 46 million, primarily driven by a shrinking Dutch life insurance market, more than offset the 16% increase in pension sales. Production of mortgages in 2012 amounted to EUR 2.7 billion down from EUR 3.3 billion in 2011.

Premium production for accident & health amounted to EUR 21 million, down from EUR 27 million in 2011. Sales in income insurance products were negatively impacted by strong competition and price increases to maintain margins. General insurance production amounted to EUR 30 million, up 11% for the year, resulting from successful new distribution initiatives.

Gross deposits declined to EUR 1,484 million, driven by strong competition on the Dutch savings market and a reduction of the rate offered on savings accounts to protect margins.

Commissions and expenses

Commissions and expenses decreased by 8% in 2012 compared to 2011 driven by lower operating expenses. Operating expenses decreased by 9%, to EUR 746 million, as realized cost savings and the non-recurrence of restructuring charges offset investments in new distribution capabilities and recurring charges for Corporate Center expenses.

Aegon was on track to reduce operating expenses by EUR 100 million in comparison to the cost base for 2010, of which the majority was in 2012. Over the years, Aegon has implemented cost savings of EUR 89 million.

 

 

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Overview of the Netherlands

Aegon has operated in the Netherlands for more than 150 years, and is today known as Aegon the Netherlands, one of the country’s leading 1 providers of life insurance and pensions, with approximately 4,300 employees. Aegon the Netherlands is headquartered in The Hague, has offices in Leeuwarden and Groningen, and owns the Unirobe Meeùs Group, one of the largest 2 intermediaries in the Netherlands.

 

Organizational structure

Aegon the Netherlands operates through a number of brands, including TKP Pensioen, Optas and Unirobe Meeùs. Aegon itself is one of the most widely recognized brands in the Dutch financial services sector 3 .

Aegon the Netherlands’ primary subsidiaries are:

 

  ¿   Aegon Bank N.V.

 

  ¿   Aegon Levensverzekering N.V.

 

  ¿   Aegon Schadeverzekering N.V.

 

  ¿   Aegon Spaarkas N.V.

 

  ¿   Optas Pensioenen N.V.

 

  ¿   Aegon Hypotheken B.V.

 

  ¿   TKP Pensioen B.V.

 

  ¿   Unirobe Meeùs Groep B.V.

 

  ¿   Aegon PPI B.V.

Aegon the Netherlands has four lines of business:

 

  ¿   Life & Saving;

 

  ¿   Pensions;

 

  ¿   Non-life;

 

  ¿   Distribution.

Overview of sales and distribution channels

Aegon the Netherlands sells through several channels. The Pensions business line includes Sales and account management, which serves large corporations and financial institutions such as company and industry pension funds. In general all business lines use the intermediary channel, which focuses on independent agents and retail sales organizations in the Netherlands. Aegon Bank uses the direct channel, primarily for savings, and Aegon Schadeverzekering has strategic partnerships for the sale of its products and uses an online channel. Aegon the Netherlands launched online bank Knab in 2012 and online insurer Kroodle in 2013, in line with its drive to embrace technology to meet the evolving needs of its customers. Furthermore, Aegon the Netherlands has made significant investments in the direct online channel, which is starting to generate results.

 

 

  1 Source: DNB/CVS Reports 2012.
  2 Source: AM 2012 Jaarboek, published by Assurantie Magazine.
  3 Source: Tracking Report Motivaction+.

Overview of business lines

Life & Savings

Aegon the Netherlands provides a range of individual savings products, mortgage loans and life insurance and personal protection products and services, including traditional, universal and term life. Based on underlying earnings before tax, Life & Savings is Aegon the Netherlands’ largest line of business.

Products

Endowment insurance

Endowment insurance includes several products that accumulate a cash value. Premiums are paid at inception or over the term of the contract.

Accumulation products pay benefits on the policy maturity date, subject to survival of the insured. Most policies also pay death benefits should the insured die during the term of the contract. Death benefits may be stipulated in the policy or depend on the gross premiums paid to date. Premiums and amounts insured are established at inception of the contract. The amount insured can be increased as a result of profit sharing, if provided for under the terms and conditions of the product.

Minimum interest guarantees exist for all generations of accumulation products written, except for universal life type products for which premiums are invested solely in equity funds. Older generations contain a 4% guarantee; in 1999 the guarantee decreased to 3% and in 2013 the guarantee decreased to 0%.

There are various profit-sharing arrangements. Bonuses are either paid in cash (usually for a pension, as described later) or used to increase the sum insured. A common form of profit sharing is to set bonus levels by reference to external indices that are based on pre-defined portfolios of Dutch government bonds. The bonds included in the portfolios have differing remaining maturities and interest rates. Together they are considered an approximation of the long-term rate of return on Dutch high-quality financial investments.

 

 

 

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48   Business overview Results of operations – the Netherlands

 

 

Term and whole life insurance

Term life insurance pays out death benefits should the insured die during the term of the contract. Whole life insurance pays out death benefits in the event of death, regardless of when this occurs. Premiums and amounts insured are established at inception of the contract and are guaranteed. The amount insured may be adjusted at the request of the policyholder. Term life insurance policies do not include profit-sharing arrangements. Part of the whole life insurance portfolio has profit-sharing features, which are based on external indices or the return of related assets.

Annuity insurance

Annuity insurance includes products in the accumulation phase and products in the payout phase. Payout commences at a date determined in the policy and usually continues until death of the insured or the beneficiary. Premiums are paid at inception of the policy or during the accumulation phase of the policy. The contracts contain minimum guarantees of 3%, or 4% and prior to 1999 of 4%. Interest rebates are given on both single and regular premium annuity insurance, and may be based on a portfolio of Dutch government bonds, although other calculation benchmarks may also be applied. There are also profit-sharing schemes set by reference to external indices that are based on pre-defined portfolios of Dutch government bonds.

Variable unit-linked products

These products have a minimum benefit guarantee, except for premiums invested in equity funds. The initial guarantee period is ten years.

Tontine plans

Tontine plans are unit-linked contracts with a specific bonus structure. At the end of the year in which the insured dies, the policy balance is distributed to the surviving policyholders who belong to the same tontine series, rather than to the policyholder’s estate. Should the policyholder die before the policy matures, a death benefit is paid to the dependants. Tontine policyholders may invest premiums in a number of Aegon funds. Aegon the Netherlands manages but no longer sells tontine plans.

Mortgage loans

Since 2013, Aegon the Netherlands has offered annuity and linear residential mortgage loans, either individually or in combination. Previously the business also offered interest-only, unit-linked and savings mortgage loans.

Savings accounts

Aegon the Netherlands offers flexible savings accounts with cash withdrawal with limited restrictions, and deposit accounts with a predetermined maturity.

Investment contracts

Investment contracts are investment products that offer index-linked returns and generate fee income from the performance of the investments.

Long-term deposits (“Banksparen”)

Banksparen is a saving product for which amounts are deposited in a “locked” bank account exempt from capital gains tax. The amount saved is available for specific purposes after a certain time period.

Knab

Aegon the Netherlands launched online bank Knab in 2012. The platform provides customers with insights into their financial future and uses a fee-based model to empower informed decision making by customers. A product of collaboration with customers, experts and critics, Knab is designed to meet contemporary customer needs.

Kroodle

In the first quarter of 2013, Aegon the Netherlands launched Kroodle, one of the world’s first insurance companies to operate primarily through Facebook allowing customers in the Netherlands to purchase insurance and manage their accounts through their Facebook profile.

Sales and distribution

Aegon the Netherland’s life and savings products are sold through Aegon’s intermediary and direct channels.

Pensions

The Pensions business provides a variety of full service pension products to pension funds and companies.

Products

Aegon the Netherlands provides full-service pension solutions and administration-only services to company and industry pension funds and large companies. The full-service pension products for account of policyholders are separate account group contracts with and without guarantees.

 

 

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Separate account group contracts are large group contracts that have an individually determined asset investment underlying the pension contract. A guarantee usually consists of profit sharing, and is the highest of either the market interest rate or the contractual interest rate, 3% or 4%. If profit sharing turns into a loss, the minimum guarantee becomes effective, but the loss in any given year is carried forward to be offset against future surpluses. In general, the guarantee is dependent on the life of the insured so that their pension benefit is guaranteed. Large group contracts also receive part of the technical results for mortality risk and disability risk. The contract period is typically five years and the tariffs, cost loadings and risk premiums are generally fixed over this period.

Separate account guaranteed group contracts provide a guarantee on the benefits paid. The longevity risk therefore lies with Aegon the Netherlands. Non-guaranteed separate account group contracts provide little guarantee on the benefits. Aegon the Netherlands may not renew a contract at the end of a contract period.

Aegon offers all customers a defined benefit product with guaranteed benefits. The expected profit is paid to the customer upfront, with the premium adjusted for anticipated investment returns. Customers may contribute funds for future pension increases to a separate account. Aegon the Netherlands also offers defined contribution products with single and recurring premiums to all customers. Profit sharing is based on investment returns on specified funds, and all positive and negative risks, such as investment risk and longevity risk, are attributed to the employees.

A decrease in the number of company and industry pension funds in the Netherlands will continue over the next few years. By law, the assets and liabilities of a terminated pension fund must be transferred to another pension provider. Aegon the Netherlands offers a pension fund buy-out product for its terminating pension funds, for which it takes on the guaranteed or non-guaranteed liabilities, with or without annual pension increases, and receives a lump-sum premium. All risks related to the transferred benefits are carried by Aegon the Netherlands.

Sales and distribution

Most of Aegon the Netherlands’ pensions are sold through Sales and account management and Aegon’s intermediary channel. Customers include individuals, company and industry pension funds, and small, medium and large corporations. Aegon the Netherlands is one of the country’s leading providers of pensions 1 .

For the majority of company and industry customers, Aegon the Netherlands provides a full range of pension products and services. In addition, TKP Pensioen specializes in pension administration for company and industry pension funds and provides defined contribution plans to corporate and institutional clients, Aegon PPI offers defined contribution plans for small and medium companies.

Non-life

The Non-life business consists of general insurance and accident and health insurance.

Products

General insurance

Aegon the Netherlands offers general insurance products in the corporate and retail markets. These include house, inventory, car, fire and travel insurance.

Accident and health insurance

Aegon the Netherlands offers disability and sick leave products to employers that cover sick leave payments to employees not covered by social security and for which the employer bears the risk.

Sales and distribution

Aegon the Netherlands offers non-life insurance products primarily through the Aegon intermediary channel, and through the direct channel Aegon Online and strategic partnerships, such as with local retailer Kruidvat. Aegon also uses the co-assurance market for the corporate sector, and Sales and account management provides products for larger corporations in the Netherlands.

Distribution

Unirobe Meeùs Group is the main distribution channel owned by Aegon the Netherlands, through which it offers financial advice to its customers, including the sale of insurance, pensions, mortgage loans, financing, savings and investment products.

 

 

 

  1 Source: DNB/CVS Reports 2012.

 

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50   Business overview Results of operations – the Netherlands

 

 

Competition

Aegon the Netherlands faces strong competition in all of its markets from insurers, banks and investment management companies. The main competitors are ING Group, Eureko (Achmea), ASR, SNS Reaal (including Zwitserleven) and Delta Lloyd/OHRA. This market is, however, subject to quickly changing market dynamics, including the growing use of online channels and a slowly changing pensions landscape (PPI).

Aegon the Netherlands has been a key player in the total life market for many years and is ranked second based on gross premium income in 2012, after ING. The life insurance market in the Netherlands comprises pensions and life insurance. The top six companies by gross premium income accounted for approximately 90% of the total premium income in 2012 1 . Based on gross premium income in 2012 1 , Aegon the Netherlands ranks first in the pension market and sixth in the individual life insurance market. Aegon the Netherlands is one of the smaller players in the non-life market. Aegon the Netherlands’ non-life market share is around 4% 1 , measured in premium income.

In the mortgage loans market, Aegon the Netherlands’ market share is growing and the company now holds a market share of approximately 9,1% based on new sales 2 . Rabobank, ING and ABN AMRO are the largest mortgage loan providers in this market.

Aegon the Netherlands holds approximately 1.3% 3 of Dutch households savings and is small in comparison to banks Rabobank, ING, ABN AMRO and SNS Bank.

In recent years, several changes in regulations have limited opportunities in the Dutch insurance market, notably in the life insurance market where the tax deductibility of certain products has been reduced, such as for company savings plans. Furthermore, low economic growth and financial market volatility has made customers more reluctant to commit to long-term contracts. These changes have increased competition, resulting in a greater focus on competitive pricing, improved customer service and retention, and product innovation. Since 2011, Aegon the Netherlands has accelerated its response through organizational restructuring accompanied by significant cost savings.

In the pension market, funds face pressure on their coverage ratios, and increased regulatory and governance requirements. In response, pension funds are seeking to reduce risk exposure by insuring the whole or part of a fund. This is an opportunity for pension providers.

The PPI market is to grow significantly due to the shift from defined benefit plans to defined contribution plans, and demand

for transparent and cost efficient pension products. As a result, significant economies of scale will be required to service this market effectively and the number of providers is expected to shrink within a few years. Aegon the Netherlands has identified this market as an opportunity for growth and plans to invest in building a leadership position.

Regulation and supervision

Two bodies are responsible for the supervision of financial institutions in the Netherlands:

¿   De Nederlandsche Bank (the Dutch Central Bank) or DNB;  
¿   Autoriteit Financiële Markten (the Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets) or the AFM.  

DNB is responsible for safeguarding financial stability, and supervising financial institutions and the financial sector. Regulations for the supervision of financial institutions are referred to as the “Wet op het financieel toezicht” (or Financial Supervision Act). This law, which applies equally to banking and insurance operations, introduced greater consistency to requirements and supervision.

The AFM supervises the conduct of, and the provision of information by, all parties in the financial markets in the Netherlands. The objectives of the AFM are to promote an orderly and transparent market process within the financial markets, integrity of relations between market players, and consumer protection.

Financial supervision of insurance companies

The European Union Insurance Directives referred to collectively as Solvency I are incorporated into Dutch law. The Directives are based on the ‘home country control’ principle: an insurance company with a license issued by the regulatory authorities in its home country is allowed to conduct business in any country of the European Union, either directly or through a branch. Separate licenses are required for each branch of the insurance company where it conducts business. The regulatory body that issued the license (DNB in the Netherlands) is responsible for monitoring the solvency of the insurer.

Under Dutch law, a company is not permitted to conduct both life insurance and non-life insurance business within one legal entity, nor is a company allowed to carry out both insurance and banking business within the same legal entity.

Every life and non-life insurance company licensed by, and falling under the supervision of, DNB must file audited regulatory

 

 

  1 Source: DNB/CVS Reports 2012.
  2 Source: Kadaster (ytd October 2013).
  3 Source: DNB Statistisch Bulletin.

 

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reports on at least an annual basis. These reports, primarily designed to enable DNB to monitor the solvency of the insurance company, include a (consolidated) balance sheet, a (consolidated) income statement, extensive actuarial information, and detailed information on the investments of the insurance company. DNB’s regulatory reporting is based on a single entity focus and is designed to highlight risk assessment and risk management.

DNB may request additional information it considers necessary and may conduct an audit at any time. DNB may also make recommendations for improvements and publish these recommendations if the insurance company does not follow them. Finally, DNB may appoint a trustee for an insurance company or, ultimately, withdraw the insurance company’s license.

The following insurance entities of Aegon the Netherlands are subject to the supervision of DNB:

 

  ¿   Aegon Levensverzekering N.V.

 

  ¿   Aegon Schadeverzekering N.V.

 

  ¿   Aegon Spaarkas N.V.

 

  ¿   Optas Pensioenen N.V.

Under Solvency I, life insurance companies are required to maintain certain levels of shareholders’ equity in accordance with EU directives. Currently this level is approximately 4% of general account technical provision or, if no interest guarantees are provided, approximately 1% of technical provisions with investments for the account of policyholders and an additional 0.3% charge for value at risk.

General insurance companies are required to maintain shareholder equity of equal to or greater than 18% of gross written premiums a year, or 23% of the three-year average of gross claims.

Solvency II will likely be effective from January 1, 2016. In anticipation of Solvency II, the Dutch Ministry of Finance and DNB have taken measures for a more risk-based and forward-looking supervision of insurance companies. Before Solvency II is in force, the most important change in the supervision of insurance companies will be the introduction of the Theoretical Solvency Criteria (TSC) for medium and large life insurers. The TSC is effective from January 1, 2014. The TSC requires that several important “Solvency II” scenarios are calculated for an insurer, thus giving information about the sensitivity of these scenarios on the available solvency under the current regime in the Financial Supervision Act. The TSC is not comparable with the Solvency Capital Requirement (SCR) under Solvency I, as it is not a capital requirement. It will be used by DNB in the ladder of intervention to prevent breaches of solvency requirement as defined by the Financial Supervision Act.

DNB also supervises pension funds, including premium pension institutions (PPIs), and investment companies. PPIs are required to maintain shareholders’ equity of at least EUR 0.2 million.

Financial supervision of credit institutions

Aegon Bank N.V. is under DNB supervision and required to file monthly regulatory reports and an audited Annual Report.

Credit institutions are required to maintain solvency and liquidity ratios in line with the requirements of the “Wet op het financieel toezicht”. The “Wet op het financieel toezicht” incorporates the requirements of Directive 2006/48/EC, Directive 2006/49/ EC (together referred to as CRD II), and Directive 2010/76/EU (CRD III). These directives are the European translation of the Basel accord for prudential supervision of credit institutions and investment firms. Based on these rules, credit institutions in the Netherlands are required to maintain a minimum total capital ratio (BIS ratio), currently 8%, pursuant to guidance issued by DNB. The level of capital is subject to certain requirements and is reviewed against its on- and off-balance sheet assets, with these assets being weighted according to their risk level. The Basel III accord, the new regulatory framework for the banking sector, has been finalized and is currently being translated into European legislation through the CRD IV framework. The CRD IV framework was implemented in the Netherlands in the Financial Supervision Act as of January 1, 2014.

Asset liability management

Aegon the Netherlands Risk & Capital Committee, which meets every two months, determines and monitors the balance sheet and profit and loss. The focus of these meetings is, among other activities, to ensure an optimal strategic asset allocation, to decide on interest rate hedging strategies to reduce interest rate risks, to manage and possibly hedge actuarial risks, and to decide on the need for securitizations of residential mortgage portfolios to improve the liquidity and funding position of Aegon the Netherlands.

Most of the liabilities of Aegon the Netherlands, insurance or otherwise, are nominal and long-term. Based on their characteristics, a long-term liability-driven benchmark is derived. Scenarios and optimization analyses are conducted for fixed income, equities and real estate asset classes. The result is an asset allocation and hedges representing the desired risk-return profile. Constraints, such as the minimum return on equity and the minimum desired solvency ratio, are also taken into account. Most of Aegon the Netherlands’ investments are managed by Aegon Asset Management. Risk-based restrictions are in place to monitor and control actual portfolio allocations against strategic portfolio allocations. An internal framework limits investment exposure to any single counterparty.

 

 

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In 2012, Aegon the Netherlands partially offset the risk of future longevity increases related to a part of its insurance liabilities by buying a longevity index derivative from Deutsche Bank. This will pay out if in twenty years the mortality rates have decreased more than a predetermined percentage compared to the base scenario at the moment of signing the contract. Either of Aegon the Netherlands or Deutsche Bank may activate an early termination clause to terminate the contract after ten years. The pay-out is maximized at a predetermined percentage which is higher than compared to the base scenario. This transaction was the first transaction in Continental Europe to be based on population data and it is the first longevity swap to be targeted directly at capital markets.

Aegon the Netherlands implemented a second longevity hedge in 2013, in line with its strategy of reducing longevity risk from the balance sheet. This covers underlying longevity reserves in the Netherlands of EUR 1.4 billion. It retains some risk around the best estimate of the insurance liabilities of Aegon the Netherlands, while offering protection for significant future mortality improvements, thus lowering the required capital for solvency II purposes.

Reinsurance ceded

Like other Aegon companies around the world, Aegon the Netherlands reinsures part of its insurance exposure with third-party reinsurers under traditional indemnity, and “excess of loss” contracts. Reinsurance helps Aegon manage, mitigate and diversify its insurance risks and limit the maximum loss it may incur.

Prior to 2011, Aegon the Netherlands reinsured its life exposure through a profit-sharing contract between its subsidiary Aegon Levensverzekering N.V. and a reinsurer. As of January 1, 2012, Aegon the Netherlands has ended this reinsurance contract and therefore retains the full mortality and disability risk.

For non-life, Aegon the Netherlands reinsures its property, marine and motor third-party liability business only. For property insurance, an “excess of loss” contract is in place with a retention level of EUR 3 million for each separate risk and EUR 20 million for each windstorm event. For motor third party liability insurance, Aegon the Netherlands has reinsurance in place with a retention level of EUR 2.5 million for each event. For marine insurance there is also an “excess of loss” contract in place with a retention level of EUR 2 million for each event.

 

 

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Results 2013 United Kingdom

 

      Amounts in GBP millions             Amounts in EUR millions          
      2013      2012      %     2013      2012      %  
Net underlying earnings      155         112         38%        182         139         31%   

Tax on underlying earnings

     (71      (23      -        (84      (29      (190%
Underlying earnings before tax by product segment                 

Life

     83         66         26%        98         81         21%   

Pensions

     2         25         (92%     2         31         (94%

Distribution

     (2      (2      0%        (2      (2      0%   
Underlying earnings before tax      84         89         (6%     98         110         (11%

Net fair value items

     (14      (26      46%        (16      (31      48%   

Gains / (losses) on investments

     41         68         (40%     48         84         (43%

Impairment charges

     (26      -         -        (31      -         -   

Other income / (charges)

     (38      28         -        (45      34         -   

Income before tax

     46         159         (71%     55         197         (72%

Income tax attributible to policyholder return

     (27      (32      16%        (32      (40      20%   

Income before tax on shareholders return

     19         127         (85%     22         157         (86%

Income tax on shareholders return

     83         13         -        97         16         -   
Net income      102         140         (27%     120         173         (31%

Life insurance gross premiums

     5,546         4,900         13%        6,537         6,047         8%   
Total gross premiums      5,546         4,900         13%        6,537         6,047         8%   

Investment income

     1,743         1,894         (8%     2,054         2,337         (12%

Fees and commission income

     68         108         (37%     80         133         (40%
Total revenues      7,356         6,902         7%        8,670         8,517         2%   

Commissions and expenses

     629         594         6%        741         734         1%   

of which operating expenses

     328         269         22%        387         333         16%   
                
      Amounts in GBP millions             Amounts in EUR millions          
New life sales    2013      2012      %     2013      2012      %  

Life

     58         72         (19%     68         89         (24%

Pensions

     802         686         17%        946         847         12%   
Total recurring plus 1/10 single      860         758         13%        1,014         936         8%   
                
      Amounts in GBP millions             Amounts in EUR millions          
Gross deposits (on and off balance)    2013      2012      %     2013      2012      %  

Variable annuities

     3         22         (86%     3         27         (89%

Pensions

     236         8         -        278         10         -   
Total gross deposits      239         30         -        281         37         -   
                 
            Weighted average rate      Closing rate as of  

Exchange rates

Per 1 EUR

               2013      2012      31-Dec-13      December 31,
2012
 

GBP

               0.8484         0.8103         0.832         0.8111   

 

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Results 2013 United Kingdom

2013 net income of GBP 102 million is 27% lower than 2012 due to the impact of business transformation costs, higher impairment charges and lower underlying earnings before tax as the positive impact of higher equity markets was more than offset by adverse persistency related to the Retail Distribution Review (RDR) and investments in technology. New life sales increased by 13% to GBP 860 million due to higher sales in group pensions and strong platform growth. Platform assets reached GBP 1.3 billion by the end of 2013.

 

Net income

Net income decreased to GBP 102 million compared to 2012. The result was impacted by a GBP 18 million book loss on the sale of Positive Solutions and business transformation costs of GBP 51 million related to in-sourcing the platform servicing and development as well as other restructuring costs. The loss on fair value items was GBP 14 million, mainly driven by equity hedges to protect the capital position. Realized gains on investments and impairment charges amounted to GBP 41 million and GBP 26 million, respectively. 2013 included a tax benefit of GBP 79 million related to a reduction in the corporate tax rate.

Underlying earnings before tax

Underlying earnings before tax in the United Kingdom declined 6% to GBP 84 million compared to 2012. The positive impact of higher equity markets was more than offset by adverse persistency related to RDR and investments in technology.

  ¿   Earnings from Life increased 26% to GBP 83 million compared to 2012, driven by improved mortality in annuities, lower operating expenses and a GBP 8 million benefit from reserving changes for annuity products.
  ¿   Earnings from Pensions declined to GBP 2 million compared to 2012. Adverse persistency amounted to GBP 19 million, which the UK insurance industry experienced as a result of the implementation of RDR. Earnings benefited from the favorable impact of higher equity markets. This was offset by GBP 13 million of expenses related to creating a digital capability for the non-advised client group in order to facilitate the upgrade to the platform.
¿   2013 earnings from Distribution amounted to a loss of GBP 2 million. Earnings from Distribution will no longer be reported separately. Positive Solutions was sold, and Origen was moved into the Pensions line of business.  

Commissions and expenses

Commissions and expenses increased 6% compared to 2012 as a consequence of higher operating expenses. Operating expenses increased 22% compared to 2012 to GBP 328 million, as expenses related to investments in technology and business transformation costs of GBP 64 million were incurred. Excluding these costs, expenses were 2% lower compared to 2012. Commissions declined due to the sale of Positive Solutions and the impact of the implementation of RDR on Pension business commission.

Production

New life sales were up 13% to GBP 860 million compared to 2012, reflecting strong platform growth and higher sales in group pensions following the implementation of RDR on January 1, 2013.

Platform assets reached GBP 1.3 billion by the end of 2013. Gross deposits amounted to GBP 239 million, driven by platform savings products, as the platform gained momentum in the market.

 

 

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Results 2012 United Kingdom

 

      Amounts in GBP millions              Amounts in EUR millions          
      2012      2011      %      2012      2011      %  
Net underlying earnings      112         39         187%         139         44         -   

Tax on underlying earnings

     (23      (26      12%         (29      (30      3%   
Underlying earnings before tax by product segment                  

Life

     66         88         (25%      81         101         (20% )   

Pensions

     25         (69      -         31         (79      -   

Distribution

     (2      (6      67%         (2      (8      75%   
Underlying earnings before tax      89         13         -         110         14         -   

Net fair value items

     (26      (5      -         (31      (6      -   

Gains / (losses) on investments

     68         44         55%         84         51         65%   

Impairment charges

     -         (55      -         -         (62      -   

Other income / (charges)

     28         (49      -         34         (57      -   

Income before tax

     159         (52      -         197         (60      -   

Income tax attributible to policyholder return

     (32      (37      14%         (40      (43      7%   

Income before tax on shareholders return

     127         (89      -         157         (103      -   

Income tax on shareholders return

     13         50         (74%      16         58         (72% )   
Net income      140         (39      -         173         (45      -   

Life insurance gross premiums

     4,900         5,611         (13%      6,047         6,474         (7% )   
Total gross premiums      4,900         5,611         (13%      6,047         6,474         (7% )   

Investment income

     1,894         1,867         1%         2,337         2,154         8%   

Fees and commission income

     108         119         (9%      133         137         (3% )   
Total revenues      6,902         7,597         (9%      8,517         8,765         (3% )   

Commissions and expenses

     594         724         (18%      734         835         (12% )   

of which operating expenses

     269         401         (33%      333         463         (28% )   
      Amounts in GBP millions              Amounts in EUR millions          
New life sales    2012      2011      %      2012      2011      %  

Life

     72         66         9%         89         77         16%   

Pensions

     686         672         2%         847         775         9%   
Total recurring plus 1/10 single      758         738         3%         936         852         10%   
      Amounts in GBP millions              Amounts in EUR millions          
Gross deposits (on and off balance)    2012      2011      %      2012      2011      %  

Variable annuities

     22         49         (55%      27         56         (52% )   

Pensions

     8         -         -         10         -         -   
Total gross deposits      30         49         (39%      37         56         (34% )   
                      Weighted average rate      Closing rate as of  
Exchange rates                                December 31,      December 31,  

Per 1 EUR

                       2012         2011         2012         2011   

GBP

                       0.8103         0.8667         0.8111         0.8353   

 

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56   Business overview Results of operations – United Kingdom

 

Results 2012 United Kingdom

Underlying earnings before tax from Aegon’s operations in the United Kingdom improved to GBP 89 million driven by lower expenses following the implementation of the cost reduction program in 2011 and the absence of charges and expenses related to the customer redress program in 2011. Aegon introduced a new platform to the market in 2012.

 

Net income

Net income improved to GBP 140 million driven by higher underlying earnings before tax, higher realized gains on investments, and the absence of impairment charges and restructuring charges. Results on fair value items amounted to a loss of GBP 26 million, driven by losses on hedges as a result of higher equity markets. Realized gains on investments amounted to GBP 68 million and were mainly the result of switching from gilts into high quality credits. There were no impairments during the year. A reduction in the corporate tax rate in the United Kingdom had a positive impact on net income.

Underlying earnings before tax

Underlying earnings before tax from Aegon’s operations in the United Kingdom increased to GBP 89 million in 2012, driven by a strong improvement in underlying earnings before tax from pensions compared to 2011. Underlying earnings before tax included recurring charges for Corporate Center expenses of GBP 8 million.

  ¿   Underlying earnings before tax from Life declined to GBP 66 million driven mostly by the non-recurrence of a GBP 15 million benefit and recurring charges for Corporate Center expenses.
  ¿   Underlying earnings before tax from Pensions improved to GBP 25 million, mainly driven by the non-recurrence of charges and execution expenses related to a program to correct historical issues within customer policy records recorded in the previous year and the implementation of the
   

cost reduction program. These positives were partly offset by the effect from adverse persistency, which the UK insurance industry is experiencing as a result of the implementation of the Retail Distribution Review, the sale of Guardian in 2011 and by a benefit as a result of changes to the employee pension plan in 2011.

 
¿   Distribution amounted to an underlying loss before tax of GBP 2 million, improving over last year mainly due to cost savings.  

Commissions and expenses

Commissions and expenses declined by 18% in 2012 compared to 2011 mainly due to lower operating expenses. Operating expenses declined 33% to GBP 269 million, following the implementation of a cost reduction program in the United Kingdom, the non recurrence of restructuring charges in 2011, partly offset by the benefit from changes to employee pension plans in 2011. This reduction has been achieved while continuing to invest in new propositions in the pension business. Operating expenses included GBP 8 million of recurring charges for Corporate Center expenses.

Production

New life sales increased to GBP 758 million, reflecting growth in both the life and group pension businesses. Platform sales accelerated throughout the year as new advisors joined the Aegon Retirement Choices platform.

 

 

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Overview of United Kingdom

In the United Kingdom, Aegon is a major provider of corporate and individual pensions, protection products, annuities, and savings products such as Individual Savings Accounts (ISAs). Aegon UK has some two million customers, approximately 2,400 employees, and GBP 57.3 billion in revenue-generating investments. Aegon UK’s main offices are in Edinburgh and London.

 

Aegon UK is focused on two core markets in the United Kingdom, at-retirement and workplace savings. Both markets present opportunities for growth and are markets where Aegon UK has a heritage of expertise.

2013 was a year of great regulatory change in the United Kingdom, with the introduction of Pensions Reform and the Retail Distribution Review (RDR). Aegon UK has successfully adapted its working practices, business models and products to meet these changes.

In addition to selling and servicing traditional stand-alone pensions, investment and protection products for its core markets, Aegon UK also maintains an award-winning online platform 1 , has launched the SmartEnrol auto-enrolment online ‘hub’ to support employers with their new Pensions Reform duties, and has successfully expanded its distribution network by securing deals with significant global players in the workplace savings market.

Award-winning platform

Aegon UK’s award-winning platform 1 provides customers with a seamless transition from saving while working to drawing an income in retirement. The platform is unique in that it allows customers to do both of these things in one place, and enables advisors to offer clients various levels of self-service through a unique gating facility.

Aegon UK offers three propositions to customers through the platform, all of which use the same core technology, product wrappers (for example, pensions, ISAs, savings schemes), investments and client services. The propositions are:

 

  ¿   At Retirement - a wrap solution offered to retail customers via Independent Financial Advisers (IFAs);
  ¿   Workplace Savings - a wrap solution offered to corporate customers via banks such as Barclays, employee benefit consultants such as Mercer, and other accounts;
  ¿   Aegon One Retirement - a standalone pension solution.

 

 

  1 The ARC platform won Best Innovation on a Platform and Best Workplace Savings Platform 2012 at the Platform awards.

Together, the At Retirement and Workplace Savings propositions are known as Aegon Retirement Choices (ARC). ARC allows customers’ investments and savings, workplace pensions and retirement income to be managed from one online solution. The At Retirement and Workplace Savings propositions offer customers a mix of products to cover saving for retirement and taking a retirement income.

One Retirement is an online single retirement account for retirement savings and income drawdown. It offers a range of investment and retirement income options, providing customers with flexible choices for their individual retirement needs, and is easy to use, allowing customers to engage in their retirement planning, and putting advisors in control. As such, it allows Aegon UK to develop a lasting relationship with customers throughout working life, transition into retirement, and retirement. This innovative and unique platform proposition also positions Aegon UK to take advantage of opportunities in the post-RDR world.

Enhanced corporate distribution

Aegon UK’s commitment to, and focus on, the workplace savings market has resulted in significant achievements this year. In February, the company secured a significant corporate pensions distribution deal with Barclays bank, supporting Aegon UK’s strategy to diversify its distribution and sending a powerful message to the market about its corporate ambition and capability.

In July, Aegon UK was appointed by Mercer to become one of three preferred suppliers for its large-client workplace savings service, Mercer Workplace Savings. In addition, Aegon UK will become the only supplier for Mercers Elect, which focuses on the small and medium-sized enterprises workplace savings market. These appointments further broaden Aegon UK’s distribution network and highlight the strong competitive positioning of the ARC platform.

As the UK market develops following the regulatory changes triggered by the RDR and by Pensions Reform, Aegon UK is well placed to provide advisors and customers with appropriate, transparent and affordable retirement solutions that address the needs of a market in which increasing longevity, evolving retirement patterns and investment risk are key challenges.

 

 

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Organizational structure

Aegon UK plc is Aegon UK’s principal holding company. It was registered as a public limited company at the beginning of December 1998.

Aegon UK’s leading operating subsidiaries are:

  ¿   Scottish Equitable plc. (trading as Aegon);
  ¿   Aegon Investment Solutions Ltd.

Overview of sales and distribution channels

Aegon UK’s principal means of distribution is through the intermediated financial advice channel, which is the main sales route for long-term savings, protection and retirement products in the United Kingdom. The advisors provide customers with access to various products, depending on the advisor regulatory status, together with advice on the solution that best suits their financial needs.

In all, there are an estimated 25,000 registered financial advisors in the United Kingdom. Until December 31, 2012, these advisors were classified as either single-tied, multi-tied, whole of market or independent, depending on whether or not they were restricted in the number of providers they represented. The Retail Distribution Review came into effect on January 1, 2013. From this date, retail financial advisors have been classed as either independent or restricted and are remunerated directly by the customer based on the service provided. Aegon UK continues to maintain strong links with financial advisors in all segments of the market. This registration excludes corporate advisors and Employee Benefit Consultants (EBCs).

A dedicated team supports our key corporate advisors and corporate strategic accounts.

As mentioned above, Aegon UK is also developing new distribution opportunities, including agreements with banks and affinity partnerships with organizations outside the industry. Barclays and Mercer are examples of companies with which Aegon UK has established a commercial partnership in 2013.

Overview of business lines

Aegon UK has two business lines:

  ¿   Life;
  ¿   Pensions.

Life

The Aegon UK life business primarily comprises individual protection and individual annuities.

Individual protection

Aegon UK offers a range of products for individual customers, including life cover, critical illness and income protection. It also provides products for companies wishing to insure key personnel.

Immediate annuity

In the United Kingdom, funds in pension plans are generally converted into a source of income at retirement, usually through the purchase of an immediate annuity.

Sales and distribution

Individual protection products are distributed through intermediated advice channels. Annuity products comprise internally vested immediate annuities and those available through intermediated advice channels.

Pensions

Aegon UK provides a full range of personal and corporate pensions. The company also offers investment products, including ISAs, General Investment Accounts (GIAs), offshore bonds and trusts.

Platform

Aegon Retirement Choices (ARC) helps advisors and their customers with the transition from work to retirement efficiently and effectively through a technology-driven platform. Aegon UK has deployed leading edge technology to the platform, delivering an intuitive method of saving for retirement through the workplace, taking income in retirement, and dealing with changing circumstances. It also provides valuable online reporting and lifestyle tools that enable advisors to demonstrate their professionalism and display their charges for advice in a transparent way. Professionalism and transparency are key principles of the Retail Distribution Review which came into effect on January 1, 2013. In addition to the self-invested personal pensions (SIPPs), which provide a range of pre- and post-retirement investment options for high-net-worth customers, including insured funds and real estate, the platform also offers ISAs and GIAs.

Corporate pensions

One of Aegon UK’s largest product lines is providing pension plans for companies. Aegon UK offers group pension solutions on- and off-platform, depending on the needs of the employer and employee. In the United Kingdom, Pensions Reform (automatic enrollment) is expected to have a dramatic effect on the workplace savings market, increasing the number of employees who will engage with saving through their employers’ pension arrangements.

The move away from ‘defined benefit’ (DB) arrangements, which provide a guaranteed percentage of salary on retirement, toward ‘defined contribution’ (DC) plans has continued to accelerate in recent years. DC plans are similar to personal pensions, with contributions paid into a plan owned by individual employees and then invested. Generally, at retirement, employees can choose to take a percentage of tax-free cash from their pension plan, using the remainder to either purchase an annuity or invest it in a separate drawdown policy.

 

 

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As a result of this trend, the market for new DB plans has shrunk dramatically in recent years, largely because of concerns over long-term liabilities.

Investment gateway

Many DC and “master trust” pension schemes are managed by a third party with an insurance contract. These are typically trust-based pensions for which the corporate customer (an employer) requires investment solutions that are specific to each pension scheme. These solutions typically require a non-branded investment portal and the provision of fund blending to create scheme default funds. In addition, a growing number of corporate customers want target dated lifestyle fund solutions for their members as they approach retirement. Aegon UK provides a low cost service that uses electronic messaging to automate the process and minimize risk.

In 2013, Aegon UK launched its first non-UK arrangement. This offers a centrally-funded asset solution to support a multinational providing employee benefits in multiple countries.

Individual pensions

Aegon UK provides a wide range of personal pensions and associated products and services. These include:

  ¿   Flexible personal pensions;
  ¿   Self invested personal pensions;
  ¿   Transfers from other retirement plans;
  ¿   Phased retirement options and income drawdown.

As an alternative to annuities, Aegon UK also offers “Income for lLife”, a retirement solution which bridges the gap between annuities and income drawdown products. It offers customers a guaranteed income for life, plus continued control over their investments until the age of 75.

Investment products

Aegon UK offers offshore investment bonds 1 . An offshore bond is traditionally marketed to high-net-worth individuals. Offshore contracts offer considerable tax advantages and a wide choice of investment options. Aegon UK also offers GIAs and ISAs through its platform.

Unit-linked guarantees

Aegon UK offers a range of investment products which provide valuable guarantees for the At-Retirement market. There is an offshore investment plan which provides a guaranteed income for life and an offshore bond which provides capital guarantees (offered by Aegon Ireland plc).

 

 

  1 The offshore bond is offered by Aegon Ireland plc and is reported separately in the New Markets segment, rather than as part of the UK segment.

Sales and distribution

Investment products and individual and corporate pensions are distributed widely through independent financial advisors, tied distribution and, more recently, partnerships with banks. Aegon UK also maintains close relations with a number of specialist advisors in these markets. Aegon UK is building and diversifying its workplace distribution capability, partnering with Mercer and Barclays in the first half of 2013.

ARC is distributed through intermediated advice channels.

Competition

Aegon UK faces competition from three main sources, life and pension companies, retail investment firms, and retail platform service companies.

Over the past few years, the life and pension market has been increasingly concentrated among the largest companies and those perceived to be financially strong. Aegon UK’s competitors include Legal and General, Standard Life, Lloyds Bank and Aviva. In the platform market, service companies like Cofunds, Funds Network and Skandia are among Aegon UK’s largest competitors.

Regulation and supervision

All relevant Aegon UK companies are regulated by the Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) and/or the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).

The PRA is responsible for the prudential regulation of deposit takers, insurers and major investment firms. The FCA is responsible for regulating firms’ conduct in retail and wholesale markets. It is also responsible for the prudential regulation of those firms that do not come under the PRA’s remit.

A number of Aegon UK directors and senior managers have been approved by the FCA and/or the PRA to perform one or more controlled functions. A regulator will only approve a candidate whom it is satisfied is fit and proper to perform the controlled function(s) for which they have applied.

Asset liability management

Asset liability management (ALM) is overseen by the Aegon UK Management Investment Committee (MIC), which meets each month to monitor capital requirements and ensure appropriate matching of assets and liabilities.

In addition to monitoring risk exposures in compliance with Aegon N.V.’s worldwide risk management strategies, investment exposure to any single counterparty is limited by an internal framework that reflects the limits set by the appropriate regulatory regime. This applies both within asset classes (equities, bonds and cash) and across all investments.

 

 

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60   Business overview Results of operations – United Kingdom

 

For its with-profit business, Aegon UK’s general philosophy is to match guarantees with appropriate investments. However, the nature of with-profit businesses typically prevents perfect matching, and the role of the MIC is therefore to monitor the capital implications of any mismatching. On a regular basis, reports are produced covering the impact of a range of possible investment scenarios on the solvency of each of the funds. These reports allow the investment strategy for the with-profit funds to be discussed and are summarized for the With-Profits Forum, a sub-committee of the Board of Aegon UK.

For non-profit business, interest rate risk arises substantially on Aegon UK’s large book of annuities in payment. Assets are purchased to provide a close expected match to liability outflows, with regular reporting to the MIC on the capital implications of any mismatching.

For unit-linked business, the matching philosophy results in close matching of the unit liabilities with units in the relevant underlying funds. A proportion of the unit-linked assets are invested in funds managed by external investment managers. The MIC monitors the performance of the investment managers against fund benchmarks.

With-profit fund

The invested assets, insurance and investment contract liabilities of Aegon UK’s with-profit fund are included in ‘for account of policyholder assets and liabilities’. Assets and liabilities are always equal, as an excess of assets over liabilities regarding guaranteed benefits and constructive obligations is classified as an insurance or investment contract liability. The Scottish Equitable with-profit fund is a 100:0 fund, whereby benefits are held for participating policyholders.

The operation of the Scottish Equitable with-profit fund is complex. Below is a summary of Aegon UK’s overall approach.

Guarantees

With the exception of Aegon Secure Lifetime Income and 5 for Life, which are written by Aegon Ireland plc, and the product guarantees within Investment Control and Income for Life, which are reinsured to Aegon Ireland plc, all Aegon UK contracts with investment guarantees are written in policyholder-owned funds (otherwise called with-profit funds). These funds contain free assets which have not yet been fully distributed to individual policyholders. Free assets help meet the cost of guarantees and provide a buffer to protect the fund from the impact of adverse events. Aegon UK has an exposure only once these assets have been exhausted. As outlined below, Aegon UK believes this exposure to be low.

In previous years, Scottish Equitable sold guaranteed annuity products in the United Kingdom. Certain policies also have a guaranteed minimum rate of return or guaranteed minimum

pension or guaranteed death or other benefits. Guaranteed rates of return apply only if the policy is kept in force to the dates specified, or only on the events described in the policy conditions. The costs of all guarantees are borne by the with-profit funds and therefore impact the pay-outs to with-profit policyholders.

As part of its demutualization process prior to acquisition by Aegon N.V., the business and assets of Scottish Equitable Life Assurance Society were transferred to Scottish Equitable plc on December 31, 1993. Aegon UK has no financial interest in Scottish Equitable plc.’s with-profit fund, except routine yearly fund management charges, and costs and expenses that the company agreed to accept at the time of demutualization.

Guaranteed rates of return on with-profit policies are typically in the range of 0% to 5.5% a year; however, the highest rates have been closed to premiums since 1999, and all funds have been closed to new business with investment guarantees since October 2002, except for a small increase in regular payments. For a number of contracts written mainly in the 1970s and 1980s, Scottish Equitable also offered minimum pension guarantees, including guaranteed annuity options. As life expectancy rates have improved and interest rates have fallen over time, these minimum guarantees are now often valuable.

Management of the with-profit fund

Aegon UK’s with-profit fund has an investment strategy that reflects the nature of the underlying guarantees. The fund can invest in a variety of different asset types. The main categories are United Kingdom and overseas equities, United Kingdom fixed interest securities, and cash. The with-profit fund has a target range for the percentage of its assets that are invested in equities, and this range may be varied. Within these target ranges, there is a policy of holding an appropriate mix of asset classes to reduce risk.

The results of the with-profit fund’s investment performance are distributed to policyholders through a system of bonuses which depends on:

¿   The guarantees under the policy, including previous annual bonus additions.  
¿   The investment returns on the underlying assets, with an allowance for ‘smoothing’ to reduce volatility. Although smoothing means that investment profits are spread from one year to the next, the aim is to pay out all of the investment profits earned by the fund over the long term. For early withdrawals, there are other measures to ensure that a fair share of total fund growth is received. A market value reduction may be applied to certain funds where, for cohorts of similar contracts, the face value of the benefits is greater than the value of the underlying assets. Policy conditions may state specific points for which a market value reduction will not apply.  
 

 

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As mentioned above, the free assets (that is, assets which, as yet, have not been distributed to policyholders) help meet the cost of guarantees and provide a buffer to deal with adverse events. These free assets are partly invested in equity puts and fixed interest swaps/swaptions to protect against adverse market movements. Aegon UK has an exposure only once these free assets are exhausted. The risk of exposure has been assessed by Aegon UK as remote, based on applying the risk-based capital approach now required for solvency reporting in the United Kingdom.

As the Scottish Equitable with-profit fund is now closed to new business with investment guarantees, the free assets are being distributed gradually to with-profit policyholders through the bonus system outlined above. This includes ensuring that any surpluses in the with-profit fund from other (historic) business lines can be distributed to existing with-profit policyholders at a suitable rate, helping to prevent a tontine effect as the number of with-profit policyholders’ declines.

Reinsurance ceded

Aegon UK’s reinsurance strategy is aimed at limiting the overall volatility of mortality and morbidity when managing risk, and maximizing the financial benefits of reinsurance. The actual percentage of business reinsured varies, depending largely on the appropriateness and value of reinsurance available in the market.

Aegon UK prefers to work with reinsurance companies with a strong credit rating, subject to an economic assessment of the terms on offer. Using a reinsurer with a credit rating below AA requires approval under Aegon UK’s governance process, and by Aegon’s Group Reinsurance Use Committee in The Hague. Aegon UK uses a range of reinsurers across the reinsurance market.

 

 

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Results 2013 New Markets

 

Amounts in EUR millions      2013        2012        %  
Net underlying earnings        159           185           (14%

Tax on underlying earnings

       77           89           (13%
Underlying earnings before tax by product segment               

Central & Eastern Europe

       59           85           (31%

Asia

       42           19           121%   

Spain and France

       33           69           (52%

Variable Annuities Europe

       7           -           -   

Aegon Asset Management

       95           101           (6%
Underlying earnings before tax        236           274           (14%

Net fair value items

       (21        (1        -   

Gains / (losses) on investments

       (1        10           -   

Impairment charges

       (16        (26        38%   

Other income / (charges)

       (33        113           -   
Income before tax (excluding income tax from certain proportionately consolidated joint ventures and associates)        167           370           (55%

Income tax from certain proportionately consolidated joint ventures and associates included in income before tax

       5           15           (67% )  

Income tax

       (34        (121        72%   

Of which Income tax from certain proportionately consolidated joint ventures and associates included in income before tax

       (5        (15        67%   
Net income        133           249           (47%

Life insurance gross premiums

       1,349           1,374           (2%

Accident and health insurance premiums

       170           188           (10%

General insurance premiums

       194           144           35%   
Total gross premiums        1,713           1,706           0%   

Investment income

       233           319           (27%

Fees and commission income

       583           524           11%   

Other revenues

       2           3           (33%
Total revenues        2,531           2,552           (1%

Commissions and expenses

       988           870           14%   

of which operating expenses

       656           613           7%   

 

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New life sales

Amounts in EUR millions

   2013      2012      %  

Central & Eastern Europe

     108         114         (5%

Asia

     67         53         26%   

Spain and France

     54         86         (37%
Total recurring plus 1/10 single      228         253         (10%

 

 

Amounts in EUR million    2013      2012      %  

New premium production accident and health insurance

     43         42         2%   

New premium production general insurance

     35         25         40%   

 

Gross deposits (on and off balance)    2013      2012      %  

Central & Eastern Europe

     248         316         (22%

Asia

     587         169         -   

Spain and France

     9         45         (80%

Variable Annuities Europe

     424         463         (8%

Aegon Asset Management

     13,018         9,916         31%   
Total gross deposits      14,287         10,909         31%   

 

 

      Weighted average rate  

Exchange rates

Per 1 EUR

   2013      2012  

US dollar

     1.3272         1.2849   

Canadian dollar

     1.3674         1.2839   

Pound sterling

     0.8484         0.8103   

Czech koruna

     25.9238         25.1140   

Hungarian florint

     296.3309         288.8606   

Polish zloty

     4.1940         4.1809   

Romanian leu

     4.4167         4.4548   

Turkish Lira

     2.5305         2.3132   

Chinese rin bin bi yuan

     8.1637         8.1377   

 

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Results 2013 New Markets

Net income in 2013 decreased to EUR 133 million as gains from divestments were more than offset by a write down of intangible assets in Poland following legislative changes and lower underlying earnings before tax as increases in underlying earnings before tax in Asia and Variable Annuities Europe were more than offset by decreases in Central & Eastern Europe, Spain and Aegon Asset Management.

 

Net income

2013 net income declined to EUR 133 million. Higher losses from fair value items and lower gains on investments compared to 2012 were only partly offset by lower impairment charges. In 2013, gains from divestments in Spain were offset by a write down of intangible assets in Poland as the Polish parliament approved legislation to overhaul the existing state pension system. This resulted in an impairment of intangible assets related to the Polish pension business for an amount of EUR 192 million before tax. In 2012, there was a substantial benefit related to the divestment of investment manager Prisma.

Underlying earnings before tax

In New Markets, underlying earnings before tax in 2013 declined 14% to EUR 236 million compared to 2012, as increases in Asia and Variable Annuities Europe were more than offset by declines in Central & Eastern Europe, Spain and Aegon Asset Management.

  ¿   Earnings from Central & Eastern Europe declined 31% to EUR 59 million compared to 2012, which was primarily driven by the introduction of the insurance tax in Hungary and lower non-life results in Hungary from adverse claim experience. Additionally, earnings were impacted by investments related to the inclusion of the business in Ukraine.
  ¿   Results from Asia increased 121% to EUR 42 million compared to 2012, driven mainly by actuarial assumption changes and model refinements of EUR 22 million. The positive impact of growth of the business and cost savings was offset by higher non-deferred acquisition costs driven by strong growth in variable annuities production in Japan where Aegon does not yet defer its acquisition expenses.
  ¿   Earnings from Spain & France decreased 52% to EUR 33 million compared to 2012 due to the divestment of the joint ventures with CAM, Civica and Unnim. The new joint venture with Santander contributed to underlying earnings, which was mostly offset by investments in developing a direct distribution channel. The earnings contribution from partner La Mondiale in France rose slightly and amounted to EUR 21 million for the year.
  ¿   Results from Variable Annuities Europe amounted to EUR 7 million, mainly resulting from growth of the business.
  ¿   Earnings from Aegon Asset Management declined 6% to EUR 95 million, as the positive impact of higher third party asset balances was more than offset by the loss of earnings from the sale of hedge fund manager Prisma in the fourth quarter of 2012.

Commissions and expenses

In 2013, commission and expenses increased 14% to EUR 988 million compared to 2012. Operating expenses increased 7% to EUR 656 million. The increase in operating expenses was the result of higher costs in Asia and Variable Annuities Europe driven by investments to support future growth, the inclusion of the business in Ukraine and the introduction of the insurance tax in Hungary. The increase in commissions is driven by higher sales in Asia compared to 2012.

Production

New life sales decreased 10% to EUR 228 million compared to 2012.

  ¿   In Central & Eastern Europe, new life sales declined 5% to EUR 108 million compared to 2012. Sales growth in Turkey and Slovakia driven by improved distribution productivity and product launches respectively, was more than offset by lower sales in Poland resulting from reduced production in the broker channel.
  ¿   In Asia, new life sales increased 26% to EUR 67 million compared to 2012. This was mainly driven by the launch of a new universal life product and the expanded cooperation with a number of private banks.
  ¿   New life sales in Spain declined 37% to EUR 54 million compared to 2012, as the sales contribution from the joint venture with Santander was offset by the loss of sales driven by the divestment of partnerships.

New premium production from accident and health insurance business increased 2% to EUR 43 million compared to 2012, mainly driven by the direct marketing unit in Asia. New premium production from Aegon, general insurance business was up 39% to EUR 35 million compared to 2012, driven by the inclusion of the joint venture with Santander and growth in Central & Eastern Europe.

Gross deposits in New Markets amounted to EUR 14.3 billion, up 31% compared to 2012. Gross deposits in Aegon Asset Management increased 31% to EUR 13 billion, mainly driven by strong growth in institutional sales in the United States and the Netherlands and retail sales in the United Kingdom. Gross deposits in Asia more than tripled to EUR 587 million driven by strong sales of variable annuities in Japan, while deposits in Central & Eastern Europe declined following pension legislation changes.

 

 

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Results 2012 New Markets

 

Amounts in EUR millions      2012      2011      %  
Net underlying earnings        185         184         1%   

Tax on underlying earnings

       89         65         37%   
Underlying earnings before tax by product segment           

Central & Eastern Europe

       85         96         (11%

Asia

       19         (4      -   

Spain and France

       69         88         (22%

Variable Annuities Europe

       -         9         -   

Aegon Asset Management

       101         60         68%   
Underlying earnings before tax        274         249         10%   

Net fair value items

       (1      (30      97%   

Gains / (losses) on investments

       10         7         43%   

Impairment charges

       (26      (61      57%   

Other income / (charges)

       113         7         -   

Income before tax (excluding income tax from certain proportionately consolidated joint ventures and associates)

       370         172         115%   

Income tax from certain proportionately consolidated joint ventures and associates included in income before tax

       15         8         88%   

Income tax

       (121      (61      (98%

Of which Income tax from certain proportionately consolidated joint ventures and associates included in income before tax

       (15      (8      (88%
Net income        249         111         124%   

Life insurance gross premiums

       1,374         1,600         (14%

Accident and health insurance premiums

       188         179         5%   

General insurance premiums

       144         149         (3%
Total gross premiums        1,706         1,928         (12%

Investment income

       319         320         0%   

Fees and commission income

       524         469         12%   

Other revenues

       3         1         -   
Total revenues        2,552         2,718         (6%

Commissions and expenses

       870         826         5%   

of which operating expenses

       613         577         6%   

 

 

New life sales               
Amounts in EUR millions      2012        2011        %  

Central & Eastern Europe

       114           110           4%   

Asia

       53           58           (9%

Spain and France

       86           143           (40%
Total recurring plus 1/10 single        253           311           (19%

 

 

Amounts in EUR million      2012        2011        %  

New premium production accident and health insurance

       42           34           24%   

New premium production general insurance

       25           25           -   

 

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66   Business overview Results of operations – New Markets

 

Gross deposits (on and off balance)    2012      2011      %  

Central & Eastern Europe

     316         662         (52%

Asia

     169         59         186%   

Spain and France

     45         61         (26%

Variable Annuities Europe

     463         530         (13%

Aegon Asset Management

     9,916         5,244         89%   
Total gross deposits      10,909         6,556         66%   
              Weighted average rate  

Exchange rates

Per 1 EUR

           2012      2011  

US dollar

        1.2849         1.3909   

Canadian dollar

        1.2839         1.3744   

Pound sterling

        0.8103         0.8667   

Czech koruna

        25.1140         24.5636   

Hungarian florint

        288.8606         278.9417   

Polish zloty

        4.1809         4.1154   

Romanian leu

        4.4548         4.2353   

Turkish Lira

        2.3132         2.3333   

Chinese rin bin bi yuan

              8.1377         9.0576   

 

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Results 2012 New Markets

Aegon’s operations in New Markets reported higher underlying earnings before tax in 2012 as growth in Asset Management and Asia offset declines in Central & Eastern Europe and Spain due to new pension legislation in Poland and changes to Aegon’s joint venture partnerships in Spain.

 

Net income

Net income from Aegon’s operations in New Markets increased to EUR 249 million, driven by strong underlying earnings, the gains on the divestments of the Banca Cívica joint venture (EUR 35 million) and Prisma (EUR 100 million). Impairment charges were lower during the year, due to lower mortgage related impairments in Hungary.

Underlying earnings before tax

In New Markets, Aegon’s underlying earnings before tax increased 10% to EUR 274 million in 2012. Higher underlying earnings before tax from Aegon Asset Management and Asia offset lower earnings from Spain, Central & Eastern Europe and Variable Annuities Europe.

  ¿   Underlying earnings before tax from Central & Eastern Europe were lower than in 2011 at EUR 85 million in 2012, driven mainly by the negative impact of the pension legislation changes in Poland and lower mortgage margins in Hungary.
  ¿   Underlying earnings before tax from Aegon’s operations in Asia improved to EUR 19 million in 2012 compared to an underlying loss before tax of EUR 4 million in 2011 as higher investment income during 2012 and a EUR 15 million higher gain related to updated mortality assumptions more than offset the negative impact of several small charges and higher expenses related to business development.
  ¿   Underlying earnings before tax from Spain and France decreased 22% to EUR 69 million in 2012 due to the divestment of the joint venture with Banca Cívica in the fourth quarter of 2012 and as underlying earnings before tax from Aegon’s partnership with CAM were, beginning in the second quarter of 2012, no longer included pending the exit from this joint venture. Contributions by these partnerships in comparable periods in 2011 amounted to EUR 25 million. The earnings contribution from partner La Mondiale in France remained stable compared to 2011 and amounted to EUR 21 million.
  ¿   Underlying earnings before tax from Variable Annuities Europe amounted to nil which was mainly the result of project spending to position the company for future growth.
  ¿   Underlying earnings before tax from Aegon Asset Management increased to EUR 101 million, as a result of asset growth and higher performance fees, partly offset by the divestment of Prisma as of the fourth quarter of 2012.

Commissions and expenses

Commission and expenses increased 5% to EUR 870 million in 2012. Operating expenses increased 6% to EUR 613 million in 2012. This was the result of higher costs in Asia and Variable Annuities Europe driven by investments to support future growth, the inclusion of the company’s Canadian investment management activities within Aegon Asset Management and recurring charges for Corporate Center expenses, partly offset by the divestment of the Banca Cívica joint venture and the exclusion of CAM.

Production

New life sales declined 19% to EUR 253 million in 2012.

¿   In Central & Eastern Europe, new life sales increased 4% to EUR 114 million in 2012. Increased production in Poland, Turkey, Slovakia and the Czech Republic due to distribution improvements and product innovation offset lower production in Hungary due to difficult market circumstances.  
¿   In Asia, new life sales declined to EUR 53 million in 2012. Production in China was higher due to strong performance of new distribution partners. This was more than offset by lower sales in Hong Kong and Singapore following the withdrawal of a universal life product with secondary guarantees in July 2012.  
¿   In 2012, new life sales in Spain declined to EUR 86 million as the inclusion of Caixa Sabadell Vida was more than offset by lower production at other joint venture partners in Spain, the exclusion of new life sales from CAM and the divestment of Banca Cívica.  

New premium production from Aegon’s general insurance business in Central & Eastern Europe was stable compared to 2011 and amounted to EUR 25 million in 2012. New premium production from Aegon’s accident & health insurance business increased 24% to EUR 42 million in 2012, mainly driven by Aegon’s direct marketing unit in Asia.

In 2012, gross deposits in New Markets amounted to EUR 10.9 billion, increasing substantially compared to 2011. Gross deposits in Aegon Asset Management increased to EUR 9.9 billion in 2012 as a result of strong institutional sales in the United States and the Netherlands, and retail sales in the United Kingdom. In 2012, in Central & Eastern Europe gross deposits declined following pension legislation changes in Hungary and Poland. Higher gross deposits in Asia, on the other hand, were driven by variable annuity sales in Japan in 2012.

 

 

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68   Business overview Results of operations – CEE

 

Overview of Central & Eastern Europe

Aegon has operations in the Central & Eastern European (CEE) countries of the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Turkey, and Ukraine. Aegon first entered the Central & Eastern European market in 1992 with the purchase of a majority stake in Hungary’s former state-owned insurance company, Állami Biztosító. Aegon Hungary is Aegon’s leading business in the region and a springboard for further expansion. Aegon’s regional expansion continued in 2013 with entry into the Ukrainian market.

 

 

Organizational structure

Aegon’s main subsidiaries and affiliates in Central & Eastern Europe (CEE) are:

  ¿   Aegon Magyarország Általános Biztosító Zártkörűen Működő Részvénytársaság;
  ¿   Aegon Magyarország Befektetési Alapkezelő Zártkörűen Működő Részvénytársaság;
  ¿   Aegon Magyarország Pénztárszolgáltató Zártkörűen Működő Részvénytársaság
  ¿   Aegon Towarzystwo Ubezpieczeń na Życie Spółka Akcyjna;
  ¿   Aegon Powszechne Towarzystwo Emerytalne Spółka Akcyjna;
  ¿   Aegon Emeklilik ve Hayat A.S.

Overview of sales and distribution channels

Aegon operates through a number of different sales channels in Central & Eastern Europe. These include tied agents, insurance brokers, call centers, online channels and, particularly in Hungary, Poland, Romania and Turkey, retail banks. Aegon primarily sells life and non-life insurance through tied agents, brokers and call centers, household and car insurance through online channels; in addition, life insurance, mortgage loans, mutual funds and household insurance are sold through banks and other alternative channels.

Overview of business lines

Life & Savings

Aegon companies in Central & Eastern Europe offer a range of life insurance and personal protection products. This includes traditional life and unit-linked products. Unit-linked products cover all types of life insurance, including pension, endowment and savings. Aegon is one of the leading providers of unit-linked products in Poland 1 and Hungary 2 .

Traditional general account life insurance is mainly index life products that are not unit-linked but have guaranteed interest rates, as well as group life and preferred term life products.

Preferred life is an individual life term insurance product which offers insurance protection. The product distinguishes between smoker and non-smoker status and uses standard and preferred pricing dependent on the health status of the client. Group life contracts are renewable each year and carry optional accident and health cover.

The main guarantee in Hungary is variable crediting rates with minimum interest guarantees of between 0% and 4% for universal life type products, plus 100% participation in actual interest earned. Profit-share products have a technical interest rate of 2-4% and 85% participation in excess interest. The average minimum interest guarantee is around 3%. In Hungary, a small amount of new business provides a minimum interest guarantee of 2%.

In Poland, an insurance fund with a guaranteed rate reset on a quarterly and annual basis is offered on unit-linked products. Similar products are sold in the Czech Republic and Slovakia, with declared interest guarantees of 1.2% and 1% respectively, and further conditional increases. In Slovakia, the minimum interest rate on universal life products was 3% at the close of 2006, and has since been 2.5%. Universal life products in the Czech Republic have a guaranteed interest rate of 2.4%.

The profit-share product portfolio in Turkey has a guaranteed interest rate of 9% for Turkish lira products that are closed to new business and 2% for those introduced since 2010. For USD and EUR denominated products, the guaranteed interest rate is 2.5% for the old portfolio, and varies between 2% and 3.75% for new products introduced after the acquisition of the company in 2008. A minimum of 85% of the interest income in excess of guaranteed return is credited to policyholders’ funds in Turkey.

Aegon Life Insurance Company in Romania operates as a branch of Aegon Poland Life Insurance Company and sells unit-linked, term life and endowment insurance policies. An interest guarantee is provided to a unit-linked product that varies between 2%-3.2%, depending on the policy year.

 

 

  1 Source: www.knf.gov.pl.
  2 Source: www.mabisz.hu.

 

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In February 2013, Aegon acquired Fidem Life, a life insurance player in Ukraine selling traditional life insurance products.

In the CEE region, Aegon has substantial traditional life insurance portfolios, mainly in Hungary, Turkey and Ukraine. The other Aegon subsidiaries, including Hungary, focus on unit-linked products, in addition to various accident and health riders.

In 2013, Aegon Hungary Composite Insurance Company incorporated a new subsidiary, Aegon Hungary Home Savings and Loan Association. The new entity provides a savings product combined with a preferential loan option which is subsidized by the state during the savings period.

Mortgage loans

Aegon Hungary has offered mortgage loans to retail customers since 2006. Home mortgage loans provided in the past were mainly Swiss franc denominated and provided by Aegon Hungary Mortgage Finance Co., a subsidiary of Aegon Hungary Composite Insurance Company. In the last four years, the mortgage lending shifted toward lending in the Hungarian forint.

Since 2010, the mortgage loans business has been affected by several legislative changes enacted by the Hungarian Parliament, each having the aim of reducing the financial burden on debtors with foreign currency denominated loans, and arising as a result of the economic downturn. One of the most significant one-time measures was enacted in September 2011 to permit debtors to redeem the outstanding loan amount at a fixed, below market exchange rate that resulted in a substantial loss for the financial industry. Under the currently effective rules debtors may fix the exchange rate applied to their monthly instalments at a below-market exchange rate for a maximum period of five years. The financial losses resulting from this program are borne partially by the Hungarian State and partially by financial institutions.

Pensions

Aegon’s pension business in Central & Eastern Europe experienced considerable growth before the financial crisis of 2008, due mainly to the region’s strong economic growth, and pension system reform in many of the countries in the region.

In the formerly mandatory private pension market, Aegon was active in Slovakia, Poland, and Romania in 2013, having exited Hungary. In the voluntary pension market, Aegon was active in Hungary and Turkey, having exited Slovakia and the Czech Republic in 2013.

In terms of assets under management, Aegon’s private pension funds in Poland, Slovakia and Romania, and voluntary pension fund in Hungary, are among the largest 1 in their countries. In terms of member numbers, Aegon has a significant market presence 2 in Poland, Romania, and Hungary. As of December 2013, Aegon had a total of 1.6 million pension fund members in Central & Eastern Europe.

Since 2009, a series of legislative changes implemented in Aegon’s regional country units has impacted this line of business significantly. The most significant impact was in Hungary and another significant impact is expected in Poland.

The Hungarian pension legislation changes enacted at the end of 2010 had a significant impact on the private (formerly mandatory) pension system. One of the most important measures was that private pension members were required to choose whether to remain enrolled in the private pension fund (on condition of termination of entitlement to the state pension for employment years after 2011) or opt out of private pension funds, transferring accumulated savings to the state held pension system. As a result, approximately 3% of members decided to remain enrolled in the private pension system and 97% moved to the state pension system.

Further legislative changes, enacted in Hungary at the end of 2011, required that all contributions deducted from the monthly wages of members were transferred to the state driven pension system (Pillar I). Members were able to transfer contributions to the private (formerly mandatory) pension funds only on a voluntary basis.

Following the above mentioned changes, on May 31, 2012, the delegate general meeting agreed to terminate the Aegon private pension fund without any legal successor in Hungary. The liquidation process began on July 1, 2012, and was completed in 2013.

In Poland, in accordance with legislative changes enacted in 2011, the contribution level payable into the private pension fund was reduced significantly. As of 2012, new members may no longer be actively recruited into private pension funds by pension management companies. Also, in accordance with the legislative changes coming into force on January 31, 2014, the Polish treasury bonds, treasury bills and other state backed debt instruments, representing around 50% of the value of the managed pension fund, are to be transferred back to the

 

 

 

  1 Sources: Polish Financial Supervision Authority, www.knf.gov.pl; the Association of Pension Fund Management Companies, Slovakia, www.adss.sk; Authority for Financial Supervision, http://asfro.ro/; The Central Bank of Hungary, https://felugyelet.mnb.hu.
  2 Sources: Polish Financial Supervision Authority, www.knf.gov.pl; Authority for Financial Supervision, http://asfro.ro/; The Central Bank of Hungary, https:// felugyelet.mnb.hu.

 

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Social Insurance Institution (ZUS) of Poland. Furthermore, as a result of the changes, membership for the purpose of paying future contributions is to become voluntary. Additionally, ZUS is to provide the retirement benefits to members, requiring a management company to transfer to ZUS the remaining assets, commencing ten years before a member reaches retirement age. As a result, Aegon wrote off the intangible assets on its balance sheet in 2013, resulting in a loss of EUR 192 million before tax.

In Slovakia, Aegon announced its withdrawal from the voluntary pension business in 2011, and exited the market in 2013.

Since September 2012 there has been a significant reduction in the contribution rate payable into private pension funds in Slovakia. Additionally, as of new legislation in 2013, it is no longer mandatory to join a private pension fund (Pillar II).

As of 2013 in Turkey, in accordance with legislative changes enacted in 2012, a reduction is applied to the maximum chargeable level of entrance fees, administration fees, and asset management fees. From 2013, pension contributions are no longer subject to tax incentives; instead, members receive 25% of their contributions in the form of direct support from the state.

In the Czech Republic, as of January 2013, former pension companies were transformed into management companies managing newly launched Pillar II and Pillar III pension funds. These exist alongside the so-called transformation fund, into which savings accumulated to the end of 2012 were placed. Aegon elected not to enter Pillar II in the Czech market. Aegon operated a transformation fund throughout 2013. On December 30, 2013, Aegon disposed of its pension line of business, and thus exited the Czech pension market.

Non-life

Aegon Hungary offers non-life cover (household, car insurance, and some wealth industrial risk). Aegon is the leading 1 insurance company in the Hungarian household market. In recent years, margins on non-life insurance in Hungary have been attractive. Moreover, household insurance provides considerable opportunities for cross-selling life insurance.

As part of Aegon’s regional expansion, Aegon Hungary opened branch offices in Slovakia in 2010, and in Poland in 2011, selling household insurance policies in these markets.

Competition

Aegon is among the biggest providers operating in the life insurance market in Hungary. In 2013, it was the second largest 2 provider in Hungary, based on the first nine months’ standardized premium income, and the third largest 3 provider in the non-life insurance market. Aegon is also a significant market participant in Poland 4 and Ukraine 5 . As of September 2013, it was ranked fifth for unit-linked products in Poland, based on gross written premiums. Aegon is not a significant market participant in those markets in which it was relatively recently incorporated: Aegon Slovakia (incorporated in 2003); Aegon Czech Republic (incorporated in 2004); and Aegon Romania (incorporated in 2008). Similarly, Aegon is not a significant participant in Turkey, in which it acquired its business in 2008.

In Hungary’s voluntary pension fund market, Aegon was ranked third 6 for both the number of its members and its managed assets in 2012. For managed assets, in 2013 Aegon was ranked fifth 7 in the Slovakian private pension market. In Poland, Aegon was ranked eighth 8 for number of members and ninth 9 for managed assets in 2013. As of December 31, 2013, Aegon ranked seventh 10 in the Romanian mandatory private pension market, both for net assets under management and number of members.

Regulation and supervision

In Central & Eastern Europe, a single insurance company may only be licensed for, and conduct, one of either a life insurance or non-life insurance business, and not both. In Hungary, however, insurance companies established before 1995 are exempt from this rule. This exemption applies to Aegon Hungary.

State supervision and oversight of the insurance industry is conducted by the following bodies and institutions:

¿   The Central Bank of Hungary (MNB);  
¿   National Bank of Slovakia (NBS);  
¿   Czech National Bank (CNB);  
¿   Polish Financial Supervisory Authority (KNF);  
¿   Authority for Financial Supervision (ASF) (Romania);  
¿   Undersecretariat of Treasury (Turkey);  
¿   National Commission for State Regulation of Ukrainian Financial Services Markets.  

The above-mentioned authorities promote consumer protection and have the right to investigate prudential activities and conduct, financial position and solvency, and compliance with all relevant laws.

 

 

 

  1 Source: www.mabisz.hu.
  2 Source: www.mabisz.hu.
  3 Source: www.mabisz.hu.
  4 Source: www.knf.gov.pl.
  5 Source: http://uainsur.com.
  6 Source: The Central Bank of Hungary, https://felugyelet.mnb.hu.
  7 Source: The Association of Pension Fund Management Companies, Slovakia, www.adss.sk.
  8 Source: www.knf.gov.pl/.
  9 Source: www.knf.gov.pl/.
  10 Source: Authority for Financial Supervision, http://asfro.ro.

 

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In addition to legal regulation, insurance companies are subject to a number of self-regulatory groups in their respective countries. These self-regulatory groups are the main forums for discussion among insurance companies. Their specialized departments (for example, actuarial, financial, and legal) meet periodically. They also engage in lobbying activities.

In Hungary, the foundation and operations of voluntary pension funds are regulated by the country’s Act on Voluntary Mutual Pension Funds (XCVI. 1993). Although, for Aegon, these activities are outsourced to Aegon Hungary Pension Fund Management Company, its operations must still comply with this legislation. This activity is also supervised by the MNB. Slovakia’s pension market is regulated by Act 43/2004 on pension asset management companies and respective notices. The private pension business is under the supervision of the National Bank of Slovakia (NBS). In Romania, the private pension system is regulated and supervised by the Authority for Financial Supervision (ASF), and the mandatory pension system is subject to Act 411/2004 on Privately Administered Pension Funds, as primary legislation, complemented by individual regulations, as secondary legislation. In Poland, this activity is supervised by the KNF and is governed by the Organization and Operation of Pension Funds Act. In Turkey, the voluntary pension funds are under the supervision of the Undersecretariat of Treasury and the companies are subject to Individual Retirement Saving and Investment System Law No. 4632.

In Hungary, the Act on Credit Institutions and Financial Enterprises (CXII. 1996) regulates the foundation, operation and reporting obligations of the country’s financial institutions (including Aegon Hungary Mortgage Finance Company). In addition, Aegon Hungary Mortgage Finance Company is under the supervision of the MNB.

Asset liability management

The investment strategy and the asset liability management of the CEE region is overseen within Aegon by the Regional Risk and Capital Committee that meets on a quarterly basis. Aegon CEE’s asset liability management focuses on asset liability duration and liquidity. The performance of the portfolios against benchmarks is also evaluated during these meetings.

Reinsurance ceded

Aegon takes out reinsurance for its life and non-life businesses in Central & Eastern Europe. This strategy is aimed at mitigating insurance risk. Aegon’s companies in the region work only through large multinational reinsurers, which have well-established operations in the region, in accordance with the Aegon Reinsurance Use Policy. For short-tail business Aegon CEE accepts reinsurance companies with a minimum Standard & Poor’s (S&P) rating of A-, and for long-tail business Aegon CEE accepts reinsurance companies with a minimum S&P rating of AA-. The credit standing of the reinsurance partners is held under strict monitoring, discussed on a monthly basis by the Global Reinsurance Use Committee and assessed on a quarterly basis by the Risk & Capital Committee. From 2013, Aegon Hungary began a long-term cooperation with Aegon Blue Square Re for property, catastrophe and motor third party liability risks. In the first phase, Blue Square Re takes the risk; in the second phase, Blue Square Re retro-seeds the risk in the reinsurance market with some retention levels.

The three most important reinsurance programs currently in force (with retention levels for each event indicated in parentheses) are:

¿   Property catastrophe excess of loss treaty (EUR 5.4 million retention). The Slovakian and Polish branch offices have a separate XL treaty with lower retention (EUR 0.2 million);  
¿   Motor third party liability excess of loss treaty (EUR 0.4 million retention);  
¿   Property per risk excess of loss treaty (EUR 1 million retention).  

The majority of treaties in force for Aegon’s operations in Central & Eastern Europe are non-proportional excess of loss programs, except for the life reinsurance treaties, which are made on a surplus and quota-share basis (including various riders).

 

 

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Overview of Asia

Aegon Asia operates in the Asia region through three major joint ventures in China, India and Japan, and a network of wholly-owned subsidiaries.

 

Joint ventures

In 2002, Aegon signed a joint venture agreement with China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC), China’s leading offshore oil and gas producer. Aegon-CNOOC Life Insurance Co. Ltd (Aegon-CNOOC) began operations in 2003. The joint venture is licensed to sell both life insurance and accident and health products in the provinces of mainland China. Aegon-CNOOC has extended its network of offices and business in China since 2003. Its geographic spread provides access to a potential market of more than 640 million people, many in the booming coastal provinces of eastern China.

In 2006, Aegon formed a new life insurance partnership in India with Religare Enterprises Limited and Bennett, Coleman & Company Limited. This partnership began operations as Aegon Religare Life Insurance Co. Ltd (Aegon Religare) in 2008. By December 31, 2013, Aegon Religare had a pan-India distribution network with 70 branches, across 55 cities and 21 states, and had issued more than 345.000 policies to over 300.000 customers.

In early 2007, Aegon signed a joint venture agreement in Japan with Sony Life, one of Japan’s leading insurance companies. Operations launched in 2009 as Sony Life Insurance Co. Ltd (Aegon Sony Life). By December 2013, the joint venture had signed distribution partnerships with one ’mega bank’ and fourteen regional banks, in addition to Sony Life’s Life Planner channel of over 4,000 professionals. The focus of the joint venture is annuity sales in Japan.

The shareholders in the joint venture also agreed to jointly establish a reinsurance company, SA Reinsurance Ltd (SARe), to allow Aegon and Sony Life greater flexibility in the pricing and product design of its annuity products. SARe launched in 2010 and is based in Bermuda with the purpose of hedging the guarantees of Aegon Sony Life’s annuities.

Wholly-owned subsidiaries

In 2011, a new organizational structure was adopted for Aegon’s operations in Asia, with all Asia-based insurance businesses managed as one regional division headquartered in Hong Kong and operates to a branch of Aegon Asia B.V. In 2012, Aegon Direct and Affinity Marketing Services (ADAMS) and Transamerica Life Bermuda (TLB) were integrated into the Asia division of the New Markets operating unit. The objective is to leverage product and distribution expertise, capture efficiencies, and pursue organic growth of Aegon’s franchise in Asia. Previously these entities reported under the Americas operating unit.

TLB has served the high-net-worth market in Asia in an off- and on-shore capacity since the early 1990s.

ADAMS is an independent direct marketing services company with operations in five Asian countries. It was established in Australia in 1998, and subsequently has begun operations in Japan, Hong Kong, Thailand, India and, more recently, Indonesia.

Organizational structure

¿   Aegon-CNOOC Life Insurance Co. Ltd. (50%);  
¿   Aegon Religare Life Insurance Co. Ltd. (26%);  
¿   Aegon Sony Life Insurance Co. Ltd (50%);  
¿   SA Reinsurance Ltd (50%);  
¿   Transamerica Life Bermuda;  
¿   Aegon Direct and Affinity Marketing Services;  
¿   Aegon Asia B.V.  

Overview of sales and distribution

In China, Aegon sells its products through multiple distribution channels, such as agents, independent brokers, banks, direct marketing, and the group channel. As of November 2013, Aegon’s bancassurance network in China was 675 outlets.

As of December 2013, Aegon Religare’s widespread agency network, which it had established by 2010, comprised more than 7,000 agents, following some consolidation in 2012. In addition to agency distribution, there has been an increase in Direct to Customer (D2C) distribution, such as digital sales platforms and the use of the direct sales force channel. Aegon Religare is a pioneer in the online protection space, and has experienced a significant increase in the number of sales generated online in 2012 and 2013. Aegon Religare also distributes its products through strategic partner Religare Group, and partnerships with companies that offer financial services to their clients, brokers, and, to an extent, co-operative banks.

Aegon Sony Life in Japan has two primary channels of distribution, the Life Planner channel of Sony Life, Aegon’s joint venture partner and the bank distribution channel, which now comprises fourteen regional banks. In 2010, Aegon Sony Life launched a partnership with SMBC, one of Japan’s largest national banks, and substantially added further regional bank partners thereafter important in Japan as banks sell more insurance. Furthermore, banks are eager to expand into fee income activities due to the reducing effect on mainstay business margins as a result of the financial crisis and low interest rates.

 

 

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ADAMS is one of the largest independent insurance direct marketing services companies in Asia by both geographic footprint and premiums. ADAMS specializes in direct and affinity marketing, and services business partners across the direct marketing value chain. It has developed significant capabilities in customer analytics and data management, integrated marketing and operational execution, and is investing in and building digital and e-commerce capabilities to expand opportunities with existing business partners beyond telemarketing.

The focus of TLB is on building strong relationships with private and priority banks, local and international brokers and intermediaries.

Overview of business lines

Life and savings

Aegon provides a broad range of life insurance products through its businesses in China and India. These include unit-linked and traditional life products, as well as endowment, term life, health, group life, accident, and annuities.

In China, Aegon-CNOOC’s agency channel mainly sells regular premium endowment with high-sum assured protection and critical illness products. Regular premium participating endowment and single-pay universal life are key products for the bancassurance channel. Telemarketers largely sell return of premium products. Popular products in the brokerage channel are return of premium, participating endowment, and critical illness.

At the end of 2013, Aegon Religare had a number of term plans, traditional individual participating products, traditional pension participating products, unit-linked plans, and health products.

Universal life and term products

TLB main products consist of USD Guaranteed Universal Life (GUL) and USD term plans for the high-net-worth market, and a new range of products was launched in the fourth quarter of 2013.

Individual savings and retirement

Aegon Sony Life sells variable annuities. It provides a guaranteed lifetime withdrawal benefit (GLWB) with a rollup function of 3% per annum during the deferral period and a guaranteed minimum accumulation benefit (GMAB). The GMAB product has a 105% trigger feature that allows the customer to receive either a lump-sum withdrawal of the difference between the initial premium and account value or have the difference transferred into a separate non- guaranteed account.

Since early 2012, all actively distributed Aegon Sony Life products had an underlying policyholder fund with a volatility-control mechanism which uses the simple index funds of major economies. Target volatilities are in the range of 4.5% to 6%.

Since 2010, SARe has reinsured all minimum guarantees offered on Aegon Sony Life’s variable annuity products.

Non-life

Aegon-CNOOC offers non-life products – mainly short-term accidental and short-term health – to all channels, although sales are concentrated in the group channel, for which the main products are group medical policies.

Aegon Religare sells a health product with the same features as a defined-benefit product, which pays benefits specified for the categories of hospitalization, surgery or critical illness, irrespective of the actual expense incurred by the policyholder. In May 2012, Aegon Religare launched online health plan iHealth, in line with the company’s focus on digital channels. The off-line version is sold by all channels of the joint venture, including agency, direct and business alliances.

ADAMS has multiple international business partners across Asia, including banks and non-financial institutions. ADAMS focuses on protection products that generate risk premiums, such as term life insurance, personal accident insurance, and supplemental health insurance.

Competition

China - Aegon-CNOOC

As of November 30, 2013, there were 70 life insurance companies in the market, including 42 domestic life companies and 28 foreign life insurers. As of November 30, 2013, Aegon-CNOOC ranked thirty-ninth among life insurance companies and twelfth among foreign life companies, based on total premium income . The company’s market share among foreign-invested companies was 2.5% 1 . In descending order, Aegon-CNOOC’s channel contributions were brokerage, bancassurance, direct marketing, group and agency annual premium equivalent production and bancassurance, group, brokerage, and direct marketing and agency first year premium production.

On November 14, 2013, the CIRC announced the China Life Insurance Experienced Critical Illness Table (2006-2010). As of December 31, 2013, the table is to be used as the basis for evaluating the statutory reserves of critical illness products. The table is expected to have a profound impact on product innovation in the life insurance industry in China.

 

 

 

 

  1 Source: China Insurance Regulatory Commission (CIRC).

 

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China is following global trends in the use of digital channels, and Chinese government agencies attach great importance to the e-business industry development. With a ‘netizen’ population of around 591 million 1 , a growing number of people in China purchase insurance products online. On November 6, 2013, Zhong An Online Property and Casualty Insurance Company began operations in Shanghai to become China’s first online insurance company. The company’s main focus is corporate and household insurance for internet transactions. The company’s key shareholders are Alibaba, Tencent, and China Ping An Group.

Aegon-CNOOC began e-sales in early 2013. Digital sales and service platforms allow Aegon-CNOOC to interact with its customers directly, and offer the convenience of around-the-clock service from any location. As of November 30, 2013, about 35 life insurance companies had launched an e-sales channel. In addition, large insurance groups such as New China Life are establishing wholly-owned e-business companies. Insurers such as Taikang Life and Guohua Life have introduced mobile platforms for insurance services and product purchasing, such as WeChat, alongside standard corporate website and third party website platforms. Estimates suggest e-sales have significant potential in the China life insurance market.

India - Aegon Religare

First year premiums, a measure of new business secured by life insurers, were INR 1,024 billion from January to November 2013, compared to INR 1,029 billion in the same period of 2012. Of this, 53.6% was underwritten in the individual segment and 46.4% in the group segment, compared to 58.6% and 41.4% respectively in the same period of 2012 2 .

Linked first year premiums saw a significant drop to INR 109 billion in 2012-2013, a decrease of 37.4% on INR 174 billion in 2011-2012, based on the latest information available on a fiscal year basis from April to March. Non-linked business collections were INR 965 billion in 2012-2013, compared to INR 966 billion in 2011-2012. Total premiums underwritten by the life insurance sector in 2012-2013 were flat at INR 2,872 billion, against INR 2,870 billion in 2011-2012. Renewal premiums accounted for 62.6% of this total, compared to 60.3% in 2011-2012, and first year premiums contributed the remaining 37.4%, against 39.7% in 2011-2012. Agency sales forces continue to be an important distribution channel. Life insurers with banking partners are able to scale up distribution platforms, which are gradually increasing volumes.

There were 24 licensed life insurers in India at the end of December 2013. The Life Insurance Corporation of India remains dominant with a 73% share of new business premiums, with the balance dispersed among private sector companies.

From January to December 2013, the total premium collected by Aegon Religare decreased by 7% to around INR 4.21 billion, from INR 4.52 billion in 2012. This was due to a drop of nearly 22% in first year premium collection to INR 1.29 billion, from INR 1.67 billion in 2012. Renewal premium collection was slightly up at around INR 2.91 billion, compared to INR 2.85 billion for the same period in 2012.

Japan - Aegon Sony Life

The bancassurance channel is a key growth area in the Japanese insurance market. The largest share of market growth is from single premium whole life products. The surrender payment rate of these is higher than savings account interest, and the commission rate incentivizes strong sales by bancassurance representatives.

There is a strong need in Japan for individual annuity products for self-support after retirement. This is because falling birth rates and an aging population work against the public pension scheme. Guaranteed minimum accumulation benefit remains the main product in the variable annuities market. There are seven active companies in Japan’s variable annuities market. Aegon Sony Life had the second largest market share in 2013, up from fifth in 2012, with cumulative annual variable annuities sales of JPY 151.6 billion (JPY 34.3 billion in 2012).

Asia - ADAMS

Economic pressure on traditional distribution channels and changes in customer purchasing behavior are driving market recognition that direct marketing is a growing opportunity with further potential. Multinational insurers are increasing their capabilities across the region.

In D2C, market participants use their customers’ preferred channels. For insurers, this primarily involves the tactical deployment of media such as Direct Response TV, product microsites, health portals, social media platforms. and mobile applications. Online sales for non-life products is increasing in many markets across the region, while life products e-commerce is emerging.

Hong Kong and Singapore - TLB

One of the key challenges affecting Hong Kong and Singapore is the number of new providers entering the high-net-worth and affluent market, alongside the well-established players HSBC Life, AIA, Manulife Bermuda, and Sun Life Bermuda.

Production for the year reached USD 54.9 million, which was 183% of budget and more than double 2012’s figure of USD 26.1 million.

 

 

 

  1 Source: China Internet Network Information Centre as of June 2013.
  2 Source: Monthly New Business Report from Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority (IRDA) / IRDA Annual Report 2012-2013.

 

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Regulation and supervision

China - Aegon-CNOOC

The insurance industry in China is regulated by the CIRC. Its regulatory supervision is described as ‘enhancing services, reinforcing regulation, preventing risks, and promoting development’.

The CIRC’s priorities are to promote healthy and continuous development of business, maintain market stability, and prevent systematic and regional risks. It pays increasing attention to risks concerning maturity payment and surrender, fund utilization, and low solvency.

To further strengthen the protection of policyholders’ rights and interests, the CIRC continuously advances the supervision of misleading sales, improves supervision systems and measures on life insurance services, and formulates a minimum service standard.

The CIRC also strengthens supervision of insurance corporations, and promotes the China Risk-Oriented Solvency System. A key focus is the implementation of regulations with the aim of making current corporate governance system more effective.

The CIRC also promotes market-oriented reform by further reducing administrative approval processes, driving a broad range of reforms, such as product pricing and marketing mechanisms, and allowing markets to play a fundamental role in resource allocation.

India - Aegon Religare

Indian life insurance companies are regulated by the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority (IRDA). The IRDA regulates, promotes and encourages the orderly growth of insurance and reinsurance business in India. Established by the Government of India, it safeguards the interests of the insurance policy holders of the country.

The IRDA is very active in bringing new regulation. For example, in 2013, the IRDA updated existing and released new regulatory guidelines. Significant changes were made to the following: guidelines on various features of traditional and linked products; investment regulations and fixed income derivatives regulations, including the allowance of interest rate swaps for the purpose of hedging liabilities with interest rate exposure.

Japan - Aegon Sony Life

The Financial Services Agency (FSA) is the government agency supervisor of all insurance companies in Japan. New products and major product amendments are filed with, and approved by, the FSA. General policy provisions, statements of business procedure, pricing and valuation are approved by the FSA. The FSA has the right to on- and off-site inspections. Relevant regulations for insurance operations include, among others,

the Insurance Business Law and related enforcement/notice, the Insurance Act, and the Financial Instruments and Exchange Act.

In late 2012, the FSA issued a new solvency margin risk standard which limits the assets used while broadening the measurement for solvency risk. Most recently, the FSA has strictly monitored the solicitation of insurance products to the elderly; as a result, Aegon Sony Life has recently enhanced its guidelines.

Asia - ADAMS

In Hong Kong, the Privacy Commissioner for Data Protection ordered Aegon Direct, a broker company and a wholly owned subsidiary of ADAMS, to delete personal information collected from customers by a vendor which may have misled some of those individuals into providing their information, or did not properly disclose how the information would be used. Aegon Direct was permitted to avoid the deletion by obtaining new customer consent from each individual, and was able to retain thousands of customers through a calling outreach program which ended in August. Aegon removed those customers it was not able to reach by the regulatory deadline of September 30, 2013.

In direct markets, an evolving regulatory environment relates in particular to the use of personal data for marketing purposes. ADAMS remains abreast of any changes or proposed changes to regulations governing personal data in all of its markets. Where appropriate, ADAMS implements industry standard compliance programs, such as PCI Compliance in Australia and P-Mark in Japan.

Hong Kong and Singapore - TLB

TLB is incorporated in Bermuda and is regulated by the Bermuda Monetary Authority, the integrated regulator of the financial services sector in Bermuda. TLB’s Asia branches are located in Hong Kong and Singapore. The insurance industry in Hong Kong is regulated by the Office of the Commissioner of Insurance (the “OCI”). The OCI’s priorities are to oversee the financial conditions and operations of authorized insurers in Hong Kong. In addition, the OCI considers itself to be a market enabler, committed to facilitating both the healthy development of the insurance industry and the protection of policyholders. The insurance industry in Singapore is regulated by the Monetary of Singapore (the “MAS”). The MAS is an integrated supervisor overseeing all financial institutions in Singapore – banks, insurers, capital market intermediaries, financial advisors and the stock exchange. Its mandate is to foster a sound and progressive financial services sector in Singapore. The MAS also promotes a strong corporate governance framework and close adherence to international accounting standards.

Asset liability management

China - Aegon-CNOOC

A monthly asset liability management meeting is held to monitor duration and liquidity management. The durations of liabilities and assets are calculated separately by block and the duration gap is analyzed. Based on the payment structure and term of

 

 

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insurance liabilities, Aegon-CNOOC usually purchases corporate bonds, government bonds, bank deposits, debt projects, or other fixed income assets to match this liability. Operating funds are invested in the bond fund, money-market fund and bond repurchase markets to achieve higher investment returns.

The respective Risk & Capital Committees of Aegon-CNOOC meet every quarter to manage and monitor asset and liability matching, using the result of stress-test scenarios based on the Economic Capital Model, liquidity tests, and duration mismatch tests.

India - Aegon Religare

Aegon Religare has a board-level Investment Committee and a board-level Risk Management & Capital Committee (RMC). Additionally, there is a management-level Risk & Capital Committee (RCC). A regular review of risk and capital requirements is conducted by the committee members of the RCC and RMC. Asset liability management (ALM) became critical to the business in 2012 as the business mix changed and sales of traditional products increased. Monthly reviews are performed to ensure appropriate ALM for the closed block of business under traditional products; at the end of each quarter the ALM report is tabled at the RCC meeting.

Japan - Aegon Sony Life and SARe

Aegon Sony Life reinsures (cedes) 100% of its guarantees on variable annuities to SARe. SARe has a comprehensive hedging program in place that covers the major risk dimensions. Execution of this hedging program is outsourced to Aegon USA Investment Management LLC. Comprehensive risk management procedures have been defined to ensure implementation of appropriate risk management activities in accordance with Aegon’s Risk Management Policy.

In reinsuring minimum variable annuity guarantees, SARe accepts certain market and policyholder behavior risks. SARe covers payments under the guarantees to the extent that benefits to the policyholder exceed the variable annuity account value. The market risks are managed through the use of capital-market hedging techniques.

The hedging program includes futures contracts, foreign currency forwards and interest rate swaps. Futures contracts are traded on market indices such as TOPIX, S&P 500, FTSE 100, and EuroStoxx 50. Not all equity indices are traded in Japanese Yen (SARe’s functional currency): currency exposure is hedged with foreign currency forwards. The hedging program requires regular determination of risk exposures, and regular market monitoring and trading. The program requires substantial cash reserves to cover potential losses on hedging instruments, transaction costs and other charges, all of which are supported by the shareholders as necessary. The hedge strategy is not expected

to eliminate all of the volatility from guarantee value changes. The hedge objective is to minimize economic volatility, which is expected to be reduced by approximately 70%-80%. The hedge will not fund all changes in capital, as a strategy to minimize capital volatility is different to its strategy to minimize economic or income volatility.

Policyholder behavior risks are managed through a combination of product design, pricing techniques, hedge construction and rebalancing to reflect emerging experience, and are reflected in the reinsurance premium that is charged by SARe to Aegon Sony Life. In addition to these pricing and hedging risk mitigation techniques, for certain products capital contains a provision for adverse deviation. As such, increases in capital due to unexpected deviations in policyholder behavior or an unfavorable basis error are cushioned by applying an assumption for hedge effectiveness in capital (and reflected in pricing). This assumption is lower than is expected to be realized based on results from a ten-year back-test of Aegon Sony Life’s hedge strategy (the back-test is from June 1999 to June 2009). SARe’s Risk & Capital Committee meets on a quarterly basis.

Asia - ADAMS

The ADAMS assets are managed by Aegon USA Investment Management in the United States in a pool of assets backing simular liabilities. Asset Liability Management is performed as part of assets portfolio management.

Hong Kong and Singapore - TLB

The TLB assets are currently managed by Aegon USA Investment Management in the United States in a pool of assets backing simular liabilities. Asset Liability Management is performed as part of assets portfolio management.

Reinsurance ceded

China - Aegon-CNOOC

Aegon-CNOOC shares its morbidity and mortality risk with international and national reinsurers. The mortality risk of individual products is shared through a surplus reinsurance structure. Most of the individual morbidity risks are taken by General Re and Munich Re in quota share. The group products are mainly reinsured by Hannover Re. Aegon-CNOOC has also modified co-reinsurance with Hannover Re to improve its solvency ratio in addition to morbidity and mortality risk transfer. Aegon-CNOOC reviews the reinsurance structure regularly and adjusts it based on the claim experience and its risk acceptance capability.

India - Aegon Religare

Reinsurance arrangements are regulated by the IRDA. Aegon Religare has reinsurance treaties with Munich Re, Swiss Re and RGA Re to share mortality and morbidity risks through surplus-and quota-share arrangements on a risk-premium basis.

 

 

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Japan - Aegon Sony Life and SARe

Aegon Sony Life reinsures 100% of its guarantees on variable annuities with SARe. Aegon Sony Life may use third party reinsurance for a minor part of this, taking into account transfer pricing issues.

Asia - ADAMS

ADAMS’ business model mainly creates value by offshore reinsurance through an Aegon reinsurer, whereby risk-based premium is acquired for the group. ADAMS positions itself as an independent marketing services provider, which allows it to front partnerships with local insurers, particularly where Aegon does not have a local presence. ADAMS also generates some fee income from its services.

Hong Kong and Singapore - TLB

TLB uses third party mortality reinsurance for its universal life and traditional policies. Mortality reinsurance takes the form of yearly-renewable term excess-of-retention or quota-share arrangements, and is typically arranged through a pool of reinsurers, which are generally the leading providers in the reinsurance industry.

There is also a coinsurance arrangement with the affiliate company TLIC for some universal life business. The mortality risk on these products is first ceded to third party reinsurers, and the retained risks are 100% or 80% coinsured with TLIC.

 

 

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Business overview Results of operations – Spain

 

Overview of Spain

Aegon entered the Spanish market in 1980 with the purchase of local insurer Seguros Galicia. In recent years, Aegon’s activities in Spain have developed through distribution partnerships with Spanish banks.

 

 

Until 2010, Aegon Spain operated through two subsidiaries, Aegon Seguros Salud and Aegon Seguros de Vida, which merged to form Aegon Espana S.A. de Seguros y Reaseguros, as of January 1, 2011. Aegon Administracion y Servicos A.I.E., a separate legal entity, provides administration and operations services to all Aegon companies in Spain, including joint ventures with third parties. In addition, Aegon operates through partnerships with the financial entities Banco Santander, Cajatres and Liberbank.

Aegon sold its stake in the partnership with Unnim on June 3, 2013, and with Caja Mediterraneo on July 19, 2013.

Organizational structure

Aegon Spain’s main subsidiaries and affiliates are:

  ¿   Aegon Espana S.A. de Seguros y Reaseguros;
  ¿   Aegon Administracion y Servicos A.I.E.;
  ¿   Caja Badajoz Vida y Pensiones (50%), in partnership with Cajatres;
  ¿   Cantabria Vida y Pensiones (50%), in partnership with Liberbank.
  ¿   Liberbank Vida (50%), in partnership with Liberbank;
  ¿   Aegon Santander Generales Seguros y Reaseguros (51%), in partnership with Banco Santander;
  ¿   Aegon Santander Vida Seguros y Reaseguros (51%), in partnership with Banco Santander.

Overview of sales and distribution channels

The challenging economic situation in Spain, which is expected to continue in 2014, has affected all channels, particularly bancasurance. The banking sector has undergone deep change since 2012, when a structural reform program was implemented in Spain. This resulted in the restructuring of the banking sector and triggered a wave of mergers and acquisitions aimed at consolidation, an ongoing process which continues to affect Aegon’s partners Liberbank and Cajatres.

The main distribution channel in the Spanish market is bancassurance, which accounts for 72% of life sales, compared to 27% for brokers and a negligible share for direct customers.

Aegon Spain distributes its products nationwide through partner branches and its own sales network.

Caja Badajoz Vida y Pensiones

Under Aegon’s partnership with Caja Badajoz, agreed in 2005, Aegon and Caja Badajoz set up a 50/50 joint company to sell life insurance and pensions. Caja Badajoz has a network of 229 branches, primarily in the western region of Extremadura, which adjoins Spain’s border with Portugal. In 2011, Caja Badajoz Vida entered into a SIP (Institutional System of Protection) named Grupo Cajatres, currently integrating Caja Inmaculada, Caja Circulo de Burgos and Caja Badajoz.

Cantabria Vida y Pensiones and Liberbank Vida

Caja Cantabria is one of the largest savings banks in northern Spain, located primarily in its home province of Cantabria. In 2011, Caja Cantabria Vida y Pensiones entered into a SIP named Liberbank, currently integrating Cajastur (320 branches), Caja Extremadura (225 branches) and Caja Cantabria (152 branches).

Aegon Santander Generales Seguros y Reaseguros and Aegon Santander Vida Seguros y Reaseguros

In December 2012, Aegon and Banco Santander entered an alliance for the distribution of certain insurance products. This became fully operational in June 2013 following completion of the precedent conditions and administrative authorizations.

Banco Santander is the largest financial institution in Spain, with 4,548 branches nationwide. Aegon’s agreement with Banco Santander concerns the business lines of pure life risk and the general insurance products accident, home and commercial multi-risk insurance, and sickness. These are to be sold through two insurance entities, Aegon Santander Vida for pure life risk products, and Aegon Santander Generales for general insurance products. Aegon’s share in each entity is 51%.

 

 

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Distribution

Aegon Spain distributes life insurance, general insurance, health and pension products. It uses two main distribution channels, Bancassurance, comprising 66% of the total, and its own network of brokers and agents. Aegon Spain’s sales network is focused on individual life and health insurance in urban and rural areas.

Overview of business lines

Aegon Spain primarily serves retail customers, and offers life insurance, general insurance, accident and health, and pension products. The recent partnership with Banco Santander enabled Aegon Spain to begin offering general insurance. The gross premium written contribution in 2013 for each of Aegon Spain’s business lines was 69% for life insurance, 20% for accident and health insurance, and 11% for general insurance.

Competition

The Spanish insurance market is highly competitive.

For Aegon Spain’s traditional life, unit-linked variable life and pension products, the major competitors are retail bank-owned insurance companies. The life market is dominated by Grupo Caixa, with a 21% market share, and Santander, with a 12% share, followed by Mapfre, with 10%. Aegon Spain’s market share is 1.09%.

For Aegon Spain’s health and general insurance products, the main competitors are foreign and local companies. Mapfre leads the non-life insurance market with a 19% market share, followed by Axa and Generalli, both with an 8% share. The non-life market is more fragmented than the life market. Aegon Spain’s multi-risk business line is responsible for non-life and has a market share of 0.88%.

Regulation and supervision

Direccion General de Seguros (DGS) is the regulatory authority for the Spanish insurance industry. Insurance companies are required to report to DGS on a quarterly basis. Spanish regulations incorporate all requirements of the relevant European Union directives. The local regulations for solvency margin are based, respectively, on percentages of the reserves

for the life insurance business and of the premiums and sum at risk for the health and general insurance business. The local regulations for investments require the appropriate matching of investments and technical provisions, and also establish different levels of restrictions on the type of assets in which the insurance company may invest.

Asset liability management

Aegon Spain’s approach to asset liability management is, respectively, to make projections of asset and liability cash flows, calculate their present values using a market yield curve, and compute the main parameters affecting these cash flows, such as duration and convexity. The goal is to lock in the spread by matching the duration of assets to the duration of liabilities.

Reinsurance ceded

Aegon Spain has a ‘one Aegon’ reinsurance management policy, meaning that both its joint ventures and own business are treated as a whole, with the same economic conditions and reinsurers panel, but with individual profit shares without losses carried forward by each entity belonging to Aegon Spain. The main contract for mortality and morbidity provides proportional reinsurance protection for both its individual risk and group risk policies. With this approach, Aegon Spain seeks to optimize the cost of reinsurance coverage, sharing the profits and not the losses, while achieving prudential diversification of its insurance risk by limiting the maximum possible losses on risks that exceed retention levels. Maximum retention levels vary by product and by nature of the risk being reinsured; generally, however, the retention limit is between EUR 30,000 and EUR 60,000 per life insured. Aegon Spain remains contingently liable for the amount ceded should the reinsurance company fail to meet its obligations. Aegon Spain generally uses only reinsurance companies that have a Standard & Poor credit rating of “A” or higher. Aegon’s Group Reinsurance Use Committee is involved in the pre-approval of reinsurers, and the selection of reinsurers where a reinsurer has a rating of below “A”. In addition, to reduce its exposure to defaults, Aegon Spain has several reinsurers on its panel and regularly monitors the creditworthiness of each. Further protection is taken out through funds that are withheld for investment by the ceding company where appropriate.

 

 

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Overview of France

Aegon is present in the French insurance market, the second largest in Europe, through a partnership agreement with AG2R La Mondiale.

 

 

History

In 2002, Aegon began a partnership with mutual insurer La Mondiale through the acquisition of a 20% interest in La Mondiale Participations, La Mondiale’s subsidiary company. La Mondiale Participations offers a wide range of life insurance, pensions, savings, investment and asset management services to corporate and individual retail customers through three subsidiaries, Arial Assurance, La Mondiale Partenaire and La Mondiale Europartenaire. In 2004, Aegon increased its stake in La Mondiale Participations from 20% to 35%. In 2005, the Aegon Pension Network was launched in collaboration with La Mondiale. In July 2007, La Mondiale and fellow insurer AG2R announced a merger. The merger, which has not affected Aegon’s partnership with La Mondiale, created a significant insurer in France serving some 8 million customers (including retirees). The new group became operational at the start of 2008. In 2009, La Mondiale Partenaire started to distribute “Terre d’Avenir”, Aegon’s variable annuities product.

Overview of sales and distribution channels

Arial Assurance specializes in collective pensions for large corporates. La Mondiale Partenaire focuses on high-net-worth individuals in France. La Mondiale Europartenaire serves high-net-worth individuals in Luxembourg. Arial Assurance distributes its corporate solutions through agents and brokers, while La Mondiale Partenaire and La Mondiale Europartenaire distribute their individual solutions predominantly through banks and independent financial advisers.

Market position

In 2012, AG2R La Mondiale is ranked tenth by premiums in the life insurance sector and first by premiums in corporate pensions. The Association of Insurers of Luxembourg ranked La Mondiale Europartenaire fourth by premiums in 2013 with a 9% market share.

 

 

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Overview of Variable Annuities Europe

Variable Annuities Europe’s legal entity is Aegon Ireland plc, located in Dublin. Its primary business line is variable annuities for Europe, active in the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and the Netherlands. In addition Aegon Ireland offers offshore bonds for the market in the United Kingdom.

 

 

Overview of sales and distribution channels

In the United Kingdom and the Netherlands, Aegon Ireland does not employ a direct sales force, but works with the local sales forces of the Aegon companies.

In Germany, Aegon Ireland has its own branch office in Frankfurt and employs a direct sales and customer service team.

Sales in France are through AG2R La Mondiale. Aegon N.V. has a 35% stake in La Mondiale Participations, including the insurance entity with which Aegon Ireland cooperates.

Variable annuities

Variable annuities are advised products distributed primarily through financial advisers and banks.

In the United Kingdom, Aegon’s distribution channels are the Aegon Retirement Choices (ARC) platform – an online service that allows financial advisers to manage their clients’ investment portfolios – banks, and financial advisers.

Aegon Ireland launched its first variable annuity product in Germany in August 2013. Key distribution channels are broker pools and financial adviser networks, serviced through the branch office in Frankfurt.

In France, AG2R La Mondiale sells a single variable annuity product, of which the guaranteed lifetime income option is reinsured to Aegon Ireland. The product is sold through AG2R La Mondiale’s own internal networks and through platforms to financial advisers and banks.

In the Netherlands, a single variable annuity product is distributed through Aegon’s local banking and financial adviser channels.

Offshore bonds

Offshore bonds are offered exclusively in the United Kingdom and distributed through Aegon’s ARC platform, other third party platforms, banks, and financial advisers.

 

Overview of business lines

Variable annuities

Variable annuity products are essentially unit-linked life insurance products with guarantees. They typically offer a range of investment fund options linked in proportions selected by the policyholder to equities and fixed interest investments. The guarantees may take several different forms, from guarantees of a minimum level of future income for life (immediate or deferred) or a given term to capital guarantees over a defined period and death benefits. Charges for the guarantees are applied to the policyholder’s account value and typically vary according to the proportion of equity investment.

Variable annuities allow a customer to participate in equity or bond market performance with the assurance of a minimum level of future benefit, regardless of the performance of their account. Variable annuities allow a customer to select payout options designed to help meet their need for income upon maturity, including lump sum payment or income for life or a period of time.

Premiums paid on variable annuity contracts are invested in underlying funds, including bond and equity funds and, usually, a cash fund. For most products, the client selects investment options based on the their preferred level of risk. The assets related to this product are segregated for the benefit of policyholders in separate accounts of the insurance company.

The account value of variable annuities reflects the performance of the funds. The insurance provider earns administration and expense charges, as well as guarantee charges for the guaranteed benefits.

Offshore bonds

Offshore Wealth Management products are open-ended unit-linked life insurance products. They offer a wide range of investment choices, allowing investment into a very large range of external assets, such as collective investment schemes, unit trusts, and open-ended investment companies (OEICs), together with internal unit-linked funds managed by Aegon Ireland and cash deposits.

 

 

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The premiums paid are invested in the underlying funds as selected by the client. Alternatively, clients may request the appointment of a specialist fund manager to select the underlying funds on an advisory or discretionary basis.

The assets related to this product are segregated for the benefit of policyholders in separate accounts of the insurance company. These separate accounts are classified as investments for the account of policyholders.

Offshore Wealth Management products allow a customer to make regular withdrawals from their policy provided there is sufficient value in the underlying fund. The death benefit is typically 100.1% of the surrender value of the policy on the death of the last life assured. Offshore Wealth Management products do not have explicit guarantees. The surrender value reflects the performance of the funds selected by the client and, therefore, the final surrender value of the policy may be less than the original investment.

The account value of Offshore Wealth Management products reflects the performance of the funds. The insurance provider earns ongoing administration and expense charges on the policy. Collected surrender charges are typically applied to recoup deferred acquisition costs.

Competition

Variable annuities

From 2012 to 2013, the competitive environment for variable annuities in Europe has experienced no significant change. Ongoing difficult economic and financial conditions have limited new product launches. In the United Kingdom, there are two competitors, Axa and MetLife. MetLife is the market leader, with a total variable annuity market solution covering both pensions and onshore bonds.

In Germany, several competitors offer variable annuity type products, but variable annuities are generally not essential to their overall offering. The main competitors are Canada Life, Axa, and Baloise. Other providers include Allianz, Swiss Life, Generali, and Friends Provident.

In France, AXA and Allianz are the only other providers offering variable annuities, with AXA leading the market.

Offshore bonds

The UK offshore bond market remains highly competitive. Aegon has a 6% market share, placing it sixth. The top three providers by market share are Axa Wealth, Standard Life, and Canada Life, respectively.

Regulation and supervision

Aegon Ireland is registered as a life insurance company in Ireland under the European Communities (Life Assurance) Framework Regulations 1994 (the 1994 Regulations), which implements the Consolidated Life Directive in Ireland. Aegon Ireland is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. As an Irish authorized life insurance company, Aegon Ireland may undertake life insurance business in any member state of the European Economic Area on either a freedom of services (FOS) or freedom of establishment (FOE) basis, subject to the notification requirements set out in the 1994 Regulations.

Aegon Ireland operates on an FOE basis in Germany (with a branch office in Frankfurt) and on an FOS basis in the United Kingdom and the Netherlands, selling life insurance products in Class III (contracts linked to investment funds) and Class I (life insurance and contracts to pay annuities on human life), excluding contracts written in Class II (contracts of insurance to provide a sum on marriage or on the birth of a child). Aegon Ireland must comply with the general good provisions that apply to insurers selling such policies in each jurisdiction.

The Central Bank of Ireland has sole responsibility for the prudential supervision and regulation of Aegon Ireland. As a consequence, Aegon Ireland’s entire business, state of solvency, establishment and maintenance of technical reserves, quality of corporate governance, risk management, and internal control systems are all subject to monitoring and supervision by the Central Bank of Ireland. Aegon is required to submit annual returns to the Central Bank of Ireland and is subject to annual review meetings and themed visits. The Central Bank of Ireland has wide powers of intervention in all areas of Aegon Ireland’s business.

 

 

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Overview of Aegon Asset Management

Aegon Asset Management was formed in October 2009, and brings together Aegon’s asset management businesses from around the world. Aegon reports results from Aegon Asset Management through the New Markets reporting line.

 

Organizational structure

Aegon Asset Management has three main brands;

  ¿   Aegon Asset Management specializes in providing fixed income, real estate loan and asset allocation solutions to a range of customers. It benefits from long-standing experience in managing these asset classes for Aegon.
  ¿   Kames Capital is a United Kingdom based asset management company providing fixed income, equities, real estate and multi-asset solutions to United Kingdom and international clients.
  ¿   TKPi is a Netherlands-based fiduciary manager recognized for its manager selection and tailored advice to the Dutch pension market.

Aegon Asset Management has offices in the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Central & Eastern Europe, Spain, Hong Kong and mainland China.

The main operating entities are Aegon USA Investment Management LLC, Aegon USA Realty Advisors LLC, Aegon Investment Management B.V. (the Netherlands), TKP Investments B.V. (the Netherlands), Kames Capital plc (United Kingdom) and Aegon Industrial Fund Management Company Ltd (China, 49% owned).

Aegon Asset Management is managed by a global board representing a number of global functions and local leadership roles.

Overview of business lines

Aegon Asset Management manages significant funds on behalf of other Aegon insurance units. Asset inflows are derived from insurance company sales invested into the general account or insurance funds, depending on the product sold. Aegon Asset Management receives funds either in a ‘closed architecture’ structure (the insurance affiliate seller delegates funds to Aegon Asset Management) or through competition with external asset managers in an ‘open architecture’ structure (the insurance affiliate seller may choose to delegate funds to an external fund manager other than Aegon Asset Management). Aegon Asset Management also services third party retail and institutional customers investing through collective investment schemes or segregated mandates.

General account business consists of funds held on the balance sheet of Aegon insurance companies to meet policyholder liabilities, typically where the insurer has given the policyholder a guarantee. These assets are managed to match the insurers’ liabilities. As a rule, general account assets are managed in a closed architecture structure, and the main asset classes are fixed income and mortgage loans. Aegon Asset Management also manages the general account derivatives book.

Affiliate sales business generally consists of funds sold by affiliate insurers where the policyholder return is determined by the investment return of the fund, so that the risk is for the policyholder rather than Aegon. The funds have various legal structures, and are usually managed against a benchmark or peer group target. The main asset classes include fixed income, equities, real estate, mortgage loans and alternatives. In the United States and the United Kingdom, a significant element of affiliate sales is conducted on an open architecture basis.

For third party business, product design and distribution are typically controlled by Aegon Asset Management (whereas for general account and affiliate sales business these are controlled by the insurance companies). Some third party business is sourced through co-operation arrangements with insurance affiliates. The retail businesses typically sell collective investment vehicles (mutual funds) to the public through wholesale distributors and independent intermediaries. The main asset classes are fixed income and equities, and the funds are usually managed against a benchmark or peer group target. The institutional businesses typically sell tailored services to large corporations or pension funds. They employ a full range of asset classes and manage the funds against objectives, targets and risk profiles agreed with clients. Both absolute and relative return products are offered. Aegon Asset Management distributes these services internationally.

Competition in main locations

Aegon Asset Management competes with other asset management companies on insurance platforms to acquire business from open-architecture Aegon insurance units and third parties. Aegon Asset Management’s competitors include global asset managers, which either belong to a financial conglomerate or are stand-alone, and local specialists in the countries where it is active. Generally, there are different competitors for different types of asset class or different styles of management.

 

 

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In the United States, fixed income, asset allocation and real estate loans are the focus. In the wholesale market, Aegon Asset Management collaborates as a subadvisor with its insurance company affiliates to produce competitive products. It also works with consultants and other partners to offer products to third party institutions.

In the Netherlands, Aegon Asset Management provides a wide range of investment solutions to retail and institutional clients through its affiliate insurance company. In the third party institutional market, it competes with both fiduciary and balance sheet managers, and global asset managers with an asset-only proposition. Competition continues to be strong in the pension fund industry due to the ongoing consolidation of pension funds and growing service requirements of pension fund clients.

In the United Kingdom, competition in the third party wholesale market is heavily influenced by the effect on distribution of new regulation changes. Kames Capital has received strong net inflows to its flagship fixed income and equity products.

Regulation and supervision

Aegon Asset Management’s global holding company, Aegon Asset Management Holding B.V., is regulated by DNB (the Dutch central bank) as a financial holding company according to the Dutch Act on Financial Supervision. In Europe, regulation for asset management companies is different from that for insurers as it is based on separate European Union directives. Aegon Asset Management’s underlying operating entities are regulated by their local regulators, including the AFM (Autoriteit Financiële Markten) and DNB for Dutch entities, the FCA (Financial Conduct Authority) for United Kingdom based entities, the SEC (Securities & Exchange Commission) for United States based entities, and the CSRS (Chinese Securities Regulatory Commission) for Chinese based entities.

 

 

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Risk management

 

General

As an insurance group, Aegon manages risk on behalf of its customers and other stakeholders. As a result, the company is exposed to a range of underwriting, operational and financial risks. Aegon’s risk management and control systems are designed to ensure that these risks are managed effectively and efficiently in a way that is aligned with the company’s strategy.

Definition and tolerances

For Aegon, risk management involves:

  ¿   Understanding which risks the company is able to underwrite;
  ¿   Establishing a company-wide framework through which the risk-return trade-off associated with these risks can be assessed;
  ¿   Establishing risk tolerances and supporting policies to limit exposure to a particular risk or combination of risks;
  ¿   Measuring and monitoring risk exposures and actively maintaining oversight of the company’s overall risk and solvency positions.

By setting certain predefined tolerances and adhering to policies that limit the overall risk to which the company is exposed, Aegon is able to accept risk with the knowledge of potential returns and losses

Objectives of risk management

Aegon’s risk strategy provides direction for the targeted Aegon risk profile while supporting the Aegon business strategy. The targeted risk profile is determined by customer need, Aegon’s competence to manage the risk, the preference of Aegon for the risk and whether there is sufficient capacity to take the risk. Key inputs for our risk preferences include expected returns, alignment with customer interests, the existing risk exposures and other risk characteristics.

Next to the targeted risk profile, risk tolerances and limits are established to ensure that Aegon maintains, at all times, a solvency and liquidity position such that no plausible scenario would cause the company to default on its obligations to policyholders. To accomplish this, Aegon has established a number of risk criteria and tolerances as part of its risk strategy:

  ¿   Financial strength: Ensure Aegon meets long-term obligations to policyholders and to enable Aegon to compete in key markets as a financially strong global insurer;
  ¿   Continuity: Ensure that Aegon meets policyholder obligations, even under extreme event scenarios;
  ¿   Culture: Encourage a strong risk awareness by stressing the company’s low tolerance for operational risk. This helps to improve operational excellence and ensures that the company is fair in its treatment of customers and other stakeholders;
  ¿   Risk balance: Manage the concentration of risk and encourage risk diversification within Aegon.

Aegon’s risk governance framework

Aegon has a strong culture of risk management, based on a clear, well-defined risk governance. The goals of this risk governance are:

¿   To minimize ambiguity by clearly defining roles and responsibilities and risk reporting procedures for decision makers;  
¿   To institute a proper system of checks and balances, and to ensure that senior management is aware at all times of material risk exposure;  
¿   To manage risk in line with the targeted risk profile, including the avoidance of an over-concentration of risk in particular areas;  
¿   To facilitate diversification by enabling management to identify diversification benefits from apparent risk-return trade-offs;  
¿   To reassure external stakeholders that Aegon has appropriate risk management structures and controls in place.  

Governance structure

Aegon’s risk management framework is represented across all levels of the organization. This ensures a coherent and integrated approach to risk management throughout the company. Similarly, Aegon has a comprehensive suite of company-wide risk policies, which detail specific operating guidelines and limits. These policies are designed to keep overall risk-specific exposures to a manageable level. Any breach of policy limits or warning levels triggers immediate remedial action or heightened monitoring. Further risk policies may be developed at a local level to cover situations specific to particular regions or business units. Aegon’s risk management governance structure has three basic layers:

¿   The Supervisory Board (SB) and the Supervisory Board Risk Committee (SBRC);  
¿   The Executive Board (EB) and the Management Board (MB);  
¿   The Enterprise Risk Management Committee (ERMC) and the Group Risk & Capital Committee (GRCC).  

Additionally, there are working groups and regional committees which support the ERMC and GRCC.

Aegon’s EB has overall responsibility for risk management. The EB adopts the risk strategy, risk governance, risk tolerance and material changes in risk methodology and risk policies. The Group Chief Risk Officer (CRO) attends EB meetings and has a direct reporting line to the SB to discuss enterprise risk management and related matters, and is a member of the MB.

The MB oversees a broad range of strategic and operational issues. While the EB remains Aegon’s statutory executive body, the MB provides vital support and expertise in safeguarding Aegon’s strategic goals. The MB discusses and sponsors

 

 

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enterprise risk management, in particular the risk strategy, risk governance, risk tolerance, and material changes in risk methodology and risk policies.

The SBRC is responsible for overseeing Aegon’s enterprise risk management framework, including risk governance and measures taken to ensure risk management is integrated properly into the company’s broader strategy. The SBRC oversees the company’s risk exposure as it relates to capital, earnings and compliance with Group Risk policies. It is the responsibility of the EB and the Group CRO to inform the SB of any risk that directly threatens the solvency, liquidity or operations of the company. Details of members of the SBRC can be found on pages 96 and 97 of this Annual Report.

The MB is supported by two committees:

  ¿   The Enterprise Risk Management Committee (ERMC), which supports Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) framework development and maintenance, including risk strategy, risk governance, risk tolerance, risk methodology and risk policies;
  ¿   The Group Risk & Capital Committee (GRCC), which, as the primary balance sheet management committee of Aegon, supports risk oversight.

The ERMC can seek advice on significant ERM framework development work from temporary working groups comprising subject matter experts who represent the company’s businesses. These working groups are established by the ERMC, including their membership, scope of work and deliverables.

The GRCC focuses on managing Aegon’s overall solvency and liquidity position, while ensuring that risk taking is within the risk tolerance statements and Group Risk policies. The GRCC informs the MB about any identified or near breaches of overall tolerance levels, as well as any potential threats to the company’s solvency, liquidity or operations. Risk & Capital Committees (RCCs) have been established at each of Aegon’s regions.

The responsibilities and prerogatives of the RCCs are set out in their respective charters and are similar in content to those of the GRCC, but are tailored to local circumstances. Group Risk is responsible for the development, maintenance and oversight of compliance with the ERM framework, including risk strategy, risk governance, risk tolerance, risk methodology and risk policies. Group Risk also keeps oversight of material risk, balance sheet and commercial decisions taken throughout the company. Group Risk further identifies good risk management practices, facilitates implementation thereof, and helps to ensure that there is consistency in the application of these practices across the company. In addition, Group Risk prepares risk management information, including information about current risk exposures

and issues, and further sensitivity and scenario analyses, either at its own initiative or at the request of management.

Group Risk is responsible for development and oversight of compliance with the risk governance framework, risk methodology, risk tolerances and risk policies. This involves identifying risk, particularly operational and emerging risk, as well as reviewing risk assessments carried out by business units. Group Risk also identifies best risk management practices, facilitates implementation thereof and helps ensure there is consistency in the application of these practices across the company. In addition, Group Risk performs risk and scenario analyses, either at its own initiative or at the request of management.

Aegon’s risk management staff structure is fully integrated. Business unit CROs have a direct reporting line into the Group CRO or one of the regional CROs that report directly into the Group CRO. Regions include the Americas, the Netherlands, United Kingdom, Central & Eastern Europe, Asia, Spain, Variable Annuities Europe, Aegon Asset Management, and the holding.

Lines of defense

Aegon’s risk management structure is organized into three ‘lines of defense’ to ensure conscious risk-return decisions and limit the magnitude of potential losses within defined levels of certainty. The objective of this structure is to avoid surprises due to unidentified risks materializing or losses that exceed predefined risk tolerance levels and related limit structures.

The company’s first line of defense, including the business and support functions, has direct responsibility for managing and taking risk in accordance with defined risk strategy, risk tolerance and risk policies. The second line of defense, including the risk management function, facilitates and oversees the effectiveness and integrity of enterprise risk management across the company. The third line of defense, including the audit function, provides independent assurance and challenge regarding the effectiveness and integrity of enterprise risk management across the company.

Risk management in 2013 1

The effects of the global crisis that began in 2008 continued to be felt throughout 2013. General economic and business conditions remained difficult, especially in Europe where economic growth is low and sometimes even negative. Equity markets are driven mainly by announcements by the United States Federal Reserve Board relating to its policy of quantitative easing. Interest rates remain low, although a significant increase was seen in the third quarter of 2013. Credit spreads remained at the level of end of 2012.

 

 

  1 Please note that the information here is intended as an overview only. A more detailed explanation of credit risk, equity and other investment risk, interest rate risk, currency exchange rate risk, liquidity risk, underwriting risk and operational risk, as well as other company-wide risk management policies may be found in note 4 of the consolidated financial statements. Further information on sensitivity analyses may also be found on these pages.

 

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As part of the company’s ERM Framework, Aegon carries out regular sensitivity analyses to verify that the impact of different economic and business scenarios on earnings and the capital position are within the risk tolerances set. These analyses also cover extreme event scenarios, such as depression and inflation scenarios.

Risk overview 2013

Credit risk

Credit spreads remained stable in 2013. During the year, Aegon continued to reduce its exposure to credit risk. The Dutch operations agreed with the Dutch Central Bank to change the Solvency I valuation curve from ECB AAA to swap. As a result of this decision and of managing the sovereign spread risk under Solvency I, investments in German and French government bonds were exchanged for investment in Dutch government bonds. Moreover, new business and maturing bond cash flows in the United Kingdom were invested in high-rated sovereign-linked paper. In the general account investment portfolio, Aegon retained minimum exposure to peripheral European countries.

Equity market risk and other investment risks

Equity markets trended upward in 2013. During 2013, Aegon continued to progress its program of hedging equity risk at its UK pension business, Variable Annuities, US and Dutch operations to protect the company against a possible deterioration in equity markets. The US business implemented a macro hedge to protect the business capital position of Variable Annuities from fluctuations in equity markets. As a result of a mismatch between US statutory and IFRS accounting, this hedge showed a negative impact on income before tax of EUR 590 million in 2013. The Dutch operations extended the existing equity hedge program with an equity volatility hedge.

Interest rate risk

Similar to 2012, interest rates remained low in the first half of 2013. In the second half of the year, long-term swap rates in the United States, United Kingdom and the Eurozone increased 61 bps. In the United States, the duration of the investment portfolio was increased by investing in long-term treasuries and forward starting swaps. The US operations also finalized a hedging program to project the capital position against a sharp rise in interest rates. Also in 2013, the existing interest rate programs remained in place for hedging guarantees for Aegon’s operations in the Netherlands and at Variable Annuities.

Currency exchange rate risk

As an international company, Aegon is exposed to movements in currency exchange rates. However, Aegon does not consider this exposure to be material. The company holds its capital base in various currencies in amounts that correspond to the book value of individual business units, thus mitigating currency exchange rate risk.

Liquidity risk

Aegon has put in place a strong liquidity management strategy. Aegon considers extreme liquidity stress scenarios, including the possibility of prolonged ‘frozen’ capital markets, an immediate and permanent rise in interest rates, and policyholders withdrawing liabilities at the earliest conceivable date.

In addition, the company has liquidity stress planning in place. In 2013, Aegon retained significant holdings of cash and highly liquid assets as a precaution against potential adverse market developments. Stress tests show that available liquidity would more than match the company’s liquidity requirements, even if market conditions were to significantly deteriorate.

Underwriting risk

Aegon’s earnings depend, to a significant degree, on the extent to which claims experience is consistent with assumptions used to price products and establish technical liabilities. Changes in, among other things, morbidity, mortality, longevity trends and policyholder behavior may have a considerable impact on Aegon’s income. While Aegon believes it has the capacity to take on more underwriting risk to capitalize on growth opportunities in its main life insurance and pension markets, the company has also reduced exposure to longevity risk via a longevity swap transaction.

Operational risk

Like other companies, Aegon faces risks resulting from operational failures or external events, such as changes in regulations, acts from personnel and natural or man-made disasters. Aegon’s systems and processes are designed to support complex products and transactions and to avoid such issues as system failures, financial crime and breaches of security. Aegon is constantly working on analyses studying such operational risks and regularly develops contingency plans to deal with them.

Aegon faces a number of risks, some of which may arise from internal factors, such as inadequate compliance systems. Others, such as movements in interest rates or unexpected changes in longevity or mortality trends, are external in nature. Aegon’s most significant risk is to changes in financial markets, related particularly to movements in interest rates, equity and credit markets. These risks, whether internal or external, may affect the company’s operations, its earnings, its share price, the value of its investments, or the sale of certain products and services. A description of risks relating to Aegon’s businesses and risks relating to Aegon’s common shares can be found on pages 319 to 334 of this Annual Report.

 

 

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Capital and liquidity management

 

Liquidity and capital resources

In line with its risk tolerance, the goal of Aegon’s capital and liquidity management is to promote stable and strong capital adequacy levels for its businesses on various capital metrics to ensure that the company is able to meet its obligations.

Risk tolerance is an important element in Aegon’s Enterprise Risk Management Framework, and focuses on financial strength, continuity, steering of the risk balance and desired risk culture. The core aim is to establish the organization’s tolerance for risk to assist management in carrying out Aegon’s strategy within the Group’s available resources.

Guiding principles

Aegon follows a number of guiding principles, which determine its approach to capital and liquidity management:

  ¿   To promote strong capital adequacy in Aegon’s businesses and operating units;
  ¿   To manage and allocate capital efficiently to maximize returns and support the strategy;
  ¿   To maintain an efficient capital structure with an emphasis on optimizing Aegon’s cost of capital;
  ¿   To ensure sufficient liquidity by enforcing stringent liquidity risk policies for both business units and the holding;
  ¿   To maintain continued access to international money and capital markets on competitive terms.

Taken together, Aegon believes these guiding principles strengthen the company’s ability to withstand adverse market conditions, enhance its financial flexibility and serve the long-term interests of both the company and its stakeholders.

Governance

Aegon’s Corporate Treasury department manages and coordinates capital and liquidity management strategies and processes. The department acts under direction of the Group Risk & Capital Committee.

Capital management

Strategic importance

Aegon’s approach towards capital management plays an important role in supporting the execution of Aegon’s strategic priorities. These priorities include the shift of capital to those markets that offer higher growth and return prospects, and the shift from spread business to fee business. In addition, the company is improving its risk profile by further reducing total financial leverage. Disciplined risk and capital management support Aegon’s aim to pay a sustainable dividend to its shareholders.

Improving risk profile

Aegon continues to take measures to improve its risk-return profile and lower overall capital requirements. These measures include, for instance, the continued run-off of Aegon’s spread-based institutional business in the United States, the strategic growth in fee-based earnings and extensive asset-liability management and hedging programs. Examples of these programs include hedging the interest rate and equity risk from guarantees in the Netherlands and hedging the capital position in the Americas against adverse equity and fixed income market swings.

Capital requirements and leverage

Aegon’s goal for all units is to maintain a strong financial position in order to sustain losses from adverse business and market conditions. The company’s overall capital management strategy is based on capital adequacy, capital quality and capital leverage.

Capital adequacy

Capital adequacy is managed at the company, country and operating unit level, as well as at the level of individual legal entities within the organization. As a matter of policy, Aegon maintains the capitalization of its operating companies based on whichever of the following is the most stringent:

¿   Regulatory capital requirements;  
¿   Rating agency AA capital requirements for rated entities;  
¿   Any additional, self-imposed internal requirements.  

Aegon’s Insurance Group Directive ratio was 212% at December 31, 2013, down from 228% at the end of 2012, driven mainly by the switch to the swap curve for regulatory solvency calculations in the Netherlands and the negative impact of IAS 19.

Total capitalization

Aegon’s total capitalization consists of the following components:

¿   Shareholders’ equity excluding revaluation reserves and the remeasurement of defined benefit plans;  
¿   Non-controlling interests and share options not yet exercised;  
¿   Total financial leverage.  

Total financial leverage

Consistent with the guiding principles of its capital and liquidity management, Aegon NV monitors and manages to several financial flexibility related metrics, including:

¿   Various rating agency leverage metrics;  
¿   Gross financial leverage ratio;  
¿   Fixed charge coverage.  
 

 

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Aegon defines total financial leverage as borrowings issued to fund the capital employed in insurance activities. Total financial leverage includes hybrid leverage, subordinated and senior debt, and short term debt such as commercial paper. Aegon’s fixed charge coverage is a measure of the company’s ability to service its total financial leverage and is calculated as the ratio of underlying earnings before tax and prior to the payment of interest expenses on total financial leverage to interest payments on total financial leverage and preferred dividends. The numbers include the impact of hedging.

At the end of 2013, Aegon’s total capitalization was EUR 25.5 billion (EUR 27.3 billion at end 2012). Its gross financial leverage was 30.0% (31.9% at end 2012) and its fixed charge coverage was 5.1x (4.5x at end 2012). Aegon targets a gross financial leverage ratio of 26-30% and a fixed charge coverage of 6.0-8.0x and expects a continued deleveraging in 2014 supporting Aegon’s commitment to these targets.

Debt funding and back-up facilities

Most of Aegon’s debt is issued by Aegon N.V., the parent company. A limited number of other Aegon companies have also issued debt securities, but for the most part these securities are guaranteed by Aegon N.V.

Aegon N.V. has regular access to international capital markets under a USD 6 billion debt issuance program. Access to the capital market in the United States is made possible by a separate shelf registration.

Aegon also has access to domestic and international money markets through its USD 4.5 billion commercial paper programs. At December 31, 2013, Aegon had EUR 135 million outstanding under these programs.

To support its commercial paper programs and need for letters of credit (LOCs), and to enhance its liquidity position, Aegon maintains backup credit and LOC facilities with international lenders. The company’s principal arrangement is a EUR 2 billion syndicated revolving credit facility maturing in 2019, and additional LOC facilities of USD 2 billion, of which USD 1.5 billion matures in 2015 and USD 0.5 billion matures in 2017. In addition, Aegon also maintains various shorter-dated bilateral backup liquidity and LOC facilities in both committed and uncommitted format.

Operational leverage

Although operational leverage is not considered part of Aegon’s total capitalization, it is an important source of liquidity and funding. Operational leverage relates primarily to financing Aegon’s mortgage portfolios through securitizations and warehouse facilities, and the funding of US Regulation XXX and Guideline AXXX redundant reserves.

Aegon enters into reinsurance agreements for risk and capital management purposes with several affiliated captive insurance companies (captives). All captives are fully consolidated for IFRS reporting.

The captives are utilized for a number of purposes which may include:

¿   Financing term life insurance (subject to Regulation XXX reserves) and universal life insurance with secondary guarantees (subject to Regulation AXXX reserves) to support lower-risk statutory reserves at a lower cost for policyholders and shareholders;  
¿   Managing variable annuity hedging programs;  
¿   Managing and segregating risks;  
¿   Monetizing embedded value.  

All external financing provided to captives to support statutory reserves is disclosed in note 41 (Borrowings) to the consolidated financial statements to the extent that it has been funded. Letters of credit issued by third parties provided to captives to provide collateral to affiliated insurers are disclosed in note 51 (Commitments and contingencies). These letters of credit have been provided by third parties for the benefit of the affiliated company whose liabilities are reinsured.

Liquidity management

Strategic importance

Liquidity management is a fundamental building block of Aegon’s overall financial planning and capital allocation processes. Aegon aims to have sufficient liquidity to meet cash demands even under extreme conditions. The company’s liquidity risk policy sets guidelines for its operating companies and the holding in order achieve a prudent liquidity profile.

Liquidity is coordinated centrally and managed both at Aegon N.V. and at country unit levels. Aegon maintains a liquidity policy that requires all operating units to project their sources and uses of liquidity over a two year period under normal and severe business and market scenarios. This policy ensures that liquidity is measured and managed consistently across the company and the liquidity stress management plans are in place.

Sources and uses of liquidity

Aegon’s subsidiaries are primarily engaged in the life insurance business, which is a long-term business with relatively illiquid liabilities and generally matching assets. Liquidity consists of both liquid assets held in investment portfolios, as well as inflows generated by premium payments and customer deposits. These are used primarily to purchase investments, as well as to fund benefit payments to policyholders, policy surrenders, operating expenses, and, if the subsidiary’s capital position so allows, to pay dividends to the holding.

 

 

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At Aegon N.V., liquidity is sourced from internal dividends from operating companies and by accessing capital and money markets. The main sources and uses of liquidity at Aegon N.V. are dividends from subsidiaries and to shareholders, movements in debt, net expenses (including interest), funding operations, and the balance of acquisitions and divestitures.

The ability of our insurance subsidiaries to transfer funds to the holding company is constrained by the need for these subsidiaries to remain adequately capitalized to the levels set by local insurance regulations and as administered by local insurance regulatory authorities.

In order to ensure the holding company’s ability to fulfil its cash obligations, it is Aegon’s policy that the holding company holds

liquid assets in reserve to fund at least 1.5 years of holding company operating and funding expenses without having to rely on the receipt of funds from its subsidiaries and without the need to access capital and money markets.

Insurance laws and regulations in local regulatory jurisdictions often contain minimum regulatory capital requirements, e.g. 100% of the Authorized Control Level (“ACL”) for US insurance entities, 100% Solvency I required capital for Dutch insurance companies and 100% Solvency I Pillar 1 capital for insurance companies in the United Kingdom.

The minimum regulatory capital requirements for our main subsidiaries and the actual capitalization levels as per December 31, 2013, are included in the following table:

 

 

Capital requirements    Legal/regulatory minimum
capital requirement
  

Actual capitalization

   Excess over legal/
regulatory minimum
 

United States 1)

   100% Authorized Control Level
(NAIC RBC ACL)
   ~880% of combined ACL      ~EUR 5.1 bln   

The Netherlands 2)

   100% Solvency I    ~240% Solvency I      ~EUR 2.3 bln   

United Kingdom 3)

   100% Solvency I (Pillar 1)    ~150% Solvency I (Pillar 1)      ~EUR 0.7 bln   
  1 Capitalization for the United States represents the internally defined combined risk-based capital (“RBC”) ratio of Aegon’s life insurance subsidiaries in the United States. The combined RBC ratio unilizes the NAIC RBC ratio excluding affiliated notes and taking into account excess or deficient amounts related to offshore life affiliates.
  2 Excluding the banking activities.
  3 Including the With Profits fund at unaudited 30 June 2013 values.

 

Local insurance regulators generally use their discretionary authority and judgment to restrict and/or prohibit the transfer of funds to the holding company to capital levels well above the minimum capital requirements contained in the applicable insurance regulations. The discretionary nature of the regulatory assessment of capital adequacy creates a natural ambiguity around the exact level of capital that is required by local regulatory authorities. Precise capitalization levels effectively required by local insurance regulators are often not known in advance, in part because the views and risk tolerances of certain regulators for certain asset classes continue to develop over time, in line with the development and evolution of local, regional and global regulatory capital frameworks. In practice and for transfer of funds purposes, Aegon manages the capitalization of its subsidiaries in excess of the minimum regulatory capital requirements contained in the applicable regulations, as shown in the table above.

The capitalization level and shareholders’ equity of the subsidiaries can be impacted by various factors (e.g. general economic conditions, capital markets risks, underwriting risk factors, changes in government regulations, legal and arbitrational proceedings). To mitigate the impact of such factors on the ability of subsidiaries to transfer funds, the subsidiaries hold additional capital in excess of the levels required by local insurance regulations.

Aegon’s liquidity position

At December 31, 2013, Aegon N.V. held a balance of EUR 2.2 billion in excess capital at group level, compared with EUR 2.0 billion at the end of 2012.

Aegon’s liquidity is invested in highly liquid assets, in accordance with the company’s internal risk management policies. Aegon believes its working capital, backed by its external funding programs and facilities, is ample for the company’s present requirements.

External dividends

Aegon aims to pay out a sustainable dividend, which may increase based on Aegon’s performance, to allow equity investors to share in Aegon’s performance. After investments have been made in new business to generate organic growth, capital generated by Aegon’s operating subsidiaries is available for distribution to the holding company, while maintaining a capital and liquidity position in the operating subsidiaries in line with Aegon’s capital management and liquidity risk policies.

Aegon uses cash flows from its operating subsidiaries to pay holding expenses, including funding costs. The remaining cash flow is available to execute Aegon’s strategy and to fund dividends on its shares. When determining whether to declare or propose a dividend, Aegon’s Executive Board balances

 

 

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prudence with offering an attractive return to shareholders. This is particularly important during adverse economic and/or financial market conditions. Also, Aegon’s operating subsidiaries are subject to local insurance regulations which could restrict dividends to be paid to the holding company. There is no requirement or assurance that Aegon will declare and pay any dividends.

Ratings

Aegon’s objective is to maintain excess capital over and above the amount required to maintain an AA financial strength rating and this plays an important role in determining the overall capital management strategy. Aegon maintains strong financial strength ratings from leading international rating agencies for its operating subsidiaries and a strong credit rating for the holding.

 

 

 

Agency

December 31, 2013

   Aegon N.V.      Aegon USA      Aegon
The Netherlands
     Aegon UK  

Standard & Poor’s

     A-         AA-         AA-         A+   

Moody’s Investors Service

     A3         A1         -         -   

Fitch Ratings

     A         AA-         -         -   

 

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In control statement

Internal risk management and control systems

The Executive Board is responsible for designing, implementing and maintaining internal controls, including proper accounting records and other management information suitable for running the business.

 

Aegon’s internal audit function assists the Executive Board in maintaining effective controls by independently and objectively evaluating the adequacy and effectiveness of the organization’s internal control and risk management systems. Criteria established under “Internal Control - Integrated Framework”, the Treadway Commission’s Committee of Sponsoring Organizations (COSO, 1992 framework), are used by Aegon’s internal audit function to analyze and make recommendations to the Executive Board concerning the effectiveness of internal controls over Aegon’s financial reporting process and the company’s internal control framework. Based on risk assessments performed, the Executive Board, under the supervision of the Supervisory Board and its Audit Committee, is responsible for determining the overall internal audit work and for monitoring the integrity of the financial statements of Aegon N.V.

In addition, the Executive Board is responsible for Aegon’s enterprise risk management under supervision of the Supervisory Board and its Risk Committee. Aegon’s risk management function monitors and controls Aegon’s solvency position and ensures that risk taking is within Aegon’s risk tolerance levels. The Executive Board is informed of any risks that threaten the company’s economic/statutory solvency, reputation, reliability of financial reporting, or operations.

The risk management function develops and monitors compliance with risk policies and risk frameworks. This also involves the facilitation of risk identification and reviewing risk assessments performed by the businesses. The risk management function is responsible for identifying good practices in risk management and working with management to ensure that Aegon adheres to those practices.

Finally, the compliance function plays a key role in monitoring the company’s adherence to external rules and regulations and internal policies.

On the basis of the above, Aegon’s Executive Board states the following regarding risks to the company’s financial reporting:

¿   Aegon’s risk management and control systems provide reasonable assurance that the company’s financial reporting does not contain any material inaccuracies;  
¿   Aegon’s risk management and control systems functioned properly in 2013;  
¿   There are no indications to suggest that Aegon’s risk management and control systems will not continue to function properly in 2014.  

The risk management and control systems provide reasonable assurance for the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation and fair presentation of Aegon’s published financial statements. However, they cannot provide absolute assurance that a misstatement of Aegon’s financial statements can be prevented or detected.

Responsibilities for the financial statements and the Annual Report

The Executive Board is responsible for preparing the financial statements and the Annual Report in accordance with Dutch law and the International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by by the International Accounting Standards Board (IFRS).

As required by section 5:25c of the Dutch Financial Supervision Act (Wet op het financieel toezicht), the Executive Board confirms that, to the best of its knowledge, the financial statements prepared in accordance with applicable accounting standards give a true and fair view of the assets, liabilities, financial condition and profit or loss of the company and the undertakings included in the consolidation as a whole and that the Report of the Executive Board includes a fair view of the development and performance of the business during the financial year and the position at balance sheet date of the company and the undertakings included in the consolidation as a whole, together with a description of the principal risks and uncertainties the company faces.

The Hague, March 19, 2014

The Executive Board of Aegon N.V.

 

 

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Governance

Report of the Supervisory Board

The Supervisory Board is entrusted with the task of supervising and advising the Executive Board on management of the company, and overseeing Aegon’s strategy and the general course of its businesses.

 

Oversight and advice

In performing their duties, the members of the Supervisory Board are guided by the interests of Aegon and the company’s stakeholders. The Supervisory Board is a separate corporate body, independent of the Executive Board. The Supervisory Board consists of nine members (for further details of the individual members of Aegon’s Supervisory Board, please see pages 99 and 100). The Supervisory Board makes recommendations to the General Meeting of Shareholders concerning all appointments and reappointments to, and dismissals from, both the Executive Board and the Supervisory Board. In addition, the Supervisory Board determines the remuneration of individual members of the Executive Board in line with the Remuneration Policy adopted at the company’s General Meeting of Shareholders. Overall accountability for Aegon’s remuneration governance also sits with the Supervisory Board, such to be advised by its Compensation Committee. This includes the responsibility for designing, approving and maintaining the Aegon Global Remuneration Framework, including the remuneration policies for the Executive Board, Identified Staff and for staff in Control Functions.

Corporate governance

Details of Aegon’s corporate governance structure and a summary of the company’s compliance with the Dutch Corporate Governance Code are on pages 108 to 111 of the Annual Report and in the Corporate Governance Statement published on aegon.com.

Composition of the Supervisory Board and Executive Board

Supervisory Board

The composition of the Board is discussed in meetings of the Board and in particular by the Nominating Committee. An overview of the composition in 2013 is included in this report on pages 96 and 97. In 2013, the term of Mr. Shemaya Levy expired. He was reappointed for a new term of four years by the shareholders on May 15, 2013. On the same day shareholders approved the appointment of Mrs. Dona D. Young to the Board for a term of four years. In September 2013, Mrs. Karla M.H. Peijs announced her retirement from the Board on September 30, 2013. The Board is grateful for her many years of service to Aegon and the Board.

 

All members of the Supervisory Board are considered independent under the terms of the Dutch Corporate Governance Code, with the exception of Mr. Kornelis J. Storm. Mr. Storm is not regarded as independent within the definition of the Code as he served as Chairman of Aegon’s Executive Board prior to his retirement in April 2002. Mr. Storm joined the Supervisory Board in July 2002. He will step down from the Supervisory Board at the Annual General Meeting in May 2014 at the end of his third and last term. On February 20, 2014, Mr. Antony Burgmans announced that he will step down from the Board as per April 1, 2014, in order to comply with the Dutch Act on Management and Supervision (“Wet bestuur en toezicht”).

Executive Board

The Executive Board consists of two members, Mr. Alexander R. Wynaendts, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), and Mr. Darryl D. Button, Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Mr. Button was appointed to the Executive Board for a term of four years by the shareholders on May 15, 2013, succeeding Jan J. Nooitgedagt as CFO. The Board extends its gratitude to Jan Nooitgedagt, who joined Aegon as CFO in 2009 during the financial crisis for his important contributions to steering Aegon to where it is today, with a strong capital position and solid balance sheet.

In compliance with the Dutch Corporate Governance Code, members of the Executive Board are appointed by shareholders for a term of four years, with the option of reappointment for further four-year terms. In 2014, no members are due for reappointment. The appointment schedule for members of the Executive Board is included in the company’s Executive Board Rules and posted on Aegon’s corporate website, aegon.com.

Supervisory Board meetings

Attendance

In 2013, the Supervisory Board held a total of seven regular (face to face) meetings and six additional conference call meetings. Seven out of the ten members attended all regular Board meetings and three members missed one meeting. Attendance details are provided in the table on page 94.

 

 

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Name    Regular SB
meeting
   SB confer-
ence call
   Audit
Committee
   Risk
Committee
   Nominating
Committee
   Compensation  
Committee  
Rob Routs    7/7    6/6    -          6/6    6/6  
Irv Bailey    7/7    6/6    -    6/6    -    6/6  
Antony Burgmans    6/7    5/6    6/7    -    -      
Shemaya Levy    7/7    6/6    7/7    -    6/6      
Karla Peijs 1)    5/5    5/5    -    -    4/4    4/4  
Kees Storm    6/7    6/6    -    5/6    5/6      
Ben van der Veer    6/7    6/6    7/7    6/6    -      
Dick Verbeek    7/7    6/6    7/7    6/6    -    -  
Leo van Wijk    7/7    5/6    -    -    6/6    6/6  
Dona Young 1)    4/4    3/3    4/4    4/4    -      
  1 Where a Supervisory Board member retired from the SB or stepped down from a Committee or was appointed during the year, only meetings that were held during his / her tenure are taken into account.

 

The Board meetings were preceded or followed by Executive Sessions, meetings of the Supervisory Board absent of members of the Executive or Management Boards. In accordance with Aegon’s Supervisory Board Rules, regular Board meetings were preceded by preparatory conference call meetings. These were attended by the Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Supervisory Board, the Chairman of the Audit Committee, the Chairman of the Risk Committee, and the CEO and CFO who sit on the company’s Executive Board.

Meetings of the Committees of the Supervisory Board were usually held before the meetings of the full Supervisory Board. No Supervisory Board members were frequently absent from Committee meetings. Members of Aegon’s Executive and Management Boards attended the Supervisory Board meetings held in 2013. At the request of the Supervisory Board, other company executives also attended the meetings to provide updates. Representatives from Aegon’s external auditors EY attended the discussions on the Company’s 2013 results.

Activities

In 2013, discussions by Aegon’s Supervisory Board included the following issues:

  ¿   Strategy, including Aegon’s sustainability program, and business reviews;
  ¿   Acquisitions, divestments and restructuring of businesses;
  ¿   Preferred Share Amendment Plan;
  ¿   Executive Board and senior management succession planning;
  ¿   Executive remuneration;
  ¿   Governance and composition of the Supervisory Board;
  ¿   New product development;
  ¿   Customer centricity;
  ¿   Human resources, including talent development and results of the employee survey;
  ¿   Annual and quarterly results, dividend and Group Plan 2014-2016, including the 2014 budget, and the capital plan;
  ¿   Capital position and Solvency II;
  ¿   Enterprise risk management;
  ¿   Investor relations;
  ¿   Legal, regulatory and compliance issues;
  ¿   Accounting changes.

Highlights

A key development in 2013 was the cancellation of the preferred shares owned by Vereniging Aegon, which was announced on February 15, 2013, and approved by shareholders at the annual General Meeting of Shareholders on May 15, 2013. This transaction resulted in a simplified capital structure, while enabling the Company to maintain a high-quality capital base under expected upcoming European solvency requirements. In 2012 and early 2013 the Board discussed the merits of the transaction extensively, taking into account the interests of both Aegon and its shareholders.

In 2013, the Board focused on the continued execution of the strategic objectives, most notably the shift from spread to fee income, and the growth of the at-retirement business in the company’s established markets, and the protection and savings business in its developing markets. The Board discussed with management the company’s progress toward customer centricity, supported by investments in digital capabilities and the extension of its distribution reach through partnerships with several trusted financial and non-financial brands. Another key topic was the refinement of the financial strategy presented to investors and analysts in June 2013, which supports a balanced capital deployment strategy and a sustainable dividend.

The Board supported the appointment of Mrs. Brenda Clancy as Global Chief Technology Officer, further strengthening Aegon’s long-term strategic commitment to a culture of innovation and the use of technology to improve customer relationships and pursue operational excellence. She is also entrusted with ensuring the suitability and quality of the Aegon’s IT infrastructure and cyber security.

In the quarterly meetings, the Board discussed the business units’ business initiatives, use of technology, mergers and acquisitions activity, and regulatory issues, and studied relevant developments at competitors in a peer group review. The Board also expressed its support for launching an Aegon Corporate Venture Fund, which was presented by management. The Aegon Corporate Venture Fund is designed to accelerate Aegon’s

 

 

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digital transformation by tracking digital and technological innovation and market movements and trends, and generate solid investment returns.

The Board closely followed developments in the Solvency II Directive, a European Union Directive governing capital requirements, supervisory review and disclosures. On November 13, 2013, the European Parliament, the Council of the European Union and the European Commission reached an agreement on the Omnibus II Directive that amends the Solvency II Framework agreed in 2009. The starting date for the application of Solvency II is January 1, 2016. More detail on Solvency II can be found on page 11 of this annual report.

Strategy sessions

The Supervisory Board’s annual strategy offsite meeting was held in Baltimore and Washington in June. The Board reviewed progress on the execution of the strategy for the three business units in the Americas – Life & Protection, Employee Services & Pensions and Individual Savings & Retirement – and the Enterprise Business Services unit. The Board and management also discussed consolidation developments in Aegon’s main markets, and the Board approved the updated financial strategy.

In December, the Board reviewed Aegon’s Sustainability Program and noted the significant advances made in areas such as integrated reporting, responsible investing and employee volunteering. The Board also stated the need for further sustainability efforts, and its support and desire for management to develop an updated Sustainability Program in 2014.

Throughout 2013, the Board regularly discussed aspects of Aegon’s approach to sustainability for various business issues. Further details of Aegon’s sustainability vision and progress are in the Aegon Review 2013.

Results and budget

In its meeting of February 14, 2013, the Supervisory Board convened to discuss the results of the fourth quarter of 2012. In March 2013, the Supervisory Board reviewed and adopted Aegon’s 2012 Annual Report, the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V., and the financial statements of Aegon N.V. In May, August and November, the Supervisory Board reviewed Aegon’s first, second and third quarter 2013 results.

In December, the Board and management reviewed the Group Plan 2014-2016, including the budget for 2014. The plan protects the company’s strategy execution, strong capital position and disciplined cost management, and gives a key role to technology and innovation to increase the frequency and quality of contact with customers. The Board supported the Group Plan and approved the budget for 2014. The Board also approved the 2014 Capital Plan and authorized the Executive Board to support Aegon’s budgeted funding needs.

Legal and compliance

In 2013, the Supervisory Board and the Audit Committee discussed with management, the General Counsel and the Group Compliance Officer a number of compliance, regulatory and legal issues from Europe, the United States and Asia. In particular, the Board discussed the judgment of the Supreme Court of the Netherlands in the so-called Koersplan case.

In the year under review, the Chairman of the Board and the chairs of the Audit Committee and Risk Committee held discussions with officials of Aegon’s lead regulator, De Nederlandsche Bank N.V. and monitored management interface with regulators in the United States, the United Kingdom and elsewhere.

Educational sessions and Board review

The Board received presentations from internal and external experts on International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and other accounting topics, hedging programs, information security and re-insurance.

As in previous years the Supervisory Board carried out an extensive Board self-evaluation, following an external evaluation in 2012. The Chairman, supported by the Company Secretary, interviewed each member of the Board on the basis of a completed written questionnaire. The review assessed the collective performance of the Board and its Committees, and the performance of the Chairman. The Supervisory Board met to review the results in the absence of management. The Board concluded that the Board and its individual members had functioned well and fulfilled their duties and responsibilities in a satisfactory manner in 2013, and had addressed the recommendations of the 2012 self-evaluation. The Board agreed further improvements relating to agenda-setting and focus areas in 2014.

The performance of the members of the Executive Board was discussed regularly in 2013 at Executive Sessions, and at a dedicated meeting of the Board in December, at which the Board also reviewed the performance of the members of the Management Board.

No transaction with a potential or actual conflict of interest was reported by members of the Board in 2013.

Supervisory Board Committees

The Supervisory Board requires its four Supervisory Board Committees to prepare items requiring a Board decision. Each Committee’s members are drawn from the Supervisory Board. The Committees report their findings to the Supervisory Board at Supervisory Board meetings.

 

 

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The four Committees are the:

  ¿   Audit Committee;
  ¿   Risk Committee;
  ¿   Nominating Committee;
  ¿   Compensation Committee.

As per December 31, 2013, the composition of the Committees is as follows:

Audit Committee: Shemaya Levy (Chair); Antony Burgmans; Ben van der Veer; Dirk P.M. Verbeek; Dona D. Young.

Risk Committee: Irving W. Bailey, II (Chair); Kornelis J. Storm; Ben van der Veer; Dirk P.M. Verbeek; Dona D. Young.

Nominating Committee: Robert J. Routs (Chair); Shemaya Levy; Kornelis J. Storm; Leo M. van Wijk.

Compensation Committee: Leo M. van Wijk (Chair); Irving W. Bailey II; Robert J. Routs.

Committees meetings are open to all members of the Board, regardless of membership of the Committees. The Chairman attends all meetings in whole or in part.

The Audit Committee

The Audit Committee held seven meetings in 2013, one of which was a combined meeting with the Risk Committee of the Supervisory Board. A meeting held at the headquarters of Aegon United Kingdom in Edinburgh focused on the United Kingdom insurance market, and Aegon’s position and financial performance in that market. Aegon business leaders reviewed industry developments and the response of Aegon’s United Kingdom businesses, principally the adoption of online platform technology.

The Audit Committee meetings were attended by Aegon’s CFO, the Corporate Controller, the Chief Risk Officer and the Internal Auditor. Representatives from Aegon’s external auditor EY also attended these meetings. Members of Aegon’s Group Risk, Group Legal and actuarial departments were present at some of these meetings.

In 2013, Audit Committee discussions focused on the quarterly results, the annual accounts and the audit process, actuarial analyses, accounting principles defined by IFRS, financial reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, capital updates, internal control systems and compliance, the external auditor’s engagement letter and the audit plan for 2013, tax matters, and information technology. The latter two topics were discussed in the aforementioned combined meeting of the Risk and Audit committees. Throughout 2013, business unit managers provided various topic updates to the Audit Committee. At various meetings the Audit Committee and the full Board also reviewed the proposed changes to Aegon’s

accounting policies related to deferred policy acquisition costs and longevity reserves as part of the execution of the financial strategy, as announced in January 2014, together with the redemption of USD 550 million in perpetual capital securities.

As announced at the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders in 2012, the audit of Aegon’s accounts from 2014 was put to tender in 2012. In February 2013, after a thorough process the Audit Committee and the Board decided to propose to shareholders to appoint EY as the company’s independent auditor for the annual accounts of 2013 and PwC as the company’s independent auditor for the annual accounts of 2014 through 2016. These proposals were approved at the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders on May 15, 2013.

The internal auditor attended the meetings of the Audit Committee in 2013 and provided quarterly updates on the activities of the internal audit function and provided details of progress on internal audits. The Audit Committee approved the internal audit plan. The Audit Committee also held private sessions with the internal auditor and the external auditor to discuss the findings. Members of the Executive Board were not present at these sessions.

The Audit Committee also discussed Aegon’s compliance with the Sarbanes Oxley Act of the United States, regular reports from the Group Compliance Officer on operational risk issues such as fraud and general compliance issues. In addition, the Committee reviewed quarterly legal updates.

The Committee confirmed that Mr. Shemaya Levy and Mr. Ben van der Veer qualify as financial experts within the terms and conditions of both the Dutch Corporate Governance Code and the Sarbanes Oxley Act in the United States.

The Risk Committee

The Risk Committee assists the Supervisory Board and Audit Committee in overseeing the activities of Aegon’s Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) framework. The Committee also advises the Supervisory Board on the company’s risk management strategy and policies. Consequently, the Committee regularly reviews the company’s ERM framework, risk exposures and compliance with company risk policies.

In 2013 the Risk Committee convened five times, including one meeting in Washington with the Chief Risk Officer of Aegon Americas. The company’s Chief Risk Officer attended all meetings, while the members of Aegon’s Executive Board attended most of the meetings. Representatives of other businesses or functional areas presented on specific topics. For example, Aegon Asset Management provided insight into developments in Aegon’s general account investment portfolio. Recurring items on the agenda in 2013 were the quarterly risk dashboard and the Board risk list. The Risk Committee also discussed risk priorities for 2013 and Aegon’s risk strategy

 

 

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and regulatory issues. The Committee examined in depth the company’s Pricing and Product Development Policy, model validation, use of derivatives, and identification of hedging and emerging risk. At the meeting in Washington, the Committee specifically discussed Aegon Realty, which advises clients on investments in real estate asset classes, and the United States private placement business.

The Nominating Committee

Aegon’s Nominating Committee held six meetings in 2013. The CEO and Global Head of Human Resources attended of these meetings in whole or in part.

The Nominating Committee discussed the composition of the Supervisory Board and its Committees, and current and upcoming vacancies. The Committee prepared decision-making on the proposal to appoint Mrs. Dona D. Young to the Supervisory Board, as approved by the shareholders on May 15, 2013. The Committee also advised the Supervisory Board on the nomination for the reappointment of Mr. Shemaya Levy to the Supervisory Board in 2013 for a third and final term of four years. When making these recommendations for (re)appointments, the Nominating Committee determined that they were in line with the Supervisory Board profile as set by the Board and published on Aegon’s corporate web site.

The Board aims to have a balanced composition in terms of professional background, geography and gender. This is taken into account when selecting suitable candidates for the Board. In 2013, the members of the Committee reviewed and interviewed a number of candidates for upcoming vacancies. In accordance with the aim to have a balanced composition, the Board expects to propose to shareholders the appointment of two new members for a term of four years at the annual General Meeting of Shareholders in 2014. The Board is of the opinion that with these proposed appointments its composition continues to meet the requirements of the Supervisory Board profile.

During the year, the Committee reviewed the composition of the Executive Board and Management Board and the functioning of their members. Acknowledging the importance of good succession planning, the Committee also discussed with the CEO and Aegon’s Global Head of Human Resources the extent to which sufficient internal candidates are available to fill positions at EB, MB and senior management level in cases of emergency and when positions open up in the future. The CEO also discussed with the Nominating Committee changes in the global senior management team during the year. The Committee was kept apprised of developments in employee engagement, talent management and international mobility. In February 2014, the full Board discussed these topics extensively with the Global Head of HR. The Board felt that the right steps are taken to ensure proper succession planning is in place and was pleased to see that Aegon is continuing to make further progress in the area of employee engagement and talent management.

Aegon’s Executive Board consists of two members. As a result gender diversity is not easy to achieve. Moreover, selection and appointment of members of the Executive Board is based on expertise, skills and relevant experience. The Supervisory Board will also consider gender diversity in view of the aim of balanced Executive Board composition.

The Compensation Committee

The Compensation Committee held six meetings in 2013, which were attended by the CEO. The scope of the Compensation Committee has increased in recent years as a result of new regulations promulgated by the European Union – the Capital Requirements Directive III and IV (CRD III and IV), and the Guidelines on Remuneration Policies and Practices issued by the Committee of European Banking Supervisors/European Banking Authority. CRD III and IV have been implemented by way of the Decree on Sound Remuneration Policy (Regeling Beheerst Beloningsbeleid Wft 2011-Rbb) issued by De Nederlandsche Bank.

In 2013, the Compensation Committee oversaw the application and implementation of Aegon’s Global Remuneration Framework and the various policies and related procedures, including the Remuneration Policy for Identified Staff. This included setting the 2013 targets, establishing the 2012 variable compensation amounts, the scenario analysis of pay-out levels under the Executive Board Remuneration Policy, reviewing and/or approving the ex-ante assessments and ex-post assessments, any exemption requests under the remuneration policies and changes to the list of Identified Staff. In addition, the Committee discussed the results of reviews by De Nederlandsche Bank and the Internal Audit Department on the implementation process of the remuneration policies.

During the year, the Committee considered advice from independent external consultants on specific topics and ascertained that these consultants did not also advise the members of the Executive Board.

A recurring topic was executive remuneration, particularly in the context of the draft legislation applicable to remuneration in the financial services sector in the Netherlands (“Wet beloningsbeleid financiële ondernemingen”) announced at the end of 2013. The Dutch government intends to use this new legislation to introduce a broad set of rules to ensure that financial services companies conduct sound remuneration policies and avoid payment of excessive variable remuneration. In addition, the legislation intends to harmonize existing remuneration rules applicable to financial services companies in the Netherlands. The most striking feature of the proposal is the introduction of a bonus cap of 20% of fixed pay on variable remuneration across the financial industry in the Netherlands. The Compensation Committee will study the proposal and its consequences for Aegon’s remuneration practices.

 

 

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Annual accounts

This Annual Report includes the annual accounts for 2013, prepared by the Executive Board, discussed by both the Audit Committee and the Supervisory Board, signed by the members of the Executive Board and the Supervisory Board, and submitted for adoption to the shareholders. The Supervisory Board recommends that the shareholders adopt the annual accounts.

Acknowledgement

The members of the Supervisory Board express their appreciation to the Executive and Management Boards for their contributions to the achievement of Aegon’s strategic goals. Additionally, the Board members wish to thank Aegon’s employees for their dedication in putting our customers first and serving them with integrity and transparency in everything they do.

The Board is also grateful to Aegon’s business partners and many valued customers for their continued confidence in the company.

Finally, the Board thanks Aegon’s investors for their confidence and trust in Aegon.

The Hague, the Netherlands, March 19, 2014

Robert J. Routs

Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Aegon N.V.

 

 

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Members of the Supervisory Board

 

Robert J. Routs (1946, Dutch)

Chairman of the Supervisory Board

Chairman of the Nominating Committee

Member of the Compensation Committee

Robert J. Routs is a former Executive Director for Downstream at the energy company Royal Dutch Shell. He was appointed to Aegon’s Supervisory Board in 2008 and became Chairman in 2010. His current term as a member of the Aegon Supervisory Board ends in 2016. Mr. Routs is also Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Royal DSM N.V. and Vice-Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Royal KPN N.V (membership ends in April 2014). He also sits on the Board of Directors at ATCO Ltd., A.P. Møller - Mærsk A/S and AECOM Technology Corporation.

Irving W. Bailey II (1941, American)

Vice-Chairman of the Supervisory Board

Chairman of the Risk Committee

Member of the Compensation Committee

Irving W. Bailey II is retired Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Providian Corp., a former Managing Director of Chrysalis Ventures, and former Chairman of the Board of Directors of Aegon USA Inc. He was first appointed to Aegon’s Supervisory Board in 2004. His current and final term will end in 2016. Mr. Bailey is also a member of the Board of Directors of Hospira, Inc. as well as a senior adviser to Chrysalis Ventures Inc. (not listed).

Antony Burgmans (1947, Dutch)

Member of the Audit Committee

Antony Burgmans is retired Chairman and CEO of Unilever N.V. and Unilever PLC. He was appointed to Aegon’s Supervisory Board in 2007. Mr.Burgmans will step down from Aegon’s Supervisory Board on April 1, 2014. Mr. Burgmans is also Chairman of the Supervisory Board of TNT Express N.V. and a member of the Supervisory Board of Akzo Nobel N.V. as well as a member of the Board of Directors of BP p.l.c. Furthermore, he is Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Intergamma B.V. (not listed) and a member of the Supervisory Boards of SHV Holdings N.V. (not listed) and Jumbo Supermarkten B.V. (not listed).

Shemaya Levy (1947, French)

Chairman of the Audit Committee

Member of the Nominating Committee

Shemaya Levy is retired Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the Renault Group. He was appointed to Aegon’s Supervisory Board in 2005 and his current and final term will end in 2017. He is also a member of the Supervisory Board of TNT Express N.V. and the Board of Directors of PKC Group Oyj and Segula Technologies Group S.A. (not listed).

Kornelis J. Storm (1942, Dutch)

Member of the Risk Committee

Member of the Nominating Committee

Kees J. Storm is former Chairman of the Executive Board of Aegon N.V. He was appointed to Aegon’s Supervisory Board in 2002 and his current and final term will end in 2014. He is also Chairman of the Board of Directors of Anheuser-Busch InBev NV/SA. He is Vice-Chairman & Senior Independent Director of the Board of Directors of Unilever N.V. and Unilever PLC and a member of the Board of Directors of Baxter International Inc. Furthermore, he is Chairman of the Supervisory Board of KLM Royal Dutch Airlines N.V. (not listed, membership ends in April 2014) and Vice-Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Pon Holdings B.V. (not listed).

Ben van der Veer (1951, Dutch)

Member of the Audit Committee

Member of the Risk Committee

Ben van der Veer is former Chairman of the Board of Management of KPMG N.V. He was appointed to Aegon’s Supervisory Board in 2008 and his current term will end in 2016. He is also a member of the Supervisory Board of TomTom N.V. as well as a non-executive member of the Boards of Reed Elsevier N.V. and Reed Elsevier PLC. He is also a member of the Supervisory Board of Royal FrieslandCampina N.V. (not listed).

 

 

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Dirk P.M. Verbeek (1950, Dutch)

Member of the Audit Committee

Member of the Risk Committee

Dirk P.M. Verbeek is Vice President Emeritus of Aon Group. Mr. Verbeek was appointed to Aegon’s Supervisory Board in 2008. His current term ends in 2016. He is also Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Robeco Groep N.V. (not listed) as well as a member of the Supervisory Board of Aon Groep Nederland B.V. (not listed). He is adviser to the President and Chief Executive Officer of Aon Corporation. Furthermore, he is Chairman of the Benelux Advisory Board of Leonardo & Co. B.V. (not listed), member of the Advisory Boards of CVC Europe (not listed) and OVG Re/developers (not listed), Chairman of the INSEAD Dutch Council and Honorary Counsel of the Kingdom of Belgium.

Leo M. van Wijk (1946, Dutch)

Chairman of the Compensation Committee

Member of the Nominating Committee

Leo M. van Wijk is former President and CEO of KLM Royal Dutch Airlines N.V. He was first appointed to Aegon’s Supervisory Board in 2003, and his current and final term will end in 2015. He is also a member of the Board of Directors of Air France-KLM S.A. Furthermore, he is Vice-Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Randstad Holding N.V. (this membership ends in April 2014) and Ajax N.V. as well as Chairman of the Governing Board of Skyteam.

Dona D. Young (1954, American)

Member of the Audit Committee

Member of the Risk Committee

Dona Young is an executive/board consultant and retired Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of The Phoenix Companies, an insurance and asset management company during her tenure. She was appointed to Aegon’s Supervisory Board in 2013. Her current term will end in 2017. Mrs. Young is also member of the Board of Directors of Foot Locker, Inc. and a member of the Board of Trustees of Save the Children.

 

 

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Remuneration Report

Global Remuneration Principles

The Aegon Group Global Remuneration Principles provide the foundation for remuneration policies and practices throughout the Aegon Group. They are applied regionally and/or locally.

 

The key pillars of the Aegon Group Global Remuneration Principles are as follows:

  ¿   Aegon remuneration is employee-oriented by: fostering a sense of value and appreciation in each individual employee; promoting the shorter- and longer-term interests and well-being of all Aegon staff via adequate compensation, pension and/or other benefits; supporting the career development of its employees; supporting (international) mobility of its staff;
  ¿   Aegon remuneration is performance-related by: establishing a clear link between pay and performance by aligning adequate objectives and target setting with performance evaluation and remuneration; reflecting individual as well as collective performance in line with the long-term interests of Aegon; enhancing the transparency and simplicity of Aegon Group remuneration, consistent with the principle of ‘pay for performance’; avoiding any ‘pay-for-non-performance’;
  ¿   Aegon remuneration is fairness-driven by: promoting fairness and consistency in Aegon’s remuneration policies and practices, with balanced proportions in the remuneration packages, across the different echelons within Aegon Group and regional units (internally equitable); avoiding, among others, any discrimination based on nationality, race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, and/or cultural beliefs in Aegon’s remuneration structures (internally equitable); creating global alignment in the total compensation of all ‘Identified Staff’ (internally equitable); aiming at controlled market competitive remuneration, by providing for total compensation packages in comparison with an appropriately established peer group at regional unit, country and/or functional level (externally equitable);
  ¿   Aegon remuneration is risk-prudent by: aligning business objectives with risk management requirements in the target setting practices throughout Aegon Group; giving an incentive to appropriate risk-taking behavior while discouraging the taking of excessive risks; protecting the risk alignment effects imbedded in the remuneration arrangements of individual staff against any personal strategies or insurance to counter them.

The above key pillars have been documented in Aegon’s Global Remuneration Framework (GRF). The GRF, which covers all staff of the Aegon Group, contains the guiding principles to support sound and effective remuneration policies and practices by ensuring consistency in remuneration policies and practices throughout the Aegon Group. The GRF is designed in accordance

with relevant rules, guidelines and interpretations. Of these, the 2010 Guidelines on Remuneration Policies and Practices by the Committee of European Banking Supervisors, CEBS – now the European Banking Authority (EBA) – and the Decree on Sound Remuneration Policy (Regeling beheerst beloningsbeleid WfT 2011 - Rbb) by the Dutch Central Bank (DNB) are prominent examples.

Aegon’s Remuneration Policies are derived from the GRF, among which is the Remuneration Policy for the Executive Board. The policies define specific terms and conditions for the employment of various groups of staff. In addition, all steps in the remuneration process, as well as the involvement of Human Resources, Risk, Compliance and Audit, are governed by the GRF and its underlying policies.

Role of Risk Management and Compliance

It is recognized that variable compensation may have an impact on risk-taking behaviors and, as such, may undermine effective risk management. This can lead to excessive risk taking, which can materially impact financial soundness. To avoid such unwarranted effects, both the Risk Management and Compliance functions are involved in the design and execution of the remuneration policies and practices.

The GRF includes separate remuneration policies for three groups of employees, which addresses the fact that these employees’ roles and responsibilities require specific risk mitigating measures and governance processes. These remuneration policies are for: (i) the Executive Board; (ii) material risk takers (Identified Staff); and (iii) Control Staff. Given the rationale for having a separate policy for material risk takers and the risk mitigating measures that are applied to the remuneration of these individuals, Risk Management is involved in deciding which positions are qualified as Identified Staff. Furthermore, where exceptions to the policies are made to reflect local practices or regulations, Risk Management and Compliance are involved to ensure such exceptions do not undermine effective risk management and sufficient mitigating measures are undertaken. Since 2011, in conjunction with Risk Management and Compliance, existing remuneration policies have been amended, including deferral and holding arrangements, payment in non-cash instruments, and specific ex-ante and ex-post measures.

 

 

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In addition, the Risk Management and Compliance functions, together with the Human Resources and Finance functions, are responsible for the execution of the various ex-ante and ex-post measures that have been introduced by Aegon to ensure the Global Remuneration Framework and for ensuring practices are aligned with the defined risk tolerances and behaviors. In this respect, risk mitigating measures that are undertaken prior to the payout of compensation to individual employees (regardless of whether the compensation is deferred) are considered ex-ante measures. Retribution measures that are applied after payout, or concerning allocated but deferred payments (before vesting of these payments) to ensure sustainability of performance, are considered ex-post measures.

Aegon endeavors to seek an appropriate balance of ex-ante and ex-post assessments to ensure effectiveness in both the short- and longer-term risk taking behavior of employees.

General compensation practices

Aegon has a pay philosophy which is based on total compensation. This means that total remuneration for fully functioning employees is aimed at being consistent with compensation levels in the market in which it operates and competes for employees. Total compensation typically consists of base salaries and, where in line with local market practices, variable compensation. Market survey information from reputable sources is used to provide information on competitive compensation levels and practices.

Variable compensation, if any, is capped at an appropriate level as a percentage of base pay. Usually variable compensation for senior management is paid out in cash and shares over multiple years and is subject to further conditions being fulfilled. Variable compensation already paid out may be clawed back in defined circumstances.

In the next sections more detailed information is provided on the compensation practice for the Supervisory Board and Executive Board.

Supervisory Board Remuneration Policy 2013

Aegon’s Remuneration Policy with regard to members of its Supervisory Board is aimed at ensuring fair compensation, and protecting the independence of the Board’s members. Terms and conditions for members of the Supervisory Board are part of Aegon’s broader Remuneration Policy, and are the responsibility of the company’s Compensation Committee 1 . Given the significant rise in the Supervisory Boards activities in combination with the results from a peer review amongst comparable Dutch and European companies, the General Meeting of Shareholders on May 15, 2013, approved amendments to the Supervisory Board Remuneration Policy as per January 2013.

Fees and entitlements

Members of the Supervisory Board are entitled to the following:

¿   A base fee for membership of the Supervisory Board itself. No separate attendance fees are paid to members for attendance at the regular Supervisory Board meetings;  
¿   An attendance fee for each extra Board meeting, attended in person or by video and/or telephone conference;  
¿   A committee fee for members on each of the Supervisory Board’s Committees;  
¿   An attendance fee for each Committee meeting attended in person or through video and/or telephone conference;  
¿   An additional fee for attending meetings that require intercontinental travel between the Supervisory Board member’s home location and the meeting location.  

Each of these fees is a fixed amount. Members of Aegon’s Supervisory Board do not receive any performance or equity-related compensation, and do not accrue pension rights with the company. These measures are designed to ensure the independence of Supervisory Board members and strengthen the overall effectiveness of Aegon’s corporate governance.

Under the current policy, approved by shareholders on May 15, 2013, members of the Supervisory Board are entitled to the following fees:

 

 

Base fee for membership of the Supervisory Board      EUR / year   

 

Chairman

     80,000   

Vice-Chairman

     50,000   

Member

     40,000   
  
  
Fee for membership of a Supervisory Board committee      EUR / year   

 

Chairman of the Audit Committee

     13,000   

Member of the Audit Committee

     8,000   

Chairman of other committees

     10,000   

Member of other committees

     5,000   

 

 

  1 Members of the Compensation Committee are as follows: Leo M. van Wijk (Chair); Irving W. Bailey II; Robert J. Routs.

 

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Attendance fees      EUR / year   

 

Extra Supervisory Board meeting

     3,000   

Audit Committee

     3,000   

Other committees

     2,000   

 

Information on members of the Supervisory Board and the composition of Aegon’s four committees, Audit, Nominating, Compensation and Risk, may be found on pages 95 to 97.

Supervisory Board Remuneration Report 2013

Members of Aegon’s Supervisory Board received the following payments (in EUR) in 2013:

 

 

in EUR      2013         2012   

 

Robert J. Routs

     169,400         109,250   

Irving W. Bailey. II

     151,250         98,000   

Antony Burgmans

     105,270         87,000   

Shemaya Levy

     135,520         104,500   

Kornelis J. Storm

     110,110         83,000   

Ben van der Veer

     127,050         101,250   

Dirk P.M. Verbeek

     127,050         101,250   

Leo M. van Wijk

     117,370         86,250   

Dona D. Young (as of May 15, 2013)

     93,321         -   

Total for active members

     1,136,341         770,500   

Karla M.H. Peijs (up to September 30, 2013)

     86,515         78,250   

Total

     1,222,856         848,750   

 

Not included in the table above is a premium for state health insurance paid on behalf of Dutch Supervisory Board members.

The Remuneration for Supervisory Board members is as of 2013 Dutch VAT liability compliant. The amounts 2013 include the VAT paid by Aegon.

Executive Board Remuneration Policy 2013

Executive Board remuneration

The Executive Board of Aegon is remunerated on the basis of the principles described in Aegon’s GRF. Aegon’s remuneration policy for members of the Executive Board is derived from this Framework and sets out terms and conditions for members of the company’s Executive Board.

The Executive Board Remuneration Policy was prepared in accordance with the Dutch Corporate Governance Code and the Decree on Sound Remuneration Policy (Regeling beheerst beloningsbeleid WFt 2011-Rbb) by DNB. It was adopted at the General Meeting of Shareholders on May 12, 2011. The Policy will remain in force until such time as the Supervisory Board proposes changes or amendments.

Role of the Compensation Committee

The Compensation Committee of Aegon’s Supervisory Board has overall responsibility for the company’s Remuneration Policies, including the Executive Board Remuneration Policy. Members of the Committee are drawn from the Supervisory Board.

Each year, Aegon’s Compensation Committee reviews Aegon’s remuneration policies to ensure they remain in line with prevailing international standards. This review is based partly on information provided by Aegon’s external adviser, Towers Watson. The adviser, however, does not advise individual members of the Executive and Supervisory Boards.

The Compensation Committee may recommend changes to the policies to the Supervisory Board. Any material changes in the

Executive Board Remuneration Policy must also be referred to the General Meeting of Shareholders for adoption.

Review of the Remuneration Policy

Aegon’s Executive Board Remuneration Policy is reviewed every year by the Compensation Committee. The policy applies to all members of Aegon’s Executive Board.

Ensuring pay remains competitive

The company regularly compares its levels of executive remuneration with those at other, comparable companies. Companies included in the peer group have been chosen according to the following criteria:

 

¿   Industry (preferably life insurance);  
¿   Size (companies with similar assets, revenue and market capitalization);  
¿   Geographic scope (preferably companies operating globally);  
¿   Location (companies based in Europe).  

In 2013, the peer group comprised Aviva, Axa, CNP Assurances, Generali, ING Group, Legal & General, Münchener Rückversicherung, Old Mutual, Prudential plc., Standard Life, Swiss Re, and Zurich Financial Services.

In addition, to monitor alignment with the general industry in the Netherlands, a reference group has been established, comprising the twelve leading companies listed on NYSE Euronext Amsterdam, excluding financial services providers. The Supervisory Board will regularly review the composition of these two groups to ensure that they continue to provide a reliable basis for comparison.

 

 

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Total compensation

For each member of the Executive Board, Aegon’s Supervisory Board determines a maximum total compensation, reflecting the specific roles and responsibilities of the individual. Each year, the Supervisory Board will review total compensation levels to ensure they remain competitive and provide proper, risk-based incentives to members of Aegon’s Executive Board. At present, the Executive Board Target Direct Compensation (defined as base salary plus variable compensation) is below the median of the international market. To ensure Executive Board members are compensated in accordance with the desired market positioning, the alignment to the desired market position needs to be addressed over time, in accordance with applicable rules and regulations and codes.

Consistent with the Executive Board Remuneration Policy, the total compensation for Executive Board members will consist of fixed compensation and variable compensation.

The Supervisory Board conducts regular scenario analyses to determine the long-term effect of level and structure of compensation granted to members of the Executive Board. The Supervisory Board (Compensation Committee) has discussed and endorsed the 2013 total compensation for the Executive Board.

Fixed compensation

It is the responsibility of the Supervisory Board to determine fixed compensation for members of the Executive Board based on their qualifications, experience and expertise.

Variable compensation

Aegon believes that variable compensation strengthens Executive Board members’ commitment to the company’s objectives and strengthens the Executive Board members’ commitment to the company’s business strategy, risk tolerance and long-term performance. Variable compensation is based on a number of individual and company performance indicators, regularly evaluated by experts in the company’s Finance, Risk, Audit, Human Resources and Compliance departments

This performance is determined using a mix of financial and non-financial indicators. Aegon believes these indicators provide an accurate and reliable reflection of both company and individual performance. The type of performance indicators are selected in accordance with the long-term goals of the company. The level of the indicators should be challenging but achievable. The targets and levels are agreed by the Supervisory Board. Performance is assessed by Aegon’s Compensation Committee and validated by the full Supervisory Board.

For 2013, the performance period for variable compensation was one year. By implementing deferral and additional holding periods, Aegon believes that the long-term interests of Executive Board members are aligned with the interests of Aegon and its stakeholders

Variable compensation, comprising both cash and shares, is conditionally granted at the beginning of each performance period. The number of conditionally granted shares is calculated using the fair value of one Aegon share at the beginning of that period. This fair value is equal to the average price on the NYSE Euronext Amsterdam stock exchange for the period December 15 through January 15. After the performance year, the company will assess the realized performance against the performance indicators and compare the minimum, target and maximum levels of the performance indicators with the realized performance. The amount of conditional variable compensation that can be allocated will then be established. Variable compensation will be allocated once accounts for the financial year in question have been adopted by the company’s shareholders and after an ex-ante assessment.

The allocated variable compensation consists of equal parts of cash and shares, of which 40% will be paid out (or vest) following the performance year, and 60% will be deferred. This deferred portion will remain conditional until it vests.

The deferred part will vest in equal parts (that is, cash and shares) over a three year period. After an ex-post assessment, which may lower the vesting parts, the parts will be paid 50% in cash and 50% in shares vesting. Vested shares are restricted for a further period of three years (with the exception of shares sold to meet income tax obligations).

The payout of the variable compensation can be illustrated with an example as follows. For every 1,000 variable compensation, 400 will be paid out/vest following the performance year. This part will be paid 50% in cash (=200) and 50% in shares vesting immediately (=200 / 1 = 40 shares). The remaining 600 will be deferred. The deferred part will vest in three equal parts, after the end of each of the following performance periods. The three deferred parts will each be paid 50% in cash (=100) and 50% in shares vesting (=100 / 4.917 = 20 shares). For all vested shares there is an additional holding period of three years after vesting. The compensation schedule can be illustrated by the following overview.

 

 

 

 

1 Based on VWAP December 15, 2012 – January 15, 2013.
 

 

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Variable compensation schedule

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Variable compensation 2013

Variable compensation is initially granted based on performance, as measured against Aegon group targets and personal objectives. These objectives represent a mix of financial and non-financial measures, providing an accurate and reliable reflection of corporate and individual performance. The mix of group measures versus personal performance measures is 75%-25%.

    

 

 

Objectives   

Maximum % of variable

compensation

   Performance indicator     

 

Group financial IFRS based

  

 

30%

  

 

Group underlying earnings after tax, return on equity

  

Group financial risk adjusted based

   30%    Group market consistent value of new business 2013, group pre-tax return on required capital 2013   

Group sustainability

   15%    Objective measuring corporate responsibility   

Personal objectives

   25%    Individual basket of strategic and personal objectives related to Aegon’s strategy     

 

Each year a one-year target will be set for each performance indicator.

At an aggregate level, payments are made as follows:

  ¿   50% of the maximum variable compensation if the threshold target is reached;
  ¿   80% if the pre-determined performance targets are met;
  ¿   Up to 100% if the targets are exceeded.

Risk adjustment methodology (ex-ante)

At the end of the performance period, but prior to allocation of variable compensation, the Supervisory Board will assess whether (downward) modifications are needed. For this purpose, quantitative and qualitative measures at group, regional unit and individual level will be taken into account, such as:

¿   Breaches of laws and regulations;  
¿   Breaches of internal risk policies (including compliance);  
¿   SOX significant deficiencies or material weaknesses;  
¿   Reputation damage due to risk events.  

Ex-post assessment and discretionary adjustments

The Supervisory Board uses its judgment in the assessment of the outcome of strategic/personal targets to ensure that, taken together, they form a fair reflection of the overall performance of the Board member over the performance period.

In addition, the Supervisory Board will apply an ex-post risk assessment to deferred payouts of variable compensation to determine whether allocated (that is, unvested) variable compensation should become unconditional (meaning it will vest) or should be adjusted. This ex-post assessment will be

 

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106   Governance Remuneration policy and report

 

 

based on informed judgment by the Supervisory Board, taking into account significant and exceptional circumstances that are not (sufficiently) reflected in the initially applied performance indicators.

Implementation of this authority will be on the basis of criteria such as:

 

  ¿   Outcome of a re-assessment of the performance against the original financial performance indicators;
  ¿   Significant downturn in the company’s financial performance;
  ¿   Evidence of misbehavior or serious error by the participant;
  ¿   Significant failure in risk management;
  ¿   Significant changes in the company’s economic or regulatory capital base.

The Supervisory Board will ask the Compensation Committee to review these criteria in detail at each moment of vesting and document its findings. Based on this analysis, the Committee may then put forward a proposal to the Supervisory Board to adjust unvested variable compensation. Deferred variable compensation may only be adjusted downwards. Ex-post, risk-based assessments concern deferred variable compensation, not fixed compensation.

Circuit breaker

For each performance indicator, variable compensation is only paid if the threshold level set for that performance indicator is reached.

Claw-back provision

Where variable compensation is based upon incorrect data (including non-achievement of performance indicators in hindsight), or in the case of material financial restatements or individual gross misconduct, Aegon’s Supervisory Board will have the right to reclaim variable compensation that has already been paid out or vested.

Pension arrangements

Members of Aegon’s Executive Board are offered pension arrangements and retirement benefits in line with local practices in their countries of residence and the provision of the same to executives at other multinational companies in those countries. Similarly, benefits are offered consistent with Executive Board members’ contractual agreements, local practices and comparable arrangements at other multinationals. Aegon does not grant Executive Board members personal loans, guarantees or the like, unless in the normal course of business and on terms applicable to all employees, and only with the approval of the company’s Supervisory Board.

Terms of employment

Members of the Executive Board are appointed for four years, and may then be re-appointed for successive mandates also for a period of four years.

Mr. Wynaendts has a contract of employment with Aegon NV. Mr. Button has been appointed after the new law on supervision (‘Wet Bestuur en Toezicht’) came in to force in January 2013. Therefore a ‘Board Agreement’ was agreed between him and Aegon NV, rather than a contract of employment. Seperately, his employment by Transamerica Life Insurance continues, whilst he is seconded on an expatriate assignment to the Netherlands

Members of the Executive Board may terminate their employment with a notice period of three months. If Aegon wishes to terminate the employment of a member of its Executive Board, then the company must give six months’ notice.

The employment arrangement with current members of the Executive Board contain provisions entitling them to severance payments, should their employment be terminated as a result of a merger or takeover. The Supervisory Board has taken appropriate steps to ensure the contractual arrangements of members of the Executive Board are in line with the Executive Board Remuneration Policy.

Executive Board Remuneration Report 1

At the end of December 2013, Aegon’s Executive Board had two members:

 

¿   Alexander R. Wynaendts, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Executive Board. Mr. Wynaendts was appointed member of the Executive Board in 2003 for four years, and re-appointed in 2007. At the General Meeting of Shareholders in 2011, Mr. Wynaendts was re-appointed for another four years.  
¿   Darryl D. Button, Chief Financial Officer and member of the Executive Board. Mr. Button was appointed member of the Executive Board for four years at the annual General Meeting of shareholders on May 15, 2013. Mr. Button succeeded Mr. Nooitgedagt as Chief Financial Officer and member of Aegon’s Executive Board.  

Fixed compensation

The fixed compensation of the Executive Board members remained unchanged in 2013.

 

 

 

 

 

  1 For complete disclosures on Executive Board Remuneration see pages 283 to 286.

 

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Member

     2013         2012   

Alexander R. Wynaendts CEO & Chairman EB

     1,049,156         1,049,156   

Darryl D. Button CFO & Member EB 1)

     474,789         -   

Jan J. Nooitgedagt CFO & Member EB (retired) 2)

     433,959         743,930   

 

  1   Mr. Button was appointed as CFO and member of Aegon’s Executive Board per May 15, 2013. Fixed compensation is disclosed for the period that Mr. Button has been part of the Executive Board
  2   Mr. Nooitgedagt’s fixed compensation is reflective of his time with Aegon till retirement as per August 1, 2013

 

Conditional variable compensation awards 2013

Subject to the adoption of the annual accounts at the General Meeting of Shareholders on May 21, 2014, variable compensation for Executive Board members is set in cash and shares, based on both their individual and the company’s performance. Targets for the performance indicators have been set in line with the agreed variable compensation targets and 2013 company budgets. Actual performance is being measured over 2013. Under the Executive Board Remuneration Policy 2011, the variable compensation Executive Board members are entitled to, will be paid out over a number of years.

Over the performance year 2013, Mr. Wynaendts was awarded EUR 1,031,635 in total conditional variable compensation. Mr. Button was awarded EUR 467,665 3 . Mr. Nooitgedagt was awarded EUR 433,959 4 total conditional variable compensation 5 .

Forty percent of variable compensation related to performance year 2013 is payable in 2014. This will be split 50/50 in a cash payment and in an allocation of shares.

Mr. Wynaendts and Mr. Button are eligible to receive in 2014 a cash payment of EUR 206,327 and EUR 93,533 respectively.

The number of shares to be made available in 2014 is 41,961 for Mr. Wynaendts and 19,146 for Mr. Button. With regard to vested shares (with the exception of shares sold to meet income tax obligations), a retention (holding) period is applicable for a further three years, before they are at the disposal of the Executive Board members.

The remaining part of variable compensation for the performance year 2013 (60% of the total, which for Mr. Wynaendts equates to EUR 309,489 and 62,943 shares and for Mr. Button equates to EUR 140,300 and 28,716 shares) is to be paid out in future years, subject to ex-post assessments which may result in downward adjustments and be subject to meeting additional conditions. In each of the years 2015, 2016 and 2017, 20% of the total variable compensation may be made available. Any payout will be split 50/50 in a cash payment and an allocation of shares (vesting). After vesting (with the exception of shares sold to meet income tax obligations), a retention (holding) period is applicable for a further three years, before shares are at the disposal of the Executive Board members.

Impact of ex-ante and ex-post assessment on attribution of variable compensation

No variable compensation from previous performance years payable in 2013 has been adjusted downwards in 2013.

No circumstances have been identified to lower payout of the deferred payment from prior performance years that vests in 2014 (the so called “ex post assessment”) or to lower the payout of the up-front payment of the 2013 performance year variable compensation that vests in 2014 (the so called “ex-ante 3 assessment”).

 

 

 

 

 

 

  3 Mr. Button was appointed as CFO and member of Aegon’s Executive Board per May 15, 2013. Conditional variable compensation is disclosed for the period that Mr. Button has been part of the Executive Board.
  4 Mr. Nooitgedagt’s conditional variable compensation is reflective of his time with Aegon till retirement as per August 1, 2013.
  5 Mr. Nooitgedagt’s variable compensation is paid out as follows. 40% equally split in cash (EUR 86,792) and shares (17,650) both vesting in 2014. The remaining part (60%, EUR 130,188 and 26,478 shares) will be split in thee equal parts and will vest in cash and shares in 2015, 2016 and 2017. The vested shares (with the exception of shares sold to meet income tax obligations) are subject to a three year retention (holding) period before they are at the disposal of Mr. Nooitgedagt.

 

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Corporate governance

Aegon is incorporated and based in the Netherlands. As a company established in the Netherlands, Aegon is to comply with the Dutch law and is subject to the Dutch Corporate Governance Code 1 .

 

The shareholders

Listing and shareholder base

Aegon’s common shares are listed on the stock exchanges in Amsterdam and New York. Aegon has institutional and retail shareholders around the world. More than three-quarters of shareholders are located in Aegon’s three main markets, the Netherlands, North America and the United Kingdom. Aegon’s largest shareholder is Vereniging Aegon, a Dutch association with a special purpose, to protect the broader interests of the company and its stakeholders.

General Meeting of Shareholders

A General Meeting of Shareholders is held at least once a year and, when deemed necessary, the Supervisory or Executive Board of the company has the authority to convene an Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders. The main function of the General Meeting of Shareholders is to decide matters such as the adoption of annual accounts, the approval of dividend payments and (re) appointments to the Supervisory Board and Executive Board of Aegon.

Convocation

Meetings are convened by public notice at least 42 days before the meeting. The convocation mentions the time and location of the meeting, the record date, the agenda items, and the procedures for admittance to the meeting and representation at the meeting by means of a written proxy. Those shareholders who alone or jointly represent at least 1% of Aegon’s issued capital or a block of shares worth at least EUR 100 million may request items be added to the agenda of a General Meeting of Shareholders meeting. In accordance with Aegon’s Articles of Association, such a request will be granted if it is received in writing at least 60 days before the meeting, and if there are no important interests of the company that dictate otherwise.

Record date

The record date is used to determine shareholders’ entitlements with regard to their participation and voting rights. In accordance with Dutch law, the record date is 28 days before the day of the General Meeting of Shareholders.

Attendance

Every shareholder is entitled to attend the General Meeting to speak and vote, either in person or by proxy granted in writing. This includes proxies submitted electronically. All shareholders wishing to take part must provide proof of their identity and shareholding, and must notify the company ahead of time of their intention to attend the meeting. Aegon also solicits proxies from New York registry shareholders in line with common practice in the United States.

Voting at the General Meeting

At the General Meeting, each common share carries one vote. In the absence of a Special Cause, Vereniging Aegon will also cast one vote for every 40 common shares B it holds 2 .

Supervisory Board

Aegon’s Supervisory Board oversees the management of the Executive Board, as well as the company’s business and corporate strategy. The Supervisory Board must take into account the interests of all Aegon stakeholders. The Supervisory Board operates according to the principles of collective responsibility and accountability.

Composition of the Board

Members of the Supervisory Board are appointed by the General Meeting of Shareholders, following nomination by the Board itself. Aegon aims to ensure that the composition of the company’s Supervisory Board is well balanced in terms of professional background, geography and gender. A profile exists, outlining the required qualifications of its members. Supervisory Board members are no longer eligible for appointment after the age of 70, unless the Supervisory Board decides to make an exception. Remuneration of the members of the Supervisory Board members is determined by the General Meeting of Shareholders. At present, Aegon’s Supervisory Board consists of nine non-executive members, one of whom is a former member of Aegon’s Executive Board.

 

 

 

  1 For further details on how Aegon’s corporate governance practices differ from those required of US companies under New York Stock Exchange standards, please refer to the NYSE Listing standards in the Governance section of Aegon’s website at aegon.com.
  2 For more details, please see Major Shareholders on pages 307-309.

 

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Committees

The Supervisory Board also oversees the activities of several of its committees. These committees are composed exclusively of Supervisory Board members and deal with specific issues related to Aegon’s financial accounts, risk management strategy, executive remuneration and appointments. These committees are:

  ¿   Audit Committee
  ¿   Risk Committee
  ¿   Compensation Committee
  ¿   Nominating Committee

Executive Board

Aegon’s Executive Board is charged with the overall management of the company and is therefore responsible for achieving Aegon’s aims, strategy and associated risk profile, as well as overseeing any relevant sustainability issues and the development of the company’s earnings. Each member has duties related to his or her specific area of expertise.

Aegon’s Articles of Association determine that for certain decisions the Executive Board must seek prior approval from the Supervisory Board and/or the approval of the General Meeting of Shareholders. In addition hereto, the Supervisory Board may also subject other Executive Board decisions to its prior approval.

Composition of the Executive Board

The Executive Board of Aegon has two members: Alex Wynaendts, who is Chairman of the Executive Board and Chief Executive Officer, and Darryl Button, who is member of the Executive Board and Aegon’s Chief Financial Officer.

The number of Executive Board members and their terms of employment are determined by the company’s Supervisory Board. Executive Board members are appointed by the General Meeting of Shareholders, following nomination by the Supervisory Board.

The employment contracts with current members of the Executive Board contain provisions entitling them to severance payments, should their employment be terminated as a result of a merger or takeover. The company’s remuneration policy for the Executive Board limits exit arrangements to a maximum of one year of salary.

Management Board

Aegon’s Executive Board is assisted in its work by the company’s Management Board, which has seven members, including the members of the Executive Board 1 . Aegon’s Management Board is composed of Alex Wynaendts, Darryl Button, Mark Mullin, Marco Keim, Adrian Grace, Gábor Kepecs and Tom Grondin.

Capital, significant shareholders and exercise of control

As a publicly listed company, Aegon is required to provide the following detailed information regarding any structures or measures that may hinder or prevent a third party from acquiring the company or exercising effective control over it.

The capital of the company

Aegon has authorized capital of EUR 1,080 million, divided into 3 billion common shares and 6 billion common shares B, each with a par value of EUR 0.12. At the end of 2013, a total of 2,131,458,863 common shares and 579,005,440 common shares B had been issued.

Depository receipts for Aegon shares are not issued with the company’s cooperation.

Each common share carries one vote. There are no restrictions on the exercise of voting rights by holders of common shares, whether regarding the number of votes or the time period in which they may be exercised.

All common shares B are held by Vereniging Aegon, the company’s largest shareholder. Their nominal value being equal to the nominal par value of a common share implies that common shares B also carry one vote per share. The voting rights attached to common shares B are subject to restrictions, however, under which Vereniging Aegon may cast one vote for every 40 common shares B it holds in the absence of a Special Cause 2 .

The financial rights attached to a common share B are one-fortieth (1/40th) of the financial rights attached to a common share. The financial right attached to the shares of both classes are otherwise identical. For the purpose of issuance of shares, reduction of issued capital and the transfer of common shares B, the value or the price of a common share B will be determined as one-fortieth (1/40th ) of the value of a common share. For such purposes, no account will be taken of the difference between common shares and common shares B in terms of the proportion between financial rights and voting rights.

 

 

 

 

 

  1 For an overview of the members of the Executive Board and of the Management Board, please refer to pages 6 and 7.
  2 For further information, please see here under for the description of special control rights.

 

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Significant shareholdings

On December 31, 2013, Vereniging Aegon, Aegon’s largest shareholder, held a total of 292,687,444 common shares and 579,005,440 common shares B.

Under the terms of the 1983 Merger Agreement 1 as amended in May 2013, Vereniging Aegon has the option to acquire additional common shares B. Vereniging Aegon may exercise its call option to keep or restore its total stake to 32.6% of the voting rights, irrespective of the circumstances which caused the total shareholding to be or become lower than 32.6%.

To Aegon’s knowledge based on the filings made with the Netherlands Authority for Financial Markets, the AFM, the US-based investment management firm Dodge & Cox and the US-based investment management firm FMR LLC each hold a capital and voting interest in Aegon N.V in excess of 3%.

Special control rights

As a matter of Dutch corporate law, the common shares and the common shares B offer equal 2 full voting rights, as they have equal nominal value (EUR 0.12). The Voting Rights Agreement entered into between Vereniging Aegon and Aegon ensures that under normal circumstances, i.e. except in the event of a Special Cause, Vereniging Aegon will no longer be allowed to exercise more votes than is proportionate to the financial rights represented by its shares. This means that in the absence of a Special Cause Vereniging Aegon may cast one vote for every common share it holds and one vote only for every 40 common shares B it holds. In the event of a Special Cause Vereniging Aegon may cast one vote for every common share and one vote for every common share B. A Special Cause may include:

  ¿   The acquisition by a third party of an interest in Aegon N.V. amounting to 15% or more;
  ¿   A tender offer for Aegon N.V. shares;
  ¿   A proposed business combination by any person or group of persons, whether acting individually or as a group, other than in a transaction approved by the company’s Executive and Supervisory Boards.

If Vereniging Aegon, acting at its sole discretion, determines that a Special Cause has arisen, it must notify the General Meeting of Shareholders. In this event, Vereniging Aegon retains full voting rights on its common shares B for a period limited to six months. Based on its current shareholding, Vereniging Aegon would, for that limited period, command 32.6% of the votes at a General Meeting of Shareholders.

Issue and repurchase of shares

New shares may be issued up to the maximum of the company’s authorized capital, following a resolution adopted by the General

Meeting of Shareholders. Shares may also be issued following a resolution of the Executive Board, providing, and to the extent that, the Board has been authorized to do so by the General Meeting of Shareholders. A resolution authorizing the Executive Board to issue new shares is usually presented at Aegon’s annual General Meeting of Shareholders.

Aegon is entitled to acquire its own fully paid-up shares, providing it acts within existing statutory restrictions. Shareholders usually authorize the Executive Board to purchase the company’s shares under terms and conditions determined by the General Meeting.

Transfer of shares

There are no restrictions on the transfer of common shares. Common shares B can only be transferred with the prior approval of Aegon’s Supervisory Board 3 .

Aegon has no knowledge of any agreement between shareholders that might restrict the transfer of shares or the voting rights pertaining to them.

Significant agreements and potential change of control

Aegon is not party to any significant agreements which would take effect, alter or terminate as a consequence of a change of control following a public offer for the outstanding shares of the company, other than those customary in the financial markets (for example, financial arrangements, loans and joint venture agreements).

Exercise of option rights

Senior executives at Aegon companies and other employees have been granted share appreciation rights and share options. For further details, please see note 14 of the notes to Aegon’s Consolidated Financial Statements of this Annual Report. Under the terms of existing share plans Aegon cannot influence the exercise of granted rights.

Appointing, suspending or dismissing Board members

The General Meeting of Shareholders appoints members of both the Supervisory and Executive Boards, following nominations by the Supervisory Board. Providing at least two candidates are nominated, these nominations are binding. The General Meeting of Shareholders may cancel the binding nature of these nominations with a majority of two-thirds of votes cast, representing at least one half of Aegon’s issued capital. The General Meeting may, in addition, bring forward a resolution to appoint someone not nominated by the Supervisory Board. Such a resolution also requires a two-thirds majority of votes cast representing at least one half of Aegon’s issued capital.

 

 

 

  1 The 1983 Merger Agreement, as amended in May 2013, is published on Aegon’s corporate website (aegon.com)
  2 The Voting Rights Agreement is published on Aegon’s corporate website (aegon.com).
  3 For more details, please refer to clause 14A of Aegon’s Articles of Association or clause 10.6 of the 1983 Amended Merger Agreement.

 

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Members of Aegon’s Supervisory and Executive Boards may be suspended or dismissed by the General Meeting of Shareholders with a two-thirds majority of votes cast, representing at least one half of Aegon’s issued capital, unless the suspension or dismissal has first been proposed by the company’s Supervisory Board. A member of the Executive Board may also be suspended by the Supervisory Board, although the General Meeting of Shareholders has the power to annul this suspension.

Amending the Articles of Association

The General Meeting of Shareholders may, with an absolute majority of votes cast, pass a resolution to amend Aegon’s Articles of Association or to dissolve the company, in accordance with a proposal made by the Executive Board and approved by the Supervisory Board.

Dutch Corporate Governance Code

Aegon, as a company based in the Netherlands, adheres to the Dutch Corporate Governance Code and supports its principles for sound and responsible corporate governance. Aegon regards the Code as an effective means of helping ensure that the interests of all stakeholders are duly represented and taken into account. The most recent version of the Code came into force on January 1, 2009. It is the responsibility of both the Supervisory Board and the Executive Board to oversee Aegon’s overall corporate governance structure. Any substantial change to this structure is submitted to the General Meeting of Shareholders for discussion.

Generally, Aegon applies the best practice provisions set out in the Code. A detailed explanation is given below for those instances where Aegon does not fully apply the best practice provisions of the Code. In these few instances, Aegon adheres, as much as is possible, to the spirit of the Code.

Code II.2.8

For members of the Executive Board, the Dutch Corporate Governance Code requires that the maximum compensation in the event of dismissal is one year’s salary. If the maximum of one year’s salary is manifestly unreasonable for a member of the Executive Board who is dismissed during the first term of office, the board member will be eligible for severance pay not exceeding twice the annual salary.

Aegon’s position on Code II.2.8

Aegon is committed to applying this best practice provision to all new Executive Board appointments. This best practice provision is also embedded in the company’s remuneration policy for the Executive Board. Employment contracts with Executive Board members that existed prior to the code coming into force in 2003 will be respected. The employment agreement of Aegon’s CEO Alex Wynaendts contains more favorable severance payment

terms should his employment be terminated as a result of a merger or takeover. The Board Agreement between Mr. Button and Aegon NV does not entitle him to any special terms under these circumstances. Should these occur he will repatriate to the USA, where equivalent employment will be sought. Details of Executive Board members’ employment contracts may be found on Aegon’s corporate website, aegon.com.

Code II.3.3

The Code recommends that a member of the Executive Board should not take part in discussions or decision-making related to a subject or transaction in which he or she has a conflict of interest.

Aegon’s position on Code II.3.3

Aegon’s CEO and CFO are also members of the Executive Committee of the company’s largest shareholder, Vereniging Aegon. This may be construed as a conflict of interest. However, under Vereniging Aegon’s Articles of Association, Aegon’s CEO and CFO are specifically excluded from voting on issues directly related to Aegon or their position within it. Aegon’s Supervisory Board holds the view that, given the historic relationship between Aegon and Vereniging Aegon, it is not in the company’s best interests to prevent Aegon’s CEO and CFO from participating in discussions and decision-making related to Vereniging Aegon. For this reason, a protocol authorizes the CEO and CFO to continue their activities regarding Vereniging Aegon. The text of this protocol is available on Aegon’s website, aegon.com.

Code IV.1.1

The Dutch Corporate Governance Code states that the General Meeting of Shareholders may cancel the binding nature of nominations for the appointment of members to the Executive and Supervisory Boards with an absolute majority of votes and a limited quorum.

Aegon’s position on Code IV.1.1

Aegon’s Articles of Association provide for a larger majority and a higher quorum than those advocated by the Code. Given that the company has no specific anti-takeover measures, the current system is deemed appropriate within the context of the 1983 Merger Agreement under which Aegon was formed. However, to mitigate any possible negative effects from this, the Supervisory Board has decided that, in the absence of any hostile action, it will only make nominations for appointment of members to the Executive and Supervisory Boards that are non-binding in nature.

Corporate Governance Statement

For an extensive review of Aegon’s compliance with the Dutch Corporate Governance Code, please refer to the Corporate Governance Statement on Aegon’s corporate website, aegon.com.

 

 

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Differences between Dutch and

US company laws

 

Dutch company law is different from US law in the following respects: Aegon, like most large Dutch public companies, has a two-tier governance system involving an Executive Board and a Supervisory Board. The Executive Board is the executive body and its members are employed by the company 1 . Members of the Executive Board are appointed and dismissed by the General Meeting of Shareholders, as inside directors are in the United States. The Remuneration Policy as regards the members of the Executive Board is adopted by the General Meeting of Shareholders. The number of the Executive Board members and the terms of their employment are determined by the Supervisory Board within the scope of the adopted Remuneration Policy.

The Supervisory Board performs supervisory and advisory functions only and its members are outsiders that are not employed by the company. The Supervisory Board has the duty to supervise the performance of the Executive Board, the company’s general course of affairs and the business connected with it. The Supervisory Board also assists the Executive Board by giving advice. Other powers of the Supervisory Board include the prior approval of certain important resolutions of the Executive Board. Members of the Supervisory Board are appointed for a four-year term and may be dismissed by the General Meeting of Shareholders. The remuneration of Supervisory Board members is fixed by the General Meeting of Shareholders. Resolutions entailing a significant change in the identity or character of the company or its business require the approval of the General Meeting of Shareholders.

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1 As a result of a change in Dutch corporate law, with effect of 1 January 2013, new members of the Executive Board will not be employees of the company, but will enter into engagement agreements with the company regarding their position as member of the Executive Board.

 

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Code of ethics

Aegon has in place a code of ethics, titled the Code of Conduct, which contains Aegon’s ethical principles in relation to various subjects. The Code of Conduct applies to Aegon employees worldwide, including Aegon’s Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Controller and persons performing similar functions.

A new Code of Conduct came into force in 2012 giving a clearer commitment to a customer-centric approach. No waivers were granted in respect of the Code of Conduct which is posted on Aegon’s website, aegon.com.

 

 

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Table of Contents
114   Governance Controls and procedures

 

Controls and procedures

 

A. Disclosure controls and procedures

As of the end of the period covered by this Annual Report, Aegon’s management carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of Aegon’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934). Based on this evaluation, Aegon’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that, as of such date, the disclosure controls and procedures were effective in providing reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting.

B. Management’s Annual Report on internal control over financial reporting

The directors and management of Aegon are responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. Aegon’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed under the supervision of Aegon’s principal executive and financial officers to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of its published financial statements. Internal control over financial reporting includes policies and procedures that:

  ¿   Pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company;
  ¿   Provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit the preparation of financial statements in accordance with the generally accepted accounting principles;
  ¿   Provide reasonable assurance that receipts and expenditures are being made only in accordance with the authorizations of management and directors of the company;
  ¿   Provide reasonable assurance that unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of company assets that could have a material effect on Aegon’s financial statements would be prevented or detected in a timely manner.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with policies or procedures may deteriorate.

Management assessed the effectiveness of Aegon’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2013.

In making its assessment management used the criteria established in ‘Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission’ (COSO, 1992 framework)

Based on the assessment, management has concluded that, in all material aspects, the internal control over financial reporting was effective as at December 31, 2013. They have reviewed the results of its work with the Audit Committee of the Supervisory Board.

The effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2013, was audited by EY, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report included under item C below.

C. Attestation report of the independent registered public accounting firm

Report of independent registered public accounting firm

The Supervisory Board, the Executive Board and Shareholders of Aegon N.V.

We have audited Aegon N.V.’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2013, based on criteria established in ‘Internal Control-Integrated Framework’ issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (1992 framework) (the COSO criteria).

Aegon N.V.’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting, and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting included in the accompanying Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects.

 

 

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115

 

 

Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods

are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

In our opinion, Aegon N.V. maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2013, based on the COSO criteria.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V., which comprise the consolidated statements of financial position as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, the related consolidated income statements, statements of comprehensive income, statements of changes in equity, and cash flow statements for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2013 of Aegon N.V., and our report dated March 19, 2014 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

The Hague, the Netherlands, March 19, 2014

Ernst & Young Accountants LLP

D. Changes in internal controls over financial reporting

There have been no changes in internal controls over financial reporting during the period covered by this Annual Report that have materially affected, or reasonably likely to affect, Aegon’s internal controls over financial reporting.

 

 

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117

 

 

Financial

information

2013

 

 

 

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Table of Contents
118   Consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V.

 

  Table of contents

 

 

Consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V.

  
 

Exchange rates

         120   
 

Consolidated income statement of Aegon N.V.

         122   
 

Consolidated statement of comprehensive income of Aegon N.V.

         123   
 

Consolidated statement of financial position of Aegon N.V.

         124   
 

Consolidated statement of changes in equity of Aegon N.V.

         125   
 

Consolidated cash flow statement of Aegon N.V.

         128   
 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements

  
 

1

   General information          129   
 

2

   Summary of significant accounting policies          129   
 

3

   Critical accounting estimates and judgment in applying accounting policies          157   
 

4

   Financial and insurance risks          174   
 

5

   Segment information          202   
 

6

   Premium income and premiums to reinsurers          210   
 

7

   Investment income          211   
 

8

   Fee and commission income          211   
 

9

   Income from reinsurance ceded          212   
 

10

   Results from financial transactions          212   
 

11

   Other income          213   
 

12

   Policyholder claims and benefits          213   
 

13

   Profit sharing and rebates          214   
 

14

   Commissions and expenses          214   
 

15

   Impairment charges / (reversals)          218   
 

16

   Interest charges and related fees          218   
 

17

   Other charges          218   
 

18

   Income tax          219   
 

19

   Earnings per share          220   
 

20

   Dividend per common share          221   
 

21

   Intangible assets          222   
 

22

   Investments          224   
 

23

   Investments for account of policyholders          227   
24   Derivatives    227
25   Investments in joint ventures    230
26   Investments in associates    233
27   Investments in unconsolidated structured entities    234
28   Reinsurance assets    235
29   Deferred expenses    236
30   Other assets and receivables    237
31   Cash and cash equivalents    239
32   Shareholders’ equity    241
33   Convertible core capital securities    246
34   Other equity instruments    247
35   Trust pass-through securities    248
36   Subordinated borrowings    249
37   Insurance contracts    249
38   Insurance contracts for account of policyholders    250
39   Investment contracts    251
40   Investment contracts for account of policyholders    252
41   Borrowings    252
42   Provisions    254
43   Defined benefit plans    254
44   Deferred revenue liabilities    261
45   Deferred tax    261
46   Other liabilities    263
47   Accruals    263
48   Guarantees in insurance contracts    263
49   Capital and solvency    268
50   Summary of total financial assets and financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss    270
51   Commitments and contingencies    271
52   Transfers of financial assets    274
53   Offsetting, enforceable master netting arrangements and similar agreements    278
54   Business combinations    279
55   Group companies    280
56   Related party transactions    282
57   Events after the balance sheet date    288
 

 

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119

 

 

 

Financial statements of Aegon N.V.

  
 

Income statement of Aegon N.V.

   291
 

Statement of financial position of Aegon N.V.

   292
 

Notes to the financial statements

  
 

1

   General information    293
 

2

   Summary of significant accounting policies    293
 

3

   Shares in group companies    296
 

4

   Loans to group companies    296
 

5

   Other investments    296
 

6

   Receivables    297
 

7

   Other assets    297
 

8

   Share capital    297
 

9

   Shareholders’ equity    299
 

10

   Other equity instruments    302
 

11

   Subordinated borrowings    303
 

12

   Long-term borrowings    303
 

13

   Short-term borrowings    303
 

14

   Other liabilities    304
 

15

   Number of employees    304
 

16

   Accountants remuneration    304
 

17

   Events after the balance sheet date    305
Other information   
Proposal for profit appropriation    307
Major shareholders    307
Other financial information   
Schedule I    310
Schedule II    311
Schedule III    313
Schedule IV    314
Schedule V    315
Auditor’s report on the Annual Report on Form 20-F    316
Additional information   
Signatures    318
Supervision    319
Property, plants and equipment    335
Employees and labor relations    335
Dividend policy    336
The offer and listing    337
Additional company information    338
Memorandum and Articles of Association    338
Material contracts    340
Exchange controls    340
Taxation    340
Principal accountant fees and services    346

Purchases of equity securities by the issuer and affiliated purchasers

   348
Quarterly results – unaudited    349
Documents on display    350
Glossary    351
Disclaimer    357
 

 

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Table of Contents
120   Exchange rates

 

Exchange rates

Exchange rates at December 31, 2013

 

             

 

 

 

EUR

 

  

     USD         GBP         CAD         CNY         PLN         RON         TRY         UAH         CZK         HUF   
1      EUR         -         1.3780         0.8320         1.4641         8.3420         4.1579         4.4640         2.9605         11.3543         27.3725         297.0751   
1      USD         0.726         -         0.604         1.062         6.054         3.017         3.239         2.148         8.240         19.864         215.584   
1      GBP         1.202         1.656         -         1.760         10.026         4.997         5.365         3.558         13.647         32.900         357.061   
1      CAD         0.683         0.941         0.568         -         5.698         2.840         3.049         2.022         7.755         18.696         202.906   
1      CNY         0.120         0.165         0.100         0.176         -         0.498         0.535         0.355         1.361         3.281         35.612   
1      PLN         0.241         0.331         0.200         0.352         2.006         -         1.074         0.712         2.731         6.583         71.448   
1      RON         0.224         0.309         0.186         0.328         1.869         0.931         -         0.663         2.544         6.132         66.549   
1      TRY         0.338         0.465         0.281         0.495         2.818         1.404         1.508         -         3.835         9.246         100.346   
1      UAH         0.088         0.121         0.073         0.129         0.735         0.366         0.393         0.261         -         2.411         26.164   
100      CZK         3.653         5.034         3.040         5.349         30.476         15.190         16.308         10.816         41.481         -         1,085.305   
100      HUF         0.337         0.464         0.280         0.493         2.808         1.400         1.503         0.997         3.822         9.214         -   

Exchange rates at December 31, 2012

 

              EUR      USD      GBP      CAD      CNY      PLN      RON      TRY      UAH      CZK      HUF  
1      EUR         -         1.3184         0.8111         1.3127         8.2140         4.0803         4.4455         2.3530         10.6131         25.0956         291.2151   
1      USD         0.758         -         0.615         0.996         6.230         3.095         3.372         1.785         8.050         19.035         220.885   
1      GBP         1.233         1.625         -         1.618         10.127         5.031         5.481         2.901         13.085         30.940         359.037   
1      CAD         0.762         1.004         0.618         -         6.257         3.108         3.387         1.792         8.085         19.118         221.844   
1      CNY         0.122         0.161         0.099         0.160         -         0.497         0.541         0.286         1.292         3.055         35.454   
1      PLN         0.245         0.323         0.199         0.322         2.013         -         1.090         0.577         2.601         6.150         71.371   
1      RON         0.225         0.297         0.182         0.295         1.848         0.918         -         0.529         2.387         5.645         65.508   
1      TRY         0.425         0.560         0.345         0.558         3.491         1.734         1.889         -         4.510         10.665         123.763   
1      UAH         0.094         0.124         0.076         0.124         0.774         0.384         0.419         0.222         -         2.365         27.439   
100      CZK         3.985         5.254         3.232         5.231         32.731         16.259         17.714         9.376         42.291         -         1,160.423   
100      HUF         0.343         0.453         0.279         0.451         2.821         1.401         1.527         0.808         3.644         8.618         -   

 

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Weighted average exchange rates 2013

 

            EUR         USD         GBP         CAD         CNY         PLN         RON         TRY         UAH         CZK         HUF     
1    EUR      -         1.3272         0.8484         1.3674         8.1637         4.1940         4.4167         2.5305         10.8249         25.9238         296.3309     
1    USD      0.753         -         0.639         1.030         6.151         3.160         3.328         1.907         8.156         19.533         223.275     
1    GBP      1.179         1.564         -         1.612         9.622         4.943         5.206         2.983         12.759         30.556         349.282     
1    CAD      0.731         0.971         0.620         -         5.970         3.067         3.230         1.851         7.916         18.958         216.711     
1    CNY      0.122         0.163         0.104         0.167         -         0.514         0.541         0.310         1.326         3.175         36.299     
1    PLN      0.238         0.316         0.202         0.326         1.947         -         1.053         0.603         2.581         6.181         70.656     
1    RON      0.226         0.300         0.192         0.310         1.848         0.950         -         0.573         2.451         5.869         67.093     
1    TRY      0.395         0.524         0.335         0.540         3.226         1.657         1.745         -         4.278         10.245         117.104     
1    UAH      0.092         0.123         0.078         0.126         0.754         0.387         0.408         0.234         -         2.395         27.375     
100    CZK      3.857         5.120         3.273         5.275         31.491         16.178         17.037         9.761         41.757         -         1,143.084     
100    HUF          0.337         0.448         0.286         0.461         2.755         1.415         1.490         0.854         3.653         8.748         -     
Weighted average exchange rates 2012   
            EUR      USD      GBP      CAD      CNY      PLN      RON      TRY      UAH      CZK      HUF    
1    EUR      -         1.2849         0.8103         1.2839         8.1377         4.1809         4.4548         2.3132         10.4363         25.1140         288.8606     
1    USD      0.778         -         0.631         0.999         6.333         3.254         3.467         1.800         8.122         19.545         224.812     
1    GBP      1.234         1.586         -         1.584         10.043         5.160         5.498         2.855         12.880         30.993         356.486     
1    CAD      0.779         1.001         0.631         -         6.338         3.256         3.470         1.802         8.129         19.561         224.987     
1    CNY      0.123         0.158         0.100         0.158         -         0.514         0.547         0.284         1.282         3.086         35.497     
1    PLN      0.239         0.307         0.194         0.307         1.946         -         1.066         0.553         2.496         6.007         69.091     
1    RON      0.224         0.288         0.182         0.288         1.827         0.939         -         0.519         2.343         5.638         64.843     
1    TRY      0.432         0.555         0.350         0.555         3.518         1.807         1.926         -         4.512         10.857         124.875     
1    UAH      0.096         0.123         0.078         0.123         0.780         0.401         0.427         0.222         -         2.406         27.678     
100    CZK      3.982         5.116         3.226         5.112         32.403         16.648         17.738         9.211         41.556         -         1,150.197     
100    HUF      0.346         0.445         0.281         0.444         2.817         1.447         1.542         0.801         3.613         8.694         -     

Weighted average exchange rates 2011

 

            EUR      USD      GBP      CAD      CNY      PLN      RON      TRY      CZK      HUF    
1    EUR      -         1.3909         0.8667         1.3744         9.0576         4.1154         4.2353         2.3333         24.5636         278.9417     
1    USD      0.719         -         0.623         0.988         6.512         2.959         3.045         1.678         17.660         200.548     
1    GBP      1.154         1.605         -         1.586         10.451         4.748         4.887         2.692         28.342         321.843     
1    CAD      0.728         1.012         0.631         -         6.590         2.994         3.082         1.698         17.872         202.955     
1    CNY      0.110         0.154         0.096         0.152         -         0.454         0.468         0.258         2.712         30.796     
1    PLN      0.243         0.338         0.211         0.334         2.201         -         1.029         0.567         5.969         67.780     
1    RON      0.236         0.328         0.205         0.325         2.139         0.972         -         0.551         5.800         65.861     
1    TRY      0.429         0.596         0.371         0.589         3.882         1.764         1.815         -         10.527         119.548     
100    CZK      4.071         5.662         3.528         5.595         36.874         16.754         17.242         9.499         -         1,135.590     
100    HUF      0.358         0.499         0.311         0.493         3.247         1.475         1.518         0.836         8.806         -     

 

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122   Consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V.

 

Consolidated income statement of Aegon N.V.

For the year ended December 31

 

Amounts in EUR million (except per share data)      Note         2013         2012  1)         2011  1)     

Premium income

     6         19,939         19,049         19,521     

 

Investment income

     7         7,909         8,413         8,167     

 

Fee and commission income

     8         1,950         1,856         1,465     

 

Other revenues

              6         9         6     

 

Total revenues

        29,805         29,327         29,159     

Income from reinsurance ceded

     9         2,838         4,096         2,775     

 

Results from financial transactions

     10         15,393         13,008         (187)    

 

Other income

     11         393         149         39     

 

Total income

        48,430         46,580         31,786     

Premiums to reinsurers

     6         3,108         3,702         3,407     

 

Policyholder claims and benefits

     12         37,793         34,665         20,230     

 

Profit sharing and rebates

     13         28         33         55     

 

Commissions and expenses

     14         5,593         5,559         6,142     

 

Impairment charges / (reversals)

     15         294         199         483     

 

Interest charges and related fees

     16         355         519         491     

 

Other charges

     17         134         52         69     

 

Total charges

 

           

 

 

 

    47,304

 

  

  

 

 

 

    44,729

 

  

  

 

 

 

    30,877  

 

  

 

Income before share in profit / (loss) of joint ventures, associates and tax

        1,126         1,851         909     

 

Share in profit / (loss) of joint ventures

        -         (13      -     

 

Share in profit / (loss) of associates

              21         28         29     

 

Income / (loss) before tax

        1,147         1,866         938     

 

Income tax

     18         (166      (323      (51)    

 

Net income / (loss)

        980         1,543         887     

Net income / (loss) attributable to:

           

 

Equity holders of Aegon N.V.

        978         1,542         884     

 

Non-controlling interests

        3         1         3     

Earnings per share (EUR per share)

     19            

 

Basic earnings per common share

        0.36         0.68         (0.05)    

 

Basic earnings per common share B

        0.01         -         -     

 

Diluted earnings per common share

        0.36         0.68         (0.05)    

 

Diluted earnings per common share B

              0.01         -         -     

 

  1   Amounts for 2012 and 2011 have been restated for the changes in accounting policies IFRS 10, 11 and IAS 19. Refer to note 2 for details about these changes.  

 

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123

 

Consolidated statement of comprehensive income

of Aegon N.V.

For the year ended December 31

 

Amounts in EUR million             2013              2012  1)               2011  1)      

 

Net income

     980         1,543         887     

Items that will not be reclassified to profit or loss:

        

 

Changes in revaluation reserve real estate held for own use

     (6      (5      3     

 

Remeasurements of defined benefit plans

     562         (149      (583)    

 

Income tax relating to items that will not be reclassified

     (201      38         179     

Items that may be reclassified to profit or loss:

        

 

Gains / (losses) on revaluation of available-for-sale investments

     (3,349      4,176         3,113     

 

(Gains) / losses transferred to income statement on disposal and impairment of available-for-sale investments

     (435      (465      (513)    

 

Changes in cash flow hedging reserve

     (555      (86      1,058     

 

Movement in foreign currency translation and net foreign investment hedging reserves

     (784      (110      380     

 

Equity movements of joint ventures

     (4      27         -     

 

Equity movements of associates

     54         22         (18)    

 

Income tax relating to items that may be reclassified

     1,286         (1,051      (1,166)    

 

Other

     (6      (2      4     

 

Total other comprehensive income

     (3,437      2,395         2,457     

 

Total comprehensive income

     (2,456      3,938         3,344     

Total comprehensive income attributable to:

        

 

Equity holders of Aegon N.V.

     (2,454      3,939         3,341     

 

Non-controlling interests

     (3      (1      3     

 

  1 Amounts for 2012 and 2011 have been restated for the changes in accounting policies IFRS 10, 11 and IAS 19. Refer to note 2 for details about these changes.  

 

  Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013   LOGO  


Table of Contents
124   Consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V.

 

Consolidated statement of financial position of Aegon N.V.

As at December 31

 

           
Amounts in EUR million      Note         2013         2012  1)        

 

January 1,

2012  1)

  

  

 

Assets

           

 

Intangible assets

     21         2,246         2,485         2,695   

 

Investments

     22         135,533         144,969         142,705   

 

Investments for account of policyholders

     23         165,032         152,968         141,663   

 

Derivatives

     24         13,531         21,134         15,478   

 

Investments in joint ventures

     25         1,427         1,568         1,224   

 

Investments in associates

     26         470         771         713   

 

Reinsurance assets

     28         10,345         11,965         11,510   

 

Defined benefit assets

     43         34         22         18   

 

Deferred tax assets

     45         37         93         318   

 

Deferred expenses

     29         12,040         11,644         11,394   

 

Other assets and receivables

     30         7,357         7,623         8,063   

 

Cash and cash equivalents

     31         5,691         9,590         7,995   

 

Total assets

               353,745          364,832          343,776   

 

Equity and liabilities

           

 

Shareholders’ equity

     32         20,059         23,449         19,914   

 

Other equity instruments

     34         5,015         5,018         4,720   

 

Issued capital and reserves attributable to equity holders of Aegon N.V.

        25,074         28,467         24,634   

 

Non-controlling interests

              10         13         14   

 

Group equity

        25,084         28,480         24,648   

Trust pass-through securities

     35         135         155         159   

 

Subordinated borrowings

     36         44         42         -   

 

Insurance contracts

     37         100,642         104,004         103,522   

 

Insurance contracts for account of policyholders

     38         84,311         76,169         72,559   

 

Investment contracts

     39         14,545         17,767         20,846   

 

Investment contracts for account of policyholders

     40         82,608         78,418         71,433   

 

Derivatives

     24         11,838         18,052         12,900   

 

Borrowings

     41         12,020         13,742         11,216   

 

Provisions

     42         182         330         444   

 

Defined benefit liabilities

     43         3,060         3,550         3,331   

 

Deferred revenue liabilities

     44         88         104         103   

 

Deferred tax liabilities

     45         2,304         3,096         2,004   

 

Other liabilities

     46         16,625         20,594         19,431   

 

Accruals

     47         259         329         1,180   

 

Total liabilities

 

           

 

 

 

328,661

 

  

  

 

 

 

336,352

 

  

  

 

 

 

319,128

 

  

Total equity and liabilities               353,745         364,832         343,776   

 

  1 Amounts for 2012 and January 1, 2012 have been restated for the changes in accounting policies IFRS 10, 11 and IAS 19. Refer to note 2 for details about these changes.  

 

  Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013   LOGO  


Table of Contents

125

 

Consolidated statement of changes in equity of Aegon N.V.

For the year ended December 31, 2013

 

Amounts in EUR million     Note       
 
Share
capital
  
  
   
 
Retained
earnings
  
  
   
 
Revaluation
reserves
  
  
   
 
 
 
 
 
Re-
measure-
ment of
defined
benefit
plans
  
  
  
  
  
  
   
 
Other
reserves
  
  
   
 
 
 
Other
equity
instru-
ments
  
  
  
  
   
 
 
 
 
Issued
capital
and
reserves
1)
  
  
  
  
  
   
 
 
Non-con-
trolling
interests
  
  
  
    Total   

 

At January 1, 2013

      9,099        10,407        6,073        (1,085     (1,045     5,018        28,467        13        28,480   

 

Net income / (loss) recognized in the income statement

      -        978        -        -        -        -        978        3        980   

 

Other comprehensive income:

                   

 

Items that will not be reclassified to profit or loss:

                   

 

Changes in revaluation reserve real estate held for own use

      -        -        (6     -        -        -        (6     -        (6

 

Remeasurements of defined benefit plans

      -        -        -        562        -        -        562        -        562   

 

Income tax relating to items that will not be reclassified

      -        -        1        (202     -        -        (201     -        (201

 

Items that may be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss:

                   

 

Gains / (losses) on revaluation of available-for-sale investments

      -        -        (3,349     -        -        -        (3,349     -        (3,349

 

(Gains) / losses transferred to income statement on disposal and impairment of available-for-sale investments

      -        -        (435     -        -        -        (435     -        (435

 

Changes in cash flow hedging reserve

      -        -        (555     -        -        -        (555     -        (555

 

Movements in foreign currency translation and net foreign investment hedging reserves

      -        -        -        19        (803     -        (784     -        (784

Equity movements of joint ventures

      -        -        -        -        (4     -        (4     -        (4

 

Equity movements of associates

      -        -        -        -        54        -        54        -        54   

 

Disposal of group assets

      -        3        -        -        -        -        3        (3     -   

 

Income tax relating to items that may be reclassified

      -        -        1,265        -        21        -        1,286        -        1,286   

 

Transfer from / to other headings

      -        (3     3        -        -        -        -        -        -   

 

Other

            -        (4     -        -        -        -        (4     (2     (6

 

Total other comprehensive income / (loss)

            -        (4     (3,075     379        (732     -        (3,431     (5     (3,437

 

Total comprehensive income / (loss) for 2013

      -        974        (3,075     379        (732     -        (2,454     (3     (2,456

 

Shares issued and withdrawn

      2        -        -        -        -        -        2        -        2   

 

Repurchased and sold own shares

      (400     (1     -        -        -        -        (401     -        (401

 

Treasury shares

      -        (77     -        -        -        -        (77     -        (77

 

Dividends paid on common shares

      -        (240     -        -        -        -        (240     -        (240

 

Preferred dividend

      -        (83     -        -        -        -        (83     -        (83

 

Coupons on perpetual securities

      -        (146     -        -        -        -        (146     -        (146

 

Coupons on non-cumulative subordinated notes

      -        (21     -        -        -        -        (21     -        (21

 

Share options and share-based incentive plans

      -        30        -        -        -        (3     27        -        27   

 

Other

                                                                               

 

At December 31, 2013

    32, 33, 34        8,701        10,843        2,998        (706     (1,777     5,015        25,074        10        25,084   

 

  1 Issued capital and reserves attributable to equity holders of Aegon N.V.

 

  Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013   LOGO  


Table of Contents
126   Consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V.

 

Consolidated statement of changes in equity of Aegon N.V.

For the year ended December 31, 2012

 

Amounts in EUR million     Note       
 
Share
capital
  
  
   
 
Retained
earnings
  
  
   
 
Revaluation
reserves
  
  
   
 
 
 
 
 
Re-
measure-
ment of
defined
benefit
plans
  
  
  
  
  
  
   
 
Other
reserves
  
  
   
 
 
 
Other
equity
instru-
ments
  
  
  
  
   
 
 
Issued
capital and
reserves  1)
  
  
  
   
 
 
 
Non-
control-
ling
interests
  
  
  
  
    Total   

 

At January 1, 2012 (restated for IAS 19)

      9,097        9,418        3,464        (979     (964     4,720        24,756        14        24,770   

 

Changes in accounting policies relating to IFRS 10  2)

      -        (122     -        -        -        -        (122     -        (122

 

Changes in accounting policies relating to IFRS 11  2)

      -        -        17        -        (17     -        -        -        -   

 

At January 1, 2012 (restated)

      9,097        9,296        3,481        (979     (981     4,720        24,634        14        24,648   

 

Net income / (loss) recognized in the income statement

      -        1,542        -        -        -        -        1,542        1        1,543   

 

Other comprehensive income:

                   

 

Items that will not be reclassified to profit or loss:

                   

 

Changes in revaluation reserve real estate held for own use

      -        -        (5     -        -        -        (5     -        (5

 

Remeasurements of defined benefit plans

      -        -        -        (149     -        -        (149     -        (149

 

Income tax relating to items that will not be reclassified

      -        -        1        37        -        -        38        -        38   

 

Items that may be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss:

                   

 

Gains / (losses) on revaluation of available-for-sale investments

      -        -        4,176        -        -        -        4,176          4,176   

 

(Gains) / losses transferred to income statement on disposal and impairment of available-for-sale investments

      -        -        (465     -        -        -        (465     -        (465

 

Changes in cash flow hedging reserve

      -        -        (86     -        -        -        (86     -        (86

 

Movements in foreign currency translation and net foreign investment hedging reserves

      -        -        -        6        (116     -        (110     -        (110

 

Equity movements of joint ventures

      -        -        -        -        27        -        27        -        27   

 

Equity movements of associates

      -        -        -        -        22        -        22        -        22   

 

Income tax relating to items that may be reclassified

      -        (6     (1,048     -        3        -        (1,051     -        (1,051

 

Transfer from / to other headings

        (19     19        -        -        -        -        -        -   

Other

            -        -        -        -        -        -        -        (2     (2

 

Total other comprehensive income / (loss)

            -        (25     2,592        (106     (64     -        2,397        (2     2,395   

 

Total comprehensive income / (loss) for 2012

      -        1,517        2,592        (106     (64     -        3,939        (1     3,938   

 

Shares issued and withdrawn

      2        -        -        -        -        -        2        -        2   

 

Treasury shares

      -        3        -        -        -        -        3        -        3   

 

Dividends paid on common shares

      -        (148     -        -        -        -        (148     -        (148

 

Preferred dividend

      -        (59     -        -        -        -        (59     -        (59

 

Coupons on perpetual securities

      -        (172     -        -        -        -        (172     -        (172

 

Issuance of non-cumulative subordinated notes

      -        -        -        -        -        271        271        -        271   

 

Coupons on non-cumulative subordinated notes

      -        (23     -        -        -        -        (23     -        (23

 

Cost of issuance of non-cumulative subordinated notes (net of tax)

      -        (10     -        -        -        -        (10     -        (10

 

Dividend withholding tax reduction

      -        3        -        -        -        -        3        -        3   

 

Share options and share-based incentive plans

            -        -        -        -        -        27        27        -        27   

 

At December 31, 2012

    32, 33, 34        9,099        10,407        6,073        (1,085     (1,045     5,018        28,467        13        28,480   

 

  1   Issued capital and reserves attributable to equity holders of Aegon N.V.
  2   Amounts have been restated for the changes in accounting policies IFRS 10, 11 and IAS 19. Refer to note 2 for details about these changes.

 

  Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013   LOGO  


Table of Contents

127

 

Consolidated statement of changes in equity of Aegon N.V.

For the year ended December 31, 2011

 

Amounts in EUR million     Note       
 
Share
capital
  
  
   
 
Retained
earnings
  
  
   
 
 
Revalua-
tion
reserves
  
  
  
   
 
 
 
 
 
Re-
measure-
ment of
defined
benefit
plans
  
  
  
  
  
  
   
 
Other
reserves
  
  
   
 
 
 
Convert-
ible core
capital
securities
  
  
  
  
   
 
 
 
Other
equity
instru-
ments
  
  
  
  
   
 
 
 
Issued
capital
and
reserves  1)
  
  
  
  
   
 
 
 
Non-
control-
ling
interests
  
  
  
  
    Total   

 

At January 1, 2011 (as previously stated)

      8,184        9,529        958        -        (1,343     1,500        4,704        23,532        11        23,543   

 

Changes in accounting policies relating to IAS 19 2)

      -        -        -        (547     -        -        -        (547     -        (547

 

At January 1, 2011 (restated)

      8,184        9,529        958        (547     (1,343     1,500        4,704        22,985        11        22,996   

Net income / (loss) recognized in the income statement

      -        884        -        -        -        -        -        884        3        887   

 

Other comprehensive income:

                     

 

Items that will not be reclassified to profit or loss:

                     

 

Changes in revaluation reserve real estate held for own use

      -        -        3        -        -        -        -        3        -        3   

 

Remeasurements of defined benefit plans

      -        -        -        (583     -        -        -        (583     -        (583

 

Income tax relating to items that will not be reclassified

      -        -        (1     180        -        -        -        179        -        179   
Items that may be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss:                      

 

Gains / (losses) on revaluation of available-for-sale investments

      -        -        3,113        -        -        -        -        3,113        -        3,113   

 

(Gains) / losses transferred to income statement on disposal and impairment of available-for-sale investments

      -        -        (513     -        -        -        -        (513     -        (513

 

Changes in cash flow hedging reserve

      -        -        1,058        -        -        -        -        1,058        -        1,058   

 

Movements in foreign currency translation and net foreign investment hedging reserves

      -        -        -        (29     409        -        -        380        -        380   

 

Equity movements of associates

      -        -        -        -        (18     -        -        (18     -        (18

 

Income tax relating to items that may be reclassified

      -        -        (1,154       (12     -        -        (1,166     -        (1,166

 

Other

            -        4        -        -        -        -        -        4        -        4   

Total other comprehensive income / (loss)

 

           

 

-

 

  

 

   

 

4

 

  

 

   

 

2,506

 

  

 

   

 

(432

 

 

   

 

379

 

  

 

   

 

-

 

  

 

   

 

-

 

  

 

   

 

2,457

 

  

 

   

 

-

 

  

 

   

 

2,457

 

  

 

 

Total comprehensive income / (loss) for 2011

      -        888        2,506        (432     379        -        -        3,341        3        3,344   

 

Shares issued and withdrawn

      913        -        -        -        -        -        -        913        -        913   

 

Repurchase of convertible core capital securities

      -        -        -        -        -        (1,500     -        (1,500     -        (1,500

 

Preferred dividend

      -        (59     -        -        -        -        -        (59     -        (59

 

Coupons on perpetual securities

      -        (177     -        -        -        -        -        (177     -        (177

 

Coupons and premiums on convertible core capital securities

      -        (750     -        -        -        -        -        (750     -        (750

 

Share options and share-based incentive plans

      -        -        -        -        -        -        16        16        -        16   

 

Other

            -        (13     -        -        -        -        -        (13     -        (13

 

At December 31, 2011

    32, 33, 34        9,097        9,418        3,464        (979     (964     -        4,720        24,756        14        24,770   

 

  1   Issued capital and reserves attributable to equity holders of Aegon N.V.
  2   Amounts have been restated for the changes in accounting policy IAS 19. Refer to note 2 for details about these changes.

 

  Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013   LOGO  


Table of Contents
128   Consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V.

 

Consolidated cash flow statement of Aegon N.V.

For the year ended December 31

 

Amounts in EUR million    Note             2013           2012  3)            2011  3)  

 

Income / (loss) before tax

        1,147         1,866         938   

 

Results from financial transactions

        (16,219      (12,903      187   

 

Amortization and depreciation

        1,187         1,417         1,651   

 

Impairment losses

        322         198         483   

 

Income from joint ventures

        -         13         -   

 

Income from associates

        (21      (26      (29

 

Release of cash flow hedging reserve

        (26      (62      (18

 

Remeasurements of defined benefit plans

        562         (149      (583

 

Other

              (146      (175      (138

 

Adjustments of non-cash items

        (14,341      (11,687      1,553   

 

Insurance and investment liabilities

        (574      (3,227      (4,940

 

Insurance and investment liabilities for account of policyholders

        18,787         10,801         (154

 

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

        (2,509      550         140   

 

Accrued income and prepayments

              (1,166      (1,731      (1,460

 

Changes in accruals

        14,538         6,393         (6,414

 

Purchase of investments (other than money market investments)

        (34,100      (32,018      (29,612

 

Purchase of derivatives

        (850      (1,528      (1,350

 

Disposal of investments (other than money market investments)

        31,176         33,742         34,924   

 

Disposal of derivatives

        182         507         1,599   

 

Net purchase of investments for account of policyholders

        (1,395      1,197         (1,577

 

Net change in cash collateral

        (1,414      (177      2,180   

 

Net purchase of money market investments

              3,502         556         445   

 

Cash flow movements on operating items not reflected in income

        (2,899      2,279         6,609   

 

Tax paid

        (164      133         (375

 

Other

              (9      19         (45

 

Net cash flows from operating activities

        (1,730      (997      2,266   

 

Purchase of individual intangible assets (other than VOBA and future servicing rights)

        (22      (36      (18

 

Purchase of equipment and real estate for own use

        (66      (63      (72

 

Acquisition of subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates, net of cash

        (291      (23      (99

 

Disposal of intangible asset

        -         -         1   

 

Disposal of equipment

        15         10         18   

 

Disposal of subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates, net of cash

        811         276         823   

 

Dividend received from joint ventures and associates

        64         72         3   

 

Other

              5         1         (3

 

Net cash flows from investing activities

              516         237         653   

 

Issuance of share capital

        2         2         913   

 

Issuance and purchase of treasury shares

        (92      -         -   

 

Issuance of non-cumulative subordinated notes

        -         271         -   

 

Proceeds from TRUPS 1) , subordinated loans and borrowings

        2,011         6,453         5,627   

 

Repurchase of convertible core capital securities

        -         -         (1,500

 

Repayment of share premium

        (401      -         -   

 

Repayment of TRUPS 1) , subordinated loans and borrowings

        (3,519      (3,737      (4,342

 

Dividends paid

        (323      (207      (59

 

Coupons and premium on convertible core capital securities

        -         -         (750

 

Coupons on perpetual securities

        (194      (230      (237

 

Coupons on non-cumulative subordinated notes

        (28      (30      -   

 

Other

              (8      (11      (26

 

Net cash flows from financing activities

 

             

 

(2,552

 

 

  

 

 

2,511

 

  

 

    

 

(374

 

 

 

Net increase / (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 2)

        (3,766      1,751         2,545   

Net cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year

        9,497         7,717         5,174   

 

Effects of changes in exchange rate

              (79      29         107   

 

Net cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year

     31         5,652         9,497         7,826   

 

  1   Trust pass-through securities.
  2   Included in net increase / (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents are interest received (2013: EUR 6,731 million , 2012: EUR 8,091 million, 2011 and EUR 7,407 million) dividends received (2013: EUR 1,021 million, 2012: EUR 1,069 million, and 2011: EUR 760 million) and interest paid (2013: EUR 347 million, 2012: EUR 1,261 million and 2011: EUR 273 million).  
  3   Amounts for 2012 and 2011 have been restated for the changes in accounting policies IFRS 10, 11 and IAS 19. Refer to note 2 for details about these changes.  

The cash flow statement is prepared according to the indirect method.

 

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129

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements

1 General information

Aegon N.V., incorporated and domiciled in the Netherlands, is a public limited liability company organized under Dutch law and recorded in the Commercial Register of The Hague under its registered address at Aegonplein 50, 2591 TV, The Hague, the Netherlands. Aegon N.V. serves as the holding company for the Aegon Group and has listings of its common shares in Amsterdam and New York.

Aegon N.V. (or ‘The company’) and its subsidiaries (‘Aegon’ or ‘The Group’) have life insurance and pensions operations in over twenty countries in the Americas, Europe and Asia and are also active in savings and asset management operations, accident and health insurance, general insurance and to a limited extent banking operations. Headquarters are located in The Hague, the Netherlands. The Group employs nearly 27,000 people worldwide (2012: 26,500).

2 Summary of significant accounting policies

2.1 Basis of presentation

Aegon prepares its consolidated financial statements in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IFRS) and with Part 9 of Book 2 of the Netherlands Civil Code for purposes of reporting with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (‘SEC’), including financial information contained in this Annual Report on Form 20-F.

The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the historical cost convention as modified by the revaluation of investment properties and those financial instruments (including derivatives) and financial liabilities that have been measured at fair value. Information on the standards and interpretations that were adopted in 2013 is provided below in note 2.1.1. The consolidated financial statements are presented in euro and all values are rounded to the nearest million unless otherwise stated. The consequence is that the rounded amounts may not add up to the rounded total in all cases. All ratios and variances are calculated using the underlying amount rather than the rounded amount. Certain amounts in prior years have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation. These reclassifications had no effect on net income, shareholders’ equity or earnings per share.

With regard to the income statements of Aegon N.V., article 402, Part 9 of Book 2 of the Netherlands Civil Code has been applied, allowing a simplified format.

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with IFRS requires management to make estimates and assumptions affecting the reported amounts of assets and liabilities as of the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses for the reporting period. Those estimates are inherently subject to change and actual results could differ from those estimates. Included among the material (or potentially material) reported amounts and disclosures that require extensive use of estimates are: fair value of certain invested assets and derivatives, deferred policy acquisition costs, value of business acquired and other purchased intangible assets, goodwill, policyholder claims and benefits, insurance guarantees, pension plans, income taxes and the potential effects of resolving litigation matters.

The consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. were approved by the Executive Board and by the Supervisory Board on March 19, 2014. The financial statements are put to the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders on May 21, 2014 for adoption. The shareholders’ meeting can decide not to adopt the financial statements but cannot amend them.

Other than for SEC reporting, Aegon prepares its Annual Accounts under International Financial Reporting Standards as adopted by the European Union, including the decisions Aegon made with regard to the options available under International Financial Reporting Standards as adopted by the EU (IFRS-EU). IFRS-EU differs from IFRS in respect of certain paragraphs in IAS 39 ‘Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement’ regarding hedge accounting for portfolio hedges of interest rate risk. Under IFRS-EU, Aegon applies fair value hedge accounting for portfolio hedges of interest rate risk (fair value macro hedges) in accordance with the EU ‘carve out’ version of IAS 39. Under IFRS, hedge accounting for fair value macro hedges cannot be applied to mortgage loans and ineffectiveness arises whenever the revised estimate of the amount of cash flows in scheduled time buckets is either more or less than the original designated amount of that bucket.

 

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Table of Contents
130   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 2

 

A reconciliation between IFRS and IFRS-EU is included in the table below.

 

              Shareholders’ equity                      Net income  
      2013      2012      2011      2013      2012      2011  

In accordance with IFRS

     20,059         23,449         20,036         980         1,543         887   

 

Adjustment of EU ‘IAS 39’ carve out

     (124      52         -         (176      52         -   

 

Tax effect of the adjustment

     31         (13      -         44         (13      -   

Effect of the adjustment after tax

     (93      39         -         (132      39         -   
In accordance with IFRS-EU      19,966         23,488         20,036         849         1,582         887   

2.1.1 Adoption of new IFRS accounting standards

Aegon adopted new and amended standards that require restatement of previous financial statements. These include IFRS 10 “Consolidated Financial Statements”, IFRS 11 “Joint Arrangements”, IAS 19 “Employee Benefits” and IAS 1 “Presentation of Financial Statements”. Application of IFRS 13 “Fair Value Measurement” is required prospectively as of the beginning of the annual reporting period.

The nature and the impact of each new standard/amendment that has been applied for the first time in 2013 is described below:

IFRS 7 Financial Instruments: Disclosures – Offsetting Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities

The amendments to IFRS 7 enable users of the financial statements to evaluate the effect or potential effect of netting arrangements, including rights of set-off associated with the entity’s recognized financial assets and recognized financial liabilities, on the entity’s financial position. The amendment affects disclosure only and is included in note 53.

IFRS 10 Consolidated Financial Statements

IFRS 10 replaces all the guidance on control and consolidation in IAS 27, “Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements”, and SIC-12, “Consolidation – Special Purpose Entities”. The application of this new standard impacted the financial position of Aegon by consolidating one securitization vehicle that was previously not consolidated. In addition, for several investment funds the consolidation conclusion has been evaluated which resulted in changes compared to previous years (note 3). The impact of the adoption of IFRS 10 on the financial position of Aegon is described in note 2.1.2. For the corresponding accounting policy refer to note 2.2.

IFRS 11 Joint Arrangements

IFRS 11 replaces IAS 31, “Interests in Joint Ventures” and SIC-13, “Jointly-Controlled Entities — Non-Monetary Contributions by Venturers”. IFRS 11 removes the option to account for joint arrangements using proportionate consolidation. Instead, joint arrangements that meet the definition of a joint venture under IFRS 11 must be accounted for using the equity method. Aegon has assessed the nature of its joint arrangements and determined them to be joint ventures. Therefore Aegon has changed its accounting treatment for joint ventures from proportionate consolidation to equity accounting. The impact of the adoption of IFRS 11 on the financial position of Aegon is described in note 2.1.2. For the corresponding accounting policy refer to note 2.10.

IFRS 12 Disclosure of Interests in Other Entities

IFRS 12 provides disclosure requirements on interests in subsidiaries, associates, joint ventures, and structured entities. This standard affects disclosure only and has therefore no impact on Aegon’s financial position or performance. Aegon has included the required disclosures in notes 4, 25, 26 and 27. In accordance with the transitional provisions of IFRS 12, comparatives for disclosures regarding unconsolidated structured entities are not presented.

IFRS 13 Fair Value Measurement

IFRS 13 establishes a single source of guidance under IFRS for all fair value measurements. IFRS 13 provides guidance on how to measure fair value under IFRS when fair value is required or permitted. The application of IFRS 13 has not impacted the fair value measurements carried out by the Group, which is described in note 3. IFRS 13 requires specific disclosures on fair values, some of which replace existing disclosure requirements in other standards, including IFRS 7 Financial Instruments: Disclosures. In accordance with the transitional provisions of IFRS 13, comparatives are not presented. Aegon provides these disclosures in note 3.

IAS 1 Financial Statement Presentation – Presentation of Items of Other Comprehensive Income

The amendments require the grouping of items within other comprehensive income that may be reclassified to the profit or loss section of the income statement. The amendments also reaffirm existing requirements that items in other comprehensive income and profit or

 

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131

 

loss should be presented as either a single statement or two consecutive statements. The amendment affects presentation only and changes are included in the statement of comprehensive income as Aegon presents two consecutive statements.

IAS 19 Employee Benefits

The revised standard eliminates the option to defer the recognition of actuarial gains and losses, known as the “corridor method”. The amendments streamline the presentation of changes in assets and liabilities arising from defined benefit plans, including requiring remeasurements to be presented in other comprehensive income, to immediately recognize all past service costs and to replace interest cost and expected return on plan assets with a net interest amount that is calculated by applying the discount rate to the net defined benefit liability (asset). Aegon has used the “corridor method” in previous years, therefore upon adoption of IAS 19 the actuarial gains and losses are recognized and included in the defined benefit plan. Further details on the impact of the adoption of the revised IAS 19 on the financial position of Aegon are described in note 2.1.2. For the corresponding accounting policy refer to note 2.22.

In addition, the following new standards, amendments to existing standards and interpretations are mandatory for the first time for the financial year beginning January 1, 2013, but are not currently relevant or do not significantly impact the financial position or financial statements:

  ¿   Annual improvements 2009-2011 Cycle;
  ¿   IFRS 1 First Time Adoption - Government Loans;
  ¿   IAS 27 Separate Financial Statements;
  ¿   IAS 28 Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures; and
  ¿   IFRIC 20 - Stripping Costs in the Production Phase of a Surface Mine.

 

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132   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 2

 

2.1.2 Impact of changes in accounting policies on the financial position

Impact of changes in accounting policies on the consolidated income statement

 

      2012
(previously
reported)
   

Change in
accounting policy

    2012
(restated)
    2011
(previously
reported)
    Change in
accounting
policy
    2011
(restated)
 
              IFRS 10/11     IAS 19                     IAS 19          
Impact of changes in accounting policies on the consolidated income statement                                                        

Premium income

    19,526        (477     -        19,049        19,521        -        19,521   

Investment income

    8,501        (88     -        8,413        8,167        -        8,167   

Fee and commission income

    1,900        (44     -        1,856        1,465        -        1,465   

Other revenues

    10        (1     -        9        6        -        6   

Total revenues

    29,937        (610     -        29,327        29,159        -        29,159   

Income from reinsurance ceded

    4,128        (32     -        4,096        2,775        -        2,775   

Results from financial transactions

    12,996        12        -        13,008        (187     -        (187

Other income

    151        (2     -        149        39        -        39   

Total income

    47,212        (632     -        46,580        31,786        -        31,786   

Premiums to reinsurers

    3,735        (33     -        3,702        3,407        -        3,407   

Policyholder claims and benefits

    35,155        (490     -        34,665        20,230        -        20,230   

Profit sharing and rebates

    34        (1     -        33        55        -        55   

Commissions and expenses

    5,736        (112     (65     5,559        6,164        (22     6,142   

Impairment charges / (reversals)

    206        (7     -        199        483        -        483   

Interest charges and related fees

    467        52        -        519        491        -        491   

Other charges

    53        (1     -        52        69        -        69   

Total charges

 

   

 

45,386

 

  

 

   

 

(592

 

 

   

 

(65

 

 

   

 

44,729

 

  

 

   

 

30,899

 

  

 

   

 

(22

 

 

   

 

30,877

 

  

 

Income before share in profit / (loss) of joint ventures,

associates and tax

    1,826        (40     65        1,851        887        22        909   

Share in net result of joint ventures

    -        (13     -        (13     -        -        -   

Share in net result of associates

    26        2        -        28        29        -        29   

Income before tax

    1,852        (51     65        1,866        916        22        938   

Income tax (expense) / benefit

    (320     19        (22     (323     (44     (7     (51
Net income     1,532        (32     43        1,543        872        15        887   
Net income attributable to:              

Equity holders of Aegon N.V.

    1,531        (32     43        1,542        869        15        884   

Non-controlling interests

    1        -        -        1        3        -        3   
Earnings per share (EUR per share)              

Basic earnings per share

    0.67        (0.01     0.02        0.68        (0.06     0.01        (0.05

Diluted earnings per share

    0.67        (0.01     0.02        0.68        (0.06     0.01        (0.05
Earnings per common share calculation              

Net income attributable to equity holders of Aegon N.V.

    1,531        (32     43        1,542        869        15        884   

Preferred dividend

    (59     -        -        (59     (59     -        (59

Coupons on other equity instruments

    (195     -        -        (195     (177     -        (177

Coupons and premium on convertible core capital securities

            (750     -        (750

Earnings attributable to common shareholders

    1,277        (32     43        1,288        (117     15        (102

Weighted average number of common shares outstanding (in million)

    1,907        -        -        1,907        1,852        -        1,852   

 

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133

 

Impact of changes in accounting policies on the consolidated statement of comprehensive income

 

      2012
(previously
reported)
   

Change in
accounting policy

    2012
(restated)
    2011
(previously
reported)
    Change in
accounting
policy
    2011
(restated)
 
              IFRS 10/11     IAS 19                     IAS 19          
Impact of changes in accounting policies on the consolidated statement of comprehensive income                                                        

Net income

 

   

 

1,532

 

  

 

   

 

(32

 

 

   

 

43

 

  

 

   

 

1,543

 

  

 

   

 

872

 

  

 

   

 

15

 

  

 

   

 

887

 

  

 

Items that will not be reclassified to profit or loss:

             

Changes in revaluation reserve real estate held for own use

    (5     -        -        (5     3          3   

Remeasurements of defined benefit plans

    -        -        (149     (149     -        (583     (583

Income tax relating to items that will not be reclassified

 

   

 

1

 

  

 

   

 

-

 

  

 

   

 

37

 

  

 

   

 

38

 

  

 

   

 

-

 

  

 

   

 

179

 

  

 

   

 

179

 

  

 

Items that may be reclassified to profit or loss:

             

Gains / (losses) on revaluation of available-for-sale investments

    4,221        (45     -        4,176        3,113          3,113   

(Gains) / losses transferred to income statement on disposal and impairment of available-for-sale investments

    (465     -        -        (465     (513       (513

Changes in cash flow hedging reserve

    (92     6          (86     1,058          1,058   

Movement in foreign currency translation and net foreign investment hedging reserves

    (116     -        6        (110     409        (29     380   

Equity movements of joint ventures

    -        27        -        27        -       

Equity movements of associates

    22        -        -        22        (18       (18

Income tax relating to items that may be reclassified

    (1,064     13        -        (1,051     (1,167     1        (1,166

Other comprehensive income for the period

    (1     (1     -        (2     4                4   
Total other comprehensive income for the period     2,501        -        (106     2,395        2,889        (432     2,457   

Total comprehensive income

 

   

 

4,033

 

  

 

   

 

(32

 

 

   

 

(63

 

 

   

 

3,938

 

  

 

   

 

3,761

 

  

 

   

 

(417

 

 

   

 

3,344

 

  

 

Total comprehensive income attributable to:

             

Equity holders of Aegon N.V.

    4,034        (32     (63     3,939        3,758        (417     3,341   

Non-controlling interests

    (1     -        -        (1     3        -        3   

 

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134   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 2

 

Impact of changes in accounting policies on the consolidated statement of financial position

 

      December 31,
2012
(previously
reported)
   

Change in

accounting policy

    December 31,
2012
(restated)
    January 1,
2012
(previously
reported)
   

Change in
accounting policy

    January 1,
2012
(restated)
 
              IFRS 10/11     IAS 19                     IFRS 10/11     IAS 19          
Impact of changes in accounting policies on the consolidated statement of financial position                                                                

Assets

               

Intangible assets

    2,948        (463     -        2,485        3,285        (590     -        2,695   

Investments

    146,182        (1,213     -        144,969        144,079        (1,374     -        142,705   

Investments for account of policyholders

    153,670        (702     -        152,968        142,529        (866     -        141,663   

Derivatives

    21,154        (20       21,134        15,504        (26     -        15,478   

Investments in joint ventures

    -        1,568        -        1,568        -        1,224        -        1,224   

Investments in associates

    829        (58     -        771        742        (29     -        713   

Reinsurance assets

    11,987        (22     -        11,965        11,517        (7     -        11,510   

Defined benefit assets

    201        -        (179     22        303        -        (285     18   

Deferred tax assets

    33        60        -        93        89        229        -        318   

Deferred expenses

    11,687        (43     -        11,644        11,432        (38     -        11,394   

Other assets and receivables

    7,722        (99     -        7,623        7,792        271        -        8,063   

Cash and cash equivalents

    9,653        (63     -        9,590        8,104        (109     -        7,995   

Total assets

 

   

 

366,066

 

  

 

   

 

(1,055

 

 

   

 

(179

 

 

   

 

364,832

 

  

 

   

 

345,376

 

  

 

   

 

(1,315

 

 

   

 

(285

 

 

   

 

343,776

 

  

 

Equity and liabilities

               

Shareholders’ equity

    24,630        (154     (1,027     23,449        21,000        (122     (964     19,914   

Other equity instruments

    5,018        -        -        5,018        4,720        -        -        4,720   

Issued capital and reserves attributable to

equity holders of Aegon N.V.

 

   

 

29,648

 

  

 

   

 

(154

 

 

   

 

(1,027

 

 

   

 

28,467

 

  

 

   

 

25,720

 

  

 

   

 

(122

 

 

   

 

(964

 

 

   

 

24,634

 

  

 

Non-controlling interests

    13        -        -        13        14        -        -        14   
Group equity     29,661        (154     (1,027     28,480        25,734        (122     (964     24,648   

Trust pass-through securities

    155        -        -        155        159        -        -        159   

Subordinated borrowings

    61        (19     -        42        18        (18     -        -   

Insurance contracts

    105,209        (1,205     -        104,004        104,974        (1,452     -        103,522   

Insurance contracts for account of policyholders

    76,871        (702     -        76,169        73,425        (866     -        72,559   

Investment contracts

    17,768        (1     -        17,767        20,847        (1     -        20,846   

Investment contracts for account of policyholders

    78,418        -        -        78,418        71,433        -        -        71,433   

Derivatives

    17,848        204        -        18,052        12,728        172        -        12,900   

Borrowings

    12,758        984        -        13,742        10,141        1,075        -        11,216   

Provisions

    331        (1     -        330        444        -        -        444   

Defined benefit liabilities

    2,222        -        1,328        3,550        2,184        -        1,147        3,331   

Deferred revenue liabilities

    106        (2     -        104        104        (1     -        103   

Deferred tax liabilities

    3,609        (33     (480     3,096        2,499        (27     (468     2,004   

Other liabilities

    20,716        (122     -        20,594        19,501        (70     -        19,431   

Accruals

    333        (4     -        329        1,185        (5     -        1,180   

Total liabilities

 

   

 

336,405

 

  

 

   

 

(901

 

 

   

 

848

 

  

 

   

 

336,352

 

  

 

   

 

319,642

 

  

 

   

 

(1,193

 

 

   

 

679

 

  

 

   

 

319,128

 

  

 

Total equity and liabilities     366,066        (1,055     (179     364,832        345,376        (1,315     (285     343,776   

 

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Impact of changes in accounting policies on the consolidated statement of changes in equity

 

      December 31,
2012
(previously
reported)
   

Change in
accounting policy

    December 31,
2012
(restated)
    December 31,
2011
(previously
reported)
   

Change in
accounting policy

    December 31,
2011
(restated)
 
              IFRS 10/11     IAS 19                     IFRS 10/11     IAS 19          
Impact of changes in accounting policies on the statement of changes in equity                                                                

Share capital

    9,099        -        -        9,099        9,097        -        -        9,097   

Retained earnings

    10,504        (155     58        10,407        9,403        -        15        9,418   

Revaluation reserves

    6,082        (9     -        6,073        3,464        -        -        3,464   

Remeasurement of defined benefit plans

    -        -        (1,085     (1,085     -        -        (979     (979

Other reserves

    (1,055     10        -        (1,045     (964     -        -        (964
Shareholders’ equity     24,630        (154     (1,027     23,449        21,000        -        (964     20,036   

 

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136   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 2

 

Impact of changes in accounting policies on the consolidated cash flow statement

 

      2012
(previously
reported)
   

Change in
accounting policy

    2012
(restated)
    2011
(previously
reported)
    Change in
accounting
policy
     2011
(restated)
 
              IFRS 10/11     IAS 19                     IAS 19           
Impact of changes in accounting policies onthe consolidated cash flow statement               

Income / (loss) before tax

    1,852        (51     65        1,866        916        22         938   

Results from financial transactions

    (12,903     -        -        (12,903     187        -         187   

Amortization and depreciation

    1,439        (22     -        1,417        1,651        -         1,651   

Impairment losses

    206        (8     -        198        483        -         483   

Income from joint ventures

    -        13        -        13        -        -         -   

Income from associates

    (26     -        -        (26     (29     -         (29

Release of cash flow hedging reserve

    (62     -        -        (62     (18     -         (18

Other

    (139     (36     (149     (324     (138     (583      (721

Adjustments of non-cash items

    (11,485     (53     (149     (11,687     2,136        (583      1,553   

Insurance and investment liabilities

    (3,224     (3     -        (3,227     (4,940     -         (4,940

Insurance and investment liabilities for account of policyholders

    11,042        (241     -        10,801        (154     -         (154

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

    536        (70     84        550        (421     561         140   

Accrued income and prepayments

    (1,743     12        -        (1,731     (1,460     -         (1,460

Changes in accruals

    6,611        (302     84        6,393        (6,975     561         (6,414

Purchase of investments (other than money market investments)

    (32,464     446        -        (32,018     (29,612     -         (29,612

Purchase of derivatives

    (1,528     -        -        (1,528     (1,350     -         (1,350

Disposal of investments (other than money market investments)

    34,050        (308     -        33,742        34,924        -         34,924   

Disposal of derivatives

    507        -        -        507        1,599        -         1,599   

Net purchase of investments for account of policyholders

    960        237        -        1,197        (1,577     -         (1,577

Net change in cash collateral

    (179     2        -        (177     2,180        -         2,180   

Net purchase of money market investments

    552        4        -        556        445        -         445   

Cash flow movements on operating items not reflected inincome

    1,898        381        -        2,279        6,609        -         6,609   

Tax paid

    105        28        -        133        (375     -         (375

Other

    53        (34     -        19        (45     -         (45
Net cash flows from operating activities     (966     (31     -        (997     2,266        -         2,266   

Purchase of individual intangible assets (other than VOBA andfuture servicing rights)

    (38     2        -        (36     (18     -         (18

Purchase of equipment and real estate for own use

    (65     2        -        (63     (72     -         (72

Acquisition of subsidiaries and associates, net of cash

    (126     103        -        (23     (99     -         (99

Disposal of intangible asset

    1        (1     -        -        1        -         1   

Disposal of equipment

    10        -        -        10        18        -         18   

Disposal of subsidiaries and associates, net of cash

    286        (10     -        276        823        -         823   

Dividend received from associates

    2        70        -        72        3        -         3   

Other

    1        -        -        1        (3     -         (3
Net cash flows from investing activities     71        166        -        237        653        -         653   

Issuance of share capital

    2        -        -        2        913        -         913   

Issuance of non-cumulative subordinated notes

    271        -        -        271        -        -         -   

Proceeds from TRUPS, subordinated loans and borrowings

    6,693        (240     -        6,453        5,627        -         5,627   

Repurchase of convertible core capital securities

    -        -        -        -        (1,500     -         (1,500

Repayment of TRUPS, subordinated loans and borrowings

    (3,886     149        -        (3,737     (4,342     -         (4,342

Dividends paid

    (207     -        -        (207     (59     -         (59

Coupons and premium on convertible core capital securities

    -        -        -        -        (750     -         (750

Coupons on perpetual securities

    (230     -        -        (230     (237     -         (237

Coupons on non-cumulative subordinated notes

    (30     -        -        (30     -        -         -   

Other

    (11     -        -        (11     (26     -         (26
Net cash flows from financing activities     2,602        (91     -        2,511        (374     -         (374
Net increase / (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents     1,707        44        -        1,751        2,545        -         2,545   

Net cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year

    7,826        (109     -        7,717        5,174        -         5,174   

Effects of changes in exchange rate

    27        2        -        29        107        -         107   
Net cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year     9,560        (63     -        9,497        7,826        -         7,826   

Cash and cash equivalents

    9,653        (63     -        9,590        8,104        -         8,104   

Bank overdrafts

    (93     -        -        (93     (278     -         (278
Net cash and cash equivalents     9,560        (63     -        9,497        7,826        -         7,826   

 

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2.1.3 Future adoption of new IFRS accounting standards

The following standards, amendments to existing standards and interpretations, published prior to January 1, 2014, were not early adopted by the Group, but will be applied in future years:

  ¿   IFRS 9 Financial Instruments*;
  ¿   IAS 36 Impairment of Assets – Recoverable Amounts Disclosures for Non-Financial Assets; and
  ¿   IAS 39 Novation of Derivatives and Continuation of Hedge Accounting.
  * Not yet endorsed by the European Union.

IFRS 9 Financial Instruments

The IFRS 9 project is to replace IAS 39 with a new standard. The project is divided into the following components: Classification and Measurement of Financial Instruments, Impairment and Hedge Accounting. The IASB recently has decided tentatively to defer the mandatory effective date to January 1, 2018. In addition, the IASB decided to reopen IFRS 9 in order to consider interaction with the insurance project as well as the US FASB’s classification and measurement model for financial instruments. For the Impairment component, the IASB issued an exposure draft proposing the recognition and measurement of a credit loss allowance or provision based on expected losses rather than incurred losses. On November 19, 2013, the IASB issued a new version of Hedge Accounting, which includes the new hedge accounting requirements. Macro hedging is decoupled from the hedge accounting component in order to avoid impact on the effective date or timing of the completion of the IFRS 9 project. IFRS 9 is expected to have a significant impact on the Group’s financial statements because it will likely result in a reclassification and remeasurement of Aegon’s financial assets. However, the full impact of IFRS 9 will only be clear after the remaining stages of the IASB’s project on IFRS 9 are completed and issued.

IAS 36 Impairment of Assets – Recoverable Amounts Disclosures for Non-Financial Assets

The IASB has issued amendments to IAS 36, “Impairment of Assets” relating to disclosures in respect of fair value less costs of disposal. The IASB has made changes to three disclosure requirements, including the requirement to add information about the fair value measurement of impaired assets when the recoverable amount is based on fair value less costs of disposal. The amendments are effective per January 1, 2014, with earlier application permitted. The amendment affects disclosure only and has therefore no impact on Aegon’s financial position or performance.

IAS 39 Novation of Derivatives and Continuation of Hedge Accounting

IASB made a narrow-scope amendment to IAS 39 to permit the continuation of hedge accounting in certain circumstances in which the counterparty to a hedging instrument changes in order to achieve clearing for that instrument. The amendment is to be applied retrospectively with effective date January 1, 2014. Aegon expects that the amendment does not result in any changes to the classification, measurement or presentation of any items in the financial statements.

The following amendments to the existing standard and interpretation, published prior to January 1, 2014, which are not yet effective for or early adopted by the Group, will not significantly impact the financial position or financial statements:

  ¿   IFRS 10 Consolidated Financial Statements – Amendment Investment Entities;
  ¿   IFRS 14 Regulatory Deferral Accounts*;
  ¿   IAS 19 Employee Benefits – Amendment Employee Contributions*;
  ¿   IAS 32 Financial Instruments: Presentation – Amendment Offsetting Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities;
  ¿   Annual improvements 2010-2012 Cycle*;
  ¿   Annual improvements 2011-2013 Cycle*; and
  ¿   IFRIC 21 – Levies*.
  * Not yet endorsed by the European Union.

2.2 Basis of consolidation

a. Subsidiaries

Changes in accounting policies

Aegon adopted IFRS 10, “Consolidated Financial Statements” on January 1, 2013. Aegon also adopted IFRS 11, “Joint Arrangements”, IFRS 12, “Disclosure of Interests in Other Entities”, and consequential amendments to IAS 28, “Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures” and IAS 27, “Separate Financial Statements”, at the same time. Aegon’s accounting policy for consolidation, as set out below, reflects the changes under IFRS 10 for the control definition.

Aegon has applied the new policy for consolidated financial statements on or after January 1, 2012. In accordance with the transitional provisions of IFRS 10, if control in a former subsidiary was lost before January 1, 2013, Aegon has not restated the carrying amount of

 

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138   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 2

 

those investments. The effect of the change in accounting policies on the financial position, comprehensive income and the cash flows of Aegon at January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2012 are summarized together with the impact of IFRS 11 in note 2.1.2. In accordance with the transitional provisions of IFRS 10, comparative numbers of 2011 are not restated.

The consolidated financial statements include the financial statements of Aegon N.V. and its subsidiaries. Subsidiaries (including consolidated structured entities) are entities over which Aegon has control. Aegon controls an entity when Aegon is exposed, or has rights, to variable returns from its involvement with the entity and has the ability to affect those returns through its power over the entity. The assessment of control is based on the substance of the relationship between the Group and the entity and, among other things, considers existing and potential voting rights that are substantive. For a right to be substantive, the holder must have the practical ability to exercise that right.

The subsidiary’s assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities are measured at fair value on the acquisition date and are subsequently accounted for in accordance with the Group’s accounting policies, which is consistent with IFRS. Intra-group transactions, including Aegon N.V. shares held by subsidiaries, which are recognized as treasury shares in equity, are eliminated. Intra-group losses are eliminated, except to the extent that the underlying asset is impaired. Non-controlling interests are initially stated at their share in the fair value of the net assets on the acquisition date and subsequently adjusted for the non-controlling share in changes in the subsidiary’s equity.

The excess of the consideration paid to acquire the interest and the fair value of any interest already owned, over the Group’s share in the net fair value of assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities acquired is recognized as goodwill. Negative goodwill is recognized directly in the income statement. If the fair value of the assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities acquired in the business combination has been determined provisionally, adjustments to these values resulting from the emergence of new evidence within twelve months after the acquisition date are made against goodwill. Contingent consideration is discounted and the unwinding is recognized in the income statement as an interest expense. Any changes in the estimated value of contingent consideration given in a business combination prior to the adoption of IFRS 3 (as revised in 2008) are recognized as goodwill. Any changes in the estimated value of contingent consideration given in a business combination after the adoption of IFRS 3 (as revised in 2008) are recognized in the income statement.

The identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities are stated at fair value when control is obtained.

Subsidiaries are deconsolidated when control ceases to exist. Any difference between the net proceeds plus the fair value of any retained interest and the carrying amount of the subsidiary including non-controlling interests is recognized in the income statement.

Transactions with non-controlling interests

Transactions with non-controlling interests are accounted for as transactions with equity holders. Therefore disposals to non-controlling interests and acquisitions from non-controlling interests, not resulting in losing or gaining control of the subsidiary are recorded in other comprehensive income. Any difference between consideration paid or received and the proportionate share in net assets is accounted for in equity attributable to shareholders of Aegon N.V.

Investment funds

Investment funds managed by the Group in which the Group holds an interest are consolidated in the financial statements if the Group has power over that investment fund and it is exposed, or has rights, to variable returns from its involvement with the investee and has the ability to affect those returns through its power over the investee. The assessment of control is based on the substance of the relationship between the Group and the investment fund and, among other things, considers existing and potential voting rights that are currently exercisable and convertible. In assessing control, all interests held by the Group in the fund are considered, regardless of whether the financial risk related to the investment is borne by the Group or by the policyholders (unless the fund meets the definition of a silo or when, under strict facts and circumstances, a direct link between the policyholder and the fund can be assumed).

On consolidation of an investment fund, a liability is recognized to the extent that the Group is legally obliged to buy back participations held by third parties. The liability is presented in the consolidated financial statements as investment contracts for account of policyholders. Where this is not the case, other participations held by third parties are presented as non-controlling interests in equity. The assets allocated to participations held by third parties or by the Group on behalf of policyholders are presented in the consolidated financial statements as investments for account of policyholders.

 

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Equity instruments issued by the Group that are held by investment funds are eliminated on consolidation. However, the elimination is reflected in equity and not in the measurement of the related financial liabilities towards policyholders or other third parties.

b. Joint arrangements

In general, joint arrangements are contractual agreements whereby the Group undertakes with other parties an economic activity that is subject to joint control. Joint control exists when it is contractually agreed to share control of an economic activity. Joint control exists only when decisions about the relevant activities require the unanimous consent of the parties sharing control.

Changes in accounting policy

Aegon adopted IFRS 11—Joint arrangements, on January 1, 2013. This resulted in the Group changing its accounting policy for its interests in joint arrangements. Under IFRS 11 investments in joint arrangements are classified as either joint operations or joint ventures depending on the contractual rights and obligations each investor has rather than the legal structure of the joint arrangement. Aegon has assessed the nature of its joint arrangements and determined them to be joint ventures. The accounting policy for joint ventures will then be equity accounting and therefore joint ventures are no longer recognized using proportionate consolidated.

Prior to January 1, 2013, Aegon’s interests in joint ventures were recognized using proportionate consolidation, combining items on a line by line basis from the date the jointly controlled interest commences. Gains and losses on transactions between the Group and the joint venture were recognized to the extent that they were attributable to the interests of other ventures, with the exception of losses that were evidence of impairment and that were recognized immediately. The use of proportionate consolidation was discontinued from the date on which the Group ceases to have joint control. The new policy for interests in joint ventures is included in note 2.10.

Aegon has applied the new policy for interests in joint ventures occurring on or after January 1, 2012, in accordance with the transitional provisions of IFRS 11. The Group recognized its investment in joint ventures at January 1, 2012, as the total of the carrying amounts of the assets and liabilities previously proportionately consolidated by the Group. This is the deemed cost of the Group’s investments in joint ventures for applying the equity method of accounting. In accordance with the transitional provisions of IFRS 11, comparative numbers of 2011 are not restated.

The effects of the change in accounting policies on the financial position, comprehensive income, the cash flows and statement of changes in equity of the group at January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2012 are included in note 2.1.2.

2.3 Foreign exchange translation

a. Translation of foreign currency transactions

The Group’s consolidated financial statements are presented in euros. Items included in the financial statements of individual group companies are recorded in their respective functional currency which is the currency of the primary economic environment in which each entity operates. Transactions in foreign currencies are initially recorded at the exchange rate prevailing at the date of the transaction.

At the balance sheet date, monetary assets and monetary liabilities in foreign currencies and own equity instruments in foreign currencies are translated to the functional currency at the closing rate of exchange prevailing on that date. Non-monetary items carried at cost are translated using the exchange rate at the date of the transaction, whilst assets carried at fair value are translated at the exchange rate when the fair value was determined.

Exchange differences on monetary items are recognized in the income statement when they arise, except when they are deferred in other comprehensive income as a result of a qualifying cash flow or net investment hedge. Exchange differences on non-monetary items carried at fair value are recognized in other comprehensive income or the income statement, consistently with other gains and losses on these items.

b. Translation of foreign currency operations

On consolidation, the financial statements of group entities with a foreign functional currency are translated to euro, the currency in which the consolidated financial statements are presented. Assets and liabilities are translated at the closing rates on the balance sheet date. Income, expenses and capital transactions (such as dividends) are translated at average exchange rates or at the prevailing rates on the transaction date, if more appropriate. Goodwill and fair value adjustments arising on the acquisition of a foreign entity are translated at the closing rates on the balance sheet date.

 

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140   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 2

 

The resulting exchange differences are recognized in the “foreign currency translation reserve”, which is part of shareholders’ equity. On disposal of a foreign entity the related cumulative exchange differences included in the reserve are recognized in the income statement.

2.4 Segment reporting

Aegon’s operating segments are based on the businesses as presented in internal reports that are regularly reviewed by the Executive Board which is regarded as the “chief operating decision maker”. The operating segments are:

  ¿   Aegon Americas: Covers business units in the United States, Canada, Mexico and Brazil, including any of the units’ activities located outside these countries.
  ¿   Aegon the Netherlands: Covers businesses operating in the Netherlands.
  ¿   Aegon United Kingdom: Covers businesses operating in the United Kingdom.
  ¿   New Markets: Covers businesses operating in Central & Eastern Europe, Asia, Spain and France as well as Aegon’s variable annuity activities in Europe and Aegon Asset Management.
  ¿   Holding and other activities: Includes financing, employee and other administrative expenses of holding companies.

The line item “Run-off businesses” includes earnings of certain business units where management has decided to exit the market and to run-off the existing block of business. Aegon believes that excluding the earnings of these blocks of businesses from underlying earnings enhances the comparability from period to period of Aegon’s key earnings measure, underlying earnings.

2.5 Offsetting of assets and liabilities

Financial assets and liabilities are offset in the statement of financial position when the Group has a legally enforceable right to offset and has the intention to settle the asset and liability on a net basis or simultaneously.

2.6 Intangible assets

a. Goodwill

Goodwill is recognized as an intangible asset for interests in subsidiaries and joint ventures acquired after January 1, 2004 and is measured as the positive difference between the acquisition cost and the Group’s interest in the net fair value of the entity’s identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities. Subsequently, goodwill is carried at cost less accumulated impairment charges. It is derecognized when the interest in the subsidiary or joint venture is disposed of.

b. Value of business acquired

When a portfolio of insurance contracts is acquired, whether directly from another insurance company or as part of a business combination, the difference between the fair value and the carrying amount of the insurance liabilities is recognized as value of business acquired (VOBA). The Group also recognizes VOBA when it acquires a portfolio of investment contracts with discretionary participation features.

VOBA is amortized over the useful life of the acquired contracts, based on either the expected future premiums or the expected gross profit margins. The amortization period and pattern are reviewed at each reporting date; any change in estimates is recorded in the income statement. For all products, VOBA, in conjunction with DPAC where appropriate, is assessed for recoverability at least annually on a country-by-country basis and the portion determined not to be recoverable is charged to the income statement. VOBA is considered in the liability adequacy test for each reporting period.

When unrealized gains or losses arise on available-for-sale assets, VOBA is adjusted to equal the effect that the realization of the gains or losses (through a sale or impairment) would have had on VOBA. The adjustment is recognized directly in shareholders’ equity. VOBA is derecognized when the related contracts are settled or disposed of.

c. Future servicing rights

On the acquisition of a portfolio of investment contracts without discretionary participation features under which Aegon will render investment management services, the present value of future servicing rights is recognized as an intangible asset. Future servicing rights can also be recognized on the sale of a loan portfolio or the acquisition of insurance agency activities.

The present value of the future servicing rights is amortized over the servicing period as the fees from services emerge and is subject to impairment testing. It is derecognized when the related contracts are settled or disposed of.

 

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d. Software and other intangible assets

Software and other intangible assets are recognized to the extent that the assets can be identified, are controlled by the Group, are expected to provide future economic benefits and can be measured reliably. The Group does not recognize internally generated intangible assets arising from research or internally generated goodwill, brands, customer lists and similar items.

Software and other intangible assets are carried at cost less accumulated depreciation and impairment losses. Depreciation of the asset is over its useful life as the future economic benefits emerge and is recognized in the income statement as an expense. The depreciation period and pattern are reviewed at each reporting date, with any changes recognized in the income statement.

An intangible asset is derecognized when it is disposed of or when no future economic benefits are expected from its use or disposal.

2.7 Investments

Investments comprise financial assets, excluding derivatives, as well as investments in real estate.

a. Financial assets, excluding derivatives

Financial assets are recognized on the trade date when the Group becomes a party to the contractual provisions of the instrument and are classified for accounting purposes depending on the characteristics of the instruments and the purpose for which they were purchased.

Classification

The following financial assets are measured at fair value through profit or loss: financial assets held for trading, financial assets managed on a fair value basis in accordance with the Group’s investment strategy and financial assets containing an embedded derivative that is not closely related and that cannot be reliably bifurcated. In addition, in certain instances the Group designates financial assets to this category when by doing so a potential accounting mismatch in the financial statements is eliminated or significantly reduced.

Financial assets with fixed or determinable payments that are not quoted in an active market and that the Group does not intend to sell in the near future or for which the holder may not recover substantially all of its initial investment, other than because of credit deterioration, are accounted for as loans. To the extent that the Group has the intention and ability to hold a quoted financial asset with fixed payments to the maturity date, it is classified as held-to-maturity.

All remaining non-derivative financial assets are classified as available-for-sale.

Measurement

Financial assets are initially recognized at fair value excluding interest accrued to date plus, in the case of a financial asset not at fair value through profit or loss, any directly attributable incremental transaction costs.

Loans and financial assets held-to-maturity are subsequently carried at amortized cost using the effective interest rate method. Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss are measured at fair value with all changes in fair value recognized in the income statement as incurred. Available-for-sale assets are recorded at fair value with unrealized changes in fair value recognized in other comprehensive income. Financial assets that are designated as hedged items are measured in accordance with the requirements for hedge accounting.

Amortized cost

The amortized cost of a debt instrument is the amount at which it is measured at initial recognition minus principal repayments, plus or minus the cumulative amortization of any difference between the initial amount and the maturity amount, and minus any reduction for impairment. The effective interest rate method is a method of calculating the amortized cost and of allocating the interest income or expense over the relevant period. The effective interest rate is the rate that exactly discounts estimated future cash payments or receipts through the expected life of the debt instrument or, when appropriate, a shorter period to the net carrying amount of the instrument. When calculating the effective interest rate, all contractual terms are considered. Possible future credit losses are not taken into account. Charges and interest paid or received between parties to the contract that are an integral part of the effective interest rate, transaction costs and all other premiums or discounts are included in the calculation.

 

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Fair value

The consolidated financial statements provide information on the fair value of all financial assets, including those carried at amortized cost where the values are provided in the notes to the financial statements.

Fair value is defined as the amount that would be received from the sale of an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date under current market conditions (i.e. an exit price at the measurement date from the perspective of a market participant that holds the asset or owes the liability). For quoted financial assets for which there is an active market, the fair value is the bid price at the balance sheet date. In the absence of an active market, fair value is estimated by using present value based or other valuation techniques. Where discounting techniques are applied, the discount rate is based on current market rates applicable to financial instruments with similar characteristics. The valuation techniques that include unobservable inputs can result in a different outcome than the actual transaction price at which the asset was acquired. Such differences are not recognized in the income statement immediately but are deferred. They are released over time to the income statement in line with the change in factors (including time) that market participants would consider in setting a price for the asset. Interest accrued to date is not included in the fair value of the financial asset.

Derecognition

A financial asset is derecognized when the contractual rights to the asset’s cash flows expire and when the Group retains the right to receive cash flows from the asset or has an obligation to pay received cash flows in full without delay to a third party and either: has transferred the asset and substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership, or has neither transferred nor retained all the risks and rewards but has transferred control of the asset. Financial assets of which the Group has neither transferred nor retained significantly all the risk and rewards are recognized to the extent of the Group’s continuing involvement. If significantly all risks are retained, the assets are not derecognized.

On derecognition, the difference between the disposal proceeds and the carrying amount is recognized in the income statement as a realized gain or loss. Any cumulative unrealized gain or loss previously recognized in the revaluation reserve in shareholders’ equity is also recognized in the income statement.

Security lending and repurchase agreements

Financial assets that are lent to a third party or that are transferred subject to a repurchase agreement at a fixed price are not derecognized as the Group retains substantially all the risks and rewards of the asset. A liability is recognized for cash (collateral) received, on which interest is accrued.

A security that has been received under a borrowing or reverse repurchase agreement is not recognized as an asset. A receivable is recognized for any related cash (collateral) paid by Aegon. The difference between sale and repurchase price is treated as investment income. If the Group subsequently sells that security, a liability to repurchase the asset is recognized and initially measured at fair value.

Collateral

With the exception of cash collateral, assets received as collateral are not separately recognized as an asset until the financial asset they secure defaults. When cash collateral is recognized, a liability is recorded for the same amount.

b. Real estate

Investments in real estate include property held to earn rentals or for capital appreciation, or both. Investments in real estate are presented as investments. Property that is occupied by the Group and that is not intended to be sold in the near future is classified as real estate held for own use and is presented in “Other assets and receivables”.

All property is initially recognized at cost. Such cost includes the cost of replacing part of the real estate and borrowing cost for long-term construction projects if recognition criteria are met. Subsequently, investments in real estate are measured at fair value with the changes in fair value recognized in the income statement. Real estate held for own use is carried at its revalued amount, which is the fair value at the date of revaluation less subsequent accumulated depreciation and impairment losses. Depreciation is calculated on a straight line basis over the useful life of a building. Land is not depreciated. On revaluation the accumulated depreciation is eliminated against the gross carrying amount of the asset and the net amount is restated to the revalued amount. Increases in the net carrying amount are recognized in the related revaluation reserve in shareholders’ equity and are released to other comprehensive income over the remaining useful life of the property.

 

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On disposal of an asset, the difference between the net proceeds received and the carrying amount is recognized in the income statement. Any remaining surplus attributable to real estate in own use in the revaluation reserve is transferred to retained earnings.

Property under construction

The Group develops property itself with the intention to hold it as investments in real estate. During the construction phase both the land and the building are presented as investments in real estate and carried at fair value unless this cannot be determined reliably in which case the real estate is valued at directly attributable costs, including borrowing costs. All fair value gains or losses are recognized in the income statement.

Maintenance costs and other subsequent expenditure

Expenditure incurred after initial recognition of the asset is capitalized to the extent that the level of future economic benefits of the asset is increased. Costs that restore or maintain the level of future economic benefits are recognized in the income statement as incurred.

2.8 Investments for account of policyholders

Investments held for account of policyholders consist of investments in financial assets, excluding derivatives, as well as investments in real estate. Investment return on these assets is passed on to the policyholder. Also included are the assets held by consolidated investment funds that are backing liabilities towards third parties. Investments for account of policyholders are valued at fair value through profit or loss.

2.9 Derivatives

a. Definition

Derivatives are financial instruments, classified as held for trading financial assets or financial liabilities, of which the value changes in response to an underlying variable, that require little or no net initial investment and are settled at a future date.

Assets and liabilities may include derivative-like terms and conditions. With the exception of features embedded in contracts held at fair value through profit or loss, embedded derivatives that are not considered closely related to the host contract are bifurcated, carried at fair value and presented as derivatives. In assessing whether a derivative-like feature is closely related to the contract in which it is embedded, the Group considers the similarity of the characteristics of the embedded derivative and the host contract. Embedded derivatives that transfer significant insurance risk are accounted for as insurance contracts.

Derivatives with positive values are reported as assets and derivatives with negative values are reported as liabilities. Derivatives for which the contractual obligation can only be settled by exchanging a fixed amount of cash for a fixed amount of Aegon N.V. equity instruments are accounted for in shareholders’ equity .

b. Measurement

All derivatives recognized on the statement of financial position are carried at fair value.

The fair value is calculated net of the interest accrued to date and is based on market prices, when available. When market prices are not available, other valuation techniques, such as option pricing or stochastic modeling, are applied. The valuation techniques incorporate all factors that market participants would consider and are based on observable market data, to the extent possible.

c. Hedge accounting

As part of its asset liability management, the Group enters into economic hedges to limit its risk exposure. These transactions are assessed to determine whether hedge accounting can and should be applied.

To qualify for hedge accounting, the hedge relationship is designated and formally documented at inception, detailing the particular risk management objective and strategy for the hedge (which includes the item and risk that is being hedged), the derivative that is being used and how hedge effectiveness is being assessed. A derivative has to be effective in accomplishing the objective of offsetting either changes in fair value or cash flows for the risk being hedged. The effectiveness of the hedging relationship is evaluated on a prospective and retrospective basis using qualitative and quantitative measures of correlation. Qualitative methods may include comparison of critical terms of the derivative to the hedged item. Quantitative methods include a comparison of the changes in the fair value or discounted cash flow of the hedging instrument to the hedged item. A hedging relationship is considered effective if the results of the hedging instrument are within a ratio of 80% to 125% of the result of the hedged item.

 

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For hedge accounting purposes, a distinction is made between fair value hedges, cash flow hedges and hedges of a net investment in a foreign operation.

Fair value hedges

Changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated and qualify as fair value hedges are recognized in the profit and loss account, together with fair value adjustments to the hedged item attributable to the hedged risk. If the hedge relationship no longer meets the criteria for hedge accounting, the cumulative adjustment of the hedged item is, in the case of interest bearing instruments, amortized through the profit and loss account over the remaining term of the original hedge or recognized directly when the hedged item is derecognized.

Cash flow hedges

Cash flow hedges are hedges of the exposure to variability in cash flows that is attributable to a particular risk of a forecasted transaction or a recognized asset or liability and could affect profit or loss. To the extent that the hedge is effective, the change in the fair value of the derivative is recognized in the related revaluation reserve in shareholders’ equity. Any ineffectiveness is recognized directly in the income statement. The amount recorded in shareholders’ equity is released to the income statement to coincide with the hedged transaction, except when the hedged transaction is an acquisition of a non-financial asset or liability. In this case, the amount in shareholders’ equity is included in the initial cost of the asset or liability.

Net investment hedges

Net investment hedges are hedges of currency exposures on a net investment in a foreign operation. To the extent that the hedge is effective, the change in the fair value of the hedging instrument is recognized in shareholders’ equity. Any ineffectiveness is recognized in the income statement. The amount in shareholders’ equity is released to the income statement when the foreign operation is disposed of.

Hedge accounting is discontinued prospectively for hedges that are no longer considered effective. When hedge accounting is discontinued for a fair value hedge, the derivative continues to be carried on the statement of financial position with changes in its fair value recognized in the income statement. When hedge accounting is discontinued for a cash flow hedge because the cash flow is no longer expected to occur, the accumulated gain or loss in shareholders’ equity is recognized immediately in the income statement. In other situations where hedge accounting is discontinued for a cash flow hedge, including those where the derivative is sold, terminated or exercised, accumulated gains or losses in shareholders’ equity are amortized into the income statement when the income statement is impacted by the variability of the cash flow from the hedged item.

2.10 Investments in joint ventures

Investments in joint arrangements are classified as either joint operations or joint ventures depending on the contractual rights and obligations each investor has rather than the legal structure of the joint arrangement. Joint control exists when it is contractually agreed to share control of an economic activity. This exists only when decisions about the relevant activities require the unanimous consent of the parties sharing control. Aegon has assessed the nature of its joint arrangements and determined them to be joint ventures. Joint ventures are accounted for using the equity method.

Under the equity method of accounting, interests in joint ventures are initially recognized at cost, which includes positive goodwill arising on acquisition. Negative goodwill is recognized in the income statement on the acquisition date. If joint ventures are obtained in successive share purchases, each significant transaction is accounted for separately.

The carrying amount is subsequently adjusted to reflect the change in the Group’s share in the net assets of the joint venture and is subject to impairment testing. The net assets are determined based on the Group’s accounting policies. Any gains and losses recorded in other comprehensive income by the joint venture are reflected in other reserves in shareholders’ equity, while the share in the joint ventures net income is recognized as a separate line item in the consolidated income statement. The Group’s share in losses is recognized until the investment in the joint ventures’ equity and any other long-term interest that are part of the net investment are reduced to nil, unless guarantees exist.

Gains and losses on transactions between the Group and the joint ventures are eliminated to the extent of the Group’s interest in the entity, with the exception of losses that are evidence of impairment which are recognized immediately. Own equity instruments of Aegon N.V. that are held by the joint venture are not eliminated.

 

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On disposal of an interest in a joint venture, the difference between the net proceeds and the carrying amount is recognized in the income statement and gains and losses previously recorded directly in the revaluation reserve are reversed and recorded through the income statement.

2.11 Investments in associates

Entities over which the Group has significant influence through power to participate in financial and operating policy decisions, but which do not meet the definition of a subsidiary, are accounted for using the equity method. Interests held by venture capital entities, mutual funds and investment funds that qualify as an associate are accounted for as an investment held at fair value through profit or loss. Interests held by the Group in venture capital entities, mutual funds and investment funds that are managed on a fair value basis, are also accounted for as investments held at fair value through profit or loss.

Interests in associates are initially recognized at cost, which includes positive goodwill arising on acquisition. Negative goodwill is recognized in the income statement on the acquisition date. If associates are obtained in successive share purchases, each significant transaction is accounted for separately.

The carrying amount is subsequently adjusted to reflect the change in the Group’s share in the net assets of the associate and is subject to impairment testing. The net assets are determined based on the Group’s accounting policies. Any gains and losses recorded in other comprehensive income by the associate are reflected in other reserves in shareholders’ equity, while the share in the associate’s net income is recognized as a separate line item in the consolidated income statement. The Group’s share in losses is recognized until the investment in the associate’s equity and any other long-term interest that are part of the net investment are reduced to nil, unless guarantees exist.

Gains and losses on transactions between the Group and the associate are eliminated to the extent of the Groups interest in the entity, with the exception of losses that are evidence of impairment which are recognized immediately. Own equity instruments of Aegon N.V. that are held by the associate are not eliminated.

On disposal of an interest in an associate, the difference between the net proceeds and the carrying amount is recognized in the income statement and gains and losses previously recorded directly in the revaluation reserve are reversed and recorded through the income statement.

2.12 Reinsurance assets

Reinsurance contracts are contracts entered into by the Group in order to receive compensation for losses on contracts written by the Group (outgoing reinsurance). For contracts transferring sufficient insurance risk, a reinsurance asset is recognized for the expected future benefits, less expected future reinsurance premiums. Reinsurance contracts with insufficient insurance risk transfer are accounted for as investment or service contracts, depending on the nature of the agreement.

Reinsurance assets are measured consistently with the amounts associated with the underlying insurance contracts and in accordance with the terms of each reinsurance contract. They are subject to impairment testing and are derecognized when the contractual rights are extinguished or expire or when the contract is transferred to another party.

Aegon is not relieved of its legal liabilities when entering into reinsurance transactions, therefore the reserves relating to the underlying reinsured contracts will continue to be reported on the consolidated statement of financial position during the run-off period of the underlying business.

Reinsurance premiums are accounted for in the same way as the original contracts for which the reinsurance was concluded.

2.13 Deferred expenses

a. Deferred policy acquisition costs (‘DPAC’)

DPAC relates to all insurance contracts and investment contracts with discretionary participation features and represents mainly the variable costs that are related to the acquisition or renewal of these contracts.

Acquisition costs are deferred to the extent that they are recoverable and are subsequently amortized based on either the expected future premiums or the expected gross profit margins. For products sold in the United States and Canada with amortization based on expected gross profit margins, the amortization period and pattern are reviewed at each reporting date and any change in estimates is

 

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recognized in the income statement. Estimates include, but are not limited to: an economic perspective in terms of future returns on bond and equity instruments, mortality, disability and lapse assumptions, maintenance expenses and expected inflation rates.

For all products, DPAC, in conjunction with VOBA where appropriate, is assessed for recoverability at least annually on a country-by-country basis and is considered in the liability adequacy test for each reporting period. If appropriate, the assumptions included in the determination of estimated gross profits are adjusted. The portion of DPAC that is determined not to be recoverable is charged to the income statement.

For products sold in the United States or Canada, when unrealized gains or losses arise on available-for-sale assets, DPAC is adjusted to equal the effect that the realization of the gains or losses (through sale or impairment) would have had on its measurement. This is recognized directly in the related revaluation reserve in shareholders’ equity.

DPAC is derecognized when the related contracts are settled or disposed off.

b. Deferred cost of reinsurance

A deferred cost of reinsurance is established when Aegon enters into a reinsurance transaction. Aegon is not relieved of its legal liabilities, so the reserves relating to the underlying reinsured contracts will continue to be reported on the consolidated statement of financial position during the run-off period of the underlying business.

Gains or losses on buying reinsurance are amortized based on the assumptions of the underlying reinsured contracts. The amortization is recognized in the income statement.

c. Deferred transaction costs

Deferred transaction costs relate to investment contracts without discretionary participation features under which Aegon will render investment management services. Incremental costs that are directly attributable to securing these investment management contracts are recognized as an asset if they can be identified separately and measured reliably and if it is probable that they will be recovered.

For contracts involving both the origination of a financial liability and the provision of investment management services, only the transaction costs allocated to the servicing component are deferred. The other transaction costs are included in the carrying amount of the financial liability.

The deferred transaction costs are amortized in line with fee income, unless there is evidence that another method better represents the provision of services under the contract. The amortization is recognized in the income statement. Deferred transaction costs are subject to impairment testing at least annually.

Deferred transaction costs are derecognized when the related contracts are settled or disposed off.

2.14 Other assets and receivables

Other assets include trade and other receivables, prepaid expenses, equipment and real estate held for own use. Trade and other receivables are initially recognized at fair value and are subsequently measured at amortized cost. Equipment is initially carried at cost, depreciated on a straight line basis over its useful life to its residual value and is subject to impairment testing. The accounting for real estate held for own use is described in note 2.7.

2.15 Cash and cash equivalents

Cash comprises cash at banks and in-hand. Cash equivalents are short-term, highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less that are readily convertible to known cash amounts, are subject to insignificant risks of changes in value and are held for the purpose of meeting short-term cash requirements. Money market investments that are held for investment purposes (backing insurance liabilities, investment liabilities or equity based on asset liability management considerations) are not included in cash and cash equivalents but are presented as investment or investment for account of policyholders.

2.16 Impairment of assets

An asset is impaired if the carrying amount exceeds the amount that would be recovered through its use or sale. For tangible and intangible assets, financial assets and reinsurance assets, if not held at fair value through profit or loss, the recoverable amount of the asset is estimated when there are indications that the asset may be impaired. Irrespective of the indications, goodwill and other intangible assets with an indefinite useful life that are not amortized, are tested at least annually.

 

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a. Impairment of non-financial assets

Assets are tested individually for impairment when there are indications that the asset may be impaired. For goodwill and intangible assets with an undefined life, an impairment test is performed at least once a year. The impairment loss is calculated as the difference between the carrying and the recoverable amount of the asset, which is the higher of an asset’s value in use and its net selling price. The value in use represents the discounted future net cash flows from the continuing use and ultimate disposal of the asset and reflects its known inherent risks and uncertainties.

Impairment losses are charged to shareholders’ equity to the extent that they offset a previously recorded revaluation reserve relating to the same item. Any further losses are recognized directly in the income statement.

With the exception of goodwill, impairment losses are reversed when there is evidence that there has been a change in the estimates used to determine the asset’s recoverable amount since the recognition of the last impairment loss. The reversal is recognized in the income statement to the extent that it reverses impairment losses previously recognized in the income statement. The carrying amount after reversal cannot exceed the amount that would have been recognized had no impairment taken place.

Non-financial assets that only generate cash flows in combination with other assets and liabilities are tested for impairment at the level of the cash-generating unit. The goodwill acquired in a business combination, for the purpose of impairment testing, is allocated to cash-generating units, or groups of cash-generating units, that are expected to benefit from the synergies of the combination. The allocation is based on the level at which goodwill is monitored internally and cannot be larger than an operating segment. When impairing a cash-generating unit, any goodwill allocated to the unit is first written-off and recognized in the income statement. The remaining impairment loss is allocated on a pro rata basis among the other assets, on condition that the resulting carrying amounts do not fall below the individual assets’ recoverable amounts.

b. Impairment of debt instruments

Debt instruments are impaired if there is objective evidence that a credit event has occurred after the initial recognition of the asset that has a negative impact on the estimated future cash flows. A specific security is considered to be impaired when it is determined that it is probable that not all amounts due (both principal and interest) will be collected as scheduled. Individually significant loans and other receivables are first assessed separately. All non-impaired assets measured at amortized cost are then grouped by credit risk characteristics and collectively tested for impairment.

For debt instruments carried at amortized cost, the carrying amount of impaired financial assets is reduced through an allowance account. The impairment loss is calculated as the difference between the carrying and recoverable amount of the investment. The recoverable amount is determined by discounting the estimated probable future cash flows at the original effective interest rate of the asset. For variable interest debt instruments, the current effective interest rate under the contract is applied.

For debt instruments classified as available-for-sale, the asset is impaired to its fair value. Any unrealized loss previously recognized in other comprehensive income is taken to the income statement in the impairment loss. After impairment the interest accretion on debt instruments that are classified as available-for-sale is based on the rate of return that would be required by the market for similar rated instruments at the date of impairment.

Impairment losses recognized for debt instruments can be reversed if in subsequent periods the amount of the impairment loss decreases and that decrease can be objectively related to a credit event occurring after the impairment was recognized. For debt instruments carried at amortized cost, the carrying amount after reversal cannot exceed what the amortized cost would have been at the reversal date, had the impairment not been recognized.

c. Impairment of equity instruments

For equity instruments, a significant or prolonged decline in fair value below initial cost is considered objective evidence of impairment and always results in a loss being recognized in the income statement. Significant or prolonged decline is defined as an unrealized loss position for generally more than six months or a fair value of less than 80% of the cost price of the investment. Equity investments are impaired to the asset’s fair value and any unrealized gain or loss previously recognized in shareholders’ equity is taken to the income statement as an impairment loss. The amount exceeding the balance of previously recognized unrealized gains or losses is recognized in the income statement.

Impairment losses on equity instruments cannot be reversed.

 

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d. Impairment of reinsurance assets

Reinsurance assets are impaired if there is objective evidence, as a result of an event that occurred after initial recognition of the reinsurance asset, that not all amounts due under the terms of the contract may be received. In such a case, the value of the reinsurance asset recoverable is determined based on the best estimate of future cash flows, taking into consideration the reinsurer’s current and expected future financial conditions plus any collateral held in trust for Aegon’s benefit. The carrying value is reduced to this calculated recoverable value, and the impairment loss recognized in the income statement.

2.17 Equity

Financial instruments that are issued by the Group are classified as equity if they represent a residual interest in the assets of the Group after deducting all of its liabilities and the Group has an unconditional right to avoid delivering cash or another financial asset to settle its contractual obligation. In addition to common shares, the Group has issued perpetual securities. Perpetual securities have no final maturity date, repayment is at the discretion of Aegon and for junior perpetual capital securities Aegon has the option to defer coupon payments at its discretion. The perpetual capital securities are classified as equity rather than debt, are measured at par and those that are denominated in US dollars are translated into euro using historical exchange rates.

Non-cumulative subordinated notes are identified as a compound instrument due to the nature of this financial instrument. For these non-cumulative subordinated notes, Aegon has an unconditional right to avoid delivering cash or another financial asset to settle the coupon payments. The redemption of the principal is however not at the discretion of Aegon and therefore Aegon has a contractual obligation to settle the redemption in cash or another financial asset or through the exchange of financial assets and liabilities at potentially unfavorable conditions for Aegon. Compound instruments are separated into liability components and equity components. The liability component for the non-cumulative subordinated notes is equal to the present value of the redemption amount and carried at amortized cost using the effective interest rate method. The unwinding of the discount of this component is recognized in the income statement. The liability component is derecognized when the Group’s obligation under the contract expires, is discharged or is cancelled. The equity component is assigned the residual amount after deducting the liability component from the fair value of the instrument as a whole. The equity component in US dollars is translated into euro using historical exchange rates.

Incremental external costs that are directly attributable to the issuing or buying back of own equity instruments are recognized in equity, net of tax. For compound instruments incremental external costs that are directly attributable to the issuing or buying back of the compound instruments are recognized proportionate to the equity component and liability component, net of tax.

Dividends and other distributions to holders of equity instruments are recognized directly in equity, net of tax. A liability for non-cumulative dividends payable is not recognized until the dividends have been declared and approved.

Treasury shares are shares issued by Aegon N.V. that are held by Aegon, one of its subsidiaries or by another entity controlled by Aegon. Treasury shares are deducted from Group equity, regardless of the objective of the transaction. No gain or loss is recognized in the income statement on the purchase, sale, issue or cancellation of the instruments. If sold, the difference between the carrying amount and the proceeds is reflected in retained earnings. The consideration paid or received is recognized directly in shareholders’ equity. All treasury shares are eliminated in the calculation of earnings per share and dividend per common share.

2.18 Trust pass-through securities, subordinated borrowings and other borrowings

A financial instrument issued by the Group is classified as a liability if the contractual obligation must be settled in cash or another financial asset or through the exchange of financial assets and liabilities at potentially unfavorable conditions for the Group.

Trust pass-through securities, subordinated borrowings and other borrowings are initially recognized at their fair value including directly attributable transaction costs and are subsequently carried at amortized cost using the effective interest rate method, with the exception of specific borrowings that are designated as at fair value through profit or loss to eliminate, or significantly reduce, an accounting mismatch, or specific borrowings which are carried as at fair value through profit or loss as they are managed and evaluated on a fair value basis. The liability is derecognized when the Group’s obligation under the contract expires, is discharged or is cancelled.

Subordinated borrowings include the liability component of non-cumulative subordinated notes. These notes are identified as a compound instrument due to the nature of this financial instrument. Compound instruments are separated into equity components and liability components. The liability component for the non-cumulative subordinated notes is related to the redemption amount. For further information on the accounting policy of the non-cumulative subordinated notes refer to note. 2.17.

 

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2.19 Insurance contracts

Insurance contracts are accounted for under IFRS 4 – Insurance Contracts. In accordance with this standard, Aegon continues to apply the existing accounting policies that were applied prior to the adoption of IFRS, with certain modifications allowed by IFRS 4 for standards effective subsequent to adoption. Aegon applies non-uniform accounting policies for insurance liabilities and related deferred policy acquisition costs and intangible assets to the extent that it was allowed under Dutch Accounting Principles. As a result, specific methodologies applied may differ between Aegon’s operations as they may reflect local regulatory requirements and local practices for specific product features in these local markets. At the time of IFRS adoption, Aegon was applying US GAAP for its United States operations whereas in the Netherlands and the United Kingdom, Aegon was applying Dutch Accounting Principles. Since adoption of IFRS, Aegon has considered new and amended standards in those GAAP’s which have become effective subsequent to the date of transition to IFRS.

Insurance contracts are contracts under which the Group accepts a significant risk – other than a financial risk – from a policyholder by agreeing to compensate the beneficiary on the occurrence of an uncertain future event by which he or she will be adversely affected. Contracts that do not meet this definition are accounted for as investment contracts. The Group reviews homogeneous books of contracts to assess whether the underlying contracts transfer significant insurance risk on an individual basis. This is considered the case when at least one scenario with commercial substance can be identified in which the Group has to pay significant additional benefits to the policyholder. Contracts that have been classified as insurance are not reclassified subsequently.

Insurance liabilities are recognized when the contract is entered into and the premiums are charged. The liability is derecognized when the contract expires, is discharged or is cancelled.

Insurance assets and liabilities are valued in accordance with the accounting principles that were applied by the Group prior to the transition to IFRS and with consideration of standards effective subsequent to the date of transition to IFRS, as further described in the following paragraphs. In order to reflect the specific nature of the products written, subsidiaries are allowed to apply local accounting principles to the measurement of insurance contracts. All valuation methods used by the subsidiaries are based on the general principle that the carrying amount of the net liability must be sufficient to meet any reasonably foreseeable obligation resulting from the insurance contracts.

Included under insurance contracts are interest rate rebates. Interest rate rebate is a form of profit sharing whereby the Group determines the premium based on the expected interest that will be earned on the contract. The expected interest is calculated with reference to a portfolio of government bonds. Interest rate rebates that are expected to be recovered in future periods are deferred and amortized as the interest is realized. The amortization is recognized in Aegon’s income statement. They are considered in the liability adequacy test for insurance liabilities. Deferred interest rebates are derecognized when the related contracts are settled or disposed off.

a. Life insurance contracts

Life insurance contracts are insurance contracts with guaranteed life-contingent benefits. The measurement of the liability for life insurance contracts varies depending on the nature of the product.

Some products, such as traditional life insurance products in continental Europe and products in the United States, for which account terms are fixed and guaranteed, are measured using the net premium method. The liability is determined as the sum of the discounted value of the expected benefits and future administration expenses directly related to the contract, less the discounted value of the expected theoretical premiums that would be required to meet the future cash outflows based on the valuation assumptions used. The liability is either based on current assumptions or calculated using the assumptions established at the time the contract was issued, in which case a margin for risk and adverse deviation is generally included. A separate reserve for longevity may be established and included in the measurement of the liability. Furthermore, the liability for life insurance comprises reserves for unearned premiums and accrued annuity benefits payable.

Other products with account terms that are not fixed or guaranteed are generally measured at the policyholder’s account balance. Depending on local accounting principles, the liability may include amounts for future services on contracts where the policy administration charges are higher in the initial years than in subsequent years. In establishing the liability, guaranteed minimum benefits issued to the policyholder are measured as described in note 2.19 c or, if bifurcated from the host contract, as described in note 2.9.

One insurance product in the United States is carried at fair value through profit or loss as it contains an embedded derivative that could not be reliably bifurcated. The fair value of the contract is measured using market consistent valuation techniques.

 

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b. Life insurance contracts for account of policyholders

Life insurance contracts under which the policyholder bears the risks associated with the underlying investments are classified as insurance contracts for account of policyholders.

The liability for the insurance contracts for account of policyholders is measured at the policyholder account balance. Contracts with unit-denominated payments are measured at current unit values, which reflect the fair values of the assets of the fund. If applicable, the liability representing the nominal value of the policyholder unit account is amortized over the term of the contract so that interest on actuarial funding is at an expected rate of return.

c. Embedded derivatives and participation features

Life insurance contracts typically include derivative-like terms and conditions. With the exception of policyholder options to surrender the contract at a fixed amount, contractual features that are not closely related to the insurance contract and that do not themselves meet the definition of insurance contracts are accounted for as derivatives.

Other terms and conditions, such as participation features and expected lapse rates, are considered when establishing the insurance liabilities. Where the Group has discretion over the amount or timing of the bonuses distributed resulting from participation features, a liability is recognized equal to the amount that is available at the balance sheet date for future distribution to policyholders.

Guaranteed minimum benefits

The Group issues life insurance contracts, which do not expose the Group to interest rate risk as the account terms are not fixed or guaranteed or because the return on the investments held is passed on to the policyholder. Some of these contracts, however, may contain guaranteed minimum benefits. Bifurcated guaranteed minimum benefits are classified as derivatives.

In the United States, the additional liability for guaranteed minimum benefits that are not bifurcated is determined each period by estimating the expected value of benefits in excess of the projected account balance and recognizing the excess over the accumulation period based on total expected assessments. The estimates are reviewed regularly and any resulting adjustment to the additional liability is recognized in the income statement. The benefits used in calculating the liabilities are based on the average benefits payable over a range of stochastic scenarios. Where applicable, the calculation of the liability incorporates a percentage of the potential annuitizations that may be elected by the contract holder.

In the Netherlands, an additional liability is established for guaranteed minimum benefits that are not bifurcated on group pension plans with profit sharing and on traditional insurance contracts with profit sharing based on an external interest index. These guarantees are measured at fair value.

d. Shadow accounting

Shadow accounting ensures that all gains and losses on investments affect the measurement of the insurance assets and liabilities in the same way, regardless of whether they are realized or unrealized and regardless of whether the unrealized gains and losses are recognized in the income statement or directly in equity in the revaluation reserve. In some instances, realized gains or losses on investments have a direct effect on the measurement of the insurance assets and liabilities. For example, some insurance contracts include benefits that are contractually based on the investment returns realized by the insurer. In addition, realization of gains or losses on available-for-sale investments can lead to unlocking of VOBA or DPAC and can also affect the outcome of the liability adequacy test to the extent that it considers actual future investment returns. For similar changes in unrealized gains and losses, shadow accounting is applied. If an unrealized gain or loss triggers a shadow accounting adjustment to VOBA, DPAC or the insurance liabilities, the corresponding adjustment is recognized through other comprehensive income in the revaluation reserve, together with the unrealized gain or loss.

Some profit sharing schemes issued by the Group entitle the policyholder to a bonus which is based on the actual total return on specific assets held. To the extent that the bonus relates to gains or losses on available-for-sale investments for which the unrealized gains or losses are recognized in the revaluation reserve in equity, shadow accounting is applied. This means that the increase in the liability is also charged to equity to offset the unrealized gains rather than to the income statement.

e. Non-life insurance contracts

Non-life insurance contracts are insurance contracts where the insured event is not life-contingent. For non-life products the insurance liability generally includes reserves for unearned premiums, unexpired risk, inadequate premium levels and outstanding claims and benefits. No catastrophe or equalization reserves are included in the measurement of the liability.

 

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The reserve for unearned premiums includes premiums received for risks that have not yet expired. Generally, the reserve is released over the coverage period of the premium and is recognized as premium income.

The liability for outstanding claims and benefits is established for claims that have not been settled and any related cash flows, such as claims handling costs. It includes claims that have been incurred but have not been reported to the Group. The liability is calculated at the reporting date using statistical methods based on empirical data and current assumptions that may include a margin for adverse deviation. Liabilities for claims subject to periodic payment are calculated using actuarial methods consistent with those applied to life insurance contracts. Discounting is applied if allowed by the local accounting principles used to measure the insurance liabilities. Discounting of liabilities is generally applied when there is a high level of certainty concerning the amount and settlement term of the cash outflows.

f. Liability adequacy testing

At each reporting date, the adequacy of the life insurance liabilities, net of VOBA and DPAC, is assessed using a liability adequacy test. Additional recoverability tests for policies written in the last year may also result in loss recognition.

Life insurance contracts for account of policyholders and any related VOBA and DPAC are considered in the liability adequacy test performed on insurance contracts. To the extent that the account balances are insufficient to meet future benefits and expenses, additional liabilities are established and included in the liability for life insurance.

All tests performed within the Group are based on current estimates of all contractual future cash flows, including related cash flows from policyholder options and guarantees. A number of valuation methods are applied, including discounted cash flow methods, option pricing models and stochastic modeling. Aggregation levels are set either on geographical jurisdiction or at the level of portfolio of contracts that are subject to broadly similar risks and managed together as a single portfolio. Specifically, in the Netherlands and the UK the liability adequacy test is performed on a consolidated basis for all life and non-life business, whereas in the Americas it is performed at the level of the portfolio of contracts. To the extent that the tests involve discounting of future cash flows, the interest rate applied is based on market rates or is based on management’s expectation of the future return on investments. These future returns on investments take into account management’s best estimate related to the actual investments and, where applicable, reinvestments of these investments at maturity. The fair value of the assets carried at amortized cost is considered in determining any liability adequacy surplus or deficit.

Any resulting deficiency is recognized in the income statement, initially by impairing the DPAC and VOBA and subsequently by establishing an insurance liability for the remaining loss, unless shadow loss recognition has taken place.

The adequacy of the non-life insurance liability is tested at each reporting date. Changes in expected claims that have occurred, but that have not been settled, are reflected by adjusting the liability for claims and future benefits. The reserve for unexpired risk is increased to the extent that the future claims and expenses in respect of current insurance contracts exceed the future premiums plus the current unearned premium reserve.

2.20 Investment contracts

Contracts issued by the Group that do not transfer significant insurance risk, but do transfer financial risk from the policyholder to the Group are accounted for as investment contracts. Depending on whether the Group or the policyholder runs the risks associated with the investments allocated to the contract, the liabilities are classified as investment contracts or as investment contracts for account of policyholders. Investment contract liabilities are recognized when the contract is entered into and are derecognized when the contract expires, is discharged or is cancelled.

a. Investment contracts with discretionary participation features

Some investment contracts have participation features whereby the policyholder has the right to receive potentially significant additional benefits which are based on the performance of a specified pool of investment contracts, specific investments held by the Group or on the issuer’s net income. If the Group has discretion over the amount or timing of the distribution of the returns to policyholders, the investment contract liability is measured based on the accounting principles that apply to insurance contracts with similar features.

Some unitized investment contracts provide policyholders with the option to switch between funds with and without discretionary participation features. The entire contract is accounted for as an investment contract with discretionary participation features if there is evidence of actual switching resulting in discretionary participation benefits that are a significant part of the total contractual benefits.

 

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b. Investment contracts without discretionary participation features

At inception, investment contracts without discretionary features are carried at amortized cost.

Investment contracts without discretionary participation features are carried at amortized cost based on the expected cash flows and using the effective interest rate method. The expected future cash flows are re-estimated at each reporting date and the carrying amount of the financial liability is recalculated as the present value of estimated future cash flows using the financial liability’s original effective interest rate. Any adjustment is immediately recognized in the income statement.

The consolidated financial statements provide information on the fair value of all financial liabilities, including those carried at amortized cost. As these contracts are not quoted in active markets, their value is determined by using valuation techniques, such as discounted cash flow methods and stochastic modeling. For investment contracts that can be cancelled by the policyholder, the fair value cannot be less than the surrender value.

c. Investment contracts for account of policyholders

Investment contracts for account of policyholders are investment contracts for which the actual return on investments allocated to the contract is passed on to the policyholder. Also included are participations held by third parties in consolidated investment funds that meet the definition of a financial liability.

Investment contracts for account of policyholders are designated at fair value through profit or loss. Contracts with unit-denominated payments are measured at current unit values, which reflect the fair values of the assets of the fund.

For unit-linked contracts without discretionary participation features and subject to actuarial funding, the Group recognizes a liability at the funded amount of the units. The difference between the gross value of the units and the funded value is treated as an initial fee paid by the policyholder for future asset management services and is deferred. It is subsequently amortized over the life of the contract or a shorter period, if appropriate.

2.21 Provisions

A provision is recognized for present legal or constructive obligations arising from past events, when it is probable that it will result in an outflow of economic benefits and the amount can be reliably estimated.

The amount recognized as a provision is the best estimate of the expenditure required to settle the present obligation at the balance sheet date, considering all its inherent risks and uncertainties, as well as the time value of money. The unwinding of the effect of discounting is recorded in the income statement as an interest expense.

Onerous contracts

With the exception of insurance contracts and investment contracts with discretionary participation features for which potential future losses are already considered in establishing the liability, a provision is recognized for onerous contracts in which the unavoidable costs of meeting the resulting obligations exceed the expected future economic benefits. The unavoidable costs under a contract reflect the least net cost of exiting from the contract, which is the lower of the cost of fulfilling it and any compensation or penalties arising from failure to fulfill it.

2.22 Assets and liabilities relating to employee benefits

Changes in accounting policy

Aegon adopted IAS 19 - Employee Benefits, on January 1, 2013. This resulted in the Group changing its accounting policy for the assets and liabilities relating to employee benefits.

Aegon has applied the new policy for employee benefits on or after January 1, 2011, in accordance with the transitional provisions of the revised IAS 19. Aegon’s accounting policy for assets and liabilities relating to employee benefits as set out below reflects the changes under the revised IAS 19.

a. Short-term employee benefits

Prior to January 1, 2013, short-term benefits were recognized based on the employee’s entitlement to the benefits. Under the revised IAS 19 a liability is recognized for the undiscounted amount of short-term employee benefits expected to be settled within one year after the end of the period in which the service was rendered. Accumulating short-term absences are recognized

 

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over the period in which the service is provided. Benefits that are not service-related are recognized when the event that gives rise to the obligation occurs.

b. Post-employment benefits

The Group has issued defined contribution plans and defined benefit plans. A plan is classified as a defined contribution plan when the Group has no further obligation than the payment of a fixed contribution. All other plans are classified as defined benefit plans.

Defined contribution plans

The contribution payable to a defined contribution plan for services provided is recognized as an expense in the income statement. An asset is recognized to the extent that the contribution paid exceeds the amount due for services provided.

Defined benefit plans

Measurement

The defined benefit obligation is based on the terms and conditions of the plan applicable on the balance sheet date. In measuring the defined benefit obligation the Group uses the projected unit credit method and actuarial assumptions that represent the best estimate of future variables. The benefits are discounted using an interest rate based on the market yields for high-quality corporate bonds on the balance sheet date. Prior to January 1, 2013, Aegon charged plan improvements directly to the income statement, unless they were conditional on the continuation of employment. In that case, the related cost was deducted from the liability as past service cost and amortized over the vesting period. Under the revised IAS 19, plan improvements (either vested or unvested) are recognized in the income statement at the date when the plan improvement occurs.

Plan assets are qualifying insurance policies and assets held by long-term employee benefit funds that can only be used to pay the employee benefits under the plan and are not available to the Group’s creditors. They are measured at fair value and are deducted in determining the amount recognized on the statement of financial position.

Profit or loss recognition

Prior to January 1, 2013, Aegon determined the cost of the plans at the beginning of the year, based on the prevalent actuarial assumptions, discount rate and expected return on plan assets. Changes in assumptions, discount rate and experience adjustments were not charged to the income statement in the period in which they occur, but were deferred. Unrecognized actuarial gains and losses were amortized in a straight line over the average remaining working life of the employees covered by the plan, to the extent that the gains or losses exceeded the corridor limits. The corridor was defined as ten percent of the greater of the defined benefit obligation or the plan assets.

Under the revised IAS 19, the cost of the plans are determined at the beginning of the year and comprise the following components:

  ¿   Current year service cost which is recognized in profit or loss; and
  ¿   Net interest on the net defined benefit liability (asset) which is recognized in profit or loss;

Remeasurements of the net defined benefit liability (asset) which is recognized in other comprehensive income are revisited quarterly. Remeasurements of the net defined benefit liability (asset) shall not be reclassified to profit or loss in a subsequent period.

Any employee contributions are deducted from the current year service cost. Net interest on the net defined benefit liability (asset) shall be determined by multiplying the net defined benefit liability (asset) by the applicable discount rate. Net interest on the net defined benefit liability (asset) comprises interest income on plan assets and interest cost on the defined benefit obligation. Whereby interest income on plan assets is a component of the return on plan assets and is determined by multiplying the fair value of the plan assets by the applicable discount rate. The difference between the interest income on plan assets and the actual return on plan assets is included in the remeasurement of the net defined benefit liability (asset).

Remeasurements of the net defined benefit liability (asset) comprise of:

  ¿   Actuarial gains and losses;
  ¿   The return on plan assets, excluding amounts included in net interest on the net defined benefit liability (asset); and
  ¿   Any change in the effect of the asset ceiling, excluding amounts included in net interest on the net defined benefit liability (asset).

 

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Settlements

Prior to January 1, 2013, gains or losses on the curtailment or settlement of a defined benefit plan included any related actuarial gains and losses and past service cost that had not previously been recognized. Under the revised IAS 19 the gain or loss on a curtailment or settlement is the difference between:

  ¿   The present value of the defined benefit obligation being settled, as determined on the date of settlement; and
  ¿   The settlement price, including any plan assets transferred and any payments made directly by Aegon in connection with the settlement.

Aegon recognizes gains or losses on the curtailment or settlement of a defined benefit plan when the curtailment or settlement occurs.

The effects of the change in accounting policies on the financial position, comprehensive income, and changes in equity of the Group are summarized in note 2.1.2.

c. Share-based payments

The Group has issued share-based plans that entitle employees to receive equity instruments issued by the Group or cash payments based on the price of Aegon N.V. common shares. Some plans provide employees of the Group with the choice of settlement.

For share option plans that are equity-settled, the expense recognized is based on the fair value on the grant date of the share options, which does not reflect any performance conditions other than conditions linked to the price of the Group’s shares. The cost is recognized in the income statement, together with a corresponding increase in shareholders’ equity, as the services are rendered. During this period the cumulative expense recognized at the reporting date reflects management’s best estimate of the number of shares expected to vest ultimately.

Share appreciation right plans are initially recognized at fair value at the grant date, taking into account the terms and conditions on which the instruments were granted. The fair value is expensed over the period until vesting, with recognition of a corresponding liability. The liability is remeasured at each reporting date and at the date of settlement, with any changes in fair value recognized in the income statement.

Share option plans that can be settled in either shares or cash at the discretion of the employee are accounted for as a compound financial instrument, which includes a debt component and an equity component.

2.23 Deferred revenue liability

Initial fees and front-end loadings paid by policyholders and other clients for future investment management services related to investment contracts without discretionary participation features are deferred and recognized as revenue when the related services are rendered.

2.24 Tax assets and liabilities

a. Current tax assets and liabilities

Tax assets and liabilities for current and prior periods are measured at the amount that is expected to be received from or paid to the taxation authorities, using the tax rates that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the reporting date.

b. Deferred tax assets and liabilities

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the estimated future tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying value of an item and its tax value, with the exception of differences arising from the initial recognition of goodwill and of assets and liabilities that do not impact taxable or accounting profits. A tax asset is recognized for tax loss carryforwards to the extent that it is probable at the reporting date that future taxable profits will be available against which the unused tax losses and unused tax credits can be utilized.

Deferred tax liabilities relating to investments in subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures are not recognized if the Group is able to control the timing of the reversal of the temporary difference and it is probable that the difference will not be reversed in the foreseeable future.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are reviewed at the balance sheet date and are measured at tax rates that are expected to apply when the asset is realized or the liability is settled. The carrying amount is not discounted and reflects the Group’s expectations concerning the manner of recovery or settlement.

 

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Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized in relation to the underlying transaction either in profit and loss, other comprehensive income or directly in equity.

2.25 Contingent assets and liabilities

Contingent assets are disclosed in the notes if the inflow of economic benefits is probable, but not virtually certain. When the inflow of economic benefits becomes virtually certain, the asset is no longer contingent and its recognition is appropriate.

A provision is recognized for present legal or constructive obligations arising from past events, when it is probable that it will result in an outflow of economic benefits and the amount can be reliably estimated. If the outflow of economic benefits is not probable, a contingent liability is disclosed, unless the possibility of an outflow of economic benefits is remote.

2.26 Premium income

Gross premiums, including recurring and single premiums, from life and non-life insurance and investment contracts with discretionary participation features are recognized as revenue when they become receivable. Not reflected as premium income are deposits from certain products that are sold only in the United States and Canada, such as deferred annuities. For these products the surrender charges and charges assessed have been included in gross premiums.

Premium loadings for installment payments and additional payments by the policyholder towards costs borne by the insurer are included in the gross premiums. Rebates that form part of the premium rate, such as no-claim rebates, are deducted from the gross premium, others are recognized as an expense. Depending on the applicable local accounting principles, bonuses that are used to increase the insured benefits may be recognized as gross premiums.

2.27 Investment income

For interest-bearing assets, interest is recognized as it accrues and is calculated using the effective interest rate method. Fees and commissions that are an integral part of the effective yield of the financial assets or liabilities are recognized as an adjustment to the effective interest rate of the instrument. Investment income includes the interest income and dividend income on financial assets carried at fair value through profit or loss.

Investment income also includes rental income due, as well as fees received for security lending.

2.28 Fee and commission income

Fees and commissions from investment management services and mutual funds, and from sales activities are recognized as revenue over the period in which the services are performed or the sales have been closed.

2.29 Policyholder claims and benefits

Policyholder claims and benefits consist of claims and benefits paid to policyholders, including benefit claims in excess of account value for products for which deposit accounting is applied and the change in the valuation of liabilities for insurance and investment contracts. It includes internal and external claims handling costs that are directly related to the processing and settlement of claims. Amounts receivable in respect of salvage and subrogation are also considered.

2.30 Results from financial transactions

Results from financial transactions include:

Net fair value change of general account financial investments at fair value through profit or loss, other than derivatives

Net fair value change of general account financial investments at fair value through profit or loss, other than derivatives include fair value changes of financial assets carried at fair value through profit or loss. The net gains and losses do not include interest or dividend income.

Realized gains and losses on financial investments

Gains and losses on financial investments include realized gains and losses on general account financial assets, other than those classified as at fair value through profit or loss.

Net fair value change of derivatives

All changes in fair value are recognized in the income statement, unless the derivative has been designated as a hedging instrument in a cash flow hedge or a hedge of a net investment in a foreign operation. Fair value movements of fair value hedge instruments

 

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are offset by the fair value movements of the hedged item, and the resulting hedge ineffectiveness, if any, is included in this line. In addition, the fair value movements of bifurcated embedded derivatives are included in this line.

Net fair value change on for account of policyholder financial assets at fair value through profit or loss

Net fair value change on for account of policyholder financial assets at fair value through profit or loss includes fair value movements of investments held for account of policyholders (refer to note 2.8). The net fair value change does not include interest or dividend income.

Other

In addition, results from financial transactions include gains/losses on real estate (general account and account of policyholders), net foreign currency gains/(losses) and net fair value change on borrowings and other financial liabilities and realized gains on repurchased debt.

2.31 Impairment charges/(reversals)

Impairment charges and reversals include impairments and reversals on investments in financial assets, impairments and reversals on the valuation of insurance assets and liabilities and other non-financial assets and receivables. Refer to note 15.

2.32 Interest charges and related fees

Interest charges and related fees includes interest expense on trust pass-through securities and other borrowings. Interest expense on trust pass-through securities and other borrowings carried at amortized cost is recognized in profit or loss using the effective interest method.

2.33 Leases

Arrangements that do not take the form of a lease but convey a right to use an asset in return for a payment are assessed at inception to determine whether they are, or contain, a lease. This involves an assessment of whether fulfillment of the arrangement is dependent on the use of a specific asset and whether the purchaser (lessee) has the right to control the use of the underlying asset.

Leases that do not transfer substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership are classified as operating leases.

Payments made under operating leases, where the Group is the lessee, are charged to the income statement on a straight line basis over the period of the lease.

Where the Group is the lessor under an operating lease, the assets subject to the operating lease arrangement are presented in the statement of financial position according to the nature of the asset. Income from these leases are recognized in the income statement on a straight line basis over the lease term, unless another systematic basis is more representative of the time pattern in which use benefit derived from the leased asset is diminished.

2.34 Events after the balance sheet date

The financial statements are adjusted to reflect events that occurred between the balance sheet date and the date when the financial statements are authorized for issue, provided they give evidence of conditions that existed at the balance sheet date.

Events that are indicative of conditions that arose after the balance sheet date are disclosed, but do not result in an adjustment of the financial statements themselves.

2.35 Future adoption of voluntary changes in accounting policies

Aegon will make voluntary changes in accounting policies, effective January 1, 2014 which will be applied retrospectively for all periods presented. Changes to these policies relate to deferred policy acquisition costs and how Aegon accounts for longevity assumptions in the Netherlands. In the paragraphs below, details are provided for these changes in accounting policies.

Deferred policy acquisition costs

Aegon will adopt a single group-wide accounting policy for deferral of policy acquisition costs as of January 1, 2014. Upon initial adoption of IFRS, Aegon operations were permitted to continue existing accounting policies for insurance contracts even though such policies were often non-uniform between countries. Through adoption of a uniform, group-wide accounting policy, Aegon will eliminate this lack of uniformity for the deferral of policy acquisition costs thereby providing the users of the financial statements with more meaningful information.

 

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IFRS 4 neither prohibits nor requires the deferral of policy acquisition costs, nor does it prescribe what acquisition costs are deferrable. Thus, in developing the new policy, Aegon considered and sought alignment with the proposed description of deferrable policy acquisition costs within the IFRS Insurance Contracts Phase II exposure draft (Exposure Draft). In the absence of detailed guidance in the Exposure Draft, Aegon also considered the recently adopted guidance in U.S. GAAP (ASU 2010-26 “Accounting for Costs Associated with Acquiring or Renewing Insurance Contracts”), if not conflicting with IFRS 4 or the Exposure Draft. IFRS currently differs from US GAAP by not limiting the deferral to expenses from successful efforts only and in the detail of how that principle is applied. Under the new accounting policy, deferred policy acquisition costs include costs that are directly attributable to the acquisition or renewal of insurance contracts. The previous accounting policy was based on a broader definition of costs that could be deferred.

The adoption of the new accounting policy for deferred policy acquisition costs is expected to decrease shareholders’ equity at the date of adoption (January 1, 2014), by between EUR 1.4 and 1.6 billion. The company estimates that this accounting change will reduce net income by approximately EUR 85 million, EUR 65 million and EUR 60 million for the years 2013, 2012 and 2011 respectively, as certain expenses are no longer deferrable and are directly accounted for in the income statement.

Longevity reserving

As of January 1, 2014, Aegon will amend its policy to determine the insurance contract liability of Aegon the Netherlands to account for longevity risk assumed by Aegon. This change will provide more current information about the financial effects of changes in life expectancy of the insured population. The change will also increase alignment with market pricing of longevity risk. It will supply users of the financial statements with more relevant decision making information on the insurance contract liability and will improve transparency on the longevity risks assumed by Aegon.

Mortality tables will be updated annually based on the prospective tables taking into account longevity trends. The new methodology will take into account the contractual cash flows related to the longevity risk assumed. Previously the methodology applied by Aegon the Netherlands only considered realized mortalities based on observed mortality tables.

The change is expected to decrease shareholders’ equity at the date of adoption (January 1, 2014), by between EUR 0.8 and 0.9 billion. The company estimates that this change will increase net income by approximately EUR 180 million, EUR 150 million and EUR 105 million for the years 2013, 2012 and 2011 respectively.

3 Critical accounting estimates and judgment in applying accounting policies

Application of the accounting policies in the preparation of the financial statements requires management to apply judgment involving assumptions and estimates concerning future results or other developments, including the likelihood, timing or amount of future transactions or events. There can be no assurance that actual results will not differ materially from those estimates. Accounting policies that are critical to the financial statement presentation and that require complex estimates or significant judgment are described in the following sections.

Valuation of assets and liabilities arising from life insurance contracts

The liability for life insurance contracts with guaranteed or fixed account terms is generally based on current assumptions or on the assumptions established at inception of the contract. All contracts are subject to liability adequacy testing which reflects management’s current estimates of future cash flows (including investment returns). To the extent that the liability is based on current assumptions, a change in assumptions will have an immediate impact on the income statement. Also, if a change in assumption results in not passing the liability adequacy test, the entire deficiency is recognized in the income statement. To the extent that the deficiency relates to unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale investments, the additional liability is recognized in the revaluation reserve in equity.

Some insurance contracts without a guaranteed or fixed contract term contain guaranteed minimum benefits. Depending on the nature of the guarantee, it may either be bifurcated and presented as a derivative or be reflected in the value of the insurance liability in accordance with local accounting principles. Given the dynamic and complex nature of these guarantees, stochastic techniques under a variety of market return scenarios are often used for measurement purposes. Such models require management to make numerous estimates based on historical experience and market expectations. Changes in these estimates will immediately affect the income statement.

In addition, certain acquisition costs related to the sale of new policies and the purchase of policies already in force are recorded as DPAC and VOBA assets respectively and are amortized to the income statement over time. If the assumptions relating to the future

 

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profitability of these policies are not realized, the amortization of these costs could be accelerated and may even require write offs due to unrecoverability.

Actuarial assumptions

The main assumptions used in measuring DPAC, VOBA and the liabilities for life insurance contracts with fixed or guaranteed terms relate to mortality, morbidity, investment return and future expenses. Depending on local accounting principles, surrender rates may be considered.

Mortality tables applied are generally developed based on a blend of company experience and industry wide studies, taking into consideration product characteristics, own risk selection criteria, target market and past experience. Mortality experience is monitored through regular studies, the results of which are fed into the pricing cycle for new products and reflected in the liability calculation when appropriate. For contracts insuring survivorship, allowance may be made for further longevity improvements. Morbidity assumptions are based on own claims severity and frequency experience, adjusted where appropriate for industry information.

Investment assumptions are prescribed by the local regulator, market observable or based on management’s future expectations. In the latter case, the anticipated future investment returns are set by management on a countrywide basis, considering available market information and economic indicators. A significant assumption related to estimated gross profits on variable annuities and variable life insurance products in the United States and some of the smaller country units, is the annual long-term growth rate of the underlying assets. The reconsideration of this assumption may affect the original DPAC or VOBA amortization schedule, referred to as DPAC or VOBA unlocking. The difference between the original DPAC or VOBA amortization schedule and the revised schedule, which is based on estimates of actual and future gross profits, is recognized in the income statement as an expense or a benefit in the period of determination.

Assumptions on future expenses are based on the current level of expenses, adjusted for expected expense inflation if appropriate.

Surrender rates depend on product features, policy duration and external circumstances such as the interest rate environment and competitor and policyholder behavior. For policies with account value guarantees based on equity market movements, a dynamic lapse assumption is utilized to reflect policyholder behavior based on whether the guarantee is in the money. Own experience, as well as industry published data, are used in establishing assumptions. Lapse experience is correlated to mortality and morbidity levels, as higher or lower levels of surrenders may indicate future claims will be higher or lower than anticipated. Such correlations are accounted for in the mortality and morbidity assumptions based on the emerging analysis of experience.

In the third quarter of 2013, to reflect the low interest rate environment, Aegon lowered its long-term assumption for 10-year US Treasury yields by 50 basis points to 4.25% and extended the uniform grading period from 5 years to 10 years. Aegon also changed its assumed returns for US separate account bond fund to 4% over the next 10 years and 6% thereafter from its previous assumptions of 4% over the next 5 years and 6% thereafter. In addition, Aegon changed its long-term equity market return assumption for the estimated gross profit in variable life and variable annuity products in the Americas from 9% to 8%. In total, these assumption changes led to a negative impact on earnings of EUR 405 million in the third quarter of 2013. Both the assumptions for the bond fund and that for the long-term equity market are gross assumptions from which asset management and policy fees are deducted to determine the policyholder return. The 90-day Treasury yield is 0.07% at December 31, 2013 and is assumed to remain level for the next two years followed by an eight year grade to 2.5%. On a quarterly basis, the estimated gross profits are updated for the difference between the estimated equity market return and the actual return.

In 2012, Aegon kept its long-term equity market return assumption for the estimated gross profits on variable life and variable annuity products in the Americas at 9% (2011: 9%). The 90-day Treasury yield was 0.05% at December 31, 2012 and was assumed to remain level for the next two years followed by a three year grade to 3%. Aegon’s assumptions on the long term credit spread or default assumptions, remained unchanged in 2012.

In 2011, to reflect the low interest rate environment, Aegon lowered its long-term assumption for 10-year US treasury yields by 50 basis points to 4.75% (graded uniformly over the next five years) and lowered the 90-day treasury yield to 0.02% for the next two years followed by a three year grade to 3%. In addition, Aegon lowered its assumed return for US separate account bond fund returns by 200 basis points to 4% over the next five years, followed by a return of 6% thereafter.

A 1% decrease in the expected long-term equity growth rate with regards to Aegon’s variable annuities and variable life insurance products in the United States and Canada would result in a decrease in DPAC and VOBA balances and reserve strengthening of

 

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approximately EUR 169 million (2012: EUR 150 million). The DPAC and VOBA balances for these products in the United States and Canada amounted to EUR 2.3 billion at December 31, 2013 (2012: EUR 2.1 billion).

For the fixed annuities and fixed universal life insurance products, the estimated gross profits (“EGP”) calculations include a net interest rate margin, which Aegon assumes will remain practically stable under any reasonably likely interest-rate scenario.

Applying a reasonably possible increase to the mortality assumption, which varies by block of business, would reduce net income by approximately EUR 105 million (2012: EUR 53 million). A relative 20% increase in the lapse rate assumption would increase net income by approximately EUR 18 million (2012: EUR 42 million).

Any reasonably possible changes in the other assumptions Aegon uses to determine EGP margins (i.e. maintenance expenses, inflation and disability) would reduce net income by less than EUR 37 million (per assumption change) (2012: EUR 39 million).

Determination of having control over investees

In making the determination whether Aegon controls an investee, Aegon analyses whether it has power over the investee (existing rights that give it the current ability to direct the relevant activities). The outcome of this analysis depends on the following criteria:

  ¿   Purpose and design of the investee;
  ¿   What are the relevant activities (that drive the investee’s returns) and how decisions about them are taken; and
  ¿   Whether rights of the investor give current ability to direct the relevant activities.

The analysis also depends on whether Aegon is exposed or has rights to variable returns from its involvement with the investee and whether Aegon has the ability to use its powers over the investee to affect the amount of the investor’s returns.

In addition, IFRS requires that the assessment also consider Aegon’s relationships with other parties (who may be acting on Aegon’s behalf) and the possibility that the investee contains deemed separate entities that should be assessed for control separately.

In specific cases, which are described below, Aegon applied judgment involving the criteria for consolidation to come to the conclusion whether Aegon controls an investee.

Investment vehicle

An investment vehicle is considered to be any vehicle (fund) whose primary objective is investing and managing its assets with a view to generate returns. For the purpose of determining whether Aegon controls an investment vehicle and whether Aegon is an agent or a principal, the following has been analyzed:

  ¿   The scope of its decision-making authority over the investee;
  ¿   The rights held by other parties;
  ¿   The remuneration to which it is entitled in accordance with the remuneration agreement; and
  ¿   The decision maker’s exposure to variability of returns from other interests that it holds in the investee.

Investment funds

Investment funds managed by the Group in which the Group holds an interest are consolidated in the financial statements if the Group has power over that investment fund and it is exposed, or has rights, to variable returns from its involvement with the investee and has the ability to affect those returns through its power over the investee. In assessing control, all interests held by the Group in the fund are considered, regardless of whether the financial risk related to the investment is borne by the Group or by the policyholders (unless the fund meets the definition of a deemed separate entity or under strict facts and circumstances a direct link between the policyholder and the fund can be assumed).

 

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In determining whether Aegon has power the following has been considered:

  ¿   Is the asset manager external or internal (i.e. an Aegon subsidiary);
  ¿   Is the investment mandate broad or narrow;
  ¿   Does the policyholder have legal rights to the separate assets in the investment vehicle (e.g. policyholders could have the voting rights related to these investments);
  ¿   The governance structure, such as an independent board of directors, representing the policyholders, which has substantive rights (e.g. to elect or remove the asset manager); and
  ¿   Rights held by other parties (e.g. voting rights of policyholders that are substantive or not).

If the above assessment indicates that Aegon has power, it has been assessed whether Aegon has exposure or rights to variability of returns. The following items were assessed:

  ¿   General account investment of Aegon;
  ¿   Aegon’s investment held for policyholder;
  ¿   Guarantees provided by Aegon on return of policyholders in specific investment vehicles;
  ¿   Fees dependent on fund value (including, but not limited to, asset management fees); and
  ¿   Fees dependent on performance of the fund (including, but not limited to, performance fees).

For some investment funds Aegon concludes that Aegon is an agent and thus does not control those investment funds. In particular, for some separate accounts, Aegon concluded that the independent board of directors has substantive rights and therefore Aegon does not have power over these separate accounts and in that case Aegon acts as an agent.

For some limited partnerships, determining whether Aegon has control over these entities is dependent on whether Aegon is a limited partner, general partner and whether other parties have substantive removal rights. The conclusion differs per situation and judgment is applied on the substantiveness of the removal rights and on the magnitude of the exposure to variable returns.

Structured entities

A structured entity is defined in IFRS 12 as “An entity that has been designed so that voting rights are not the dominant factor in deciding who controls the entity, such as when any voting rights relate to administrative tasks only and the relevant activities are directed by means of contractual arrangements.” In these instances the tests and indicators to assess control provided by IFRS 10 have more focus on the purpose and design of the investee (with relation to the relevant activities that most significantly affect the structured entity) and the exposure to variable returns, which for structured entities lies in interests through e.g. derivatives, and will not be focused on entities that are controlled by voting rights.

Aegon concluded for several structured entities that the Group controls those investees. In particular the implementation of IFRS 10 resulted in a change in consolidation conclusion for a structured entity, as Aegon concluded it has control over that structured entity. Aegon has been involved in the design of certain mortgage backed securitization deals and Aegon also has the ability to use its power to affect the amount of the investee’s returns. Furthermore, Aegon fully services the investees and can therefore influence the defaults of the mortgage portfolios. In addition, for several of these securitization deals the majority of risks are maintained by Aegon. These factors contributed to the conclusion that Aegon has control. Restatements due to the implementation of IFRS 10 are disclosed in note 2.1.2.

Determination of fair value and fair value hierarchy

The following is a description of Aegon’s methods of determining fair value, and a quantification of its exposure to assets and liabilities measured at fair value.

Fair value is defined as the amount that would be received from the sale of an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date under current market conditions (i.e. an exit price at the measurement date from the perspective of a market participant that holds the asset or owes the liability). A fair value measurement assumes that the transaction to sell the asset or transfer the liability takes place either:

  ¿   In the principal market for the asset or liability; or
  ¿   In the absence of a principal market, in the most advantageous market for the asset or liability.

 

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In accordance with IFRS 13, Aegon uses the following hierarchy for measuring and disclosing of the fair value of assets and liabilities:

  ¿   Level I: quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that Aegon can access at the measurement date;
  ¿   Level II: inputs other than quoted prices included within Level I that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly (that is, as prices) or indirectly (that is, derived from prices of identical or similar assets and liabilities) using valuation techniques for which all significant inputs are based on observable market data; and
  ¿   Level III: inputs for the asset or liability that are not based on observable market data (that is, unobservable inputs) using valuation techniques for which any significant input is not based on observable market data.

The best evidence of fair value is a quoted price in an actively traded market. In the event that the market for a financial instrument is not active or quoted market prices are not available, a valuation technique is used.

The degree of judgment used in measuring the fair value of assets and liabilities generally inversely correlates with the level of observable valuation inputs. Aegon maximizes the use of observable inputs and minimizes the use of unobservable valuation inputs when measuring fair value. Financial instruments, for example, with quoted prices in active markets generally have more pricing observability and less judgment is used in measuring fair value. Conversely, financial instruments for which no quoted prices are available have less observability and are measured at fair value using valuation models or other pricing techniques that require more judgment.

The assets and liabilities categorization within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest input that is significant to the fair value measurement.

The judgment as to whether a market is active may include, although not necessarily determinative, lower transaction volumes, reduced transaction sizes and, in some cases, no observable trading activity for short periods. In inactive markets, assurance is obtained that the transaction price provides evidence of fair value or determined that the adjustments to transaction prices are necessary to measure the fair value of the instrument.

The majority of valuation techniques employ only observable market data, and so the reliability of the fair value measurement is high. However, certain assets and liabilities are valued on the basis of valuation techniques that feature one or more significant market inputs that are unobservable and, for such assets and liabilities, the derivation of fair value is more judgmental. An instrument in its entirety is classified as valued using significant unobservable inputs (Level III) if, in the opinion of management, a significant proportion of the instrument’s carrying amount is driven by unobservable inputs. “Unobservable” in this context means that there is little or no current market data available from which to determine the price at which an arm’s length transaction would be likely to occur. It generally does not mean that there is no market data available at all upon which to base a determination of fair value. Additional information is provided in the table headed “Effect of changes in significant unobservable assumptions to reasonably possible alternatives” below. While Aegon believes its valuation techniques are appropriate and consistent with other market participants, the use of different methodologies or assumptions to determine the fair value of certain instruments (both financial and non-financial) could result in a different estimate of fair value at the reporting date.

To operationalize Aegon’s fair value hierarchy, individual instruments (both financial and non-financial) are assigned a fair value level based primarily on the type of instrument and the source of the prices (e.g. index, third-party pricing service, broker, internally modeled). Periodically, this logic for assigning fair value levels is reviewed to determine if any modifications are necessary in the context of the current market environment.

Fair value of assets and liabilities

The estimated fair values of Aegon’s assets and liabilities correspond with the amounts 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. When available, Aegon uses quoted market prices in active markets to determine the fair value of investments and derivatives. In the absence of an active market, the fair value of investments in financial assets is estimated by using other market observable data, such as corroborated external quotes and present value or other valuation techniques. An active market is one in which transactions are taking place regularly on an arm’s length basis. A fair value measurement assumes that an asset or liability is exchanged in an orderly transaction between market participants, and accordingly, fair value is not determined based upon a forced liquidation or distressed sale.

Valuation techniques are used when Aegon determines the market is inactive or quoted market prices are not available for the asset or liability at the measurement date. However, the fair value measurement objective remains the same, that is, to estimate the price

 

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at which an orderly transaction to sell the asset or to transfer the liability would take place between market participants at the measurement date under current market conditions (i.e. an exit price at the measurement date from the perspective of a market participant that holds the asset or owes the liability). Therefore, unobservable inputs reflect Aegon’s own assumptions about the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability (including assumptions about risk). These inputs are developed based on the best information available.

Aegon employs an oversight structure over valuation of financial instruments that includes appropriate segregation of duties. Senior management, independent of the investing functions, is responsible for the oversight of control and valuation policies and for reporting the results of these policies. For fair values determined by reference to external quotation or evidenced pricing parameters, independent price determination or validation is utilized to corroborate those inputs. Further details of the validation processes are set out below.

Valuation of assets and liabilities is based on a pricing hierarchy, in order to maintain a controlled process that will systematically promote the use of prices from sources in which Aegon has the most confidence, where the least amount of manual intervention exists and to embed consistency in the selection of price sources. Depending on asset type the pricing hierarchy consists of a waterfall that starts with making use of market prices from indices and follows with making use of third-party pricing services or brokers.

Shares

When available, Aegon uses quoted market prices in active markets to determine the fair value of its investments in shares. Fair values for unquoted shares are estimated using observations of the price/earnings or price/cash flow ratios of quoted companies considered comparable to the companies being valued. Valuations are adjusted to account for company-specific issues and the lack of liquidity inherent in an unquoted investment. Illiquidity adjustments are generally based on available market evidence. In addition, a variety of other factors are reviewed by management, including, but not limited to, current operating performance, changes in market outlook and the third-party financing environment.

Real estate funds, private equity funds and hedge funds

The fair values of investments held in non-quoted investment funds are determined by management after taking into consideration information provided by the fund managers. Aegon reviews the valuations each month and performs analytical procedures and trending analyses to ensure the fair values are appropriate.

Debt securities

The fair values of debt securities are determined by management after taking into consideration several sources of data. When available, Aegon uses quoted market prices in active markets to determine the fair value of its debt securities. As stated previously, Aegon’s valuation policy utilizes a pricing hierarchy which dictates that publicly available prices are initially sought from indices and third party pricing services. In the event that pricing is not available from these sources, those securities are submitted to brokers to obtain quotes. The majority of brokers’ quotes are non-binding. As part of the pricing process, Aegon assesses the appropriateness of each quote (i.e. as to whether the quote is based on observable market transactions or not) to determine the most appropriate estimate of fair value. Lastly, securities are priced using internal cash flow modeling techniques. These valuation methodologies commonly use the following inputs: reported trades, bids, offers, issuer spreads, benchmark yields, estimated prepayment speeds, and/or estimated cash flows.

To understand the valuation methodologies used by third-party pricing services Aegon reviews and monitors the applicable methodology documents of the third-party pricing services. Any changes to their methodologies are noted and reviewed for reasonableness. In addition, Aegon performs in-depth reviews of prices received from third-party pricing services on a sample basis. The objective for such reviews is to demonstrate that Aegon can corroborate detailed information such as assumptions, inputs and methodologies used in pricing individual securities against documented pricing methodologies. Only third-party pricing services and brokers with a substantial presence in the market and with appropriate experience and expertise are used.

Third-party pricing services will often determine prices using recently reported trades for identical or similar securities. The third-party pricing service makes adjustments for the elapsed time from the trade date to the balance sheet date to take into account available market information. Lacking recently reported trades, third-party pricing services and brokers will use modeling techniques to determine a security price where expected future cash flows are developed based on the performance of the underlying collateral and discounted using an estimated market rate.

 

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Periodically, Aegon performs an analysis of the inputs obtained from third-party pricing services and brokers to ensure that the inputs are reasonable and produce a reasonable estimate of fair value. Aegon’s asset specialists and investment valuation specialists consider both qualitative and quantitative factors as part of this analysis. Several examples of analytical procedures performed include, but are not limited to, recent transactional activity for similar debt securities, review of pricing statistics and trends and consideration of recent relevant market events. Other controls and procedures over pricing received from indices, third-party pricing services, or brokers include validation checks such as exception reports which highlight significant price changes, stale prices or un-priced securities. Additionally, Aegon performs back testing on a sample basis. Back testing involves selecting a sample of securities trades and comparing the prices in those transactions to prices used for financial reporting. Significant variances between the price used for financial reporting and the transaction price are investigated to explain the cause of the difference.

Credit ratings are also an important consideration in the valuation of securities and are included in the internal process for determining Aegon’s view of the risk associated with each security. However, Aegon does not rely solely on external credit ratings and there is an internal process, based on market observable inputs, for determining Aegon’s view of the risks associated with each security.

Aegon’s portfolio of private placement securities (held at fair value under the classification of available-for-sale or fair value through profit or loss) is valued using a matrix pricing methodology. The pricing matrix is obtained from a third-party service provider and indicates current spreads for securities based on weighted average life, credit rating, and industry sector. Each month, Aegon’s asset specialists review the matrix to ensure the spreads are reasonable by comparing them to observed spreads for similar bonds traded in the market. Other inputs to the valuation include coupon rate, the current interest rate curve used for discounting and an illiquidity premium to account for the illiquid nature of these securities. The illiquidity premiums are determined based upon the pricing of recent transactions in the private placements market; comparing the value of the privately offered security to a similar public security. The impact of the illiquidity premium for private placement securities to the overall valuation is insignificant.

Aegon’s portfolio of debt securities can be subdivided in Residential mortgage-backed securities (RMBS), Commercial mortgage-backed securities (CMBS), Asset backed securities (ABS), Corporate bonds and Sovereign debt. Below relevant details in the valuation methodology for these specific types of debt securities are described.

Residential mortgage-backed securities (RMBS), commercial mortgage-backed securities (CMBS) and asset backed securities (ABS)

Valuations of RMBS, CMBS and ABS are monitored and reviewed on a monthly basis. Valuations per asset type are based on a pricing hierarchy which uses a waterfall approach that starts with market prices from indices and follows with third-party pricing services or brokers. The pricing hierarchy is dependent on the possibilities of corroboration of the market prices. If no market prices are available, Aegon uses internal models to determine fair value. Significant inputs included in the internal models are generally determined based on relative value analyses, which incorporate comparisons to instruments with similar collateral and risk profiles. Market standard models may be used to model the specific collateral composition and cash flow structure of each transaction. The most significant unobservable input is illiquidity premium which is embedded in the discount rate.

Corporate bonds

Valuations of corporate bonds are monitored and reviewed on a monthly basis. The pricing hierarchy is dependent on the possibility of corroboration of market prices when available. If no market prices are available, valuations are determined by a discounted cash flow methodology using an internally calculated yield. The yield is comprised of a credit spread over a given benchmark. In all cases the benchmark is an observable input. The credit spread contains both observable and unobservable inputs. Aegon starts by taking an observable credit spread from a similar bond of the given issuer, and then adjust this spread based on unobservable inputs. These unobservable inputs may include subordination, liquidity and maturity differences.

Sovereign debt

When available, Aegon uses quoted market prices in active markets to determine the fair value of its sovereign debt investments. When Aegon cannot make use of quoted market prices, market prices from indices or quotes from third-party pricing services or brokers are used.

Tax credit investments

The fair value of tax credit investments is determined by using a discounted cash flow valuation technique. This valuation technique takes into consideration projections of future capital contributions and distributions, as well as future tax credits and the tax benefits of future operating losses. The present value of these cash flows is calculated by applying a discount rate. In general, the discount rate is determined based on the cash outflows for the investments and the cash inflows from the tax credits/tax benefits (and the timing of those cash flows). These inputs are unobservable in the market place.

 

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Mortgage loans, policy loans and private loans ( held at amortized cost )

For private loans, fixed interest mortgage loans and other loans originated by the Group, the fair value used for disclosure purposes is estimated by discounting expected future cash flows using a current market rate applicable to financial instruments with similar yield and maturity characteristics. For fixed interest mortgage loans, the market rate is adjusted for expenses, prepayment rates, lapse assumptions (unobservable inputs), liquidity and credit risk (market observable inputs). An increase in expense spread, prepayment rates and/or prepayment assumptions, would decrease the fair value of the mortgage loan portfolio.

The fair value of floating interest rate mortgage loans, policy loans and private placements used for disclosure purposes is assumed to be approximated by their carrying amount, adjusted for changes in credit risk. Credit risk adjustments are based on market observable credit spreads if available, or management’s estimate if not market observable.

Money market and other short-term investments and deposits with financial institutions

The fair value of assets maturing within a year is assumed to be approximated by their carrying amount adjusted for credit risk where appropriate. Credit risk adjustments are based on market observable credit spreads if available, or management’s estimate if not market observable.

Derivatives

Where quoted market prices are not available, other valuation techniques, such as option pricing or stochastic modeling, are applied. The valuation techniques incorporate all factors that a typical market participant would consider and are based on observable market data when available. Models are validated before they are used and calibrated to ensure that outputs reflect actual experience and comparable market prices.

Fair values for exchange-traded derivatives, principally futures and certain options, are based on quoted market prices in active markets. Fair values for over-the-counter (OTC) derivative financial instruments represent amounts estimated to be received from or paid to a third party in settlement of these instruments. These derivatives are valued using pricing models based on the net present value of estimated future cash flows, directly observed prices from exchange-traded derivatives, other OTC trades, or external pricing services. Most valuations are derived from swap and volatility matrices, which are constructed for applicable indices and currencies using current market data from many industry standard sources. Option pricing is based on industry standard valuation models and current market levels, where applicable. The pricing of complex or illiquid instruments is based on internal models or an independent third party. For long-dated illiquid contracts, extrapolation methods are applied to observed market data in order to estimate inputs and assumptions that are not directly observable. To value OTC derivatives, management uses observed market information, other trades in the market and dealer prices.

Some OTC derivatives are so called longevity derivatives. The payout of longevity derivatives is linked to publicly available mortality tables. The derivatives are measured using the present value of the best estimate of expected payouts of the derivative plus a risk margin. The best estimate of expected payouts is determined using best estimate of mortality developments. Aegon determined the risk margin by stressing the best estimate mortality developments to quantify the risk and applying a cost-of-capital methodology. The most significant unobservable input for these derivatives is the (projected) mortality development.

Aegon normally mitigates counterparty credit risk in derivative contracts by entering into collateral agreements where practical and in ISDA master netting agreements for each of the Group’s legal entities to facilitate Aegon’s right to offset credit risk exposure. Changes in the fair value of derivatives attributable to changes in counterparty credit risk were not significant.

Embedded derivatives in insurance contracts including guarantees

Certain bifurcated guarantees for minimum benefits in insurance and investment contracts are carried at fair value. These guarantees include Guaranteed minimum withdrawal benefits (GMWB) in the United States, United Kingdom and Japan which are offered on some variable annuity products and are also assumed from a ceding company; minimum interest rate guarantees on insurance products offered in the Netherlands, including group pension and traditional products; variable annuities sold in Europe and Japan, and guaranteed minimum accumulation benefits on segregated funds sold in Canada.

Since the price of these guarantees is not quoted in any market, the fair values of these guarantees are calculated as the present value of future expected payments to policyholders less the present value of assessed rider fees attributable to the guarantees. Given the complexity and long-term nature of these guarantees which are unlike instruments available in financial markets, their fair values are determined by using stochastic techniques under a variety of market return scenarios. A variety of factors are considered, including

 

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credit spread, expected market rates of return, equity and interest rate volatility, correlations of market returns, discount rates and actuarial assumptions. The most significant unobservable factor is credit spread.

The expected returns are based on risk-free rates. Aegon added a premium to reflect the credit spread as required. The credit spread is set by using the Credit default swap (CDS) spreads of a reference portfolio of life insurance companies (including Aegon), adjusted to reflect the subordination of senior debt holders at the holding company level to the position of policyholders at the operating company level (who have priority in payments to other creditors). Aegon’s assumptions are set by region to reflect differences in the valuation of the guarantee embedded in the insurance contracts.

In 2013, Aegon updated the way it extrapolates yield curves beyond market observable maturities. The discount rates converge linearly in 10 years to an Ultimate Forward Rate of 4.25% from the last liquid point. The uniform last liquid point for all Aegon’s major currencies (USD, GBP and EUR) is set at 30 years. Additionally, Aegon updated the manner in which it estimates guarantees embedded within individual life contracts in the Netherlands. The impact on income before tax of these updates was EUR 27 million negative.

Since many of the assumptions are unobservable and are considered to be significant inputs to the liability valuation, the liability included in future policy benefits has been reflected within Level III of the fair value hierarchy. Refer to note 48 for more details about Aegon’s guarantees .

Real estate

Valuations of both investments in real estate and real estate held for own use are conducted in full by independent external appraisers at least every three to five years and reviewed at least once a year by qualified internal appraisers to ensure the value correctly reflects the fair value at the balance sheet date. Appraisals are different for each specific local market, but are based on market guidelines such as International Valuation Standards, Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice or guidelines issued by the Investment Property Databank. Valuations are mostly based on active market prices, adjusted for any difference in the nature, location or condition of the specific property. If such information is not available, other valuation methods are applied, considering the value that the property’s net earning power will support, the value indicated by recent sales of comparable properties and the current cost of reproducing or replacing the property. Discount rates used in the valuation of real estate reflect the risk embedded in the projected cash flows for the asset being valued. Capitalization rates represent the income rate for a real estate property that reflects the relationship between a single year’s net operating income expectancy and the total property price or value. For property held for own use, appraisers consider the present value of the future rental income cash flows that could be achieved had the real estate been let out.

Investment contracts

Investment contracts issued by Aegon are either carried at fair value (if they are designated as financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss) or amortized cost (with fair value being disclosed in the notes to the consolidated financial statements). These contracts are not quoted in active markets and their fair values are determined by using valuation techniques, such as discounted cash flow methods and stochastic modeling or in relation to the unit price of the underlying assets. All models are validated and calibrated. A variety of factors are considered, including time value, volatility, policyholder behavior, servicing costs and fair values of similar instruments.

Similar to embedded derivatives in insurance contracts, certain investment products are not quoted in active markets and their fair values are determined by using valuation techniques. Because of the dynamic and complex nature of these cash flows, stochastic or similar techniques under a variety of market return scenarios are often used. A variety of factors are considered, including expected market rates of return, market volatility, correlations of market returns, discount rates and actuarial assumptions.

The expected returns are based on risk-free rates, such as the current London Inter-Bank Offered Rate (LIBOR) swap rates and associated forward rates or the current rates on local government bonds. Market volatility assumptions for each underlying index are based on observed market implied volatility data and/or observed market performance. Correlations of market returns for various underlying indices are based on observed market returns and their inter-relationships over a number of years preceding the valuation date. Current risk-free spot rates are used to determine the present value of expected future cash flows produced in the stochastic projection process.

Assumptions on customer behavior, such as lapses, included in the models are derived in the same way as the assumptions used to measure insurance liabilities.

 

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  Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 3

 

Trust pass-through securities, subordinated borrowings and other borrowings

Trust pass-through securities, subordinated borrowings and other borrowings are either carried at fair value (if they are designated as financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss) or amortized cost (with fair value being disclosed in the notes to the consolidated financial statements). For the determination of the fair value of these instruments, the level hierarchy as described by IFRS is used. The preferred method of obtaining the fair value of the fair value option bonds is the quoted price (Level I). In case markets are less liquid or the quoted prices are not available, an internal model is used, using parameters which are market observable (Level II). Aegon uses a discounted cash flow method including yield curves such as deposit rates, floating rate and 3-month swap rates. In addition, Aegon includes own credit spread based on Aegon’s credit default swap curve.

Fair value hierarchy

The table below provides an analysis of assets and liabilities recorded at fair value on a recurring basis by level of the fair value hierarchy:

 

      Level I      Level II      Level III      Total 2013  
Assets carried at fair value            
Available-for-sale investments            

Shares

     202         262         322         787   

Debt securities

     20,815         64,184         3,162         88,162   

Money market and other short-term instruments

     -         5,524         -         5,524   

Other investments at fair value

     25         312         826         1,163   
     21,043         70,282         4,310         95,635   
Fair value through profit or loss            

Shares

     1,120         130         -         1,250   

Debt securities

     64         1,268         17         1,350   

Money market and other short-term instruments

     95         354         -         449   

Other investments at fair value

     -         567         1,217         1,784   

Investments for account of policyholders 1)

     99,040         63,008         1,989         164,037   

Derivatives

     69         13,134         328         13,531   

Investments in real estate

     -         -         1,532         1,532   

Investments in real estate for policyholders

     -         -         996         996   
     100,388         78,461         6,079         184,929   
Revalued amounts            

Real estate held for own use

     -         -         288         288   
       -         -         288         288   
Total assets at fair value      121,431         148,744         10,677         280,852   
Liabilities carried at fair value            

Investment contracts for account of policyholders

     12,872         19,641         114         32,628   

Borrowings 2)

     517         500         -         1,017   

Derivatives

     24         10,383         1,431         11,838   
Total liabilities at fair value      13,413         30,524         1,545         45,482   
  1   The investments for account of policyholders included in the table above represents those investments carried at fair value through profit or loss.
  2 Total borrowings on the statement of financial position contain borrowings carried at amortized cost that are not included in the above schedule.

Significant transfers between Level I and II

Aegon’s policy is to record transfers of assets and liabilities between Level I and Level II at their fair values as of the beginning of each reporting period. During 2013, the amount of assets transferred from Level I to Level II classification was EUR 2 million. During 2013, the amount of assets and liabilities transferred from Level II to Level I classification was EUR 473 million. Transfers are identified based on transaction volume and frequency which are indicative of an active market.

 

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The table below shows transfers between Level I and Level II for assets recorded at fair value on a recurring basis during 2013:

 

              Total 2013  
      Transfers
Level I to
Level II
     Transfers
Level II to
Level I
 
Assets carried at fair value      
Available-for-sale investments      

Shares

     -         1   

Debt securities

     2         209   
     2         210   
Fair value through profit or loss      

Investments for account of policyholders

     -         263   
       -         263   
Total assets at fair value      2         473   

There were no transfers between Level I and Level II for liabilities recorded at fair value on a recurring basis during 2013.

 

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168   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 3

 

Movements in Level III financial instruments measured at fair value

The following table summarizes the change of all assets and liabilities measured at estimated fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level III), including realized and unrealized gains (losses) of all assets and liabilities and unrealized gains (losses) of all assets and liabilities still held at the end of the respective period.

 

Assets carried at fair
value
  At
January 1,
2013
    Total
gains /
losses in
income
statement  1)
    Total
gains /
losses in
OCI 2)
    Purchases     Sales     Settlements     Net
exchange
difference
    Transfers
from
levels I
and II
    Transfers to
levels I
and II
    At
December 31,
2013
   

Total unrealized
gains and losses for

the period recorded
in the P&L for
instruments held at
December 31, 2013  3)

 
Available for sale investments                      

Shares

    376        4        14        44        (98     (11     (6     1        (1     322        -   

Debt securities

    2,643        4        98        1,285        (192     (466     (80     488        (619     3,162        -   

Other investments at fair value

    883        (106     73        134        (51     (70     (37     -        -        826        -   
      3,902        (98     185        1,464        (342     (546     (123     489        (620     4,310        -   
Fair value through profit or loss                      

Debt securities

    13        (2     -        -        -        (1     (1     10        (2     17        1   

Other investments at fair value

    1,416        145        -        53        (360     -        (56     106        (86     1,217        146   

Investments for account of policyholders

    1,715        197        -        338        (407     -        (15     210        (50     1,989        153   

Derivatives

    301        2        -        47        (15     -        (7     -        -        328        (1

Investments in real estate

    1,627        (49     -        91        (105     -        (33     -        -        1,532        (60

Investments in real estate for policyholders

    1,008        (12     -        205        (180     -        (25     -        -        996        (12
    6,080        281        -        734        (1,067     (1     (137     326        (138     6,079        227   
Revalued amounts                      

Real estate held for own use

    305        (2     (5     (2     (1     -        (7     -        -        287        (2
      305        (2     (5     (2     (1     -        (7     -        -        287        (2
Total assets at fair value     10,287        181        180        2,196        (1,410     (547     (267     815        (758     10,676        225   
Liabilities carried at fair value                      

Investment contracts for account of policyholders

    (109     (20     -        (3     13        -        5        -        -        (114     (19

Derivatives

    (2,317     903        -        -        -        -        12        (30     2        (1,431     868   
      (2,427     883        -        (3     13        -        17        (30     2        (1,545     848   
  1   Includes impairments and movements related to fair value hedges. Gains and losses are recorded in the line item Results from financial transactions of the income statement.
  2   Total gains and losses are recorded in line items: Gains/(losses) on revaluation of available-for-sale investments, (Gains)/losses transferred to the income statement on disposal and impairment of available-for-sale investment and Changes in revaluation reser real estate held for own use of the statement of other comprehensive income.
  3   Total gains/(losses) for the period during which the financial instrument was in Level III.

 

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Aegons policy is to record transfers of assets and liabilities between Level I, Level II and Level III at their fair values as of the beginning of each reporting period. During 2013, Aegon transferred certain financial instruments from Levels I and Level II to Level III of the fair value hierarchy. The reason for the change in level was that the market liquidity for these securities decreased, which led to a change in market observability of prices. Prior to transfer, the fair value for the Level I and Level II securities was determined using observable market transactions or corroborated broker quotes respectively for the same or similar instruments. Since the transfer, all such assets have been valued using valuation models incorporating significant non market-observable inputs or uncorroborated broker quotes.

Similarly, during 2013, Aegon transferred certain financial instruments from Level III to other levels of the fair value hierarchy. The change in level was mainly the result of a return of activity in the market for these securities and that for these securities the fair value could be determined using observable market transactions or corroborated broker quotes for the same or similar instruments.

 

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170   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 4

 

Significant unobservable assumptions

The table below presents information about the significant unobservable inputs used for recurring fair value measurements for certain Level III assets and liabilities.

 

      December 31,
2013
    

Valuation

technique 1)

     Significant
unobservable input  2)
     Range (weighted
average)
 
Assets carried at fair value            
Available-for-sale investments            

Shares

     203         Broker quote        n.a.         n.a.   
       119         Other         n.a.         n.a.   
     322            

Debt securities

           

RMBS

     276         Broker quote        n.a.         n.a.   
     61         Other         n.a.         n.a.   

CMBS

     21         Broker quote         n.a.         n.a.   
     7         Other         n.a.         n.a.   

ABS

     202         Discounted cash flow         Discount rate         3%—8% (6.62 %) 
     2,030         Broker quote        n.a.         n.a.   
     59         Other         n.a.         n.a.   

Corporate bonds

     212         Discounted cash flow         Credit spread         0.4%—2.6% (2.33 %) 
     259         Broker quote         n.a.         n.a.   
     16         Other         n.a.         n.a.   

Sovereign debt

     19         Broker quote         n.a.         n.a.   
     3,162            

Other investments at fair value

           

Tax credit investments

     696         Discounted cash flow         Discount rate         8.2

Other

     126         Net asset value         n.a.         n.a.   
       4         Other         n.a.         n.a.   
       826                              
At December 31      4,310                              
Fair value through profit or loss            

Debt securities

     17         Other         n.a.         n.a.   
     17            

Other investments at fair value

           

Real estate funds

     591         Net asset value         n.a.         n.a.   

Private equity funds

     564         Net asset value         n.a.         n.a.   

Hedge funds

     62         Net asset value         n.a.         n.a.   
     1,217            

Derivatives 3)

           

Longevity swap

     128         Discounted cash flow         Mortality         n.a.   

Other

     124         Other         n.a.         n.a.   

Real estate

           

Investments in real estate

     595         Direct capitalization technique         Capitalization rate         4.50%—11.50% (7.3 %) 
     809         Appraisal value         n.a.         n.a.   
       127         Other         n.a.         n.a.   
     3,017            

Revalued amounts

           

Real estate held for own use

     129         Direct capitalization technique         Capitalization rate         6.50%—9.50% (7.98%)   
     104         Appraisal value         n.a.         n.a.   
       54         Other         n.a.         n.a.   
       287                              
At December 31      3,304                              
                                     
Total assets at fair value      7,614                              
Liabilities carried at fair value            

Derivatives

           

Embedded derivatives in insurance contracts

     1,213         Discounted cash flow         Credit spread         0.50

Other

     218         Other         n.a.         n.a.   
Total liabilities at fair value      1,431                              

 

  1 Other in the table above (column Valuation technique) includes investments for which the fair value is uncorroborated and no broker quote is received.
  2 Not applicable (n.a.) has been included when no significant unobservable assumption has been identified and used.
  3 Investments for account of policyholders are excluded from the table above and from the disclosure regarding reasonably possible alternative assumptions. Policyholder assets, and their returns, belong to policyholders and do not impact Aegon’s net income or equity. The effect on total assets is offset by the effect on total liabilities. Derivatives exclude derivatives for account of policyholders amounting to EUR 76 million.

 

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Available-for-sale shares include shares in the Federal Home Loan Bank of EUR 94 million that are measured at par, which are reported as part of Other. The bank has implicit financial support from the United States government. The redemption value of the shares is fixed at par and they can only be redeemed by the bank.

Effect of changes in significant unobservable assumptions to reasonably possible alternatives

 

                December 31,
2013
     Significant
unobservable
input
    

Effect of reasonably
possible alternative
assumptions (+/-)

 
                                  Increase      Decrease  
Financial assets carried at fair value               
Available-for-sale investments               

Debt securities

              

ABS

     a         202         Discount rate         19         (20

Corporate bonds

     b         212         Credit spread         25         (19

Other investments at fair value

              

Tax credit investments

     c         696         Discount rate         13         (13
Fair value through profit or loss               

Derivatives

     d         128         Mortality         11         (17
Financial liabilities carried at fair value               

Embedded derivatives in insurance contracts

     e         1,213         Credit spread         37         (36

The table above presents the impact on a fair value measurement of a change in an unobservable input for financial instruments. The impact of changes in inputs may not be independent, therefore the descriptions provided below indicate the impact of a change in an input in isolation.

  a. The primary unobservable assumptions used in fair value measurement of asset backed securities is in general a liquidity premium in the discount rate. Changing the liquidity premium changes the discount rate when using the discounted cash flow model. Increasing or decreasing the liquidity premium respectively decreases or increases the value of the investment. Aegon adjusted the discount rate with 100 basis points up or down for this input.  
  b. For corporate bonds the most significant unobservable input for the valuation of these securities is the credit spread. An increase in credit spread results in a lower valuation, while a decrease in credit spread results in a higher valuation. Aegon adjusted the discount rate by 50 basis points up or down for this input.  
  c. Tax credit investments are measured at fair value using an internal model. The most significant unobservable input for valuation of these tax credits is the discount rate. Increasing or decreasing the discount rate would result in respectively a lower or higher valuation. Aegon adjusted the discount rate by 50 basis points up or down for this input.  
  d. The derivative included is a longevity index derivative. Most significant unobservable input is expected mortality. Changing the expected mortality changes the cash flow expectations from this derivative. Increasing (decreasing) the mortality rates decreases (increases) the value of the investment. Aegon adjusted longevity with 2% up or down for this input, compared to the expected mortality in determining the value of this derivative.  
  e. To determine the fair value of the bifurcated embedded derivatives related to guarantees, a discount rate is used including credit spread. An increase in the credit spread results in lower valuation, while a decrease results in a higher valuation of the embedded derivatives. Aegon increased or decreased the credit spread by 20 basis points.  

 

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172   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 3

 

Fair value information about assets and liabilities not measured at fair value

The following table presents the carrying values and estimated fair values of assets and liabilities, excluding assets and liabilities which are carried at fair value on a recurring basis.

 

      Carrying
amount
December 31,
2013
     Estimated fair value hierarchy      Total
estimated
fair value
December 31,
2013
 
              Level I      Level II      Level III          
Assets               

Mortgage loans - held at amortized cost

     29,369         -         2         32,867         32,869   

Private loans - held at amortized cost

     1,783         -         96         1,792         1,888   

Other loans - held at amortized cost

     2,381         -         2,034         348         2,381   
Liabilities               

Trust pass-through securities - held at amortized cost

     135         -         122         -         122   

Subordinated borrowings - held at amortized cost

     44         -         73         -         73   

Borrowings – held at amortized cost

     11,003         2,067         1,527         7,697         11,291   

Investment contracts - held at amortized cost

     14,079         -         4,299         10,088         14,387   

Certain financial instruments that are not carried at fair value are carried at amounts that approximate fair value, due to their short-term nature and generally negligible credit risk. These instruments include cash and cash equivalents, short-term receivables and accrued interest receivable, short-term liabilities, and accrued liabilities. These instruments are not included in the table above.

Impairment of financial assets

There are a number of significant risks and uncertainties inherent in the process of monitoring investments and determining if impairment exists. These risks and uncertainties include the risk that the Group’s assessment of an issuer’s ability to meet all of its contractual obligations will change based on changes in the credit characteristics of that issuer and the risk that the economic outlook will be worse than expected or have more of an impact on the issuer than anticipated. Any of these situations could result in a charge against the income statement to the extent of the impairment charge recorded.

Debt securities

Aegon regularly monitors industry sectors and individual debt securities for evidence of impairment. This evidence may include one or more of the following: 1) deteriorating market to book ratio, 2) increasing industry risk factors, 3) deteriorating financial condition of the issuer, 4) covenant violations, 5) high probability of bankruptcy of the issuer or 6) recognized credit rating agency downgrades. Additionally, for ABS, cash flow trends and underlying levels of collateral are monitored.

Residential mortgage-backed securities (RMBS) are monitored and reviewed on a monthly basis. Detailed cash flow models using the current collateral pool and capital structure on the portfolio are performed quarterly. Model output is generated under a base and several stress-case scenarios. Aegon’s RMBS asset specialists utilize industry modeling software to perform a loan-by-loan, bottom-up approach to modeling. Key assumptions used in the models are projected defaults, loss severities, and prepayments. Each of these key assumptions varies greatly based on the significantly diverse characteristics of the current collateral pool for each security. Loan-to-value, loan size, and borrower credit history are some of the key characteristics used to determine the level of assumption that is utilized.

Defaults were estimated by identifying the loans that are in various delinquency buckets and defaulting a certain percentage of them over the near-term and long-term. Assumed defaults on delinquent loans are dependent on the specific security’s collateral attributes and historical performance. Loss severity assumptions were determined by obtaining historical rates from broader market data and by adjusting those rates for vintage, specific pool performance, collateral type, mortgage insurance and estimated loan modifications. Prepayments were estimated by examining historical averages of prepayment activity on the underlying collateral. Once the entire pool is modeled, the results are analyzed by internal asset specialists to determine whether or not a particular tranche or holding is at risk for not collecting all contractual cash flows taking into account the seniority and other terms of the tranches held. Aegon will impair its particular tranche to fair value where it would not be able to receive all contractual cash flows.

 

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Commercial mortgage-backed securities (CMBS) are monitored and reviewed on a monthly basis. Detailed cash flow models using the current collateral pool and capital structure on the portfolio are performed quarterly. Model output is generated under base and several stress-case scenarios by Aegon’s CMBS asset specialists. For conduit securities, a widely recognized industry modeling software is used to perform a loan-by-loan, bottom-up approach to modeling. For non-conduit securities, a CMBS asset specialist works closely with Aegon’s real estate valuation group to determine underlying asset valuation and risk. Both methodologies incorporate external estimates on the property market, capital markets, property cash flows, and loan structure. Results are then closely analyzed by the asset specialist to determine whether or not a principal or interest loss is expected to occur. Aegon will impair a particular tranche to fair value where it would not be able to receive all contractual cash flows.

Other ABS securities are monitored and reviewed on a monthly basis. Where ratings have declined to below investment grade, the individual debt securities have been modeled. Results are then closely analyzed by the asset specialist to determine whether or not a principal or interest loss is expected to occur. Aegon will impair its particular tranche to fair value where it would not be able to receive all contractual cash flows.

Shares

Objective evidence of impairment of an investment in an equity instrument classified as available-for-sale includes information about significant changes with an adverse effect that have taken place in the technological, market, economic or legal environment in which the issuer operates, and indicates that the cost of the investment in the equity instrument may not be recovered. A significant or prolonged decline in the fair value of an investment in an equity instrument below its cost is also objective evidence of impairment. Significant or prolonged decline is defined as an unrealized loss position for more than six months or a fair value of less than 80% of the original cost price of the investment. Additionally, as part of an ongoing process, the equity analysts actively monitor earnings releases, company fundamentals, new developments and industry trends for any signs of possible impairment. If an available-for-sale equity security is impaired based upon Aegon’s qualitative or quantitative impairment criteria, any further declines in the fair value at subsequent reporting dates are recognized as impairments. Therefore, at each reporting period, for an equity security that is determined to be impaired based upon Aegon’s impairment criteria, an impairment is recognized for the difference between the fair value and the original cost basis, less any previously recognized impairments.

Goodwill

Goodwill is reviewed and tested for impairment under a fair value approach. Goodwill must be tested for impairment at least annually or more frequently as a result of an event or change in circumstances that would indicate an impairment charge may be necessary. The recoverable amount is the higher of the value in use and fair value less costs to sell for a cash-generating unit. Impairment testing requires the determination of the value in use or fair value less costs for each of Aegon’s identified cash generating units.

The valuation utilized the best available information, including assumptions and projections considered reasonable and supportable by management. The assumptions used in the valuation involve significant judgments and estimates. Refer to note 21 for more details.

Valuation of defined benefit plans

The liabilities or assets recognized in the statement of financial position in respect of defined benefit plans is the difference between the present value of the projected defined benefit obligation at the balance sheet date and the fair value of plan assets. The present value of the defined benefit obligation is determined by discounting the estimated future cash flows using interest rates of high-quality corporate bonds that are denominated in the currency in which the benefits will be paid and that have terms to maturity that approximate the terms of the related pension liability. Actuarial assumptions used in the measurement of the liability include the discount rate, estimated future salary increases, mortality rates and price inflation. To the extent that actual experience deviates from these assumptions, the valuation of defined benefit plans and the level of pension expenses recognized in the future may be affected.

Recognition of deferred tax assets

Deferred tax assets are established for the tax benefit related to deductible temporary differences, carry forwards of unused tax losses and carry forwards of unused tax credits when in the judgment of management it is probable that Aegon will receive the tax benefits. Since there is no absolute assurance that these assets will ultimately be realized, management reviews Aegon’s deferred tax positions periodically to determine if it is probable that the assets will be realized. Periodic reviews include, among other things, the nature and amount of the taxable income and deductible expenses, the expected timing when certain assets will be used or liabilities will be required to be reported and the reliability of historical profitability of businesses expected to provide future earnings. Furthermore, management considers tax-planning strategies it can utilize to increase the likelihood that the tax assets will be realized. These strategies are also considered in the periodic reviews.

 

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174   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 4

 

Recognition of provisions

Provisions are established when it is probable that a past event has given rise to a present obligation or loss, the settlement of the obligation will probably lead to an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits and the amount can be reasonably estimated. Management exercises judgment in evaluating the probability that a loss will be incurred. The estimate of the amount of a loss requires management judgment in the selection of a proper calculation model and the specific assumptions related to the particular exposure.

4 Financial and insurance risks

General

As an insurance group, Aegon is in the “business of risk” and as a result is exposed to a variety of risks. A description of Aegon’s risk management and control systems is given below on the basis of significant identified risks for the company. Some risks, such as currency translation risk, are related to the international nature of Aegon’s business. Other risks include insurance related risks, such as changes in mortality and morbidity. However, Aegon’s largest exposures are to changes in financial markets (e.g. interest rate, credit and equity market risks) that affect the value of the investments, liabilities from products that Aegon sells, deferred expenses and value of business acquired.

Aegon manages risk at local level where business is transacted, based on principles and policies established at the Group level. Aegon’s integrated approach to risk management involves common measurement of risk and scope of risk coverage to allow for aggregation of the Group’s risk position.

To manage its risk exposure, Aegon has risk policies in place. Many of these policies are group-wide while others are specific to the unique situation of local businesses. The Group level policies limit the Group’s exposure to major risks such as equity, interest rates, credit, underwriting and currency. The limits in these policies in aggregate remain within the Group’s overall tolerance for risk and the Group’s financial resources. Operating within this policy framework, Aegon employs risk management programs including asset liability management (ALM) processes and models, hedging programs (which are largely conducted via the use of derivatives) and insurance programs (which are largely conducted through the use of reinsurance). These risk management programs are in place in each country unit and are not only used to manage risk in each unit, but are also part of the Group’s overall risk strategy.

Aegon operates a Derivative Use Policy and a Reinsurance Use Policy to govern its usage of derivatives and reinsurance. These policies establish the control, authorization, execution and monitoring requirements of the usage of such instruments. In addition, these policies stipulate necessary mitigation of credit risk created through these derivatives and reinsurance risk management tools. For derivatives, credit risk is normally mitigated by requirements to post collateral via credit support annex agreements. For reinsurance, credit risk is normally mitigated by downgrade triggers allowing Aegon’s recapture of business, funds withheld by treaties (when Aegon owns the assets) and assets held in trust for the benefit of Aegon (in the event of reinsurer insolvency).

As part of its risk management programs, Aegon takes inventory of its current risk position across risk categories. Aegon also measures the sensitivity of net income and shareholders’ equity under both deterministic and stochastic scenarios. Management uses the insight gained through these “what if?” scenarios to manage the Group’s risk exposure and capital position. The models, scenarios and assumptions used are reviewed regularly and updated as necessary.

Results of Aegon’s sensitivity analyses are presented throughout this section to show the estimated sensitivity of net income and shareholders’ equity to various scenarios. For each type of market risk, the analysis shows how net income and shareholders’ equity would have been affected by changes in the relevant risk variable that were reasonably possible at the reporting date. For each sensitivity test the impact of a reasonably possible change in a single factor is shown. Management action is taken into account to the extent that it is part of Aegon’s regular policies and procedures, such as established hedging programs. However, incidental management actions that would require a change in policies and procedures are not considered.

Each sensitivity analysis reflects the extent to which the shock tested would affect management’s critical accounting estimates and judgment in applying Aegon’s accounting policies. Market-consistent assumptions underlying the measurement of non-listed assets and liabilities are adjusted to reflect the shock tested. The shock may also affect the measurement of assets and liabilities based on assumptions that are not observable in the market. For example, a shock in interest rates may lead to changes in the amortization schedule of DPAC or to increased impairment losses on equity investments. Although management’s short-term assumptions may change if there is a reasonably possible change in a risk factor, long-term assumptions will generally not be revised unless there is evidence that the movement is permanent. This fact is reflected in the sensitivity analyses.

 

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The accounting mismatch inherent in IFRS is also apparent in the reported sensitivities. A change in interest rates has an immediate impact on the carrying amount of assets measured at fair value. However, the shock will not have a similar effect on the carrying amount of the related insurance liabilities that are measured based on locked-in assumptions or on management’s long-term expectations. Consequently, the different measurement bases for assets and liabilities lead to increased volatility in IFRS net income and shareholders’ equity. Aegon has classified a significant part of its investment portfolio as “available-for-sale”, which is one of the main reasons why the economic shocks tested have a different impact on net income than on shareholders’ equity. Unrealized gains and losses on these assets are not recognized in the income statement but are booked directly to the revaluation reserves in shareholders’ equity, unless impaired. As a result, economic sensitivities predominantly impact shareholders’ equity but leave net income unaffected. The effect of movements of the revaluation reserve on capitalization ratios and capital adequacy are minimal. Aegon’s target ratio for the composition of its capital base is based on shareholders’ equity excluding the revaluation reserve.

The sensitivities do not reflect what the net income for the period would have been if risk variables had been different because the analysis is based on the exposures in existence at the reporting date rather than on those that actually occurred during the year. Nor are the results of the sensitivities intended to be an accurate prediction of Aegon’s future shareholders’ equity or earnings. The analysis does not take into account the impact of future new business, which is an important component of Aegon’s future earnings. It also does not consider all methods available to management to respond to changes in the financial environment, such as changing investment portfolio allocations or adjusting premiums and crediting rates. Furthermore, the results of the analyses cannot be extrapolated for wider variations since effects do not tend to be linear. No risk management process can clearly predict future results.

Concentration risk for financial risks are measured and managed at the following levels:

  ¿   Concentration per risk type: Risk exposures are measured per risk type as part of Aegon’s internal economic framework. A risk tolerance framework is in place which sets risk limits per risk type and which promotes diversification across risk types.
  ¿   Concentration per counterparty: Risk exposure are measured and risk limits are in place per counterparty as part of the Counterparty Name Limit Policy.
  ¿   Concentration per sector, geography and asset class: Aegon’s investment strategy is translated in investment mandates for our internal and external asset managers. Through these investment mandates limits on sector, geography and asset class are set. Compliance monitoring of the investment mandates is done by the insurance operating companies.

Moreover concentration of financial risks are measured in Aegon business planning cycle. As part of business planning, the resilience of Aegon’s business strategy is tested in several extreme event scenarios. In the Depression and Inflation scenario financial markets are stressed without assuming diversification across different market factors. As part of the Extreme Event Scenario testing, appropriate management actions are implemented when management deems this necessary.

Concentration risk for insurance risks are measured and managed at the following levels:

  ¿   Concentration per risk type: Insurance risks include mortality, longevity, morbidity and policyholder behavior risk. Similar to financial risks, a risk tolerance framework is in place which sets risk limits per risk type and which promotes diversification across risk types.
  ¿   Concentration per insured life: Mortality risk retention limit per life is set as part of the Underwriting Risk Policy.

Risk mitigation/transfer programs are taken for the exposures that are close to or exceed the limit. More generally, Aegon’s processes for managing insurance risks include risk-based pricing, underwriting and claim process, risk analysis and modeling, and management actions such as repricing, risk mitigation/transfer, enhancing customer service, etc.

Currency exchange rate risk

As an international group, Aegon is subject to foreign currency translation risk. Foreign currency exposure exists when policies are denominated in currencies other than the issuers functional currency. Currency risk in the investment portfolios backing insurance and investment liabilities is managed using asset liability matching principles. Assets allocated to equity are kept in local currencies to the extent shareholders equity is required to satisfy regulatory and self-imposed capital requirements. Therefore, currency exchange rate fluctuations will affect the level of shareholders’ equity as a result of translation of subsidiaries into euro, the Group’s presentation currency. Aegon holds the remainder of its capital base (perpetual capital securities, subordinated and senior debt) in various currencies in amounts that are targeted to correspond to the book value of the country units. This balancing mitigates currency translation impacts on shareholders’ equity and leverage ratios. Aegon does not hedge the income streams from the main non-euro units and, as a result, earnings may fluctuate due to currency translation. As Aegon has significant business segments in the Americas and in the United Kingdom, the principal sources of exposure from currency fluctuations are from the differences between the US dollar and the euro and between the UK pound and the euro. Aegon may experience significant changes in net income and shareholders’ equity because of these fluctuations.

 

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176   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 4

 

Aegon operates a Currency Risk Policy which applies currency risk exposure limits both at Group and regional levels, and under which direct currency speculation or program trading by country units is not allowed unless explicit approval has been granted by the Group Risk and Capital Committee. Assets should be held in the functional currency of the business written or hedged back to that currency. Where this is not possible or practical, remaining currency exposure should be sufficiently documented and limits are placed on the total exposure at both group level and for individual country units.

Information on Aegon’s 3-year historical net income / (loss) and shareholders’ equity in functional currency are shown in the table below:

 

      2013      2012      2011  
Net income         

Americas (in USD)

     592         1,357         907   

The Netherlands (in EUR)

     424         228         419   

United Kingdom (in GBP)

     102         140         (39

New markets (in EUR)

     133         249         111   
Equity in functional currency         

Americas (in USD)

     20,646         23,129         21,990   

The Netherlands (in EUR)

     4,180         4,907         3,965   

United Kingdom (in GBP)

     3,623         3,335         2,836   

New markets (in EUR)

     1,924         2,451         2,320   

The exchange rates for US dollar and UK pound per euro for each of the last five year-ends are set forth in the table below:

 

Closing rates    2013      2012      2011      2010      2009  

USD

     1.38         1.32         1.30         1.34         1.44   

GBP

     0.83         0.81         0.84         0.86         0.89   

Aegon Group companies’ foreign currency exposure from monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies is not material.

The sensitivity analysis in the table below shows an estimate of the effect of movements in the exchange rates of Aegon’s non-euro currencies relative to the euro on net income and shareholders’ equity. The effects as included in the table below are due to the translation of subsidiaries and joint-ventures in the consolidated financial statements.

Sensitivity analysis of net income and shareholders’ equity to translation risk

 

Movement of markets 1)    Estimated approximate
effects on net income
     Estimated approximate
effects on shareholders’
equity
 
2013      

Increase by 15% of non-euro currencies relative to the euro

     61         1,951   

Decrease by 15% of non-euro currencies relative to the euro

     (61      (1,950
2012      

Increase by 15% of non-euro currencies relative to the euro

     193         2,621   

Decrease by 15% of non-euro currencies relative to the euro

     (193      (2,621
  1 The effect of currency exchange movements is reflected as a one-time shift up or down in the value of the non-euro currencies relative to the euro on December 31.

Interest rate risk

Aegon bears interest rate risk with many of its products. In cases where cash flows are highly predictable, investing in assets that closely match the cash flow profile of the liabilities can offset this risk. For some Aegon country units, local capital markets are not well developed, which prevents the complete matching of assets and liabilities for those businesses. For some products, cash flows are less predictable as a result of policyholder actions that can be affected by the level of interest rates.

In periods of rapidly increasing interest rates, policy loans, surrenders and withdrawals may and usually do increase. Premiums in flexible premium policies may decrease as policyholders seek investments with higher perceived returns. This activity may result in

 

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cash payments by Aegon requiring the sale of invested assets at a time when the prices of those assets are adversely affected by the increase in market interest rates; this may result in realized investment losses. These cash payments to policyholders result in a decrease in total invested assets and a decrease in net income. Among other things, early withdrawals may also require accelerated amortization of DPAC, which in turn reduces net income.

During periods of sustained low interest rates, Aegon may not be able to preserve margins as a result of minimum interest rate guarantees and minimum guaranteed crediting rates provided on policies. Also, investment earnings may be lower because the interest earnings on new fixed-income investments are likely to have declined with the market interest rates. Mortgages and redeemable bonds in the investment portfolio are more likely to be repaid as borrowers seek to borrow at lower interest rates and Aegon may be required to reinvest the proceeds in securities bearing lower interest rates. Accordingly, net income declines as a result of a decrease in the spread between returns on the investment portfolio and the interest rates either credited to policyholders or assumed in reserves.

Aegon manages interest rate risk closely taking into account all of the complexity regarding policyholder behavior and management action. Aegon employs sophisticated interest rate measurement techniques and actively uses derivatives and other risk mitigation tools to closely manage its interest rate risk exposure. Aegon operates an Interest Rate Risk policy that limits the amount of interest rate risk to which the Group is exposed. All derivative use is governed by Aegon’s Derivative Use Policy.

The following table shows interest rates at the end of each of the last five years.

 

      2013     2012     2011     2010     2009  

3-month US LIBOR

     0.25     0.31     0.58     0.30     0.25

3-month EURIBOR

     0.29     0.19     1.36     1.01     0.70

10-year US Treasury

     3.03     1.76     1.88     3.29     3.83

10-year Dutch government

     2.23     1.50     2.19     3.15     3.56

The sensitivity analysis in the table below shows an estimate of the effect of a parallel shift in the yield curves on net income and shareholders’ equity. In general, increases in interest rates have a negative effect on shareholders’ equity and a positive impact on net income in the current year because it results in unrealized losses on investments that are carried at fair value. The rising interest rates would also cause the fair value of the available-for-sale bond portfolio to decline and the level of unrealized gains could become too low to support recoverability of the full deferred tax asset triggering an allowance charge to income. The offsetting economic gain on the insurance and investment contracts is however not fully reflected in the sensitivities because many of these liabilities are not measured at fair value. Over time, the medium-term reduction in net income due to rising interest rates would be offset by higher net income in later years, all else being equal. Therefore, higher interest rates are not considered a long-term risk to the Group.

 

Parallel movement of yield curve    Estimated approximate
effects on net income
     Estimated approximate
effects on shareholders’
equity
 
2013      

Shift up 100 basis points

     438         (3,107

Shift down 100 basis points

     (399      3,099   
2012      

Shift up 100 basis points

     66         (3,960

Shift down 100 basis points

     (52      3,374   

Credit risk

As premiums and deposits are received, these funds are invested to pay for future policyholder obligations. For general account products, Aegon typically bears the risk for investment performance equaling the return of principal and interest. Aegon is exposed to credit risk on its general account fixed-income portfolio (debt securities, mortgages and private placements), OTC derivatives and reinsurance contracts. Some issuers have defaulted on their financial obligations for various reasons, including bankruptcy, lack of liquidity, downturns in the economy, downturns in real estate values, operational failure and fraud. During the financial crisis, Aegon incurred significant investment impairments on Aegon’s investment assets due to defaults and overall declines in the capital markets. Further excessive defaults or other reductions in the value of these securities and loans could have a materially adverse effect on Aegon’s business, results of operations and financial condition.

 

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178   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 4

 

The table that follows shows the Group’s maximum exposure to credit risk from investments in general account financial assets, as well as general account derivatives and reinsurance assets, collateral held and net exposure. Please refer to note 51 and note 52 for further information on capital commitments and contingencies, and on collateral given, which may expose the Group to credit risk.

 

2013   

Maximum
exposure

to credit

risk

     Cash      Securities      Letters of
credit /
guarantees
     Real
estate
property
     Master
netting
agree-
ments
     Other      Total
collateral
     Surplus
collateral (or
overcollater-
alization)
     Net
exposure
 

Shares

     2,036         -         -         -         -         -         -         -         -         2,036   

Debt securities

                             

- carried at fair value

     89,511         -         -         725         -         -         -         725         -         88,787   

Money market and other short-term investments

                             

- carried at fair value

     5,974         -         1,078         -         -         -         -         1,078         31         4,926   

Mortgage loans

                             

- carried at amortized cost

     29,369         1,717         -         1,810         39,447         -         2         42,976         14,442         835   

Private loans -carried at amortized cost

     1,783         21         -         -         -         -         -         21         -         1,761   

Other loans -carried at amortized cost

     2,381         -         -         -         -         -         1,925         1,925         1,149         1,606   

Other financial assets—carried at fair value

     2,947         -         -         -         -         -         -         -         -         2,947   

Derivatives

     13,293         2,898         416         -         -         9,433         -         12,746         78         625   

Reinsurance assets

     10,255         -         5,327         165         -         -         -         5,492         -         4,763   
At December 31      157,550         4,636         6,821         2,700         39,447         9,433         1,927         64,963         15,699         108,286   
2012    Maximum
exposure to
credit risk
     Cash      Securities      Letters of
credit /
guarantees
     Real
estate
property
     Master
netting
agree-
ments
     Other      Total
collateral
     Surplus
collateral(or
overcollater-
alization)
     Net
exposure
 

Shares

     1,867         -         -         -         -         -         -         -         -         1,867   

Debt securities

                             

- carried at fair value

     96,825         -         -         805         -         -         -         805         -         96,020   

Money market and other short-term investments

                             

- carried at fair value

     9,771         -         718         -         -         -         -         718         17         9,070   

Mortgage loans

                             

- carried at amortized cost

     28,298         1,513         -         1,652         37,224         -         2         40,391         13,066         973   

Private loans -carried at amortized cost

     1,012         -         -         -         -         -         -         -         -         1,012   

Other loans -carried at amortized cost

     2,350         -         -         -         -         -         2,073         2,073         1,324         1,601   

Other financial assets -carried at fair value

     3,219         -         1         -         -         -         -         1         -         3,218   

Derivatives

     20,824         5,241         655         -         -         14,597         -         20,493         121         452   

Reinsurance assets

     11,869         -         6,516         201         -         -         -         6,717         -         5,152   
At December 31      176,035         6,754         7,890         2,658         37,224         14,597         2,075         71,198         14,528         119,365   

 

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Shares

Further information on equity risk is provided in section “equity market and other investment risk”.

Debt securities

Several bonds in Aegon USA’s portfolio are insured by monoline insurers. Further information on the monoline insurers is provided in section “Additional information on credit risk, unrealized losses and impairments”.

Money market and short term investments

The collateral reported for the money market and short term investments are related to tri-party repurchase agreements (repo’s). Within tri-party repo’s Aegon invests under short term reverse repurchase agreements and the counterparty posts collateral to a third party custodian. The collateral posted is typically high-quality short term securities and is only accessible to Aegon in the event the counterparty defaults.

Mortgage loans

The real estate collateral for mortgages includes both residential and commercial properties. The collateral for commercial mortgage loans in Aegon Americas is measured at fair value. At a minimum, on an annual basis, a fair value is estimated for each individual real estate property that has been pledged as collateral. When a loan is originally provided, an external appraisal is obtained to estimate the value of the property. In subsequent years, the value is typically estimated internally using various professionally accepted valuation methodologies. Internal appraisals are performed by qualified, professionally accredited personnel. International valuation standards are used and the most significant assumptions made during the valuation of real estate are the current cost of reproducing or replacing the property, the value that the property’s net earning power will support, and the value indicated by recent sales of comparable properties. Valuations are primarily supported by market evidence. For Aegon the Netherlands collateral for the residential mortgages is measured as the foreclosure value which is indexed periodically.

Cash collateral for mortgage loans includes the savings that have been received to redeem the underlying mortgage loans at redemption date. These savings are part of the credit side of the statement of financial position, but reduce the credit risk for the mortgage loan as a whole.

Guarantees that have been received regarding mortgage loans that fulfill certain criteria of the Dutch Mortgage loan Guarantee (NHG) are presented in the letters of credit/guarantees column. These specific mortgage loans are partly guaranteed by a Dutch Government Trust (Stichting Waarborgfonds Eigen Woningen). The guarantee encompasses the remaining debt for these mortgage loans (being the remainder of the mortgage loan minus the forced sale auction value).

Derivatives

The master netting agreements column in the table relates to derivative liability positions which are used in Aegon’s credit risk management. The offset in the master netting agreements column includes balances where there is a legally enforceable right of offset, but no intention to settle these balances on a net basis under normal circumstances. As a result, there is a net exposure for credit risk management purposes. However, as there is no intention to settle these balances on a net basis, they do not qualify for net presentation for accounting purposes.

Reinsurance assets

The collateral related to the reinsurance assets include assets in trust that are held by the reinsurer for the benefit of Aegon. The assets in trust can be accessed to pay policyholder benefits in the event the reinsurers fail to perform under the terms of their contract. Further information on the related reinsurance transactions is included in note 28.

Other loans

The collateral included in the other column represents the policyholders account value for policy loans. The excess of the account value over the loan value is included in the surplus collateral column. For further information on the policy loans refer to note 22.1.

The total collateral includes both under- and over-collateralized positions. To present a net exposure of credit risk, the over collateralization, which is shown in the surplus collateral column, is extracted from the total collateral.

 

  Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013   LOGO  


Table of Contents
180   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 4

 

Credit risk management

Aegon manages credit risk exposure by individual counterparty, sector and asset class, including cash positions. Normally, Aegon mitigates credit risk in derivative contracts by entering into credit support agreement, where practical, and in ISDA master netting agreements for most of Aegon’s legal entities to facilitate Aegon’s right to offset credit risk exposure. Main counterparties to these transactions are investment banks which are typically rated A or higher. The credit support agreement will normally dictate the threshold over which collateral needs to be pledged by Aegon or its counterparty. Transactions requiring Aegon or its counterparty to post collateral are typically the result of derivative trades, comprised mostly of interest rate swaps, currency swaps, and credit swaps. Collateral received is mainly cash (USD and EUR). The credit support agreements that outline the acceptable collateral require high quality instruments to be posted. In 2013 and 2012, there was no default with any derivatives counterparty. The credit risk associated with financial assets subject to a master netting agreement is eliminated only to the extent that financial liabilities due to the same counterparty will be settled after the assets are realized.

Aegon may also mitigate credit risk in reinsurance contracts by including down-grade clauses that allow the recapture of business, retaining ownership of assets required to support liabilities ceded or by requiring the reinsurer to hold assets in trust. For the resulting net credit risk exposure, Aegon employs deterministic and stochastic credit risk modelling in order to assess the Group’s credit risk profile, associated earnings and capital implications due to various credit loss scenarios.

Aegon operates a Credit Name Limit Policy under which limits are placed on the aggregate exposure that it has to any one counterparty. Limits are placed on the exposure at both group level and individual country units. The limits also vary by a rating system, which is a composite of the main rating agencies (S&P, Moody’s and Fitch) and Aegon’s internal rating of the counterparty. If an exposure exceeds the stated limit, then the exposure must be reduced to the limit for the country unit and rating category as soon as possible. Exceptions to these limits can only be made after explicit approval from Aegon’s Group Risk and Capital Committee (GRCC). The policy is reviewed regularly.

At December 31, 2013, there was one violation of the Credit Name Limit Policy at Group level, which received an exemption from Aegon’s GRCC. This exposure is an reinsurance exposure. At December 31, 2012, there were four violations of the Credit Name Limit Policy at Group level. Three of these exposures have been reduced in 2013.

At December 31, 2013, Aegon’s largest corporate credit exposures are to Rabobank, ING, Citigroup, General Electric and Berkshire Hathaway. Aegon had large investments in sovereign backed assets, the largest being in USA, the Netherlands, Germany, UK and Austria. Highly rated sovereign assets (AAA rated) and domestically issued and owned in local currency sovereign exposures are excluded from the Credit Name Limit Policy.

Aegon Group level long-term counterparty exposure limits are as follows:

 

Group Limit

Amounts in EUR million

   2013      2012  

AAA

     900         900   

AA

     900         900   

A

     675         600   

BBB

     450         400   

BB

     250         250   

B

     125         125   

CCC or lower

     50         50   

 

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181

 

Credit rating

The ratings distribution of general account portfolios of Aegon’s major country units, excluding reinsurance assets, are presented in the table that follows, organized by rating category and split by assets that are valued at fair value and assets that are valued at amortized cost. Disclosure of ratings follows a hierarchy of S&P, Moody’s, Fitch, Internal and National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC).

 

      Americas      The Netherlands      United Kingdom      New Markets      Total 2013 1)  
Credit rating
general
account
investments,
excluding
reinsurance
assets 2013
   Amor-
tized
cost
     Fair
value
     Amor-
tized
cost
     Fair
value
     Amor-
tized
cost
     Fair
value
     Amor-
tized
cost
     Fair
value
     Amor-
tized
cost
     Fair
value
     Total
carrying
value
 

Sovereign exposure

     -         5,943         173         11,142         -         2,640         -         225         173         19,950         20,123   

AAA

     919         6,673         506         1,289         -         248         -         147         1,425         8,461         9,886   

AA

     3,030         7,475         143         1,076         -         1,767         -         233         3,173         10,552         13,725   

A

     1,744         21,352         215         2,776         -         3,649         86         678         2,046         28,501         30,547   

BBB

     257         17,249         181         2,520         -         2,159         57         1,014         494         22,941         23,435   

BB

     198         1,755         3         203         -         183         4         398         205         2,539         2,744   

B

     11         1,160         4         70         -         11         5         23         20         1,264         1,284   

CCC or lower

     -         797         -         19         -         -         2         2         2         818         820   

Assets not rated

     1,954         4,092         22,845         12,386         1         70         194         140         24,993         17,026         42,019   

Total

     8,113         66,496         24,070         31,480         1         10,727         348         2,860         32,532         112,051         144,583   

Past due and / or impaired assets

     79         1,497         638         160         -         26         160         28         877         1,711         2,588   
At December 31      8,192         67,992         24,708         31,641         1         10,753         508         2,888         33,409         113,762         147,171   

1     Includes investments of Holding and other activities

 

       

              
      Americas      The Netherlands      United Kingdom      New Markets      Total 2012 1)  
Credit rating
general
account
investments,
excluding
reinsurance
assets 2012
   Amor-
tized
cost
     Fair
value
     Amor-
tized
cost
     Fair
value
     Amor-
tized
cost
     Fair
value
     Amor-
tized
cost
     Fair
value
     Amor-
tized
cost
     Fair
value
     Total
carrying
value
 

Sovereign exposure

     -         6,551         26         11,503         -         2,730         -         79         26         20,863         20,889   

AAA

     879         7,878         478         985         -         198         -         150         1,357         9,970         11,327   

AA

     3,431         9,124         206         1,392         -         2,189         -         371         3,637         13,076         16,713   

A

     1,662         26,841         127         3,120         -         3,880         90         746         1,879         34,604         36,483   

BBB

     408         18,402         70         1,928         -         2,057         82         895         560         23,282         23,842   

BB

     232         2,145         11         173         -         160         6         427         249         2,905         3,154   

B

     9         1,318         4         131         -         27         2         33         15         1,509         1,524   

CCC or lower

     8         883         -         15         -         10         -         15         8         923         931   

Assets not rated

     2,109         4,257         20,766         18,726         5         64         209         132         23,089         23,566         46,655   

Total

     8,738         77,399         21,688         37,973         5         11,315         389         2,848         30,820         130,698         161,518   

Past due and / or impaired assets

     172         1,506         557         266         -         30         162         8         891         1,810         2,701   
At December 31      8,910         78,905         22,245         38,239         5         11,345         551         2,856         31,711         132,508         164,219   
  1   Includes investments of Holding and other activities

 

  Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013   LOGO  


Table of Contents
182   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 4

 

The following table shows the credit quality of the gross positions in the statement of financial position for general account reinsurance assets specifically:

 

     

 

Carrying
value 2013

     Carrying
value 2012
 

AAA

     7         6   

AA

     3,246         3,955   

A

     5,049         5,540   

Below A

     1,620         1,895   

Not rated

     334         472   
At December 31      10,255         11,868   

Credit risk concentration

The tables that follow present specific credit risk concentration information for general account financial assets.

 

Credit risk concentrations – debt
securities and money market
investments 2013
   Americas     

The

Netherlands

     United
Kingdom
     New Markets      Total 2013  1)     

 

Of which
past due and
/ or impaired
assets

 

Residential mortgage backed securities (RMBSs)

     4,360         1,143         19         112         5,634         1,282   

Commercial mortgage backed securities (CMBSs)

     4,723         82         398         134         5,337         43   

Asset Backed Securities (ABSs) - CDOs backed by ABS, Corp. Bonds, Bank loans

     562         1,379         -         -         1,941         43   

ABSs – Other

     2,079         184         1,682         97         4,041         64   

Financial - Banking

     5,768         1,079         1,501         267         8,710         20   

Financial - Other

     9,124         189         1,242         239         10,802         2   

Industrial

     22,911         3,122         2,089         837         28,959         37   

Utility

     5,027         687         823         162         6,699         -   

Sovereign exposure

     8,233         11,231         2,930         968         23,362         -   
At December 31      62,787         19,095         10,683         2,816         95,485         1,491   
  1   Includes investments of Holding and other activities

 

Credit risk concentrations –
mortgage loans
   Americas     

The

Netherlands

     United
Kingdom
     New Markets      Total 2013  1)     

 

Of which
past due and
/ or impaired
assets

 

Agricultural

     142         -         -         -         142         6   

Apartment

     1,253         -         -         -         1,253         17   

Industrial

     882         -         -         -         882         18   

Office

     2,023         16         -         -         2,039         26   

Retail

     1,640         15         -         -         1,655         9   

Other commercial

     300         42         -         -         342         11   

Residential

     27         22,705         -         324         23,056         702   
At December 31      6,267         22,777         -         324         29,369         789   

 

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Table of Contents

183

 

 

Credit risk concentrations – debt
securities and money market
investments 2012
   Americas     

The

Netherlands

     United
Kingdom
     New Markets      Total 2012  1)      Of which past
due and / or
impaired
assets
 

Residential mortgage backed securities (RMBSs)

     5,079         1,142         20         106         6,966         1,232   

Commercial mortgage backed securities (CMBSs)

     5,227         9         438         147         5,821         65   

Asset Backed Securities (ABSs) - CDOs backed by ABS, Corp. Bonds, Bank loans

     507         780         -         -         1,287         18   

ABSs – Other

     2,476         323         1,674         53         3,907         61   

Financial - Banking

     5,103         1,812         1,671         289         9,615         27   

Financial - Other

     13,086         234         1,453         220         15,012         8   

Industrial

     25,986         2,822         2,180         860         31,848         25   

Utility

     5,403         610         878         157         7,048         3   

Sovereign exposure

     9,611         11,524         2,966         991         25,092         -   
At December 31      72,478         19,256         11,280         2,823         106,596         1,439   
  1   Includes investments of Holding and other activities

 

Credit risk concentrations –
mortgage loans
   Americas      The
Netherlands
     United
Kingdom
     New Markets      Total 2012  1)      Of which past
due and / or
impaired
assets
 

Agricultural

     261         -         -         -         261         30   

Apartment

     1,152         -         -         -         1,152         -   

Industrial

     1,095         -         -         -         1,095         46   

Office

     2,314         16         -         -         2,330         46   

Retail

     1,728         17         -         -         1,745         45   

Other commercial

     253         40         -         -         293         12   

Residential

     34         21,040         -         349         21,423         702   
At December 31      6,837         21,113         -         349         28,299         881   

The fair value of Aegon Americas commercial and agricultural mortgage loan portfolio as per December 31, 2013 amounts to EUR 6,514 million (2012: EUR 7,317 million). The loan to value (LTV) amounts to about 59% (2012: 61%). Of the portfolio 1.24% (2012: 1.43%) is in delinquency (defined as 60 days in arrears). In 2013, Aegon Americas recognized EUR 11 million impairments (net of recoveries) on this portfolio. In 2013, Aegon Americas foreclosed upon, or recovered EUR 73 million of real estate. The 2013 additional recoveries associated with these loans at the time of foreclosure amounted to EUR 4 million (2012: impairment recoveries of EUR 2 million).

The fair value of Aegon the Netherlands mortgage loan portfolio as per December 31, 2013 amounts to EUR 26,114 million (2012: EUR 24,114 million). The LTV amounts to about 99% (2012: 96%). A significant part of the portfolio (58%; 2012: 54%) is government guaranteed. Of the portfolio, 1.2% (2012: 1.1%) is in delinquency (defined as 60 days in arrears). Impairments in 2013 amounted to EUR 22 million (2012: EUR 16 million). Historical defaults of the portfolio have been between 2 and 9 basis points per year.

 

  Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013   LOGO  


Table of Contents
184   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 4

 

Unconsolidated structured entities

Aegon’s unconsolidated structured entities such as RMBSs, CMBSs and ABSs are presented in the line item “Investments” of the statement of financial position. The composition of the structured entities portfolios of Aegon are widely dispersed looking at the individual amount per entity. This is shown in the following table together with the number of individual entities:

 

      December 31, 2013  
      Number of
entities
     Carrying
amount
 

EUR 0 - 25 mln

     2,303         9,476   

EUR 26 - 50 mln

     139         4,602   

EUR 51 - 75 mln

     30         1,724   

EUR 76 - 100 mln

     10         848   

EUR 101 - 150 mln

     1         146   

EUR 151 - 250 mln

     1         158   

> EUR 251 mln

     -         -   
At December 31      2,484         16,953   

For the most significant structured entities the following table presents the maximum exposure to loss for Aegon by type of structured security and by seniority of interest. Also shown are the amounts of losses that in each case would be absorbed first by investors whose interests rank junior to those of Aegon. If Aegon has interests in multiple tranches of one individual structured entity, Aegon’s maximum exposure to loss is excluded from the amount shown as potential losses borne by more junior interests. In each case, the amounts shown reflect the fair value of those interests as at the reporting date. Furthermore, the table presents a comparison of Aegon’s interest with the total assets of those unconsolidated structured entities. The amount shown as total assets is based on the most current available information.

 

    

Subordinated

interests

   

Mezzanine

interests

   

Senior

interests

   

Most senior

interests

   

Carrying

amount

of interest in
structured

entity

    Total  
2013  

Maxi-

mum
exposure
to loss

   

Potential
losses
borne by
more

junior
interests

    Maxi-
mum
exposure
to loss
   

 

Potential
losses
borne by
more
junior
interests

    Maxi-
mum
exposure
to loss
    Potential
losses
borne by
more
junior
interests
    Maxi-
mum
exposure
to loss
    Potential
losses
borne by
more
junior
interests
    Assets     Liabilities     Assets
of
struc-
tured
entity
 

Residential mortgage backed securities

    -        -        35        6,037        -        -        298        8,948        333        -        29,319   

Commercial mortgage backed securities

    -        -        -        -        134        987        109        1,183        243        -        3,580   

Asset backed securities

    52        198        69        354        -        -        179        557        300        -        1,234   

ABS’s - Other

    -        -        -        -        76        -        -        -        76        -        3,052   
December 31, 2013     52        198        105        6,391        211        987        585        10,688        952        -        37,184   

Monoline insurers

About EUR 0.8 billion of the bonds in Aegon USA’s portfolio are insured by monoline insurers (2012: EUR 0.9 billion), of which EUR 343 million of bonds (2012: EUR 419 million) in the EUR 1.0 billion subprime portfolio (2012: EUR 1.2 billion). Expected claims against the monolines amount to EUR 98 million (2012: EUR 108 million), although an insolvency by one of the monolines could create significant market price volatility for the affected holdings.

 

  Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013   LOGO  


Table of Contents

185

 

The following table breaks down bonds in Aegon USA’s portfolio that are insured by monoline insurers. The disclosure by rating follows a hierarchy of S&P, Moody’s, Fitch, Internal and NAIC.

 

      2013      2012  
Bonds insured by monoline insurers    Amortized
cost
     Fair value      Amortized
cost
     Fair value  

AAA

     46         48         53         57   

AA

     178         174         224         208   

< AA

     527         503         615         541   
At December 31      751         725         892         806   

The rating that is provided by the rating agencies on these guaranteed bonds is the higher of the guarantor’s rating or the rating of the underlying bond itself.

Of the EUR 751 million (2012: EUR 892 million) indirect exposure on the monoline insurers, 34% relates to MBIA, 28% to AMBAC, 7% to FGIC and 24% to FSA (2012: 34% related to MBIA, 27% to AMBAC, 7% to FGIC and 24% to FSA).

At the end of 2013, Aegon USA had no indirect exposure via wrapped bonds via holdings in monoline insurers and derivative counterparty exposure where monoline insurers are Aegon’s counterparty (2012: no indirect exposure).

Additional information on credit risk, unrealized losses and impairments

Debt instruments

The amortized cost and fair value of debt securities, money market investments and other, included in Aegon’s available-for-sale (AFS) portfolios, are as follows as of December 31:

 

2013    Amortized
cost
     Unrealized
gains
     Unrealized
losses
    Total fair
value
     Fair value of
instruments
with
unrealized
gains
     Fair value of
instruments
with
unrealized
losses
 

Debt securities

                

United States Government

     5,538         241         (257     5,522         2,621         2,901   

Dutch Government

     3,705         144         (25     3,824         3,441         383   

Other Government

     12,766         738         (232     13,272         9,317         3,954   

Mortgage backed securities

     9,433         613         (246     9,800         6,886         2,914   

Asset backed securities

     6,780         401         (162     7,019         4,171         2,848   

Corporate

     45,851         3,586         (712     48,725         38,576         10,149   

Money market investments

     5,524         -         -        5,524         5,524         -   

Other

     1,042         148         (28     1,163         1,002         160   
Total      90,638         5,873         (1,662     94,849         71,539         23,310   

Of which held by Aegon Americas, NL and UK

     87,900         5,728         (1,603     92,026         69,573         22,453   

 

  Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013   LOGO  


Table of Contents
186   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 4

 

 

2012    Amortized
cost
     Unrealized
gains
     Unrealized
losses
    Total fair
value
     Fair value of
instruments
with
unrealized
gains
     Fair value of
instruments
with
unrealized
losses
 

Debt securities

                

United States Government

     5,066         779         (8     5,837         5,256         581   

Dutch Government

     3,471         447         -        3,918         3,724         194   

Other Government

     12,707         1,949         (39     14,617         13,325         1,292   

Mortgage backed securities

     10,217         837         (321     10,733         8,561         2,172   

Asset backed securities

     7,035         475         (440     7,070         4,387         2,683   

Corporate

     47,389         6,399         (569     53,219         48,207         5,012   

Money market investments

     8,687         -         -        8,687         8,687         -   

Other

     1,147         123         (56     1,214         854         360   
Total      95,719         11,009         (1,433     105,295         93,001         12,294   

Of which held by Aegon Americas, NL and UK

     93,066         10,793         (1,397     102,462         90,513         11,949   

Unrealized bond losses by sector

The composition by industry categories of debt securities and money market investments that are included in Aegon’s available-for-sale portfolios in an unrealized loss position held by Aegon at December 31 is presented in the following table:

 

      December 31, 2013     December 31, 2012  
Unrealized losses - debt securities and money
market investments
  

 

Carrying
value of
instruments
with

unrealized

losses

     Gross
unrealized
losses
    Carrying
value of
instruments
with
unrealized
losses
    

Gross
unrealized

losses

 

Residential mortgage backed securities (RMBSs)

     1,842         (210     1,987         (397

Commercial mortgage backed securities (CMBSs)

     1,559         (91     847         (102

Asset Backed Securities (ABSs) - CDOs backed by ABS, Corp. Bonds, Bank loans

     1,188         (51     993         (86

ABSs - Other

     1,037         (48     967         (162

Financial Industry - Banking

     1,834         (215     1,414         (328

Financial Industry - Insurance

     827         (47     555         (58

Financial Industry - Other

     601         (37     344         (24

Industrial

     5,569         (316     2,143         (117

Utility

     916         (63     377         (20

Sovereign

     6,920         (499     1,963         (47
Total held by Aegon Americas, NL and UK      22,293         (1,575     11,590         (1,341

Held by other segments

     857         (60     346         (37
Total      23,150         (1,635     11,936         (1,378

As of December 31, 2013, there are EUR 5,580 million (2012: EUR 10,669 million) of gross unrealized gains and EUR 1,575 million (2012: EUR 1,341 million) of gross unrealized losses in the AFS debt securities portfolio of Aegon Americas, Aegon the Netherlands and Aegon UK. No one issuer represents more than 4% of the total unrealized loss position. The largest single issuer unrealized loss is EUR 257 million and relates to securities issued by the government of the United States of America and is primarily from rising interest rates.

Financial and credit market conditions were generally stronger in 2013. Developed-world growth remains below potential, frustrating attempts to generate a strong recovery. The credit crisis that began as a result of the subprime mortgage loan crisis continues to evolve into concerns about governmental borrowing and debt levels across much of the world. European sovereign debt, after coming under pressure in the first half of the year, rallied in the second half of 2013, though concerns for default risk in the peripheral European countries persist. High governmental debt levels remain a concern in the U.S. as well, including those of state and local governments. Most world equity markets performed well during 2013, with U.S., Japanese, and European markets up strongly. The U.S. Federal Reserve maintained a Fed Funds rate near zero. U.S. Treasury rates fell to new all-time lows during the second quarter, but rose significantly thereafter as the markets began to discount U.S. Federal Reserve tapering of quantitative easing. Corporate default rates

 

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remained low in 2013 due largely to readily available access to funding and strong corporate balance sheet fundamentals. Commodity prices were mixed and volatile over the second half of 2013 after trending lower in the first half of 2013 as growth expectations weakened. The rise in US Treasury rates during 2013, as well as net outflows from run-off businesses in the Americas, caused the fair value of the debt securities portfolio to decline from 2012 to 2013.

Impairment of financial assets

Aegon regularly monitors industry sectors and individual debt securities for indicators of impairment. These indicators may include one or more of the following: 1) deteriorating market to book ratio, 2) increasing industry risk factors, 3) deteriorating financial condition of the issuer, 4) covenant violations of the issuer, 5) high probability of bankruptcy of the issuer, or 6) nationally recognized credit rating agency downgrades. Additionally, for asset-backed securities, cash flow trends and underlying levels of collateral are monitored. A security is impaired if there is objective evidence that a loss event has occurred after the initial recognition of the asset that has a negative impact on the estimated future cash flows. A specific security is considered to be impaired when it is determined that not all amounts due (both principal and interest) will be collected as contractually scheduled.

In the sections below a description is provided on the composition of the categories of debt securities and money market investments. Individual issuers rated below investment grade in any sector, which have unrealized loss positions greater than EUR 25 million, will be disclosed separately. Furthermore, quality ratings of investment portfolios are based on a hierarchy of S&P, Moody’s, Fitch, Internal and NAIC.

Residential mortgage-backed securities

Aegon Americas, Aegon the Netherlands and Aegon UK hold EUR 5,461 million (2012: EUR 6,141 million) of residential mortgage-backed securities (RMBS), of which EUR 4,300 million (2012: EUR 4,979 million) is held by Aegon Americas, EUR 19 million (2012: EUR 20 million) by Aegon UK and EUR 1,143 million (2012: EUR 1,141 million) by Aegon the Netherlands. Residential mortgage-backed securities are securitizations of underlying pools of non-commercial mortgages on real estate. The underlying residential mortgages have varying credit characteristics and are pooled together and sold in tranches. The following table shows the breakdown of Aegon USA’s RMBS available-for-sale portfolio. Additionally, Aegon USA has investments in RMBS of EUR 60 million (2012: EUR 97 million), which are classified as fair value through profit or loss.

 

AFS RMBS by quality        AAA      AA              A         BBB        <BBB      Total
amortized
cost
       Total fair
value
 

GSE guaranteed

     19         1,307         -         -         -         1,326         1,357   

Prime Jumbo

     -         7         2         12         212         233         238   

Alt-A

     -         34         8         8         495         546         642   

Negative Amortization Floaters

     -         30         -         34         666         730         830   

Reverse Mortgage RMBS

     -         -         -         135         116         251         179   

Subprime mortgage 1)

     89         204         74         80         528         974         1,003   

Manufactured housing 1)

     6         9         5         13         15         47         48   

Other housing 1)

     2         -         -         -         -         2         2   
At December 31, 2013      116          1,591         89         281         2,031         4,108         4,300   

Of which insured

     -         145         7         -         233         385         372   
  1   Reported as part of asset backed securities in the table on page 185.

 

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AFS RMBS by quality        AAA      AA              A         BBB        <BBB      Total
amortized
cost
       Total fair
value
 

GSE guaranteed

     -         1,336         193         -         -         1,529         1,632   

Prime Jumbo

     10         11         3         14         252         290         290   

Alt-A

     18         43         -         10         571         642         735   

Negative Amortization Floaters

     -         36         18         44         728         826         858   

Reverse Mortgage RMBS

     -         -         -         222         77         299         213   

Subprime mortgage 1)

     177         285         61         69         644         1,236         1,124   

Manufactured housing 1)

     22         15         12         24         7         80         80   

Other housing 1)

     46         -         -         -         -         46         47   
At December 31, 2012      273          1,726         287         383         2,279         4,948         4,979   

Of which insured

     5         174         13         16         284         492         427   
  1   Reported as part of asset backed securities in the table on page 186.

RMBS of Aegon USA are monitored and reviewed on a monthly basis. Detailed cash flow models using the current collateral pool and capital structure on the portfolio are updated and reviewed quarterly. Model output is generated under base and stress-case scenarios. Aegon’s RMBS asset specialists utilize widely recognized industry modeling software to perform a loan-by-loan, bottom-up approach to modeling. Key assumptions used in the models are projected defaults, loss severities, and prepayments. Each of these key assumptions varies greatly based on the significantly diverse characteristics of the current collateral pool for each security. Loan-to-value, loan size, and borrower credit history are some of the key characteristics used to determine the level of assumption that is utilized. Defaults were estimated by identifying the loans that are in various delinquency buckets and defaulting a certain percentage of them over the near-term and long-term. Assumed defaults on delinquent loans are dependent on the specific security’s collateral attributes and historical performance.

Loss severity assumptions were determined by obtaining historical rates from broader market data and by adjusting those rates for vintage, specific pool performance, collateral type, mortgage insurance and estimated loan modifications. Prepayments were estimated by examining historical averages of prepayment activity on the underlying collateral. Quantitative ranges of significant assumptions within Aegon’s modeling process for Prime Jumbo, Alt-A and Negative Amortization RMBS are as follows: prepayment assumptions range from approximately 0.5% to 25% with a weighted average of approximately 4.8% (2012: 4.8%), assumed defaults on delinquent loans range from 50% to 100% with a weighted average of approximately 84.3% (2012: 84.6%), assumed defaults on current loans are dependent on the specific security’s collateral attributes and historical performance, while loss severity assumptions range from approximately 13.9% to 75%, with a weighted average of approximately 54.5% (2012: 54.3%). Additionally, quantitative ranges of significant assumptions within Aegon’s modeling process for the RMBS subprime mortgage portfolio are as follows: prepayment assumptions range from approximately 2% to 6% with a weighted average of approximately 5.2% (2012: 5.2%), assumed defaults on delinquent loans range from 60% to 100% with a weighted average of approximately 87.2% (2012: 87.2%), assumed defaults on current loans are dependent on the specific security’s collateral attributes and historical performance, while loss severity assumptions range from approximately 65% to 103%, with a weighted average of approximately 72.6% (2012: 72.9%).

Once the entire pool is modeled, the results are closely analyzed by Aegon’s asset specialists to determine whether or not Aegon’s particular tranche or holding is at risk for not collecting all contractual cash flows taking into account the seniority and other terms of the tranches held. Aegon impaired its particular tranche to fair value where it would not be able to receive all contractual cash flows.

The total gross unrealized loss on AFS RMBS of Aegon Americas, Aegon the Netherlands and Aegon UK amount to EUR 210 million (2012: 397 million), of which EUR 190 million (2012: EUR 351 million) relates to positions of Aegon USA, and the total net unrealized gain on available-for-sale RMBS is EUR 229 million (2012: EUR 157 million), including a EUR 192 million (2012: EUR 31 million) net unrealized gain relating to positions of Aegon USA. The unrealized loss in the sector is primarily a result of the housing downturn in the United States that started in 2007. The housing market in the United States has shown signs of improvement as evidenced by rising home prices and sales volume. Positive trends in the housing market have led to improvements in borrower delinquencies and prepayment rates as well as liquidation timelines. Loss severities on liquidated properties remain elevated for subprime loans but are starting to show signs of improvement for other RMBS sectors. The improving home prices and credit performance led to credit spread tightening across the asset class.

There are no individual issuers rated below investment grade in this RMBS sector which have unrealized loss position greater than EUR 25 million.

 

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The fair values of Aegon USA’s RMBS instruments were determined as follows:

 

             Level II             Level III       Total 2013              Level II             Level III         Total 2012  

RMBS

    4,089        271        4,360        4,730        349        5,079   

Commercial mortgage-backed securities

Aegon Americas, Aegon the Netherlands and Aegon UK hold EUR 5,160 million (2012: EUR 5,606 million) of AFS commercial mortgage-backed securities (CMBS), of which EUR 4,663 million (2012: EUR 5,137 million) is held by Aegon USA, EUR 398 million (2012: EUR 438 million) by Aegon UK and EUR 82 million (2012: EUR 9 million) by Aegon the Netherlands. CMBS are securitizations of underlying pools of mortgages on commercial real estate. The underlying mortgages have varying risk characteristics and are pooled together and sold in different rated tranches. The company’s CMBS include conduit, large loan, single borrower, commercial real estate collateral debt obligations (CRE CDOs), collateral debt obligations (CDOs), government agency, and franchise loan receivable trusts.

The total gross unrealized loss on AFS CMBS of Aegon Americas, Aegon the Netherlands and Aegon UK amounts to EUR 91 million (2012: EUR 102 million), of which all relates to positions of Aegon USA. The total net unrealized gain on CMBS is EUR 162 million (2012: EUR 354 million), of which EUR 88 million (2012: EUR 247 million) relates to positions of Aegon USA and EUR 72 million relates to positions of Aegon UK. The commercial real estate market previously experienced a deterioration in property level fundamentals over 2008-2010, which led to an increase in CMBS loan-level delinquencies. The introduction of 30% credit enhanced tranches within the 2005-2008 vintage deals provide some offset to these negative fundamentals. Over the last year, the CMBS market experienced several positive factors as commercial real estate fundamentals have begun to display some signs of stabilization. The pace of credit deterioration appears to be moderating as property transactions have increased and there is greater availability of financing for commercial real estate. Liquidity has improved within the CMBS market, but a broad re-pricing of risk has kept credit spreads on legacy subordinate CMBS tranches at wide levels.

The tables below summarize the credit quality of Aegon USA’s AFS CMBS portfolio. Additionally, Aegon USA has investments in CMBS of EUR 38 million (2012: EUR 62 million), which are classified as fair value through profit or loss.

 

CMBS by quality        AAA      AA      A         BBB        <BBB      Total
amortized
cost
       Total fair
value
 

CMBS

     3,664         300         295         173         143         4,575         4,663   
At December 31, 2013      3,664             300             295         173         143         4,575         4,663   
CMBS by quality    AAA      AA      A      BBB      <BBB      Total
amortized
cost
     Total fair
value
 

CMBS

     3,678         354         395         231         232         4,890         5,137   
At December 31, 2012      3,678         354         395         231         232         4,890         5,137   

CMBS of Aegon USA are monitored and reviewed on a monthly basis. Detailed cash flow models using the current collateral pool and capital structure on the portfolio are updated and reviewed quarterly. Model output is generated under base and several stress-case scenarios by Aegon’s internal CMBS asset specialists. For conduit securities, a widely recognized industry modeling software is used to perform a loan-by-loan, bottom-up approach. For non-conduit securities, a CMBS asset specialist works closely with Aegon’s real estate valuation group to determine underlying asset valuation and risk. Both methodologies incorporate external estimates on the property market, capital markets, property cash flows, and loan structure. Results are then closely analyzed by the asset specialist to determine whether or not a principal or interest loss is expected to occur.

Securities are impaired to fair value when Aegon expects that it will not receive all contractual cash flows on its tranches. As the remaining unrealized losses in the CMBS portfolio relate to holdings where Aegon expects to receive full principal and interest, Aegon does not consider the underlying investments to be impaired as of December 31, 2013.

There are no individual issuers rated below investment grade in the CMBS sector which have unrealized loss position greater than EUR 25 million.

 

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The fair values of Aegon USA’s CMBS instruments were determined as follows:

 

             Level II             Level III       Total 2013              Level II             Level III         Total 2012  

CMBS

    4,674        28        4,702        5,145        54        5,199   

Asset-backed securities

Aegon Americas, Aegon the Netherlands and Aegon UK hold EUR 5,861 million (2012: EUR 5,744 million) of AFS ABS instruments of which EUR 2,592 million (2012: EUR 2,908 million) is held by Aegon USA, EUR 1,563 million (2012 : EUR 1,103 million) by Aegon the Netherlands and EUR 1,682 million (2012: EUR 1,674 million) by by Aegon UK. Additionally, Aegon Americas has investments in ABS of EUR 24 million (2012: EUR 16 million), which are classified as fair value through profit or loss. ABS are securitizations of underlying pools of credit card receivables, auto financing loans, small business loans, bank loans, and other receivables. The underlying assets of the asset backed securities have been pooled together and sold in tranches with varying credit ratings.

The total gross unrealized loss on AFS ABS of Aegon Americas, Aegon the Netherlands and Aegon UK amounts to EUR 99 million. Aegon USA has 52 million of this gross unrealized loss, followed by Aegon the Netherlands at 40 million and Aegon UK at 7 million. The unrealized loss in the sector is primarily a result of the credit crisis that started in 2007 which resulted in weak liquidity and increased credit spreads. The stronger financial and economic conditions in 2013 have helped stabilize the performance of the underlying collateral backing many of these securities. New issuance in the asset-backed sector has been weak but buyers began returning to the market. The combination of these factors has led to a decrease in credit spreads in 2013.

The breakdown by quality of the available-for-sale ABS portfolio of Aegon USA, Aegon the Netherlands and Aegon UK is as follows:

 

ABS US, NL and UK        AAA      AA      A         BBB         <BBB      Total
amortized
cost
       Total fair
value
 

Credit Cards

     250         64         202         5         1         522         538   

Autos

     274         15         19         -         -         308         311   

Small business loans

     -         3         19         99         98         219         211   

CDOs backed by ABS, Corp. Bonds, Bank loans

     738         623         338         93         186         1,978         1,950   

Other ABS

     442         696         965         300         196         2,599         2,827   
At December 31, 2013      1,704           1,401           1,543         497         481         5,626         5,837   
ABS US, NL and UK    AAA      AA      A      BBB      <BBB      Total
amortized
cost
     Total fair
value
 

Credit Cards

     391         63         337         112         3         906         943   

Autos

     292         7         -         -         -         299         306   

Small business loans

     5         10         46         152         87         300         242   

CDOs backed by ABS, Corp. Bonds, Bank loans

     380         537         187         49         171         1,324         1,252   

Other ABS

     567         954         690         281         216         2,708         2,942   
At December 31, 2012      1,635         1,571         1,260         594         477         5,537         5,685   

There were no individual issuers rated below investment grade in this ABS sector which has unrealized loss position greater than EUR 25 million.

The fair values of Aegon USA, Aegon the Netherlands & Aegon UK ABS instruments were determined as follows:

 

             Level II             Level III       Total 2013              Level II             Level III         Total 2012  

ABSs

    3,583        2,254        5,837        4,120        1,565        5,685   

 

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Corporate - Financial sector

The Corporate Financial Sector is further subdivided into banking, brokerage, insurance, REIT’s and financial-other sub-sectors. A majority of the gross unrealized loss is from the banking sub-sector. Companies within Aegon’s financial sector are generally high in credit quality and, as a whole, represent a large portion of the corporate debt market.

Since the peak of the financial crisis, unrealized losses in the financial sector have declined materially as progress has been made toward reducing operational and systemic risk. Following on global Central Bank actions to provide liquidity and valuation support, regulators have now implemented a wide array of reforms designed to strengthen capital levels, reduce balance sheet risk and improve liquidity across the sector. Given significant progress, central banks have now begun preparing the market for less central bank support going forward. Capital and liquidity buffers will continue to be strengthened as required by Basel III and decisive steps in the Euro area toward a Banking Union, supervised by the ECB, should further increase confidence in the sector’s ability to weather economic headwinds and reduce future risk to taxpayers.

Corporate – Financial Sector – Banking Sub-Sector

The banking sub-sector in Aegon’s portfolio is relatively large, diverse, and of high quality. Aegon holds EUR 8,288 million (2012: EUR 8,599 million) of AFS bonds issued by banks. In aggregate, the gross unrealized loss on these bonds amounts to EUR 221 million (2012: EUR 335 million) and the net unrealized gain on these bonds amounts to EUR 226 million (2012: EUR 343 million). The gross unrealized losses in the banking sub-sector primarily reflect the size of Aegon’s holdings, low floating rate coupons on some securities, and credit spread widening since the time of acquisition due to the Sovereign debt crisis in Europe, residual impact from the U.S. financial crisis, and global economic uncertainty. Following the implementation of new, more stringent global legislation on bank capital and liquidity requirements, credit spreads in the sector have outperformed the broader corporate market in 2013. Decisive steps by EU leaders and world central banks continue to stabilize the euro and improve funding conditions for most banks. Globally, there remain pockets of concentrated risk on bank balance sheets, and ratings for some countries and banks remain under pressure, but the banking sub-sector has largely been strengthened and oversight increased.

Within the banking sub-sector, Aegon holds EUR 1,433 million (2012: EUR 1,606 million) of deeply subordinated securities with deferrable coupons that have an associated unrealized loss of EUR 130 million (2012 EUR 250 million).

There is one individual issuer rated below investment grade in the banking sub-sector which has unrealized losses greater than EUR 25 million.

 

      Category      Fair value      Unrealized
Loss
     Rating      Aging of
unrealized
Loss
 

Belfius Bank & Insurance

     Banking         99         (26      BB         > 24 months   

Aegon’s available-for-sale debt securities for Belfius Bank SA have a fair value of EUR 99 million as of December 31, 2013. These below investment grade securities are Upper Tier 2 and had gross unrealized losses of EUR 26 million as of December 31, 2013. Belfius Bank SA was created subsequent to the restructuring of Dexia SA. Dexia’s reliance on short-term wholesale funding caused a near-collapse as funding markets froze in 2008 and 2009. Capital injections from Belgium, France and Luxembourg along with guarantees on Dexia’s funding provided sufficient access to funding markets until the Sovereign debt crisis in 2011 put too much strain on Dexia’s large funding needs. In November 2011, a new restructuring plan was put in place for Dexia SA and 100% of Dexia Bank Belgium was sold to the Belgian state. Aegon’s bonds now form part of the capital structure of that entity which was rebranded as Belfius Bank SA during the first half of 2012. Payments continue to be made on Aegon’s holdings in accordance with the original bond agreements. Aegon evaluated the near-term prospects of the issuer and it is believed that the contractual terms of these investments will be met and these investments are not impaired as of December 31, 2013.

Corporate - Industrial sector

The Industrial sector is further subdivided into various sub-sectors with a majority of its gross unrealized loss in Basic Industry and Consumer Non-Cyclical sub-sectors. The Basic Industries sector encompasses various sub-sectors including metals and mining, chemicals and paper and forest products with the majority of the loss relating to metals and mining. Fundamentals for the metals and mining industry have been negatively impacted by falling prices for base metals, non-ferrous metals, precious metals, coal and steel. Slowing economic data out of China has been the main driver of the pricing pressure for the base metals and bulk steel-making commodities as the country comprises from 40%-60% of the demand for most of these commodities. Rising interest rates have put pressure on precious metals as investors become less worried about inflation and look to put money to work in income generating

 

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assets. Chemicals have been positively impacted by continued low natural gas prices within the US, but given the global scale of most players in the industry, they have also been harmed by a slowdown in global growth as well as volatility in raw material costs and increasing competition from global peers. Paper and forest products have shown some improvement as the housing recovery takes hold in the United States, but more traditional paper products such as newsprint remains challenged. Aegon evaluated the near-term prospects of the issuers in relation to the severity and duration of the unrealized loss and does not consider those investments to be impaired as of December 31, 2013.

The Consumer Non-Cyclical sub-sector encompasses various industries ranging from consumer products to supermarkets. The more significant of these sub-sectors from an unrealized loss perspective are food and beverage and pharmaceuticals. The slow growth environment in food and beverage combined with improved balance sheets resulted in an increase in acquisition activity and shareholder friendly activity. Volumes were challenged, but largely offset by previous price increases and tight cost controls, along with relatively benign input cost inflation. While starting to show signs of stabilization, the Pharmaceutical sector continues to deal with patent cliff issues. As drugs roll off patent, generic competition takes market share and pulls down margins. Additionally, shareholder friendly activities in the form of increased dividends and share repurchases continue. Merger and acquisition activity is increasing in the sector, at times resulting in additional leverage. Finally, some companies have analyzed their business models and decided to spin-off business lines, in an effort to concentrate on their core competencies. In certain instances, this has resulted in smaller, less diversified companies. Aegon evaluated the near-term prospects of the issuers and it is believed that the contractual terms of these investments will be met and these investments are not impaired as of December 31, 2013.

There are no individual issuers rated below investment grade in the corporate – industrial sector which have unrealized loss positions greater than EUR 25 million.

Sovereign

Aegon Americas, Aegon the Netherlands and Aegon UK’s government issued available-for-sale debt securities include emerging market sovereign bonds, US Treasury bonds, agency and state bonds. All of the issuers in the sovereign sector continue to make payments in accordance with their bond agreements. Aegon evaluated the near-term prospects of the issuers and it is believed that the contractual terms of these investments will be met and these investments are not impaired as of December 31, 2013.

There are no individual issuers rated below investment grade in the sovereign sector which have unrealized loss positions greater than EUR 25 million.

Unrealized loss by maturity

The table below shows the composition by maturity of all debt securities, available-for-sale, in an unrealized loss position held by Aegon Americas, Aegon the Netherlands and Aegon UK.

 

      December 31, 2013      December 31, 2012  
      Carrying value of
securities with
gross unrealized
losses
    Gross unrealized
losses
     Carrying value of
securities with
gross unrealized
losses
       Gross unrealized
losses
 

One year or less

     406        (8      939           (22

 

Over 1 thru 5 years

     2,955        (100      2,938           (198

 

Over 5 thru 10 years

     6,196        (327      2,251           (286

 

Over 10 years

     12,736        (1,140      5,462           (835
Total      22,293        (1,575      11,590           (1,341

 

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193

 

Unrealized loss by credit quality

The table below shows the composition by credit quality of debt securities, available-for-sale, in an unrealized loss position held by Aegon Americas, Aegon the Netherlands and Aegon UK.

 

     December 31, 2013      December 31, 2012  
    

 

Carrying value of
securities with
gross unrealized
losses

    Gross unrealized
losses
     Carrying value of
securities with
gross unrealized
losses
     Gross unrealized
losses
 

Treasury Agency

    6,015        (452      1,748         (18

 

AAA

    2,047        (76      1,029         (17

 

AA

    2,482        (102      1,417         (109

 

A

    4,202        (242      2,079         (174

 

BBB

    5,529        (382      3,031         (355

 

BB

    1,059        (158      1,114         (228

 

B

    497        (75      701         (207

 

Below B

    463        (88      471         (233
Total     22,293        (1,575      11,590         (1,341
The table below provides the length of time a security has been below cost and the respective unrealized loss.   
    

 

At December 31, 2013

 
    

Investment grade
carrying value

of securities

with gross
unrealized losses

   

Below investment
grade carrying
value of securities
with gross

unrealized losses

     Investment grade
unrealized loss
     Below investment
grade unrealized
loss
 

0 – 6 months

    9,171        513         (303      (27

 

6 – 12 months

    7,313        253         (583      (32

 

> 12 months

    3,791        1,253         (368      (263
Total     20,275        2,019         (1,253      (322
    

 

At December 31, 2012

 
     Investment grade
carrying value of
securities with
gross unrealized
losses
   

Below investment
grade carrying value

of securities with

gross unrealized
losses

     Investment grade
unrealized loss
     Below investment
grade unrealized
loss
 

0 – 6 months

    3,258        245         (104      (8

 

6 – 12 months

    507        59         (21      (4

 

> 12 months

    5,539        1,982         (548      (656
Total       9,304        2,286         (673      (668

The majority of the unrealized losses relate to investment grade holdings resulting from the increase in interest rates during the second half of 2013.

 

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Table of Contents
194   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 4

 

The table below provides the length of time a below investment grade security has been in an unrealized loss and the percentage of carrying value (CV) to amortized cost.

Aging and severity unrealized losses

 

      2013      2012  
Aging and severity unrealized losses    Carrying
value
    Unrealized
losses
     Carrying
value
       Unrealized
losses
 

CV 70-100% of amortized cost

     512        (25      243           (7

 

CV 40-70% of amortized cost

     1        (1      1           -   

 

CV < 40 % of amortized cost

     -        -         1           (1

0-6 months

     513        (27      245           (8

CV 70-100% of amortized cost

     242        (25      59           (4

 

CV 40-70% of amortized cost

     11        (6      -           -   

 

CV < 40 % of amortized cost

     -        -         -           -   

6-12 months

     253        (32      59           (4

CV 70-100% of amortized cost

     46        (4      164           (28

 

CV 40-70% of amortized cost

     1        -         3           (3

 

CV < 40 % of amortized cost

     -        -         -           (2

12-24 months

     47        (4      167           (33

CV 70-100% of amortized cost

     1,141        (200      1,519           (273

 

CV 40-70% of amortized cost

     59        (38      264           (224

 

CV < 40 % of amortized cost

     6        (21      32           (126

> 24 months

 

    

 

1,206

 

  

 

   

 

(259

 

 

    

 

1,815

 

  

 

      

 

(623

 

 

Total      2,019        (322      2,286           (668
Realized gains and losses on debt securities of Aegon Americas, Aegon the Netherlands and Aegon UK   
Realized gains and losses on debt securities of Aegon Americas, Aegon the Netherlands and
Aegon UK
     Gross
realized
gains
       Gross
realized
losses
 
December 31, 2013           

 

Debt securities

  

     565           (148

December 31, 2012

  

       

 

Debt securities

  

     755           (285
The table below provides the length of time the security was below cost prior to the sale and the respective realized loss for assets not considered impaired.    
       Gross realized losses  
       0 -12 months      >12 months        Total  
December 31, 2013             

 

Debt securities

  

    (92)         (56        (148

December 31, 2012

  

         

 

Debt securities

  

    (59)         (226        (285

 

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195

 

Impairment losses and recoveries

The composition of Aegon Americas, Aegon the Netherlands and Aegon UK’s bond impairment losses and recoveries by issuer for the periods ended December 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 is presented in the table below. Those issuers with impairments or recoveries above EUR 25 million are specifically noted.

 

      2013     2012  
      (Impairment) /
Recovery
    (Impairment) /
Recovery
 
Impairments:     

 

Soundview Home Equity Loan 2006-OPT1

     (29     -   

 

Other (none individually greater than EUR 25 million)

     (102     (157

Subtotal

     (131     (157

Recoveries:

    

Total recoveries

     60        54   

Sub-total

 

    

 

60

 

  

 

   

 

54

 

  

 

Net (impairments) and recoveries      (71     (103

Net (impairments) and recoveries

Net impairments during 2013 totaled EUR 71 million, including EUR 66 million (2012: EUR 120 million) of gross impairments related to residential mortgage backed securities in the Americas.

During 2013, Aegon recognized EUR 60 million (2012: EUR 54 million) in recoveries on previously impaired securities. In each case where a recovery was taken on structured securities, improvements in underlying cash flows for the security were documented and modeling results improved significantly. Recoveries on non-structured securities were supported by documented credit events combined with significant market value improvements.

Past due and impaired assets

The tables that follow provide information on past due and individually impaired financial assets for the whole Aegon Group. An asset is past due when a counterparty has failed to make a payment when contractually due. Assets are impaired when an impairment loss has been charged to the income statement relating to this asset. After the impairment loss is reversed in subsequent periods, the asset is no longer considered to be impaired. When the terms and conditions of financial assets have been renegotiated, the terms and conditions of the new agreement apply in determining whether the financial assets are past due.

Aegon’s policy is to pursue realization of the collateral in an orderly manner as and when liquidity permits. Aegon generally does not use the non-cash collateral for its own operations.

 

      2013      2012  
Past due but not impaired assets    0-6
months
     6-12
months
     > 1 year      Total      0-6
months
     6-12
months
     > 1 year      Total  

Debt securities - carried at fair value

     50         37         14         101         1         63         24         88   

 

Mortgage loans

     49         7         5         60         70         4         42         116   

 

Other loans

     70         -         4         74         1         -         2         3   

 

Accrued interest

     -         -         1         1         -         -         2         2   
At December 31      169         43         24         236         72         67         70         209   

 

  Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013   LOGO  


Table of Contents
196   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 4

 

 

Impaired financial assets   Carrying amount
2013
       Carrying amount
2012
 

Shares

    203           347   

 

Debt securities - carried at fair value

    1,390           1,352   

 

Mortgage loans

    728           767   

 

Private Loans

    11           2   

 

Other loans

    4           4   

 

Other financial assets - carried at fair value

    16           23   
At December 31     2,352           2,495   

Equity instruments classified as available-for-sale

Objective evidence of impairment of an investment in an equity instrument classified as available-for-sale includes information about significant changes with an adverse effect that have taken place in the technological, market, economic or legal environment in which the issuer operates, and indicates that the cost of the investment in the equity instrument may not be recovered. A significant or prolonged decline in the fair value of an investment in an equity instrument below its cost is also objective evidence of impairment. Significant or prolonged decline is generally defined within Aegon as an unrealized loss position for more than six months or a fair value of less than 80% of the cost price of the investment. Additionally, as part of an ongoing process, the equity analysts actively monitor earnings releases, company fundamentals, new developments and industry trends for any signs of possible impairment.

These factors typically require significant management judgment. The impairment review process has resulted in EUR 3 million of impairment charges for the period ended December 31, 2013 (2012: EUR 1 million) for Aegon Americas, Aegon the Netherlands and Aegon UK.

As of December 31, 2013, there are EUR 309 million of gross unrealized gains and EUR 11 million of gross unrealized losses in the equity portfolio of Aegon (2012: EUR 262 million of gross unrealized gains and EUR 18 million of gross unrealized losses). There are no securities held by Aegon with an unrealized loss above EUR 5 million. The table below represents the unrealized gains and losses on share positions held by Aegon Americas, Aegon the Netherlands and Aegon UK.

 

     Cost basis     Carrying value     Net unrealized
gains / (losses)
    Carrying value
of securities
with gross
unrealized gains
    Gross
unrealized
gains
    Carrying value
of securities
with gross
unrealized losses
   

Gross

unrealized
losses

 
December 31, 2013              

 

Shares

    477        775        298        689        309        86        (11

December 31, 2012

             

 

Shares

    568        812        244        731        262        81        (18

The composition of shares by industry sector in an unrealized loss position held by Aegon Americas, Aegon the Netherlands and Aegon UK at December 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 is presented in the table below.

 

      2013     2012  
Unrealized losses on shares    Carrying value of
instruments with
unrealized losses
       Gross
unrealized
losses
    Carrying value of
instruments with
unrealized losses
       Gross
unrealized
losses
 

Consumer

     10           -        17           -   

 

Financials

     60           (11     42           (17

 

Funds

     8           -        7           (1

 

Other

     8           -        15           -   
Total      86           (11     81           (18

 

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197

 

Impairment losses on shares

The table below provides the length of time the shares held by Aegon Americas, Aegon the Netherlands and Aegon UK were below cost prior to the impairment in 2013.

 

In million EUR   0- 6 months  
December 31, 2013  

 

Shares

    (2

December 31, 2012

 

 

Shares

    (2

Equity market risk and other investments risk

Fluctuations in the equity, real estate and capital markets have affected Aegon’s profitability, capital position and sales of equity related products in the past and may continue to do so. Exposure to equity, real estate and capital markets exists in both assets and liabilities. Asset exposure exists through direct equity investment, where Aegon bears all or most of the volatility in returns and investment performance risk. Equity market exposure is also present in insurance and investment contracts policyholder accounts where funds are invested in equities, backing variable annuities, unit-linked products and mutual funds. Although most of the risk remains with the policyholder, lower investment returns can reduce the asset management fee earned by Aegon on the asset balance in these products. In addition, some of this business has minimum return or accumulation guarantees. Aegon also operates an Investment and Counterparty Policy that limits the Group’s overall counterparty risk exposure.

The general account equity, real estate and other non-fixed-income portfolio of Aegon is as follows:

 

Equity, real estate and non-fixed income
exposure
     Americas     The
Netherlands
       United
Kingdom
       New
Markets
     Holding and
other
activities
     Total 2013  

Equity funds

       1,001        729           -           17         -         1,747   

 

Common shares 1)

       266        11           55           28         36         395   

 

Preferred shares

       214        -           -           -         -         214   

 

Investments in real estate

       721        810           -           1         -         1,532   

 

Hedge funds

       603        1           -           -         -         604   

 

Other alternative investments

       1,363        -           -           -         -         1,363   

 

Other financial assets

       633        -           4           26         -         663   
At December 31        4,801        1,550           58           72         36         6,517   
1     Common shares in Holding and other activities includes the elimination of treasury shares in the general account for an amount of EUR 10 million.  
Equity, real estate and non-fixed income
exposure
     Americas     The
Netherlands
       United
Kingdom
       New
Markets
     Holding and
other
activities
     Total 2012  

Equity funds

       868        686           -           12         -         1,566   

 

Common shares 1)

       322        10           51           4         -         387   

 

Preferred shares

       221        -           -           -         -         221   

 

Investments in real estate

       766        860           -           1         -         1,627   

 

Hedge funds

       625        2           -           -         -         627   

 

Other alternative investments

       1,503        -           -           -         -         1,503   

 

Other financial assets

       768        -           -           15         -         783   
At December 31        5,073        1,558           51           32         -         6,714   
  1   Common shares in Holding and other activities includes the elimination of treasury shares in the general account for an amount of EUR 8 million.

 

  Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013   LOGO  


Table of Contents
198   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 4

 

 

Market risk concentrations – shares      Americas      The
Netherlands
       United
Kingdom
       New
Markets
       Total
2013  1)
       Of which
impaired
assets
 

Communication

       34         1           -           -           36           -   

 

Consumer

       15         3           -           -           29           2   

 

Financials

       1,373         1           1           -           1,390           33   

 

Funds

       -         429           54           40           523           161   

 

Industries

       20         3           -           2           30           -   

 

Other

       13         10           -           3           29           8   
At December 31        1,456         447           55           45           2,036           203   
1     Includes investments of Holding and other activities.

 

 
Market risk concentrations – shares      Americas      The
Netherlands
       United
Kingdom
       New
Markets
       Total
2012  1)
       Of which
impaired
assets
 

Communication

       37         1           -           -           38           -   

 

Consumer

       36         3           -           -           39           33   

 

Financials

       1,274         3           7           -           1,284           161   

 

Funds

       -         395           44           12           451           139   

 

Industries

       19         2           -           1           22           -   

 

Other

       24         8           -           3           33           14   
At December 31        1,390         412           51           16           1,867           347   

1     Includes investments of Holding and other activities.

                           

The table that follows sets forth the closing levels of certain major indices at the end of the last five years.

 

  

        2013        2012        2011        2010        2009  

S&P 500

  

     1,848           1,426           1,258           1,258           1,115   

 

Nasdaq

  

     4,177           3,020           2,605           2,653           2,269   

 

FTSE 100

  

     6,749           5,898           5,572           5,900           5,413   

 

AEX

  

     402           343           312           355           335   

The sensitivity analysis of net income and shareholders’ equity to changes in equity prices is presented in the table below. The sensitivity of shareholders’ equity and net income to changes in equity markets reflects changes in the market value of Aegon’s portfolio, changes in DPAC amortization, contributions to pension plans for Aegon’s employees and the strengthening of the guaranteed minimum benefits, when applicable. The results of equity sensitivity tests are non-linear. The main reason for this is due to equity options sold to clients that are embedded in some of these products and that more severe scenarios could cause accelerated DPAC amortization and guaranteed minimum benefits provisioning, while moderate scenarios may not. Aegon generally has positive income benefits from equity market increases and negative impacts from equity market declines as it earns fees on policyholder account balances and provides minimum guarantees for account values. Aegon added out-of-money options in its portfolio to provide additional protection for equity market declines.

 

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Table of Contents

199

 

 

Sensitivity analysis of net income and shareholders’ equity to equity markets

Immediate change of

  

Estimated approximate
effects on

net income

     Estimated approximate
effects on
shareholders’ equity
 
2013      

 

Equity increase 10%

     179         292   

 

Equity decrease 10%

     (183      (329

 

Equity increase 20%

     297         544   

 

Equity decrease 20%

     (321      (596

2012

     

 

Equity increase 10%

     (30      60   

 

Equity decrease 10%

     (135      (243

 

Equity increase 20%

     (101      93   

 

Equity decrease 20%

     (253      (454

Liquidity risk

Liquidity risk is inherent in much of Aegon’s business. Each asset purchased and liability sold has its own liquidity characteristics. Some liabilities are surrenderable while some assets, such as privately placed loans, mortgage loans, real estate and limited partnership interests, have low liquidity. If Aegon requires significant amounts of cash on short notice in excess of normal cash requirements and existing credit facilities, it may have difficulty selling these investments at attractive prices or in a timely manner.

Aegon operates a Liquidity Risk Policy under which country units are obliged to maintain sufficient levels of highly liquid assets to meet cash demands by policyholders and account holders over the next two years. Potential cash demands are assessed under a stress scenario including spikes in disintermediation risk due to rising interest rates and concerns over Aegon’s financial strength due to multiple downgrades of the Group’s credit rating. At the same time, the liquidity of assets other than cash and government issues is assumed to be severely impaired for an extended period of time. All units and Aegon Group must maintain enough liquidity in order to meet all cash needs under this extreme scenario.

Aegon holds EUR 28,134 million of general account investments in cash, money market products and sovereign bonds that are readily saleable or redeemable on demand (2012: EUR 34,295 million). The Group expects to meet its obligations, even in a stressed liquidity event, from operating cash flows and the proceeds of maturing assets as well as these highly liquid assets. Further, the Group has access to back up credit facilities, as described in note 41, amounting to EUR 3,451 million which were unused at the end of the reporting period (2012: EUR 3,268 million).

The maturity analysis below shows the remaining contractual maturities of each category of financial liabilities (including coupon interest). When the counterparty has a choice of when an amount is paid, the liability is included on the basis of the earliest date on which it can be required to be paid. Financial liabilities that can be required to be paid on demand without any delay are reported in the category “On demand”. If there is a notice period, it has been assumed that notice is given immediately and the repayment has been presented at the earliest date after the end of the notice period. When the amount payable is not fixed, the amount reported is determined by reference to the conditions existing at the reporting date. For example, when the amount payable varies with changes in an index, the amount disclosed may be based on the level of the index at the reporting date.

To manage the liquidity risk arising from financial liabilities, Aegon holds liquid assets comprising cash and cash equivalents and investment grade investment securities for which there is an active and liquid market. These assets can be readily sold to meet liquidity requirements. Hence, Aegon believes that it is not necessary to disclose a maturity analysis in respect of these assets to enable users to evaluate the nature and extent of liquidity risk.

 

  Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013   LOGO  


Table of Contents
200   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 4

 

 

Maturity analysis – gross undiscounted

contractual cash flows

(for non-derivatives)

  

On demand

    

< 1 yr

amount

    

1 < 5 yrs

amount

    

5 < 10 yrs

amount

    

> 10 yrs

amount

    

Total

amount

 
2013                  

 

Trust pass-through securities

 

     -         8         32         40         168         248   

Subordinated loans

     -         -         -         -         396         396   

 

Borrowings 1)

     39         1,191         8,661         818         3,218         13,927   

 

Investment contracts 2)

     8,624         1,358         2,017         821         885         13,705   

 

Investment contracts for account of policyholders 2)

     24,770         3,420         -         -         31         28,221   

 

Other financial liabilities

     9,004         2,102         506         575         67         12,254   

2012

                 

 

Trust pass-through securities

     -         8         35         44         188         275   

 

Subordinated loans

     -         -         -         -         398         398   

 

Borrowings 1)

     93         2,807         8,862         873         3,370         16,005   

 

Investment contracts 2)

     8,434         3,019         3,902         968         1,090         17,413   

 

Investment contracts for account of policyholders 2)

     20,342         5,192         -         -         2         25,536   

 

Other financial liabilities

     9,774         4,609         1,430         724         26         16,563   

 

  1   Borrowings include debentures and other loans, short term deposits, bank overdrafts and commercial paper; refer to note 41 for more details.
  2   Excluding investment contracts with discretionary participating features.

Aegon’s liquidity management is based on expected claims and benefit payments rather than on the contractual maturities. The projected cash benefit payments in the table below are based on management’s best estimates of the expected gross benefits and expenses, partially offset by the expected gross premiums, fees and charges relating to the existing business in force. Estimated cash benefit payments are based on mortality, morbidity and lapse assumptions based on Aegon’s historical experience, modified for recently observed trends. Actual payment obligations may differ if experience varies from these assumptions. The cash benefit payments are presented on an undiscounted basis and are before deduction of tax and before reinsurance.

 

Financial liabilities relating to insurance

and investment contracts 1)

  

On demand

    

< 1 yr

amount

    

1 < 5 yrs

amount

    

5 < 10 yrs

amount

    

> 10 yrs

amount

    

Total

amount

 

2013

 

                 

Insurance contracts

 

     -         6,970         25,793         25,402         135,672         193,838   

Insurance contracts for account of policyholders

 

     -         5,611         24,303         22,495         71,801         124,210   

Investment contracts

 

     -         2,753         5,807         2,419         6,020         16,999   

Investment contracts for account of policyholders

 

    

 

100

 

  

 

    

 

8,095

 

  

 

    

 

22,659

 

  

 

    

 

22,169

 

  

 

    

 

61,272

 

  

 

    

 

114,295

 

  

 

2012

 

                 

Insurance contracts

 

     -         7,373         29,497         25,794         143,915         206,579   

Insurance contracts for account of policyholders

 

     -         5,029         20,883         19,882         70,891         116,685   

Investment contracts

 

     -         6,177         7,235         2,462         4,606         20,480   

Investment contracts for account of policyholders

     95         6,417         23,191         20,653         57,291         107,647   

 

  1   The liability amount in the consolidated financial statements reflects the discounting for interest as well as adjustments for the timing of other factors as described above. As a result, the sum of the cash benefit payments shown for all years in the table exceeds the corresponding liability amounts included in notes 37, 38, 39 and 40.  

 

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201

 

The following table details the Group’s liquidity analysis for its derivative financial instruments, based on the undiscounted contractual net cash inflows and outflows on derivative instruments that settle on a net basis, and the undiscounted gross inflows and outflows on those derivatives that require gross settlement.

 

Maturity analysis (derivatives 1 ) )

(Contractual cash flows) 2013

  

On demand

    

< 1 yr

amount

    

1 < 5 yrs

amount

    

5 < 10 yrs

amount

    

> 10 yrs

amount

     Total
amount
 

Gross settled

 

                 

Cash inflows

 

     -         12,653         18,622         27,077         55,301         113,652   

Cash outflows

     -         (12,505      (18,014      (26,708      (53,826      (111,054

Net settled

 

                 

Cash inflows

 

     -         384         1,563         3,162         5,713         10,822   

Cash outflows

     -         (323      (1,164      (2,970      (5,323      (9,781

 

  1   Financial derivatives include all derivatives regardless whether they have a positive or a negative value. It does not include bifurcated embedded derivatives. These are presented together with the host contract. For interest rate derivatives only cash flows related to the pay leg are taken into account for determining the gross undiscounted cash flows.  

 

Maturity analysis (derivatives 1) )

(Contractual cash flows) 2012

   On demand     

< 1 yr

amount

    

1 < 5 yrs

amount

    

5 < 10 yrs

amount

    

> 10 yrs

amount

    

Total

amount

 

Gross settled

 

                 

Cash inflows

 

     -         11,346         15,435         19,038         38,762         84,581   

Cash outflows

     -         (11,414      (15,738      (19,264      (37,479      (83,895

Net settled

 

                 

Cash inflows

 

     -         1,049         6,528         560         2,525         10,662   

Cash outflows

     -         (930      (4,951      (294      (2,033      (8,208

 

  1   Financial derivatives include all derivatives regardless whether they have a positive or a negative value. It does not include bifurcated embedded derivatives. These are presented together with the host contract. For interest rate derivatives only cash flows related to the pay leg are taken into account for determining the gross undiscounted cash flows.  

Underwriting risk

Aegon’s earnings depend significantly upon the extent to which actual claims experience differs from the assumptions used in setting the prices for products and establishing the technical liabilities and liabilities for claims. To the extent that actual claims experience is less favorable than the underlying assumptions used in establishing such liabilities, income would be reduced. Furthermore, if these higher claims were part of a permanent trend, Aegon may be required to increase liabilities, which could reduce income. In addition, certain acquisition costs related to the sale of new policies and the purchase of policies already in force have been recorded as assets on the statement of financial position and are being amortized into income over time. If the assumptions relating to the future profitability of these policies (such as future claims, investment income and expenses) are not realized, the amortization of these costs could be accelerated and may even require write offs due to unrecoverability. This could have a materially adverse effect on Aegon’s business, results of operations and financial condition.

Sources of underwriting risk include policy lapses and policy claims (such as mortality and morbidity). In general, Aegon is at risk if policy lapses increase as sometimes Aegon is unable to fully recover up front expenses in selling a product despite the presence of commission recoveries or surrender charges and fees. For mortality and morbidity risk, Aegon sells certain types of policies that are at risk if mortality or morbidity increases, such as term life insurance and accident insurance, and sells certain types of policies that are at risk if mortality decreases (longevity risk) such as annuity products. Aegon is also at risk if expenses are higher than assumed by management.

Aegon monitors and manages its underwriting risk by underwriting risk type. Attribution analysis is performed on earnings and reserve movements in order to understand the source of any material variation in actual results from what was expected. Aegon’s units also perform experience studies for underwriting risk assumptions, comparing Aegon’s experience to industry experience as well as combining Aegon’s experience and industry experience based on the depth of the history of each source to Aegon’s underwriting assumptions. Where policy charges are flexible in products, Aegon uses these analyses as the basis for modifying these charges, with a view to maintain a balance between policyholder and shareholder interests. Aegon also has the ability to reduce expense levels over time, thus mitigating unfavorable expense variation.

 

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Table of Contents
202   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 5

 

Sensitivity analysis of net income and shareholders’ equity to various underwriting risks is shown in the table that follows. The sensitivities represent an increase or decrease of mortality and morbidity rates over best estimate. Increases in mortality rates lead to an increase in the level of benefits and claims. The impact on net income and shareholders’ equity of sales transactions of investments required to meet the higher cash outflow is reflected in the sensitivities. A change in actual experience with mortality or morbidity rates may not lead to a change in the assumptions underlying the measurement of the insurance liabilities as management may recognize that the change is temporary. Life insurers are also exposed to longevity risk. Increased life expectation above Aegon’s assumed life expectation at the time of underwriting negatively impacts its results. Refer to note 2.20 for a discussion on how longevity assumptions are accounted for.

 

Sensitivity analysis of net income and

shareholders’ equity to changes in various

underwriting risks

Estimated approximate effect

                 2013                    2012  
  

 

On shareholders’

equity

          

On net income

    

On shareholders’

equity

          

On net income

 

20% increase in lapse rates

 

     (99         (82      (95         (82

20% decrease in lapse rates

 

     70            92         69            86   

10% increase in mortality rates

 

     (71         (74      (86         (70

10% decrease in mortality rates

 

     6            48         53            67   

10% increase in morbidity rates

 

     (80         (63      (83         (69

10% decrease in morbidity rates

     47              68         52              69   

Aegon the Netherlands partially hedges the risk of future longevity increases in the Netherlands related to a part of its insurance liabilities. Aegon the Netherlands bought a longevity index derivative, which will pay out if in twenty years the mortality rates have decreased more than a predetermined percentage compared to the base scenario at the moment of signing the contract. Payout of the derivative is defined based on a ‘cumulative cash index’, which represents the cumulative payout to a predefined (synthetic) insured population in relation to the expected payout (in the base scenario) to this same population. Both parties in the contract have the possibility to terminate the contract after ten years (early termination clause). The payout is maximized at a predetermined percentage compared to the base scenario.

To further protect the longevity position of Aegon the Netherlands and combining this with protection for catastrophe mortality in the US, Aegon bought an additional longevity index derivative. This derivative will pay out in twenty-two years if some combination of higher than expected mortality rates in the United States and/or lower than expected mortality rates in the Netherlands persists over the next twenty years and, at that time, is expected to continue to do so. Payout of the derivative is defined based on a ‘terminal present value’, which represents the sum of 1) the cumulative payout to a predefined (synthetic) insured population over the next twenty years and 2) the remaining expected liability on this same population. The preceding sum is compared to amounts set at the moment of signing the contract to determine the actual payout.

On March 1, 2011, the European Court of Justice (ECJ) delivered a judgment in the Test Achats case which relates to the ability of an insurance company to use gender as a rating factor when pricing risk. The ECJ has ruled that using gender as a rating factor when pricing risk is invalid. However, the ECJ has granted a transitional period for relief for implementation. The effect of this is that, as from December 21, 2012, it is unlawful to use gender-related factors for determining premiums and benefits under insurance policies.

5 Segment information

For segment reporting purposes, the following non-IFRS financial measures are included: underlying earnings before tax, income tax and income before tax. The reconciliation of these measures to the most comparable IFRS measures is presented in this note. These non-IFRS measures are calculated by consolidating on a proportionate basis Aegon’s joint ventures and associated companies. Aegon believes that its non-IFRS measures provide meaningful information about the underlying results of Aegon’s business, including insight into the financial measures that Aegon’s senior management uses in managing the business.

Among other things, Aegon’s senior management is compensated based in part on Aegon’s results against targets using the non-IFRS measures presented here. While many other insurers in Aegon’s peer group present substantially similar non-IFRS measures, the non-IFRS measures presented in this document may nevertheless differ from the non-IFRS measures presented by other insurers. There is no standardized meaning to these measures under IFRS or any other recognized set of accounting standards. Readers are cautioned to consider carefully the different ways in which Aegon and its peers present similar information before comparing them.

Aegon believes the non-IFRS measures shown herein, when read together with Aegon’s reported IFRS financial statements, provide meaningful supplemental information for the investing public to evaluate Aegon’s business after eliminating the impact of current

 

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IFRS accounting policies for financial instruments and insurance contracts, which embed a number of accounting policy alternatives that companies may select in presenting their results (i.e. companies can use different local GAAPs to measure the insurance contract liability) and that can make the comparability from period to period difficult. Below details are provided for the individual line items presented in this note.

Underlying earnings

Certain assets held by Aegon Americas, Aegon the Netherlands and Aegon United Kingdom are carried at fair value and managed on a total return basis, with no offsetting changes in the valuation of related liabilities. These include assets such as investments in hedge funds, private equities, real estate (limited partnerships), convertible bonds and structured products. Underlying earnings exclude any over- or underperformance compared to management’s long-term expected return on assets.

Based on current holdings and asset returns, the long-term expected return on an annual basis is 8-10%, depending on asset class, including cash income and market value changes. The expected earnings from these asset classes are net of deferred policy acquisition costs (DPAC) where applicable.

In addition, certain products offered by Aegon Americas contain guarantees and are reported on a fair value basis, including the segregated funds offered by Aegon Canada and the total return annuities and guarantees on variable annuities of Aegon USA. The earnings on these products are impacted, among others, by movements in equity markets and risk-free interest rates. Short-term developments in the financial markets may therefore cause volatility in earnings. Included in underlying earnings is a long-term expected return on these products and excluded is any over- or underperformance compared to management’s expected return. The fair value movements of certain guarantees and the fair value change of derivatives that hedge certain risks on these guarantees of Aegon the Netherlands and Variable Annuities Europe (included in New Markets) are excluded from underlying earnings, and the long-term expected return for these guarantees is set at zero.

Holding and other activities include certain issued bonds that are held at fair value through profit or loss (FVTPL). The interest rate risk on these bonds is hedged using swaps. The fair value movement resulting from changes in Aegon’s credit spread used in the valuation of these bonds are excluded from underlying earnings and reported under fair value items.

Fair value items

Fair value items include the over- or underperformance of investments and guarantees held at fair value for which the expected long-term return is included in underlying earnings. Changes to these long-term return assumptions are also included in the fair value items.

In addition, hedge ineffectiveness on hedge transactions, fair value changes on economic hedges without natural offset in earnings and for which no hedge accounting is applied and fair value movements on real estate are included under fair value items.

Realized gains or losses on investments

Includes realized gains and losses on available-for-sale investments, mortgage loans and loan portfolios.

Impairment charges / reversals

Also included are impairments on mortgage loans and loan portfolios on amortised cost and associates.

Other income or charges

Other income or charges is used to report any items which cannot be directly allocated to a specific line of business. Also items that are outside the normal course of business are reported under this heading.

Other charges include restructuring charges that are considered other charges for segment reporting purposes because they are outside the normal course of business. In the consolidated income statement, these charges are included in operating expenses.

Run-off businesses

Includes underlying results of business units where management has decided to exit the market and to run off the existing block of business. This line includes the run-off of the institutional spread-based business, structured settlements blocks of business, Bank-Owned and Corporate-Owned Life Insurance (BOLI/COLI) business and life reinsurance business in Aegon Americas. Aegon has other blocks of business for which sales have been discontinued and of which the earnings are included in underlying earnings.

 

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Table of Contents
204   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 5

 

Share in earnings of joint ventures and associates

Earnings from Aegon’s joint ventures in Spain, China and Japan and Aegon’s associates in insurance companies in India, Brazil and Mexico are reported on an underlying earnings basis.

 

Income statement -

Underlying earnings

 

Americas

   

The

Netherlands

   

United

Kingdom

   

New

Markets

   

Holding

and other

activities

   

Elimina-

tions

   

Segment

total

   

Joint

ventures and

associates

eliminations

   

Consoli-

dated

 
2013                  

 

Underlying earnings before tax

    1,369        355        98        236        (109 )       (3 )       1,945        (50 )       1,895   

Fair value items

    (971     (65     (16     (21     (61     -        (1,133     37        (1,096

 

Realized gains / (losses) on investments

    111        342        48        -        -        -        502        -        502   

 

Impairment charges

    (109     (40     (31     (16     -        -        (196     -        (196

 

Impairment reversals

    67        8        -        -        -        -        75        -        75   

 

Other income / (charges)

    72        (36     (45     (33     (11     -        (52     6        (47

 

Run-off businesses

    14        -        -        -        -        -        14        -        14   

Income before tax

    553        564        55        167        (181     (3     1,155        (8     1,147   

Income tax (expense) / benefit

    (107     (141     65        (34     42        -        (174     8        (166
Net income     446        424        120        133        (139     (3     980        -        980   

Intersegment underlying earnings

    (173 )       (54 )       (59 )       257        29           

 

Revenues

                 
2013                  

 

Life insurance gross premiums

    6,187        3,515        6,537        1,349        14        (73     17,529        (416     17,112   

 

Accident and health insurance

    1,787        243        -        170        8        (8     2,200        (10     2,190   

 

General insurance

    -        487        -        194        -        -        681        (44     637   

Total gross premiums

    7,975        4,245        6,537        1,713        22        (82     20,410        (471     19,939   

 

Investment income

    3,370        2,310        2,054        233        336        (336     7,968        (58     7,909   

 

Fee and commission income

    1,273        328        80        583        -        (238     2,026        (76     1,950   

 

Other revenues

    4        -        -        2        4        -        10        (3     6   
Total revenues     12,622        6,883        8,670        2,531        362        (656     30,413        (608     29,805   

 

Inter-segment revenues

    20        1        1        292        342                                   

 

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205

 

 

Income statement -

Underlying earnings

 

Americas

   

The

Netherlands

   

United

Kingdom

   

New

Markets

   

Holding

and other

activities

   

Elimina-

tions

   

Segment

total

   

Joint

ventures and

associates

eliminations

   

Consoli-

dated

 
2012                  

 

Underlying earnings before tax

    1,366        325        110        274        (220 )       (4 )       1,851        (71 )       1,780   

 

Fair value items

    (76     71        (31     (1     (4     -        (41     45        4   

 

Realized gains / (losses) on investments

    175        138        84        10        -        -        407        3        410   

 

Impairment charges

    (181     (37     -        (26     (4     2        (246     9        (237

 

Impairment reversals

    64        8        -        -        -        (2     70        -        70   

 

Other income / (charges)

    (28     (279     34        113        (2     -        (162     (1     (163

 

Run-off businesses

    2        -        -        -        -        -        2        -        2   

Income before tax

    1,322        226        197        370        (230     (4     1,881        (15     1,866   

Income tax (expense) / benefit

    (266     2        (24     (121     71        -        (338     15        (323
Net income     1,056        228        173        249        (159     (4     1,543        -        1,543   

Intersegment underlying earnings

    (191     (60     (62     286        27           

 

Revenues

                 
2012                  

 

Life insurance gross premiums

    6,541        3,004        6,047        1,374        -        (73     16,893        (693     16,200   

 

Accident and health insurance

    1,833        220        -        188        5        (5     2,241        (11     2,230   

 

General insurance

    -        475        -        144        -        -        619        -        619   

Total gross premiums

    8,374        3,699        6,047        1,706        5        (78     19,753        (704     19,049   

 

Investment income

    3,654        2,273        2,337        319        374        (374     8,583        (170     8,413   

 

Fee and commission income

    1,177        329        133        524        -        (263     1,900        (44     1,856   

 

Other revenues

    5        -        -        3        5        -        13        (4     9   
Total revenues     13,210        6,301        8,517        2,552        384        (715     30,249        (922     29,327   

Inter-segment revenues

    31        2        1        310        371                                   

 

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206   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 5

 

 

Income statement -
Underlying earnings
  Americas     The
Netherlands
    United
Kingdom
    New
Markets
    Holding
and other
activities
    Elimina-
tions
    Segment
total
    Joint
ventures and
associates
eliminations
    Consoli-
dated
 

 

2011

                 

 

Underlying earnings before tax

    1,286        298        14        249        (306     3        1,544        (13     1,531   

 

Fair value items

    (477     156        (6     (30     (59     -        (416     -        (416

 

Realized gains / (losses) on investments

    119        269        51        7        -        -        446        -        446   

 

Impairment charges

    (306     (16     (62     (61     -        1        (444     4        (440

 

Impairment reversals

    56        1        -        -        -        (1     56        -        56   

 

Other income / (charges)

    (35     (164     (57     7        (18     -        (267     -        (267

 

Run-off businesses

    28        -        -        -        -        -        28        -        28   

Income before tax

    671        544        (60     172        (383     3        947        (9     938   

 

Income tax (expense) / benefit

    (20     (125     15        (61     131        -        (60     9        (51
Net income     651        419        (45     111        (252     3        887        -        887   

Intersegment underlying earnings

    (157     (105     (68     257        73           

 

Revenues

                 

 

2011

                 

 

Life insurance gross premiums

    6,004        3,213        6,474        1,600        -        (55     17,236        (383     16,853   

 

Accident and health insurance

    1,672        216        -        179        -        -        2,067        -        2,067   

 

General insurance

    -        452        -        149        -        -        601        -        601   

Total gross premiums

    7,676        3,881        6,474        1,928        -        (55     19,904        (383     19,521   

 

Investment income

    3,565        2,192        2,154        320        392        (385     8,238        (70     8,168   

 

Fee and commission income

    766        329        137        469        -        (237     1,464        -        1,464   

 

Other revenues

    1        -        -        1        4        -        6        -        6   
Total revenues     12,008        6,402        8,765        2,718        396        (677     29,612        (453     29,159   

 

Inter-segment revenues

    28        2        2        270        375                                   

The Group uses underlying earnings before tax in its segment reporting as an important indicator of its financial performance. The reconciliation of this measure to the income before tax is shown below. Aegon believes that underlying earnings before tax, together with the other information included in this report, provides a meaningful measure for the investing public to evaluate Aegon’s business relative to the businesses of its peers.

 

      Note      2013      2012      2011  

 

Underlying earnings before tax

        1,895         1,780         1,531   

 

Fair value items

        (1,134      125         (308

 

Realized gains and (losses) on financial investments

     10         500         552         803   

 

Gains and (losses) on investments in real estate

     10         (49      (9      (49

 

Fair value changes on economic hedges for which no hedge accounting is applied

     10         65         (130      (117

 

Ineffective portion of hedge transactions for which hedge accounting is applied

     10         12         10         13   

 

Realized gains and (losses) on repurchased debt

     10         -         7         4   

 

DPAC / VOBA offset 1)

     14         (10      (138      (289

 

Impairment (charges)/reversals

     15         (296      (173      (481

 

Other income/(charges)

     11, 12, 14, 17         149         (161      (198

 

Run-off businesses

              14         3         29   
Income/(loss) before tax               1,147         1,866         938   

 

  1   Including a fair value adjusment of EUR 10 million (2012: EUR (1) million; 2011: EUR (85) million).

 

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207

 

 

Other selected income statement items    Americas      The
Netherlands
     United
Kingdom
     New Markets      Holding and
other
activities
     Total  
2013                  

 

Amortization of deferred expenses, VOBA and future servicing rights

     689         59         282         154         -         1,183   

 

Depreciation

     35         20         13         14         -         82   

 

Impairment charges/(reversals) on financial assets, excluding receivables

     48         32         31         17         -         127   

 

Impairment charges/(reversals) on non- financial assets and receivables

     (5      1         -         169         2         167   

2012

                 

 

Amortization of deferred expenses, VOBA and future servicing rights

     830         83         295         120         -         1,328   

 

Depreciation

     31         23         10         12         11         87   

 

Impairment charges/(reversals) on financial assets, excluding receivables

     122         22         -         25         4         173   

 

Impairment charges/(reversals) on non- financial assets and receivables

     4         8         -         14         -         26   

2011

                 

 

Amortization of deferred expenses, VOBA and future servicing rights

     1,092         91         258         131         -         1,572   

 

Depreciation

     33         19         8         13         5         78   

 

Impairment charges/(reversals) on financial assets, excluding receivables

     271         15         63         57         -         406   

 

Impairment charges/(reversals) on non- financial assets and receivables

     (1      71         5         2         -         77   
Number of employees    Americas      The
Netherlands
     United
Kingdom
     New Markets      Holding and
other
activities
     Total  
2013                  

 

Number of employees - headcount

     12,256         4,282         2,400         7,651         302         26,891   

 

Of which agents

     1,655         293         63         2,742         -         4,753   

 

Of which Aegon’s share of employees in joint ventures and associates

     441         -         -         1,021         -         1,462   

2012

                 

 

Number of employees - headcount

     11,967         4,457         2,793         7,160         473         26,850   

 

Of which agents

     1,604         321         72         2,382         23         4,402   

 

Of which Aegon’s share of employees in joint ventures and associates

     463         -         -         1,083         -         1,546   

2011

                 

 

Number of employees - headcount

     12,242         4,839         3,203         8,659         327         29,270   

 

Of which agents

     1,630         382         81         3,855         -         5,948   

 

Of which Aegon’s share of employees in joint ventures and associates 1)

     430         -         -         643         -         1,073   
  1   As described in note 2 of the Consolidated Financial Statements, IFRS 10 and IFRS 11 are only applicable form 2012 onwards.

 

  Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013   LOGO  


Table of Contents
208   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 5

 

 

Summarized assets and liabilities per
segment
   Americas      The
Netherlands
     United
Kingdom
     New
Markets
     Holding
and other
activities
     Elimina-
tions
    Total  
2013                    

 

Assets

                   

 

VOBA and future servicing rights

     1,533         58         369         21         -         -        1,980   

 

Investments general account

     75,780         45,478         10,743         3,396         139         (2     135,533   

 

Investments for account of policyholders

     75,224         25,646         57,813         6,357         -         (8     165,032   

 

Investments in joint ventures

     -         819         -         608         -         -        1,427   

 

Investments in associates

     81         19         20         350         1         -        470   

 

Deferred expenses

     7,791         138         3,454         654         3         -        12,040   

 

Other assets

     14,067         16,713         2,387         2,329         32,327         (30,561     37,262   

 

Total assets

     174,475         88,870         74,786         13,715         32,469         (30,571     353,745   
Liabilities                    

 

Insurance contracts general account

     62,631         25,612         9,819         3,909         3         (1,332     100,642   

 

Insurance contracts for account of policyholders

     52,184         25,401         4,252         2,474         -         -        84,311   

 

Investment contracts general account

     9,536         4,542         466         1         -         -        14,545   

 

Investment contracts for account of policyholders

     23,040         1,650         54,036         3,883         -         -        82,608   

 

Other liabilities

     12,099         27,484         1,859         1,517         7,379         (3,784     46,554   
Total liabilities      159,489         84,690         70,431         11,785         7,382         (5,116     328,661   
Summarized assets and liabilities per
segment
   Americas      The
Netherlands
     United
Kingdom
     New
Markets
     Holding
and other
activities
     Elimina-
tions
    Total  
2012                    

 

Assets

                   

 

VOBA and future servicing rights

     1,563         66         396         135         -         -        2,160   

 

Investments general account

     86,459         43,007         11,338         3,408         759         (2     144,969   

 

Investments for account of policyholders

     65,970         25,094         55,886         6,024         -         (6     152,968   

 

Investments in joint ventures

     -         854         -         714         -         -        1,568   

 

Investments in associates

     90         21         8         648         4         -        771   

 

Deferred expenses

     7,225         178         3,600         641         -         -        11,644   

 

Other assets

     16,798         27,264         2,288         2,542         37,887         (36,027     50,752   
Total assets      178,105         96,484         73,516         14,112         38,650         (36,035     364,832   
Liabilities                    

 

Insurance contracts general account

     68,153         23,850         9,932         3,632         (7      (1,556     104,004   

 

Insurance contracts for account of policyholders

     45,589         26,158         2,011         2,411         -         -        76,169   

 

Investment contracts general account

     12,256         4,655         672         184         -         -        17,767   

 

Investment contracts for account of policyholders

     20,381         2         54,422         3,613         -         -        78,418   

 

Other liabilities

     14,179         36,913         2,365         1,817         10,176         (5,456     59,994   
Total liabilities      160,558         91,578         69,402         11,657         10,169         (7,012     336,352   

 

  Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013   LOGO  


Table of Contents

209

 

 

Investments    Americas      The
Netherlands
     United
Kingdom
     New
Markets
     Holding
and other
activities
     Elimina-
tions
    Total  
2013                    

 

Shares

     1,456         447         55         45         36         (2     2,036   

 

Bonds

     57,125         19,095         10,479         2,812         -         -        89,511   

 

Loans

     8,192         24,832         1         508         -         -        33,533   

 

Other financial assets

     8,286         293         208         30         103         -        8,920   

 

Investments in real estate

     721         810         -         1         -         -        1,532   

Investments general account

     75,780         45,478         10,743         3,396         139         (2     135,533   

Shares

     1,309         8,450         15,375         297         -         (8     25,423   

 

Bonds

     4,844         16,791         11,590         307         -         -        33,531   

 

Separate accounts and investment funds

     68,905         -         26,173         5,744         -         -        100,822   

 

Other financial assets

     167         405         3,680         9         -         -        4,261   

 

Investments in real estate

     -         -         996         -         -         -        996   

Investments for account of policyholders

     75,224         25,646         57,813         6,357         -         (8     165,032   

Investments on balance sheet

     151,004         71,123         68,556         9,754         139         (10     300,566   

 

Off balance sheet investments third parties

     112,611         994         287         60,951         -         -        174,843   
Total revenue generating investments      263,616         72,117         68,843         70,705         139         (10     475,409   
Investments                    

 

Available-for-sale

     62,661         19,452         10,687         2,827         8         -        95,635   

 

Loans

     8,192         24,832         1         508         -         -        33,533   

 

Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss

     79,430         26,029         56,872         6,418         131         (10     168,870   

 

Investments in real estate

     721         810         996         1         -         -        2,528   
Total investments on balance sheet      151,004         71,123         68,556         9,754         139         (10     300,566   

Investments in joint ventures

     -         819         -         608         -         -        1,427   

 

Investments in associates

     81         19         20         350         1         -        470   

 

Other assets

     23,390         16,909         6,210         3,004         32,327         (30,561     51,283   
Consolidated total assets      174,475         88,870         74,786         13,715         32,466         (30,571     353,745   

 

  Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013   LOGO  


Table of Contents
210   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 6

 

 

Investments    Americas      The
Netherlands
     United
Kingdom
     New
Markets
     Holding
and other
activities
     Elimina-
tions
    Total  
2012                    

 

Shares

     1,390         412         51         16         -         (2     1,867   

 

Bonds

     63,686         19,256         11,066         2,817         -         -        96,825   

 

Loans

     8,910         22,193         5         552         -         -        31,660   

 

Other financial assets

     11,707         286         216         22         759         -        12,990   

 

Investments in real estate

     766         860         -         1         -         -        1,627   

Investments general account

     86,459         43,007         11,338         3,408         759         (2     144,969   

Shares

     1,484         8,406         14,927         63         -         (6     24,874   

 

Bonds

     5,300         16,266         12,954         162         -         -        34,682   

 

Separate accounts and investment funds

     59,029         -         23,593         5,778         -         -        88,400   

 

Other financial assets

     157         422         3,404         21         -         -        4,004   

 

Investments in real estate

     -         -         1,008         -         -         -        1,008   

Investments for account of policyholders

     65,970         25,094         55,886         6,024         -         (6     152,968   

Investments on balance sheet

     152,429         68,101         67,224         9,432         759         (8     297,937   

 

Off balance sheet investments third parties

     100,725         1,052         10         59,301         -         -        161,088   
Total revenue generating investments      253,154         69,153         67,234         68,733         759         (8     459,025   
Investments                    

 

Available-for-sale

     72,271         19,717         11,286         2,826         19         -        106,119   

 

Loans

     8,910         22,193         5         552         -         -        31,660   

 

Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss

     70,482         25,331         54,925         6,053         740         (8     157,523   

 

Investments in real estate

     766         860         1,008         1         -         -        2,635   
Total investments on balance sheet      152,429         68,101         67,224         9,432         759         (8     297,937   

Investments in joint ventures

     -         854         -         714         -         -        1,568   

 

Investments in associates

     90         21         8         648         4         -        771   

 

Other assets

     25,586         27,508         6,284         3,318         37,887         (36,027     64,556   
Consolidated total assets      178,105         96,484         73,516         14,112         38,650         (36,035     364,832   

6 Premium income and premiums to reinsurers

 

      Gross      Reinsurance  
2013      

 

Life

     17,112         2,756   

 

Non-Life

     2,827         351   
Total      19,939         3,108   

2012

     

 

Life

     16,200         3,298   

 

Non-Life

     2,849         404   
Total      19,049         3,702   

2011

     

 

Life

     16,853         3,042   

 

Non-Life

     2,668         365   
Total      19,521         3,407   

 

  Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013   LOGO  


Table of Contents

211

 

7 Investment income

 

      2013      2012      2011  

Interest income

     6,842         7,322         7,256   

 

Dividend income

     957         978         745   

 

Rental income

     110         113         166   
Total investment income      7,909         8,413         8,167   

Investment income related to general account

     5,632         5,905         5,823   

 

Investment income for account of policyholders

     2,277         2,508         2,344   
Total      7,909         8,413         8,167   

Included in interest income is EUR 238 million (2012: EUR 197 million; 2011: EUR 118 million) in respect of interest income accrued on impaired financial assets. The interest income on financial assets that are not carried at fair value through profit or loss amounted to EUR 5,437 million (2012: EUR 5,633 million; 2011: EUR: 5,540 million).

 

Investment income from:    2013      2012      2011  

Shares

     957         978         745   

 

Debt securities and money market instruments

     5,248         5,676         5,716   

 

Loans

     1,605         1,561         1,429   

 

Real estate

     110         113         166   

 

Other

     (11      85         111   
Total      7,909         8,413         8,167   

 

Investment income from financial assets held for general account:    2013      2012      2011  

Available-for-sale

     3,917         4,127         4,119   

 

Loans

     1,605         1,561         1,429   

 

Held-to-maturity

     -         -         7   

 

Financial assets designated at fair value through profit or loss

     123         139         125   

 

Real estate

     52         48         93   

 

Derivatives

     (26      28         26   

 

Other

     (39      2         24   
Total      5,632         5,905         5,823   

8 Fee and commission income

 

      2013      2012      2011  

Fee income from asset management

     1,188         1,063         700   

 

Sales commissions

     356         394         381   

 

Commissions from intermediary activities

     192         195         208   

 

Other

     214         204         176   
Total fee and commission income      1,950         1,856         1,465   

Included in fee and commission income is EUR 40 million of fees on trust and fiduciary activities (2012: EUR 34 million; 2011: EUR 76 million).

 

  Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013   LOGO  


Table of Contents
212   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 9

 

9 Income from reinsurance ceded

 

      2013      2012      2011  

Recovered claims and benefits

     2,408         4,175         2,206   

 

Change in technical provisions

     170         (357      137   

 

Commissions

            260                278         432   
Total      2,838         4,096         2,775   

Recovered claims and benefits in 2012 included higher reinsurance income following the divestment of the life reinsurance business, Transamerica Reinsurance, to SCOR. The divestment was completed August 9, 2011, but most of the associated transfers took place in 2012. As a result of novations of policies to SCOR, the  2013 Income from reinsurance ceded declined compared to 2012.

10 Results from financial transactions

 

Results from financial transactions comprise:    2013      2012      2011  

Net fair value change of general account financial investments at fair value through profit or loss, other than derivatives

     370         409         44   

 

Realized gains and losses on financial investments

     500         552         803   

 

Gains and (losses) on investments in real estate

     (49      (9      (49

 

Net fair value change of derivatives

     (1,011      275         1,165   

 

Net fair value change on for account of policyholder financial assets at fair value through profit or loss

     15,571         11,851         (2,133

 

Net fair value change on investments in real estate for account of policyholders

     (12      (46      20   

 

Net foreign currency gains and (losses)

     9         17         (17

 

Net fair value change on borrowings and other financial liabilities

     16         (48      (24

 

Realized gains and (losses) on repurchased debt

     -         7         4   
Total      15,393         13,008         (187

Included in the results from financial transactions is an amount of EUR 825 million (2012: EUR 93 million) of cash paid from total return swaps.

 

Net fair value change of general account financial investments at fair value through profit or loss,
other than derivatives comprise:
   2013      2012      2011  

Shares

     180         76         (50

 

Debt securities and money market investments

     (11      60         (22

 

Other

           201              273               116   
Total      370         409         44   

Other in 2013 and 2012 mainly includes net fair value changes of alternative investments.

 

Realized gains and losses on financial investments comprise:    2013      2012      2011  

Shares

     43         37         190   

 

Debt securities and money market investments

           414              495               610   

 

Loans

     48         45         37   

 

Other

     (6      (25      (34
Total      500         552         803   
Realized gains and losses on financial investments comprise:    2013      2012      2011  

Available-for-sale investments

     451         507         766   

 

Loans

     48         45         37   
Total      500         552         803   

 

  Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013   LOGO  


Table of Contents

213

 

 

Net fair value change of derivatives comprise:    2013     2012      2011  

Net fair value change on free standing derivatives

     (1,231     458         2,334   

 

Net fair value change on embedded derivatives

     143        (62      (1,065

 

Ineffective portion of hedge transactions to which hedge accounting is applied

     12        9         13   

 

Fair value changes on economic hedges for which no hedge accounting is applied

     65        (130      (117
Total      (1,011     275         1,165   
       
The ineffective portion of hedge transactions to which hedge accounting is applied comprises:    2013     2012      2011  

Fair value change on hedging instruments in a fair value hedge

     52        (14      (99

 

Fair value change on hedged items in fair value hedge

     (39     28         111   

 

Ineffectiveness fair value hedge

     13        14         12   

 

Ineffectiveness cash flow hedges

     (1     (5      1   
Total      12        9         13   
       
Net fair value change on for account of policyholder financial assets at fair value through profit or loss comprise:      2013        2012         2011   

Shares

     3,660        2,348         (2,030

 

Debt securities and money market investments

     (1,090     1,636         946   

 

Deposits with financial institutions

     -        -         4   

 

Separate accounts and unconsolidated investment funds

     13,002        7,867         (1,053
Total      15,571        11,851         (2,133

Net fair value changes on for account of policyholder financial assets at fair value through profit or loss are offset by Claims and benefits paid to policyholders reported in Policyholder claims and benefits (note 12).

11 Other income

 

      2013      2012      2011  

Other income

           393                149                39   

Other income in 2013 mainly reflects two reinsurance recapture transactions totaling EUR 200 million and book gains totaling EUR 176 million related to the sale of joint ventures with Unnim and CAM. The book gain of Unnim of EUR 102 million included an amount of EUR 26 million which is recycled from equity through profit and loss. The net gain of EUR 74 million related to the sale of CAM included a negative amount of EUR 44 million which is recycled from equity through profit and loss.

Other income in 2012 mainly included the gain on the sale of Aegon’s interest in Prisma Capital Partners LP (“Prisma”) of EUR 100 million and the gain following the ending of the life, health and pension partnership with Banca Cívica of EUR 35 million. For more details on these two transactions refer to note 25 and 26 respectively. In 2011 other income primarily included a benefit related to the settlement of legal claims of EUR 37 million.

Other income is fully excluded from underlying earnings for segment reporting purposes (refer to note 2.4).

12 Policyholder claims and benefits

 

      2013      2012      2011  

Claims and benefits paid to policyholders

     20,204         20,559         16,814   

 

Gains / (losses) on separate accounts

     10,178         6,240         (598

 

Change in valuation of liabilities for insurance and investment contracts

     7,411         7,866         4,014   
Total      37,793         34,665         20,230   

 

  Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013   LOGO  


Table of Contents
214   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 13

 

Policyholder claims and benefits, includes claims and benefits in excess of account value for products for which deposit accounting is applied and the change in valuation of liabilities for insurance and investment contracts. Claims and benefits fluctuates mainly as a result of changes in technical provisions resulting from fair value changes on for account of policyholder financial assets included in Results from financial transactions (note 10).

The change in valuation of liabilities for insurance and investment contracts include a loss of EUR 200 million (2012: gains of EUR 105 million, 2011: loss of EUR 388 million) regarding fair value movements of guarantees and EUR 3 million of net losses (2012: net losses of EUR 230 million, 2011: net gains of EUR 41 million) related to policyholder tax and other income / charges that are classified for segment reporting purposes as non underlying earnings.

In 2012, Aegon decided to bring forward the measures, as Aegon committed to the ‘best of class’ principles of the Dutch Ministry of Finance, to reduce future costs for its customers with unit-linked insurance policies in the Netherlands. This decision has led to an increase in the technical provisions (which is included in the Change in valuation of liabilities for insurance and investment contracts line in the table above) by EUR 265 million. Refer to note 51 Commitments and contingencies for more details.

13 Profit sharing and rebates

 

      2013      2012      2011  

Surplus interest bonuses

     4         6         7   

 

Profit appropriated to policyholders

           24               27               48   
Total      28         33         55   

14 Commissions and expenses

 

      2013      2012      2011  

Commissions

     2,741         2,744         2,666   

 

Employee expenses

     2,060         2,002         2,047   

 

Administration expenses

     1,158         1,052         1,315   

 

Deferred expenses

     (1,550      (1,567      (1,458

 

Amortization of deferred expenses

     1,070         1,164         1,361   

 

Amortization of VOBA and future servicing rights

     114         164         211   
Total      5,593         5,559         6,142   

Included in administration expenses is an amount of EUR 82 million of depreciation that relates to equipment, software and real estate held for own use (2012: EUR 87 million; 2011: EUR 78 million). Minimum lease payments recognized as expense amounted to EUR 12 million (2012: EUR 15 million; 2011: EUR 7 million).

Within employee and administration expenses is an amount of EUR 107 million relating to restructuring charges that is classified as non-underlying earnings for segment reporting purposes (2012: EUR 27 million; 2011: EUR 209 million).

Amortization of deferred expenses included a charge of EUR 18 million (2012: EUR 126 million, 2011: EUR 263 million), which is classified as non-underlying earnings for segment reporting purposes. This is offset against realized gains and losses and impairments on financial investments.

 

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Amortization of VOBA and future servicing rights include an amount of EUR 8 million (2012: charge EUR 13 million, 2011: charge EUR 25 million) that is classified as non-underlying earnings for segment reporting purposes.

 

Employee expenses    2013      2012      2011  

 

Salaries

     1,286         1,276         1,283   

 

Post-employment benefit costs

     292         266         215   

 

Social security charges

     133         134         135   

 

Other personnel costs

     309         294         396   

 

Shares, share appreciation rights, share options and LTIP

     41         32         18   

 

Total

             2,060                 2,002                 2,047   

An amount of EUR 39 million is included in employee expenses relating to defined contributions (2012: EUR 30 million; 2011: EUR 27 million).

Long Term Incentive Plans

In 2010, Aegon implemented a Long Term Incentive Plan which replaced the option plan, share appreciation plans, share plans or similar plans relating to Aegon shares. Members of the Executive Board and the Management Board, as well as other senior managers within Aegon, were granted the right to receive Aegon shares if certain performance indicators are met and depending on continued employment of the individual employee to whom the rights have been granted. The shares were conditionally granted in May 2010 at the average share price on the NYSE Euronext stock exchange in Amsterdam during the period between December 15 preceding a plan year and January 15 of a plan year. The performance indicators apply over a vesting period of three years (2010 – 2012) and consisted of financial and non-financial targets set by the Supervisory Board or the local remuneration committees. Shares are allocated based on actual performance. After the vesting period, the shares were transferred to the individual employees on May 2, 2013. Members of the Executive Board and the Management Board at the time of the conditional grant are not entitled to execute any transactions regarding the shares for a period of two years following vesting.

As per 2011 the structure of Long Term Incentives scheme changed. Senior managers within Aegon, not classified as ‘Identified Staff’, have been granted the conditional right to receive Aegon shares if certain performance indicators are met and depending on continued employment of the individual employee to whom the rights have been granted. The shares were conditionally granted at the beginning of the year at the average share price on the NYSE Euronext stock exchange in Amsterdam during the period between December 15 preceding a plan year and January 15 of a plan year. The performance indicators apply over a performance period of one year and consist of financial and non-financial targets set by the Supervisory Board or the local remuneration committees. Following the performance year shares are allocated based on actual performance. A vesting period of two years applies after which the shares are transferred to the individual employees. Ex post assessment is not applicable to this group of employees.

Variable compensation Identified Staff

Members of the Executive Board and the Management Board as well as other selected jobholders have been defined as “Identified Staff” in accordance with new rules, guidelines and interpretations. Of these, the Capital Requirements Directive III (CRD III) remuneration principles, the 2010 Guidelines on Remuneration Policies and Practices by the Committee of European Banking Supervisors (CEBS) and the 2011 Decree on Sound Remuneration Policy by De Nederlandsche Bank (Regeling beheerst beloningsbeleid WFt 2011 - Rbb) are prominent examples. The rules have been adopted in Aegon’s Global Remuneration Framework for Identified Staff. After the performance period, and based on the framework, variable compensation is partially made available and partly deferred. Variable compensation is paid in both cash and in Aegon N.V. shares. The shares were conditionally granted at the beginning of the year at the average share price on the NYSE Euronext stock exchange in Amsterdam during the period between December 15 preceding a plan year and January 15 of the plan year. The performance indicators apply over a performance period of one year and consist of Group and / or Reporting Unit targets (both financial and non-financial) set by the Supervisory Board or the local remuneration committees and personal/strategic targets. For Members of the Executive Board and the Management Board all variable compensation has vested after three years following the performance period. At vesting the variable compensation is transferred to the individual employees. Additional holding periods may apply for vested shares. Members of the Executive Board and the members of the Management Board who are based in the Netherlands are not entitled to execute any transactions regarding the shares for a period of three years following vesting (with the exception of shares sold to meet income tax obligations).

In compliance with regulations under Dutch law, no transactions regarding the shares can be exercised in blackout periods.

 

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216   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 14

 

In 2010, 4,266,107 shares were conditionally granted to participants in the 2010 Long Term Incentive Plan. The shares were granted using the share price of EUR 4.851. Following the performance period 5,408,521 shares were allocated. These shares vested on May 2, 2013 on the basis of realized performance and became unconditional. Holding periods of two years apply for vested shares awarded to Members of the Executive Board and Management Board at the time of the conditional grant.

Following the 2011 performance year 6,441,488 shares were allocated to participants in the 2011 Long Term Incentive Plan and the 2011 Variable Compensation Plan for Identified Staff. The shares were granted using the share price of EUR 4.727. As per December 31, 2013 392,880 shares had vested. Additional holding periods of up to 3 years may apply. 6,032,524 shares are unvested and will vest in future years.

Following the 2012 performance year 13,343,782 shares were allocated to participants in the 2012 Long Term Incentive Plan and the 2012 Variable Compensation Plan for Identified Staff. The shares were granted using the share price of EUR 3.126. As per December 31, 2013 659,232 shares had vested. Additional holding periods of up to 3 years may apply. 12,676,414 shares are unvested and will vest in future years.

In 2013, 5,735,046 shares were conditionally granted (at target performance level) to participants in the 2013 Long Term Incentive Plan and the 2013 Variable Compensation Plan for Identified Staff. The shares were granted using the share price of EUR 4,917.

Share appreciation rights and share options

Senior executives of Aegon companies, as well as other Aegon employees, have been offered both share appreciation rights and share options. These share appreciation rights and share options have been granted at an exercise price equal to the market price of the shares at the date of the grant. The rights and options granted in 2006 - 2008 vest after three years and can only be exercised during the four years after the vesting date. Vesting and exercisability depend on continuing employment of the individual employee to whom the rights and options have been granted. Option plans are settled in equity, whilst stock appreciation rights are settled in cash or provide the employee with the choice of settlement.

After 2008 no share option or share appreciation rights were granted.

In compliance with regulations under Dutch law, share appreciation rights and share options cannot be exercised in blackout periods.

Share appreciation rights

The following tables present the movements in number of share appreciation rights outstanding (SARs), as well as the breakdown by the year in which they were granted.

 

      Number of
SARs
    Weighted
average
exercise
price in EUR
    Weighted
average
remaining
contractual
term in years
    Aggregate
intrinsic in
EUR million
 

 

Outstanding at January 1, 2012

     2,836,449        11.09        0.60        -   

 

Forfeited

     (228,800     11.21       

 

Expired

       (2,171,649     10.86                   
Outstanding at December 31, 2012      436,000        12.19        1.31        -   

Forfeited

     (126,800     13.78       

 

Expired

     (21,300     14.00                   
Outstanding at December 31, 2013      287,900        11.35        0.81        -   
Exercisable at December 31, 2013      287,900        11.35        0.81        -   

 

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SARs    Original number granted      Outstanding
January 1,
2013
    Outstanding
December 31,
2013
     Exercise
price in EUR
    Exercise period  

 

2006

     244,300         135,200        -         14.00        until March 14, 2013   

 

2007

     309,500         121,500        115,200         14.98        until March 13, 2014   

 

2008

     300,300         179,300        172,700         8.93        until March 11, 2015   
Total      854,100         436,000        287,900                    

Refer to note 3 for a further description of the method used to estimate the fair value and a description of the significant assumptions. The volatility is derived from quotations from external market sources and the expected dividend yield is derived from quotations from external market sources and the binomial option pricing model.

The liability related to share appreciation rights is valued at fair value at each balance sheet date. There were no costs related to the share appreciation rights in 2013 (2012: nil; 2011: nil).

Share options

The following tables present the movements in number of share options, as well as the breakdown by the year in which they were granted.

 

     Number of
share options
    Weighted
average exercise
price in EUR
    Weighted average
remaining contractual
term in years
    Aggregate
intrinsic in
      EUR million
 

 

Outstanding at January 1, 2012

    18,778,361        11.91        1.98        -   

 

Forfeited/Cancelled

    (4,855,384     11.44                   
Outstanding at December 31, 2012     13,922,977        12.09        1.31        -   

Forfeited/Cancelled

    (1,034,306     11.66       

 

Expired

    (4,392,903     14.00                   
Outstanding at December 31, 2013     8,495,768        11.15        0.84        -   
Exercisable at December 31, 2013     8,495,768        11.15        0.84        -   

 

Share options    Original number granted      Outstanding
January 1,
2013
     Outstanding
December 31,
2013
     Exercise
price in EUR
    Exercise period  

 

 

2006

     9,149,500         4,520,403         -         14.00        until March 14, 2013   

 

2007

     9,522,200         3,478,732         3,118,054         14.98        until March 13, 2014   

 

2008

     10,269,900         5,923,842         5,377,714         8.93        until March 11, 2015   
Total      28,941,600         13,922,977         8,495,768                    

The costs related to the share options amount to EUR (1) million (2012: EUR (2) million and 2011: EUR (1) million) and are recognized in the income statement as part of “Commissions and expenses”.

Share appreciation rights and share options

No SARs and share options were granted after 2008. With regard to the SARs and options granted before 2009, no share options were exercised and no SARs were paid during 2011, 2012 and 2013. Similarly, no cash is received from exercise of share options during 2011, 2012 and 2013.

The exposure from the issued SARs and share options is economically hedged by part of the position in treasury shares. There have been no modifications to the plans during the financial year.

Refer to note 56 for detailed information on conditional shares and share options granted to the Executive Board.

 

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218   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 15

 

15 Impairment charges / (reversals)

 

Impairment charges / (reversals) comprise:        2013          2012          2011  

 

Impairment charges on financial assets, excluding receivables 1)

     203         243         461   

 

Impairment reversals on financial assets, excluding receivables 1)

     (77      (70      (55

 

Impairment charges and reversals on non-financial assets and receivables 2)

     167         26         77   
Total      294         199         483   

 

  1   Impairment charges/(reversals) on financial assets, excluding receivables, are excluded from underlying earnings before tax for segment reporting (refer to note 5).
  2   Of impairment charges on non-financial assets and receivables EUR 170 million is excluded from underlying earnings before tax for segment reporting (refer to note 5) (2012: EUR 0 million and 2011: EUR 75 million)

Included in impairment charges on non-financial assets and receivables is the impairment on goodwill and future servicing rights on the Polish pension business totaling EUR 163 million. Refer to note 21 for more details.

 

Impairment charges on financial assets, excluding receivables, from:        2013          2012          2011  

 

Shares

     3         8         10   

 

Debt securities and money market instruments

     131         153         345   

 

Loans

     67         80         99   

 

Investments in associates

     1         1         1   

 

Other

     -         1         6   
Total      203         243         461   

 

Impairment reversals on financial assets, excluding receivables, from:        2013          2012          2011  

 

Debt securities and money market instruments

     (61      (54      (48

 

Loans

     (15      (16      (7
Total      (77      (70      (55

For more details on impairments on financial assets, excluding receivables, refer to note 4 Financial and insurance risks.

16 Interest charges and related fees

 

          2013          2012          2011  

 

Trust pass-through securities

     8         8         8   

 

Subordinated loans

     3         3         1   

 

Borrowings

     312         425         362   

 

Other

     31         83         120   
Total      355         519         491   

The interest charges accrued on financial assets and liabilities that are not carried at fair value through profit or loss amounted to EUR 239 million (2012: EUR 392 million; 2011: EUR 284 million).

There are no interest charges and related fees that are classified for segment reporting purposes as non underlying earnings.

17 Other charges

 

          2013          2012              2011  
Other charges      134         52         69   

Other charges of EUR 134 million in 2013 mainly include EUR 71 million related to an increase in reserves in connection with the company’s use of the Social Security Administration’s death master-file in the United States. Additionally, it includes a loss of EUR 22 million related to the sale of national independent financial advisor Positive Solutions in the United Kingdom.

 

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Other charges in 2012 mainly include a charge of EUR 26 million related to a settlement following the termination of a Bank-Owned Life Insurance contract in the United States and a charge of EUR 16 million related to the annual bank tax by the Hungarian Government (2011: EUR 17 million).

Other charges in 2011 mainly include EUR 37 million related to increased reserves in connection with the company’s use of the Social Security administration’s death master file in the United States and a loss of EUR 7 million on the sale of the Guardian life and pension business in the United Kingdom.

Other charges is fully excluded from underlying earnings for segment reporting purposes (refer to note 2.4).

18 Income tax

 

      Note          2013           2012           2011  

 

Current tax

           

 

Current year

        374         221         (158

 

Adjustments to prior year

              (479      79         (22
        (105      300         (180
Deferred tax      45            

 

Origination / (reversal) of temporary differences

        (185      148         239   

 

Changes in tax rates / bases

        (89      (70      (51

Changes in deferred tax assets as a result of recognition / write off of previously not recognized / recognized tax losses, tax credits and deductible temporary differences

        1         (3      (31

 

Non-recognition of deferred tax assets

        65         51         78   

 

Adjustments to prior year

              479         (103      (4
                271         23         231   
Income tax for the period (income) / charge               166         323         51   

The prior year adjustments include shifts between current and deferred tax. In 2013 the shift between current and deferred tax is mainly caused by an agreement with tax authorities, resulting in an increased current tax receivable and a decreased deferred tax asset.

 

Reconciliation between standard and effective income tax:             2013           2012           2011  

 

Income before tax

       1,147         1,866         938   

 

Income tax calculated using weighted average applicable statutory rates

       355         586         286   

Difference due to the effects of:

          

 

Non-taxable income

       (124      (81      (66

 

Non-tax deductible expenses

       33         13         46   

 

Changes in tax rate/base

       (89      (70      (52

 

Different tax rates on overseas earnings

       (14      (39      (39

 

Tax credits

       (56      (69      (67

 

Other taxes

       20         18         (3

 

Adjustments to prior years

       -         (24      (26

 

Origination and change in contingencies

       -         3         (62

 

Changes in deferred tax assets as a result of recognition/write off of previously not recognized/recognized tax losses, tax credits and deductible temporary differences

       1         (3      (31

 

Non-recognition of deferred tax assets

       65         51         78   

 

Tax effect of (profit) / losses from joint ventures and associates

       (5      (7      -   

 

Other

         (21      (55      (13
           (189      (263      (235
Income tax for the period (income) / charge          166         323         51   

The weighted average applicable statutory tax rate for 2013 is 32.0% (2012: 31.2%; 2011: 30.5%). The marginal increase in weighted average applicable statutory tax rate compared to prior years is caused by an increase in losses in lower taxed countries which is partly offset by the decreased contribution to the overall profit of the higher taxed countries.

 

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220   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 19

 

In the UK, the corporate income tax rate decreased from 24% in 2012 to 23% as from April 1, 2013. The rate will further decrease to 21% as from April 1, 2014 and to 20% as from April 1, 2015. The beneficial impact of these changes is reflected in the Change in tax rate/base.

In 2013, Other consists of tax effects of the UK Life company that have no direct correlation to the IFRS result and also consists of the effect of the various tax rates, other than the statutory tax rate, that are applicable to income of the UK Life company.

The following table presents income tax related to components of other comprehensive income.

 

      2013           2012           2011  

 

Items that will not be reclassified to profit and loss:

        

 

Changes in revaluation reserve real estate held for own use

     1         1         (1

 

Remeasurements of defined benefit plans

     (202      37         180   
     (201      38         179   
Items that may be reclassified subsequently to profit and loss:         

 

Gains / losses on revaluation of available-for-sale investments

         1,004         (1,192      (940

 

Gains / losses transferred to the income statement on disposal and impairment of available-for-sale investments

     69         117         147   

 

Changes in cash flow hedging reserve

     192         27         (361

 

Movement in foreign currency translation and net foreign investment hedging reserve

     21         3         (12

 

Other

     -         (6      -   
       1,286         (1,051      (1,166
Total income tax related to components of other comprehensive income      1,085         (1,013      (987

19 Earnings per share

Basic earnings per share

Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing the net income attributable to equity holders, after deduction of preferred dividends declared, coupons on perpetual securities and non-cumulative subordinated notes, and coupons and premium on convertible core capital securities by the weighted average number of common shares, excluding common shares purchased by the company and held as treasury shares (refer to note 32.1 and 32.3 respectively).

 

      2013           2012           2011  

 

Net income / (loss) attributable to equity holders

     980         1,543         887   

 

Dividends on preferred shares

     (83      (59      (59

 

Coupons on perpetual securities

     (146      (172      (177

 

Coupons and premium on convertible core capital securities

     -         -         (750

 

Coupons on non-cumulative subordinated notes

     (21      (23      -   
Net income / (loss) attributable to equity holders for basic earnings per share calculation      730         1,289         (99

 

Net income / (loss) attributable to common shareholders

     727         1,289         (99

 

Net income / (loss) attributable to common shareholders B

     3         -         -   

Weighted average number of common shares outstanding (in million)

          2,035         1,907         1,852   

 

Weighted average number of common shares B outstanding (in million)

     366         -         -   

Basic earnings per common share (EUR per share)

     0.36         0.68         (0.05

 

Basic earnings per common share B (EUR per share)

     0.01         -         -   

Diluted earnings per share

Diluted earnings per share is calculated by adjusting the average number of shares outstanding for share options. For the purpose of calculating diluted earnings per share, Aegon assumed that all dilutive share options have been exercised at the exercise price, or adjusted exercise price if necessary. The proceeds are regarded as having been received from the issue of common shares at the average market price of the Aegon N.V. share during the year. The difference between the number of dilutive options issued and the number of common shares that would have been issued at the average market price has been treated as an issue of common shares for no consideration.

 

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The number of share options that has not been included in the weighted average number of common shares used in the calculation of diluted earnings per share amounted to 8,495,768 (2012: 13,922,977; 2011: 18,778,361). In 2013, 2012 and 2011, the average share price did not exceed the exercise price. At December 31, 2013, the exercise prices of these share options range from EUR 8.93 to EUR 14.98. Aegon has no share options on common shares B.

The diluted earnings per share equaled the basic earnings per share for the year 2013 since there were no share options excercised as mentioned above.

20 Dividend per common share

It will be proposed to the annual General Meeting of Shareholders on May 21, 2014, absent unforeseen circumstances, to pay a dividend for the year 2013 of EUR 0.22 per common share and of EUR 0.0055 per common share B. After taking into account the interim dividend 2013 of EUR 0.11 per common share and of EUR 0.00275 per common share B, this results in a final dividend of EUR 0.11 per common share and of EUR 0.00275 per common share B.

The interim dividend 2013 on common shares was paid in cash or stock at the election of the shareholder. Stock dividend amounts to one new Aegon common share for every 50 common shares held. The stock dividend and cash dividend are approximately equal in value. The interim dividend was payable as of September 13, 2013. The interim dividend 2013 for common shares B was fully paid in cash.

Approximately 55% of holders of common shares have elected to receive the cash dividend. The remaining 45% have opted for stock dividend. Aegon repurchased common shares to neutralize the dilutive effect of the 2013 interim dividend paid in shares. Between September 17, 2013, and October 14, 2013, 19,047,358 common shares were repurchased under the share buyback program, at an average price of EUR 5.6233 per share.

The Annual General Meeting of Shareholders on May 15, 2013, approved a final dividend of EUR 0.21 per common share over 2012, payable in either cash or stock. Related to the second half of 2012, paid in the first half of 2013, a cash dividend amounted EUR 0.11 per common share, and the stock dividend amounts to one new Aegon common share for every 47 common shares held. The stock dividend and cash dividend are approximately equal in value. Aegon did not have common shares B during 2012.

The dividend per common share paid in 2011 (final dividend 2010 and interim dividend 2011) was nil. As part of the European Commission’s approval granted in August 2010 regarding the State support received in December 2008, Aegon committed itself not to pay any dividend to the common shareholder until the convertible core capital securities had been fully repurchased. The repurchase of the convertible core capital securities was completed in 2011, refer to note 33 for additional information on this repurchase. Aegon did not have common shares B during 2011.

 

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222   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 21

 

21 Intangible assets

 

Net book value    Goodwill           VOBA     

Future

   servicing

rights

        Software         Other      Total  

 

At January 1, 2012

     259         2,000         397         26         13         2,695   

At December 31, 2012

 

    

 

266

 

  

 

    

 

1,777

 

  

 

    

 

383

 

  

 

    

 

50

 

  

 

    

 

9

 

  

 

    

 

2,485

 

  

 

At December 31, 2013      211         1,742         239         50         4            2,246   

 

Cost

                 

 

At January 1, 2013

     393         7,085         621         266         80         8,445   

 

Additions

     -         4         -         20         -         24   

 

Acquisitions through business combinations

     12         3         -         -         -         15   

 

Capitalized subsequent expenditure

     -         -         -         2         -         2   

 

Disposals

     -         -         (1      (2      -         (3

 

Disposal of a business

     -         -         -         (1      (8      (9

 

Net exchange differences

     (17      (334      (23      (9      (3      (385

 

Other movements

     -         -         -         1         -         2   
At December 31, 2013      388         6,758         596         278         69         8,090   

 

Accumulated amortization, depreciation and impairment losses

                 

 

At January 1, 2013

     127         5,308         238         216         71         5,960   

 

Amortization / depreciation through income statement

     -         109         19         15         1         145   

 

Shadow accounting adjustments

     -         (152      -         -         -         (152

 

Disposals

     -         -         -         (2      -         (2

 

Disposal of a business

     -         -         -         (1      (4      (5

 

Impairment losses

     53         -         110         4         1         168   

 

Net exchange differences

     (4      (250      (9      (6      (3      (271

 

Other movements

     -         -         -         2         -         1   
At December 31, 2013      177         5,017         358         228         66         5,845   
Cost                  

 

At January 1, 2012

     388         7,149         616         232         80         8,465   

 

Additions

     -         -         -         31         1         32   

 

Acquisitions through business combinations

     1         5         -         -         -         6   

 

Capitalized subsequent expenditure

     -         -         -         4         -         4   

 

Disposals

     -         -         -         (8      -         (8

 

Net exchange differences

     4         (60      5         8         (1      (44

 

Other movements

     -         (9      -         (1      -         (10
At December 31, 2012      393         7,085         621         266         80         8,445   

 

Accumulated amortization, depreciation and impairment losses

                 

 

At January 1, 2012

     129         5,149         219         206         67         5,770   

 

Amortization / depreciation through income statement

     -         142         20         11         4         177   

 

Shadow accounting adjustments

     -         85         -         -         -         85   

 

Disposals

     -         -         -         (7      -         (7

 

Net exchange differences

     (2      (59      (1      7         -         (55

 

Other movements

     -         (9      -         (1      -         (10
At December 31, 2012      127         5,308         238         216         71         5,960   

 

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223

 

The Polish government enacted into legislation its pension reform proposal. The outcome adversely impacts Aegon’s Polish pension business growth and profitability from current in-force business. As a result, Aegon impaired intangibles related to this business: goodwill (EUR 53 million); future servicing rights (EUR 110 million); and DPAC write offs (EUR 29 million). The DPAC write offs are included in the deferred expenses (note 29).

Amortization and depreciation through income statement is included in “Commissions and expenses”. None of the intangible assets have titles that are restricted or have been pledged as security for liabilities.

With the exception of goodwill, all intangible assets have a finite useful life and are amortized accordingly. VOBA and future servicing rights are amortized over the term of the related insurance contracts, which can vary significantly depending on the maturity of the acquired portfolio. VOBA currently recognized is amortized over an average period of 24 years, with an average remaining amortization period of 11 years (2012: 13 years). Future servicing rights are amortized over an average period up to 30 years, of which 9 remains at December 31, 2013 (2012: 14 years). Software is generally depreciated over an average period of 5 years. At December 31, 2013, the remaining average depreciation period was 4 years (2012: 4 years).

Goodwill

The goodwill balance has been allocated across the cash-generating units which are expected to benefit from the synergies inherent in the goodwill. Goodwill is tested for impairment both annually and when there are specific indicators of a potential impairment. The recoverable amount is the higher of the value in use and fair value less costs to sell for a cash-generating unit. The operating assumptions used in all the calculations are best estimate assumptions and based on historical data where available.

The economic assumptions used in all the calculations are based on observable market data and projections of future trends. All the cash-generating units tested showed that the recoverable amounts were higher than their carrying values, including goodwill. A reasonably possible change in any key assumption is not expected to cause the carrying value of the cash-generating units to exceed its recoverable amount.

A geographical summary of the cash-generating units to which the goodwill is allocated is as follows:

 

      2013      2012  

 

Americas

     

 

- USA

     107         112   

 

New Markets

     

 

- Central & Eastern Europe

     48         101   

 

- Other New Markets

     27         29   

 

Other

     29         25   

At December 31

     211              266   

Goodwill in Aegon USA is allocated to its divisions. Value in use calculations of Aegon USA have been actuarially determined based on business plans covering a period of typically five years and pre-tax risk adjusted discount rates. The value in use test in the USA for the Individual Savings & Retirement cash generating unit (EUR 106 million; 2012: EUR 111 million) assumes business plans covering a period of five years further extrapolated to ten years where the new business levels for years 6-10 assumed a 5% growth rate (2012: 5%) and pre-tax risk adjusted discount rate of 17% (2012: 17%).

To determine the recoverable amounts of the cash generating units of Aegon CEE, value in use was calculated, and compared to the carrying amounts. Value in use has been determined based on a business plan covering a period of typically three years further extrapolated to twenty years where the new business levels for years 4-20 assumed a growth rate based on the business plan of the third year, prudentially decreased by 10%-20%. Other key assumptions used for the calculation were pre-tax risk adjusted discount rate of 9.2%-15.9% (2012: 10.9%-16.4%), new business contribution, renewals, asset fees, investment return, persistency and expenses. Operating assumptions are best estimate assumptions and based on historical data where available. Economic assumptions are based on observable market data and projections of future trends.

 

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224   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 22

 

VOBA

The movement in VOBA over 2013 can be summarized and compared to 2012 as follows:

 

            2013      2012  

 

At January 1

        1,777         2,000   

 

Additions

        7         5   

 

Amortization / depreciation through income statement

        (109      (142

 

Shadow accounting adjustments

        152         (85

 

Net exchange differences

        (84      (1
At December 31                1,742              1,777   

A geographical summary of the lines of business to which the VOBA is allocated is as follows:

 

      Americas     

The

Netherlands

    

United

Kingdom

    

New

Markets

     Total  

 

2013

              

 

Life

     1,131         1         -         12         1,144   

 

Individual savings and retirement products

     131         -         -         -         131   

 

Pensions

     11         36         366         -         414   

 

Distribution

     -         21         -         -         21   

 

Run-off businesses

     32         -         -         -         32   
Total VOBA      1,306         58         366         12         1,742   
2012               

 

Life

     1,141         1         -         11         1,153   

 

Individual savings and retirement products

     138         -         -         -         138   

 

Pensions

     14         41         393         -         448   

 

Distribution

     -         24         -         -         24   

 

Run-off businesses

     14         -         -         -         14   
Total VOBA      1,307         66         393         11         1,777   

22 Investments

Investments for general account comprise financial assets, excluding derivatives, as well as investments in real estate.

 

      Note      2013      2012  

 

Available-for-sale (AFS)

        95,635         106,119   

 

Loans

        33,533         31,660   

 

Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss (FVTPL) 1)

              4,833         5,563   

 

Total financial assets, excluding derivatives

     22.1         134,001         143,342   

 

Investments in real estate

     22.2         1,532         1,627   
Total investments for general account                135,533          144,969   

 

1   Refer to note 50 for a summary of all financial assets and financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss.

  

 

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225

 

22.1 Financial assets, excluding derivatives

 

      AFS      FVTPL      Loans      Total      Fair value  

 

2013

              

 

Shares

     787         1,250         -         2,036         2,036   

 

Debt securities

     88,162         1,350         -         89,511         89,511   

 

Money market and other short-term investments

     5,524         449         -         5,974         5,974   

 

Mortgage loans

     -         -         29,369         29,369         32,869   

 

Private loans

     -         -         1,783         1,783         1,888   

 

Deposits with financial institutions

     -         -         292         292         292   

 

Policy loans

     -         -         1,955         1,955         1,955   

 

Other

     1,163         1,784         135         3,082         3,082   
At December 31, 2013      95,635         4,833         33,533         134,001         137,607   
2012               

 

Shares

     824         1,043         -         1,867         1,867   

 

Debt securities

     95,394         1,431         -         96,825         96,825   

 

Money market and other short-term investments

     8,687         1,084         -         9,771         9,771   

 

Mortgage loans

     -         -         28,298         28,298         32,982   

 

Private loans

     -         -         1,012         1,012         1,143   

 

Deposits with financial institutions

     -         -         96         96         96   

 

Policy loans

     -         -         2,103         2,103         2,104   

 

Other

     1,214         2,005         151         3,370         3,370   
At December 31, 2012      106,119         5,563         31,660         143,342         148,158   

Of the debt securities, money market and other short-term investments, mortgage loans and private loans EUR 10,892 million is current (2012: EUR 17,428 million).

Refer to note 3 for information on fair value measurement.

Other

Movement on the loan allowance account during the year were as follows:

 

      2013      2012  

At January 1

     (223      (198

 

Addition charged to income statement

     (67      (79

 

Reversal to income statement

     15         15   

 

Amounts written off

     33         44   

 

Net exchange differences

     3         (5
At December 31            (240              (223

Refer to note 52 for a discussion of collateral received and paid.

 

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226   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 22

 

22.2 Investments in real estate

 

      2013      2012  

 

At January 1

     1,627         1,687   

 

Additions

     9         5   

 

Subsequent expenditure capitalized

     12         17   

 

Transfers from other headings

     79         87   

 

Disposals

     (105      (208

 

Fair value gains/(losses)

     (49      (9

 

Other

     (8      60   

 

Net exchange differences

     (33      (12
At December 31          1,532               1,627   

In 2013, 77% of the value of Aegon’s properties, both for general account and for account of policyholders, were appraised (2012: 89%), of which 99% was performed by independent external appraisers (2012: 99%).

Aegon USA has entered into commercial property portfolio, consisting of office, retail and industrial buildings. These non-cancellable leases have remaining lease terms of between 9 months and 20 years. Most leases include a clause to enable upward revision of the rental charge on an annual basis according to either a fixed schedule or prevailing market conditions.

Aegon the Netherlands has entered into long-term residential property leases that can be terminated subject to a short-term notice. Under Dutch law, the maximum annual rent increase on residential property rented in the affordable housing segment is specified by the Dutch national government and equals the annual inflation rate plus a small margin.

Refer to note 51 for description of non-cancellable lease rights.

Rental income of EUR 52 million (2012: EUR 48 million; 2011: EUR 93 million) is reported as part of investment income in the income statement. Direct operating expenses (including repairs and maintenance) arising from investment property that generated rental income during the period amounted to EUR 80 million (2012: EUR 74 million; 2011: EUR 78 million). In 2013, none of direct operating expenses is related to investment properties that did not generate rental income during the period (2012: EUR 6 million; 2011: EUR 7 million).

Transfers from other headings mainly reflect the properties that were foreclosed during the year. The associated mortgage loans were previously reported as part of investments.

There are no restrictions on the realizability of investment property or the remittance of income and proceeds of disposal.

Refer to note 51 for a summary of contractual obligations to purchase investment property or for repairs, maintenance or enhancements.

 

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23 Investments for account of policyholders

Investments for account of policyholders comprise financial assets at fair value through profit or loss, excluding derivatives, and investments in real estate.

 

     Note     2013     2012  

Shares

    25,423     24,874  

 

Debt securities

    33,531     34,682  

 

Money market and other short-term investments

    850     1,480  

 

Deposits with financial institutions

    3,006     2,087  

 

Unconsolidated investment funds

    100,822     88,400  

 

Other

      404     437  
Total investments for account of policyholders at fair value through profit or loss, excluding derivatives  1)     164,037     151,960  

Investments in real estate

  23.1     996     1,008  
Total investments for account of policyholders       165,032     152,968  

 

  1   Refer to note 50 for a summary of all financial assets and financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss.

23.1 Investments in real estate for account of policyholders

 

     2013     2012  

At January 1

  1,008     1,132  

 

Additions

  178     14  

 

Subsequent expenditure capitalized

  27     26  

 

Disposals

  (180)    (152) 

 

Fair value gains/(losses)

  (12)    (46) 

 

Net exchange differences

  (25)    34  
At December 31   996     1,008  

The investment property is leased out under operating leases.

Rental income of EUR 59 million (2012: EUR 65 million; 2011: EUR 73 million) is reported as part of investment income in the income statement. Direct operating expenses relating to investments in real estate for account of policyholder amounted to EUR 8 million in 2013 (2012: EUR 7 million, 2011: EUR 14 million). There are no restrictions on the realizability of investment property or the remittance of income and proceeds of disposal.

Refer to note 51 for a summary of contractual obligations to purchase investment property or for repairs, maintenance or enhancements.

24 Derivatives

 

     Derivative asset     Derivative liability  
     2013     2012     2013     2012  
Derivatives for general account        

 

Derivatives not designated in a hedge

  12,488     19,040     11,170     17,107  

 

Derivatives designated as fair value hedges

  247     421     56     311  

 

Derivatives designated as cash flow hedges

  421     1,164     310     370  

 

Net foreign investment hedges

  137     200     146     197  
  13,293     20,824     11,682     17,985  
Derivatives for account of policyholders        

 

Derivatives not designated in a hedge

  238     310     155     67  
   

238  

 

 

310  

 

 

155  

 

 

67  

 

Total derivatives  1)   13,531     21,134     11,838     18,052  

 

  1   Refer to note 50 for a summary of all financial assets and financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss.

 

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228   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 24

 

Of these derivatives EUR 540 million net asset is current (2012: EUR 606 million net asset).

In 2012, Aegon the Netherlands entered into a derivative to partially hedge its longevity risk. The derivative, with a notional amount of EUR 12 billion, becomes in the money if - in 2032 - realized mortality rates are more than 7.5% lower than pre-defined mortality tables. To further protect the longevity position of Aegon the Netherlands and combining this with protection for catastrophe mortality in the US, Aegon bought an additional longevity index derivative in 2013. This derivative will pay out in twenty-two years if some combination of higher than expected mortality rates in the United States and/or lower than expected mortality rates in the Netherlands persists over the next twenty years and, at that time, is expected to continue to do so. The derivatives are measured at fair value through profit or loss in accordance with IAS 39. The value of the longevity derivatives are calculated using an internal model as there is no active market for this type of derivatives. For more details refer to the paragraph on derivatives included in note 3 and the paragraph on underwriting risk included in note 4.

The fair value of derivatives on both the asset and liability side of the consolidated statement of financial position decreased during 2013. This decrease is mainly caused by increases in market interest rates and other market developments. See note 3 for details on measurement of derivatives.

Use of derivatives

Derivatives not designated in a hedge

 

     Derivative asset   Derivative liability  
Derivatives not designated in a hedge – general account   2013     2012     2013     2012  

 

Derivatives held as an economic hedge

  12,261     18,894     9,692     14,705  

 

Bifurcated embedded derivatives

  92     13     1,464     2,305  

 

Other

  134     133     14     97  
Total   12,488     19,040     11,170     17,107  

Aegon utilizes derivative instruments as a part of its asset liability risk management practices. The derivatives held for risk management purposes are classified as economic hedges to the extent that they do not qualify for hedge accounting, or that Aegon has elected not to apply hedge accounting. The economic hedges of certain exposures relate to an existing asset, liability or future reinvestment risk. In all cases, these are in accordance with internal risk guidelines and are closely monitored for continuing compliance.

Embedded derivatives that are not closely related to the host contracts have been bifurcated and recorded at fair value in the statement of financial position. These bifurcated embedded derivatives are embedded in various institutional products, modified coinsurance and unit-linked insurance contracts in the form of guarantees for minimum benefits. Please refer to note 48 for more disclosures about these guarantees.

CDOs and CDSs

Aegon has entered into free-standing credit derivative transactions (Single Tranche Synthetic CDOs and Single Name Credit Default Swaps - CDSs). The positions outstanding at the end of the year were:

 

     2013     2012  
CDOs and CDSs       Notional     Fair value         Notional     Fair value  

Synthetic CDOs

  20     20     58     19  

 

CDSs

  2,876     50     2,174     12  
Total   2,896     70     2,232     31  

 

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      2013      2012  
Credit derivative disclosure by quality    Notional      Fair value      Notional      Fair value  

AAA

     33         1         93         1   

 

AA

     373         5         269         2   

 

A

     1,049         32         763         19   

 

BBB

     1,360         30         966         (2

 

BB

     61         -         126         10   

 

B or lower

     12         1         10         1   

 

Not rated

     9         -         5         -   
Total      2,896         70         2,232         31   

Certain derivatives are used to add risk by selling protection in the form of single name and index based credit default swaps and tranches of synthetic collateralized debt obligations. Another strategy used is to synthetically replicate corporate and sovereign credit exposures with credit derivatives. This involves the purchase of high quality low risk assets and the sale of credit derivatives. The table above provides a breakdown to credit quality of these credit derivatives.

Derivatives designated as fair value hedges

Aegon’s fair value hedges consist mainly of interest rate swaps that are used to protect against changes in the fair value of fixed-rate instruments due to movements in market interest rates. Gains and losses on derivatives designated under fair value hedge accounting are recognized in the income statement. The effective portion of the fair value change on the hedged item is also recognized in the income statement. As a result, only the net accounting ineffectiveness has an impact on the net result.

Aegon has entered into interest rate swap agreements that effectively convert certain fixed-rate assets and liabilities to a floating-rate basis (generally to six months or less LIBOR). These hedges are used for portfolio management to better match assets to liabilities or to protect the value of the hedged item from interest rate movements. These agreements involve the payment or receipt of fixed-rate interest amounts in exchange for floating-rate interest amounts over the life of the agreement without the exchange of the underlying principal amounts. Some of the arrangements use forward starting swaps to better match the duration of assets and liabilities.

Aegon has entered into cross-currency interest rate swap agreements that effectively convert certain foreign currency fixed-rate and floating-rate assets and liabilities to US dollar floating-rate assets and liabilities. These agreements involve the exchange of the underlying principal amounts.

For the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012, and 2011, Aegon recognized gains and (losses) related to the ineffectiveness portion of designated fair value hedges of EUR 10 million, EUR 16 million and EUR 12 million respectively. No portion of derivatives was excluded when assessing hedge effectiveness.

Derivatives designated as cash flow hedges

Aegon has entered primarily into interest rate swap agreements that effectively convert certain variable-rate assets and liabilities to a fixed-rate basis in order to match the cash flows of the assets and liabilities within Aegon’s portfolio more closely. These agreements involve the payment or receipt of variable-rate interest amounts in exchange for fixed-rate interest amounts over the life of the agreement without the exchange of the underlying principal amounts. Aegon is hedging its exposure to the variability of future cash flows from the interest rate movements for terms up to 30 years for hedges converting existing floating-rate assets and liabilities to fixed-rate assets.

Aegon uses forward starting interest rate swap agreements to hedge the variability in future cash flows associated with the forecasted purchase of fixed-income assets. These agreements reduce the impact of future interest rate changes on the forecasted transaction. Fair value adjustments for these interest rate swaps are deferred and recorded in equity until the occurrence of the forecasted transaction at which time the interest rate swaps will be terminated. The accumulated gain or loss in equity will be amortized into investment income as the acquired asset affects income. Aegon is hedging its exposure to the variability of future cash flows from interest rate movements for terms up to 30 years. The cash flows from these hedging instruments are expected to affect the profit and loss for approximately the next 39 years. For the year ended December 31, 2013, the contracts for which cash flow hedge accounting was terminated resulted in deferred gains of EUR 181 million (2012: EUR 225 million) that are recognized directly in equity to be reclassified into net income during the period when the cash flows occur of the underlying hedged items. For the same year, none of Aegon’s cash flow hedges were discontinued, as it was probable that the original forecasted transactions would occur by the end of the originally specified time period documented at the inception of the hedging relationship.

 

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230   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 25

 

In addition, Aegon also makes use of cross currency swaps to convert variable or fixed foreign currency cash flows into fixed cash flows in local currencies. The cash flows from these hedging instruments are expected to occur over the next 13 years. These agreements involve the exchange of the underlying principal amounts.

For the year ended December 31, 2013, Aegon recognized a loss of EUR 1 million of hedge ineffectiveness on cash flow hedges. In 2012 and 2011, gains and losses of EUR (5) million and EUR 1 million respectively of hedge ineffectiveness were recorded in the income statement. In 2013, EUR 26 million was released from equity into investment income (2012: EUR (62) million, 2011: EUR (18) million). The amount of deferred gains or losses to be reclassified from equity into net income during the next 12 months is expected to be EUR 25 million.

The periods when the cash flows are expected to occur are as follows:

 

      < 1 year      1 – 5 years      5 – 10 years      > 10 years       2013 Total  

Cash inflows

 

    

 

650

 

  

 

    

 

2,597

 

  

 

    

 

1,719

 

  

 

    

 

2,815 

 

  

 

    

 

7,781

 

  

 

Cash outflows

     -         1         1                 6   
Net cash flows      650         2,596         1,718         2,811          7,775   
      < 1 year      1 – 5 years      5 – 10 years      > 10 years       2012 Total  

Cash inflows

 

    

 

519

 

  

 

    

 

2,081

 

  

 

    

 

1,599

 

  

 

    

 

1,582 

 

  

 

    

 

5,781

 

  

 

Cash outflows

     -         1         1                 6   
Net cash flows      519         2,080         1,598         1,578          5,775   

Net foreign investment hedges

Aegon funds its investments in insurance subsidiaries with a mixture of debt and equity. Aegon aims to denominate debt funding in the same currency as the functional currency of the investment. Investments outside the eurozone, the United States, the United Kingdom and Canada are funded in euros. When the debt funding of investments is not in the functional currency of the investment, Aegon uses derivatives to swap the currency exposure of the debt instrument to the appropriate functional currency. This policy will ensure that total capital will reflect currency movements without distorting debt to shareholders’ equity ratios. Aegon utilizes various financial instruments as designated hedging instruments of its foreign investments. These instruments include long-term and short-term borrowings, short-term debts to credit institutions, cross currency swap contracts and forward foreign exchange contracts.

25 Investments in joint ventures

 

        2013      2012  

At January 1

       1,568         1,776   

 

Additions

       359         105   

 

Disposals

       (453      (212

 

Share in net income

       -         (13

 

Share in changes in joint ventures equity (note 32.6)

       22         27   

 

Dividend

       (62      (71

 

Net exchange difference

       (9      (6

 

Other

       2         (38
At December 31        1,427                     1,568   

 

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All joint ventures are unlisted and are accounted for using the equity method and are considered to be non-current. The investments in joint ventures include interest in insurance companies that are required to maintain a minimum solvency margin based on local directives. Such restrictions can affect the ability of these joint ventures to transfer funds in the form of cash dividends, or repayment of loans or advances, and therefore, there can be no assurance that these restrictions will not become a limitation in the future. There are no unrecognized shares of losses in joint ventures. The financial statements of all joint ventures have the same reporting date as the Group. Refer to note 55 for a listing of the investments in joint ventures and the Group’s percentage holding. In 2012 the category Other reflects a decrease of an earn out provision relating to Caja Cantabria.

Unnim

On May 7, 2013, Aegon has finalized exiting its life, health and pension joint venture with Unnim and sold its 50% stake to Unnim. The consideration amounted a total of EUR 353 million and the sale resulted in a book gain of EUR 102 million before tax. Additionally a revaluation reserve of EUR 26 million was released, which was recycled from equity through profit and loss account. Furthermore there was a release of an earn out provision of EUR 176 million. Consequently the sale resulted in a total disposal amount of EUR 453 million. Aegon’s share in underlying earnings before tax of the joint venture totalled EUR 6 million for 2013 (full year 2012: EUR 17 million).

Strategic partnership with Santander

On June 3, 2013, Aegon completed an exclusive 25-year strategic partnership with Banco Santander, Spain’s largest financial group, first announced in December 2012. Under the terms of the agreement, Aegon acquired a 51% stake in both a life insurance company as well as in a non-life insurance company for a cash consideration of EUR 220 million. In addition, there is also a contingent consideration which will be paid depending on future performance of the joint ventures. The joint ventures will distribute life and general insurance products through Banco Santander’s extensive branch network. Aegon Spain will provide the back-office services to the joint venture companies.

Banca Cívica

Following the announced merger between Banca Cívica and CaixaBank in Spain, Aegon reached an agreement, on August 3, 2012, with CaixaBank to end the life, health and pension partnership with Banca Cívica and sell its 50% interest in the joint ventures to CaixaBank for a total consideration of EUR 190 million. The transaction was closed on October 11, 2012, after obtaining regulatory approval. The sale resulted in a book gain of EUR 35 million before tax and was recorded in the fourth quarter of 2012. Aegon’s share in underlying earnings before tax of the joint venture totalled EUR 13 million for 2012.

 

  Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013   LOGO  


Table of Contents
232   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 25

 

 

Summarized financial information of material joint ventures

Aegon considers its investment in AMVEST Vastgoed B.V. (AMVEST) a material joint venture. The summarized financial information presented below are the amounts included in the IFRS financial statements of AMVEST on 100% basis.

 

      AMVEST  
      2013      2012  
Summarized statement of financial position      

 

Cash and cash equivalents

     52         67   

 

Other current assets

     178         53   
Total current assets      230         120   

Non-current assets

 

    

 

1,990

 

  

 

    

 

2,222

 

  

 

Total assets      2,219         2,342   

Current financial liabilities excluding trade payables and other provisions

     -         10   

 

Other current liabilities

     67         96   
Total current liabilities      67         106   

Non-current financial liabilities excluding trade payables and other provisions

     504         510   

 

Other non-current liabilities

     11         17   

Total non-current financial liabilities

 

    

 

514

 

  

 

    

 

527

 

  

 

Total liabilities

 

    

 

582

 

  

 

    

 

633

 

  

 

Net assets              1,637                 1,709   
Summarized Statement of Comprehensive Income      

 

Revenue

     79         79   

 

Results from financial transactions

     (70      (87

 

Depreciation and amortisation

     (1      (1

 

Interest expense

     (12      (13

Profit or loss

     (15      (44

 

Income tax (expense) or income

     -         6   

 

Post-tax profit or loss

     (15      (38

 

Other comprehensive income

     6         (13
Total comprehensive income      (9      (51

Dividends received

     45         52   

 

A reconciliation of the summarized financial information to the carrying amount of AMVEST is as follows:

 

  

  
      AMVEST  
      2013      2012  

Net assets of joint venture as presented above

     1,637         1,709   

 

Group share of net assets of joint venture

     819         854   
Carrying amount      819         854   

Summarized financial information of other joint ventures

 

         December 31,
2013
          December 31,
2012
 

Post-tax profit or loss

    7        6   

 

Other comprehensive income

    20        31   
Total comprehensive income     28        37   

Carrying amount

    608        714   

The summarized financial information of other joint ventures presented above is based on the Group’s relative holding.

 

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233

 

 

26 Investments in associates

 

      2013      2012  

At January 1

     771         713   

 

Additions

     19         5   

 

Disposals

     (328      (2

 

Share in net income

     21         28   

 

Share in changes in associate’s equity (note 32.6)

     10         22   

 

Impairment losses

     (1      (1

 

Dividend

     (2      (2

 

Net exchange difference

     (14      (7

 

Other

     (6      15   
At December 31              470                 771   

All associates are unlisted and are accounted for using the equity method and are considered to be non-current. The investments in associates include stakes in insurance companies that are required to maintain a minimum solvency margin based on local directives. Such restrictions can affect the ability of these associates to transfer funds in the form of cash dividends, or repayment of loans or advances, and therefore, there can be no assurance that these restrictions will not become a limitation in the future. There are no unrecognized shares of losses in associates. The financial statements of all associates have the same reporting date as the Group. Refer to note 55 for a listing of the investments in associates and the Group’s percentage holding.

CAM

On July 19, 2013, the sale of Aegon’s 50% stake in its life insurance partnership originally established with Caja de Ahorros del Mediterráneo (CAM) was closed. The consideration amounted to EUR 449.5 million and resulted in a book gain of EUR 74 million. The disposal amounting to EUR 327 million included a release of a negative revaluation reserve EUR 44 million, which is recycled from equity through profit and loss account. Related sales expenses amounted to EUR 5 million.

Prisma

On October 1, 2012, Aegon closed the sale of its interest in Prisma Capital Partners LP (“Prisma”). Prisma, which was accounted for as an associate, served as an investment manager for certain of Aegon’s hedge fund investments as well as for other third parties. The final proceeds are subject to certain contingent arrangements which may lead to further payments in 2014 and 2017. The book gain amounted to EUR 100 million. The carrying value of Prisma at the transaction date was EUR 2 million. Aegon’s share in Prisma earnings from January 1, 2012, till October 1, 2012, amounted to EUR 10 million.

Summarized financial information of material associates

Aegon considers its investment in La Mondiale Participations S.A. (La Mondiale) a material associate. The summarized financial information presented below are the amounts included in the IFRS financial statements of La Mondiale on 100% basis, including fair value adjustments made at the time of acquisition.

 

  Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013   LOGO  


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234   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 27

 

 

      La Mondiale  
      2013     2012  
Summarized statement of financial position     

 

Current assets

     37,510        34,055   

 

Non-current assets

     530        485   
Total assets      38,040        34,540   

Current liabilities

     36,626        33,265   

 

Non-current liabilities

     500        450   
Total liabilities      37,126        33,715   
                  
Net assets      915        825   
Summarized Statement of Comprehensive Income     

 

Revenue

     4,929        4,324   

 

Profit or loss

     105        101   

 

Income tax expense or income

     (44     (42
Post-tax profit or loss      61        59   

 

Other comprehensive income

     28        7   
Total comprehensive income      89        66   

Dividends received

     -        -   

 

A reconciliation of the summarized financial information to the carrying amount of La Mondiale is as follows:

 

  

      La Mondiale  
      2013     2012  

Net assets of associate as presented above

     915        825   

 

Net assets of associate excluding fair value adjustments

     874        785   

 

Group share of net assets of associate, excluding fair value adjustments

     306        275   

 

Fair value adjustments

     40        40   
Carrying amount      346        315   

 

Summarized financial information of other associates

 

    
      December 31,
2013
    December 31,
2012
 

Post-tax profit or loss

     -        8   

 

Other comprehensive income

     (2     19   
Total comprehensive income      (2     27   

Carrying amount

     124        456   

The summarized financial information of other associates presented above is based on the Group’s relative holding.

27 Investments in unconsolidated structured entities

For unconsolidated structured entities in which Aegon has an interest at reporting date, the following table presents total income received from those interests. The Investments column reflect the carrying values recognized in the statement of financial position of Aegon’s interests in unconsolidated structured entities. These general account investments are recognized in the line item Investments of the statement of financial position. Aegon did not recognize other interests in unconsolidated structured entities such as commitments, guarantees, provisions, derivative instruments or other liabilities.

 

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     Total income for
the year ended December 31, 2013
      December 31,  
2013  
         Interest
income
   

Total gains

and losses

(un)realized

    Total     Investments  

Residential mortgage backed securities

    269        328        597      5,634  

 

Commercial mortgage backed securities

    236        (165     71      5,337  

 

Asset backed securities

    35        3        38      1,941  

 

ABS’s - Other

    175        21        195      4,041  
Total     715        186        902      16,953  

 

Aegon did not provide financial or other support to unconsolidated structured entities. Nor does Aegon have intentions to provide financial or other support to unconsolidated structured entities in which Aegon has an interest or previously had an interest.

 

28 Reinsurance assets

 

Assets arising from reinsurance contracts related to:                 2013     2012  

Life insurance general account

        8,861      10,243  

 

Life insurance for account of policyholders

        90      96  

 

Non-life insurance

        1,093      1,158  

 

Investment contracts

                    301      468  
At December 31                     10,345      11,965  

 

Amounts due from reinsurers in respect of claims already paid by the Group on the contracts that are reinsured are included in other assets and receivables (refer to note 30).

 

EUR 7 million of the reinsurance assets are current (2012: EUR 8 million).

 

Movements during the year in reinsurance assets relating to life
insurance:
         Life insurance
general account
      Life insurance
for account of
policyholders
    Total life  
    insurance  

At January 1, 2013

      10,243        96      10,339  

 

Gross premium and deposits – existing and new business

      2,260        61      2,321  

 

Unwind of discount / interest credited

      455        4      459  

 

Insurance liabilities released

      (3,564     (68   (3,632) 

 

Fund charges released

      2        -      2  

 

Changes to valuation of expected future benefits

      (8     -      (8) 

 

Policy transfers

      (24     -      (24) 

 

Net exchange differences

      (462     (3   (464) 

 

Other movements

            (42     -      (42) 
At December 31, 2013             8,861        90      8,951  

At January 1, 2012

      9,843        78      9,921  

 

Gross premium and deposits – existing and new business

      2,749        66      2,815  

 

Unwind of discount / interest credited

      520        5      525  

 

Insurance liabilities released

      (3,861     (49   (3,910) 

 

Fund charges released

      (4     -      (4) 

 

Changes to valuation of expected future benefits

      (25     -      (25) 

 

Policy transfers

      -        (6   (6) 

 

Quota share reinsurance transactions

      1,175        -      1,175  

 

Net exchange differences

      (123     2      (121) 

 

Other movements

            (31     -      (31) 
At December 31, 2012             10,243        96      10,339  

 

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236   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 29

 

 

In 2012, Aegon USA reinsured approximately EUR 1.2 billion of fixed annuities on a quota share basis which was ceded to Commonwealth Annuity and Life Insurance Company.

The reinsured policies consist of fixed annuity contracts issued by Transamerica Life Insurance Company in the U.S. between 2004 and early 2009 that were previously reinsured to Transamerica International Reinsurance Ireland (TIRI) on a 90% quota share basis. Over half of the business was sold in 2008 and primarily included products with 3 and 5 year surrender charge periods. Most of the business has an initial credited rate guarantee matching the surrender charge period followed by annual renewals after the initial period.

Investment assets and cash were transferred as part of these transactions with any related gain/(loss) being recognized. In order to secure the obligations of the reinsurer, Aegon has required the establishment of trust accounts to hold collateral supporting ceded policy reserves. A deferred cost of reinsurance was established and is amortized based on gross profits of the underlying contracts. The deferred cost of reinsurance is disclosed in note 29.

 

Movements during the year in reinsurance assets relating to non-life insurance:      2013      2012  

At January 1

  

     1,158         1,114   

 

Gross premium and deposits – existing and new business

  

     136         253   

 

Loss recognized as a result of liability adequacy

  

     -         127   

 

Unwind of discount / interest credited

  

     55         50   

 

Insurance liabilities released

 

  

    

 

(91

 

 

    

 

(140

 

 

Changes to valuation of expected future benefits

 

  

    

 

-

 

  

 

    

 

5

 

  

 

Changes in unearned premiums

 

  

    

 

(82

 

 

    

 

(142

 

 

Changes in unexpired risks

 

  

    

 

(2

 

 

    

 

(3

 

 

Incurred related to current year

 

  

    

 

39

 

  

 

    

 

72

 

  

 

Incurred related to prior years

 

  

    

 

11

 

  

 

    

 

42

 

  

 

Release for claims settled current year

 

  

    

 

(3

 

 

    

 

(13

 

 

Release for claims settled prior years

 

  

    

 

(61

 

 

    

 

(90

 

 

Change in IBNR

 

  

    

 

2

 

  

 

    

 

(6

 

 

Shadow accounting adjustment

 

  

    

 

(10

 

 

    

 

(93

 

 

Net exchange differences

 

  

    

 

(49

 

 

    

 

(18

 

 

Other movements

  

     (9      -   
At December 31         1,093         1,158   

 

29 Deferred expenses

 

  

     
        2013      2012  

DPAC for insurance contracts and investment contracts with discretionary participation features

  

     11,685         11,239   

 

Deferred transaction costs for investment management services

  

     356         405   
At December 31         12,040         11,644   

Current

  

     1,041         1,443   

 

Non-current

  

     10,999         10,201   
        
        
      DPAC     

Deferred

costs of
    reinsurance

     Deferred
  transaction
costs
 

At January 1, 2013

     10,681         558         405   

 

Costs deferred during the year

     1,514         -         36   

 

Disposal of group assets

     -         -         (2

 

Amortization through income statement

     (961      (40      (33

 

Shadow accounting adjustments

     444         -         -   

 

Impairments

     -         -         (29

 

Net exchange differences

     (491      (23      (15

 

Other

     3         -         (7
At December 31, 2013            11,189         496         356   

 

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237

 

 

     DPAC     Deferred
costs of
reinsurance
    Deferred
transaction
costs
 

At January 1, 2012

 

    10,411        579        405   

Costs deferred during the year

 

    1,474        49        44   

Amortization through income statement

 

    (1,052     (68     (44

Shadow accounting adjustments

 

    (181     -        -   

Impairments

 

    -        -        (4

Net exchange differences

 

    36        (15     4   

Other

    (7     13        -   
At December 31, 2012     10,681        558        405   

Below a breakdown is provided of DPAC balances by line of business and reporting segment:

 

      Americas        The
Netherlands
       United
Kingdom
       New
Markets
       Total  

2013

 

                      

Life

 

     5,232           110           135           569           6,046   

Individual savings and retirement products

 

     1,488           -           -           37           1,525   

Pensions

 

     -           29           3,251           -           3,280   

Run-off business

     338           -           -           -           338   
At December 31      7,059           138           3,387           606           11,189   
2012                       

 

Life

     4,960           141           155           505           5,761   

 

Individual savings and retirement products

     1,162           -           -           36           1,198   

 

Pensions

 

     -           37           3,365           -           3,402   

Run-off business

     320           -           -           -           320   
At December 31      6,442           178           3,520           541           10,681   

30 Other assets and receivables

 

        Note        2013        2012  

Real estate held for own use and equipment

 

       30.1           487           521   

Receivables

 

       30.2           5,261           5,501   

Accrued income

       30.3           1,609           1,601   
At December 31                   7,357           7,623   

 

  Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013   LOGO  


Table of Contents
238   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 30

 

30.1 Real estate held for own use and equipment

 

Net book value    General
account real
estate held
for own use
     Equipment      Total  

At January 1, 2012

     319         239         558   

 

At December 31, 2012

     307         214         521   
At December 31, 2013      288         199         487   
Cost         

 

At January 1, 2013

     383         475         858   

 

Additions

     -         65         65   

 

Capitalized subsequent expenditure

     3         -         3   

 

Disposals

     (1      (62      (62

 

Unrealized gains/(losses) through equity

     (5      -         (5

 

Net exchange differences

     (9      (11      (20
At December 31, 2013      370         468         838   
Accumulated depreciation and impairment losses         

 

At January 1, 2013

     76         261         337   

 

Depreciation through income statement

     8         58         66   

 

Disposals

     -         (46      (46

 

Impairment losses

     -         1         1   

 

Net exchange differences

     (2      (5      (7
At December 31, 2013      82         269         351   
Cost         

 

At January 1, 2012

     390         488         878   

 

Additions

     2         59         61   

 

Capitalized subsequent expenditure

     2         -         2   

 

Disposals

     (4      (71      (75

 

Unrealized gains/(losses) through equity

     (5      -         (5

 

Net exchange differences

     (2      (1      (3
At December 31, 2012      383         475         858   
Accumulated depreciation and impairment losses         

 

At January 1, 2012

     71         249         320   

 

Depreciation through income statement

     8         67         75   

 

Disposals

     (2      (63      (65

 

Impairment losses

     -         7         7   

 

Net exchange differences

     (1      1         -   
At December 31, 2012      76         261         337   

General account real estate held for own use are mainly held by Aegon USA and Aegon the Netherlands, with relatively smaller holdings at Aegon Hungary and Aegon Spain. The carrying value under a historical cost model amounts to EUR 310 million (2012: EUR 321 million).

37% of the value of the general account real estate held for own use was last revalued in 2013 (2012: 45%), based on market value appraisals by qualified internal and external appraisers. 97% of the appraisals in 2013 were performed by independent external appraisers (2012: 97%).

General account real estate held for own use has not been pledged as security for liabilities, nor are there any restrictions on title. Depreciation expenses are recorded in “Commissions and expenses” in the income statement. The useful lives of buildings range between 40 and 50 years.

None of the equipment is held for lease (2012: EUR 0 million). Equipment has not been pledged as security for liabilities, nor are there any restrictions on title. Depreciation expenses have been recorded in “Commissions and expenses” in the income statement. Equipment is generally depreciated over a period of three to five years.

 

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239

 

  30.2 Receivables

 

      2013        2012  

Loans to joint ventures

     -           2   

 

Loans to associates

     2           16   

 

Finance lease assets

     6           8   

 

Receivables from policyholders

     1,111           1,337   

 

Receivables from brokers and agents

     169           156   

 

Receivables from reinsurers

     241           286   

 

Cash outstanding from assets sold

     38           45   

 

Trade receivables

     487           501   

 

Cash collateral

     1,167           1,265   

 

Reverse repurchase agreements

     981           1,186   

 

Income tax receivable

     402           34   

 

Other

     767           797   

 

Provision for doubtful debts

     (111        (132
At December 31      5,261           5,501   

Current

     4,964           5,233   

 

Non-current

     297           268   

The movements in the provision for doubtful debts during the year were as follows:

 

      2013        2012  

At January 1

     (132        (138

 

Additions charged to earnings

     (7        (16

 

Unused amounts reversed through the income statement

     12           1   

 

Used during the year

     14           21   

 

Net exchange differences

     2           -   
At December 31      (111        (132

30.3 Accrued income

 

      2013        2012  

Accrued interest

     1,596           1,589   

 

Other

     13           12   
At December 31      1,609           1,601   

EUR 1,599 million of accrued income is current (2012: EUR 1,592 million).

31 Cash and cash equivalents

 

      2013        2012  

Cash at bank and in hand

     1,215           995   

 

Short-term deposits

     2,893           5,430   

 

Money market investments

     1,468           2,907   

 

Short-term collateral

     116           258   
At December 31      5,691           9,590   

The carrying amounts disclosed reasonably approximate the fair values as at the year end.

EUR 10.7 billion (2012: EUR 12.3 billion) of cash collateral is received of which EUR 116 million (2012: EUR 258 million) is included in cash and cash equivalents. This collateral relates to securities lending and repurchase agreements and margins on derivatives transactions. A corresponding liability to repay the cash is recognized in other liabilities (note 46). Refer to note 52 for details on collateral received and paid. Investment of cash collateral received is restricted through limitations on credit worthiness,

 

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240   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 31

 

duration, approved investment categories and borrower limits. Aegon earns a share of the spread between the collateral earnings and the rebate paid to the borrower of the securities. Income from securities lending programs was approximately EUR 8 million (2012: EUR 11 million; 2011: EUR 12 million).

The weighted effective interest rate on short-term deposits was 0.28 % (2012: 0.07%) and these deposits have an average maturity of 15.38 days (2012: 13.12 days).

For the purposes of the cash flow statement, cash and cash equivalents comprise the following:

 

      Note      2013      2012  

Cash and cash equivalents

        5,691         9,590   

 

Bank overdrafts

     41         (39      (93
Net cash and cash equivalents               5,652         9,497   

Cash and cash equivalents include cash and demand balances held at the Dutch Central Bank. The Dutch Central Bank requires Aegon Bank N.V. to place 1% of their deposits with agreed maturity or the savings accounts (without restrictions to withdraw their money) in an account with the Dutch Central Bank. This deposit is renewed twelve times per year, based on an updated valuation of total assets. The interest rate is approximately 0.25% (2012: 0.75%). The average minimum required balance on deposit by the Dutch Central Bank was EUR 35 million (2012: EUR 44 million). These deposits are therefore not freely available.

 

Summary IFRS cash flow statement    2013      2012      2011  

Net cash flows from operating activities

     (1,730      (997      2,266   

 

Net cash flows from investing activities

     516         237         653   

 

Net cash flows from financing activities

     (2,552      2,511         (374
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents      (3,766      1,751         2,545   

Net cash and cash equivalents at December 31, 2013 are negatively impacted by effects of changes in exchange rates of EUR 79 million (2012: EUR 29 million; 2011: EUR 107 million).

Analysis of IFRS cash flows

2013 compared to 2012

Net cash flows from operating activities

Total net cash flows from operating activities decreased by EUR 733 million to a EUR 1,730 million outflow (2012: EUR 997 million outflow). The decrease is mainly driven by lower results from financial transactions, higher net purchases of investments and increasing net collateral payments. These cash outflows are partly offset by divestments of money market investments.

Net cash flows from investing activities

Net cash flows from investing activities increased by EUR 279 million to a EUR 516 million inflow (2012: EUR 237 million inflow). The improved inflow in 2013 is primarily a result of the cash received from divestments of Unnim and CAM, partly offset by the acquisition of the joint venture with Santander. In 2012 the inflow was mainly attributable to the proceeds of EUR 102 million on the sale of Aegon’s interest in Prisma and the proceeds of EUR 190 million received from the exit from the partnership with Banca Civica, partly offset by the acquisition of Liberbank and purchases of software.

Net cash flows from financing activities

Net cash flows from financing activities decreased by EUR 5,063 million to a EUR 2,552 million outflow (2012: EUR 2,511 million inflow). The decrease is mainly a result of repayments of borrowings and repayment of share premium of EUR 401 million during 2013. During 2012, new borrowing and the 8.00% non-cumulative subordinated borrowings of USD 525 million were issued.

2012 compared to 2011

Net cash flows from operating activities

Total net cash flows from operating activities decreased by EUR 3,263 million to a EUR 997 million outflow (2011: EUR 2,266 million inflow). The change from inflow in 2011 to outflow in 2012 is driven by lower net general account investments, lower disposals of derivatives and lower net change in cash collateral. These reductions are partly offset by higher net investments for account of policyholders and income before tax.

 

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241

 

Net cash flows from investing activities

Net cash flows from investing activities reduced by EUR 416 million to a EUR 237 million inflow (2011: EUR 653 million inflow). The inflow in 2012 is mainly a result of the proceeds of EUR 102 million on the sale of Aegon’s interest in Prisma and the proceeds of EUR 190 million received from the exit from the partnership with Banca Civica, partly ofset by the acquisition of Liberbank and purchases of software. In 2011, the inflow was a result of cash received from the divestment of Transamerica Reinsurance and the sale of Guardian life in the United Kingdom.

Net cash flows from financing activities

Net cash flows from financing activities improved by EUR 2,885 million to EUR 2,511 million inflow (2011: EUR 374 million outflow). The improvement is mainly a result of additional borrowings and the issuance of 8.00% non-cumulative subordinated borrowings which provided USD 525 million.

32 Shareholders’ equity

Issued share capital and reserves attributable to shareholders of Aegon N.V.

 

      Note      2013      2012      2011  

Share capital – par value

     32.1         325         319         310   

 

Share premium

     32.2         8,375         8,780         8,787   
Total share capital         8,701         9,099         9,097   

 

Retained earnings

        11,135         10,650         9,670   

 

Treasury shares

     32.3         (292      (243      (252
Total retained earnings         10,843         10,408         9,418   

 

Revaluation reserves

     32.4         2,998         6,073         3,464   

 

Remeasurement of defined benefit plans

     32.5         (706      (1,085      (979

 

Other reserves

     32.6         (1,777      (1,045      (964
Total shareholders’ equity               20,059         23,449         20,036   

On February 15, 2013, Aegon N.V. and Vereniging Aegon entered into an agreement to simplify the capital structure of Aegon and to cancel all of Aegon’s preferred shares, of which Vereniging Aegon was the sole owner. The execution of this agreement was subject to the approval of the General Meeting of Shareholders of Aegon N.V. This approval was granted at the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders on May 15, 2013. For details refer to the ‘major shareholders’ section included in the ‘other information’ to the financial statements of Aegon N.V.

The simplified capital structure entailed, but was not limited to, the amendment of the articles of association of Aegon N.V., including the conversion of all outstanding 329,773,000 preferred shares a and B, with a nominal value of EUR 0.25 each, into 120,713,389 common shares and 566,313,694 common shares B, with a nominal value of EUR 0.12 each. The financial rights attached to a common share B were determined at 1/40th of the financial rights attached to a common share.

The simplified capital structure also included an amendment to the Amended 1983 Merger Agreement between Aegon N.V. and Vereniging Aegon. Following this 2013 amendment, Vereniging Aegon’s call option relates to common shares B. Vereniging Aegon may exercise its call option to keep or restore its total stake at 32.6%, irrespective of the circumstances which cause the total shareholding to be or become lower than 32.6%.

In 2013, Aegon issued 19,668,540 and 19,047,386 common shares with a par value of EUR 0.12 in respect of the final dividend for 2012 which was paid in June 2013 and the interim dividend paid in September 2013, respectively.

In July 2013, Vereniging Aegon exercised its option right to purchase 13 million common shares B for EUR 0.1275 to mitigate the dilution caused by the issuance of shares issuance of shares on May 1, 2013 and May 16, 2013 in connection with the Long Term Incentive Plans for senior management and the issuance of shares on June 14, 2013, being the final dividend 2012 in the form of stock-dividend.

In 2012, Aegon issued 33,203,150 and 29,172,394 common shares with a par value of EUR 0.12 in respect of the final dividend for 2011 which was paid in May 2012 and the interim dividend paid in September 2012, respectively.

 

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242   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 32

 

In 2012, Vereniging Aegon exercised its option rights to purchase in aggregate 8,021,000 class B preferred shares at par value to mitigate the dilution caused by the issuance of shares as a result of distribution of dividend in the form of stock.

On March 1, 2011, Aegon completed the issue of 173,604,912 common shares of Aegon N.V. with a par value of EUR 0.12.

The shares were issued at a price of EUR 5.20 per share. The proceeds of EUR 903 million were used to fund part of the repurchase of the convertible core capital securities described in note 33.

On March 15, 2011, Vereniging Aegon exercised its option rights to purchase 41,042,000 class B preferred shares at par value of EUR 0.25 (total proceeds of EUR 10 million) in order to mitigate dilution of its voting rights following the issuance of 10% new common shares completed on March 1, 2011.

32.1 Share capital – par value

 

                                                                                   
           2013      2012      2011  

 

Common shares

       256         236         229   

 

Common shares B

       69         -         -   

 

Preferred shares A

       -         53         53   

 

Preferred shares B

         -         30         28   
At December 31          325         319         310   
          
          
          
Common shares         2013      2012      2011  

 

Authorized share capital

       720         360         360   

 

Number of authorized shares (in million)

       6,000         3,000         3,000   

 

Par value in cents per share

         12         12         12   
          
          
          
Common shares B         2013      2012      2011  

 

Authorized share capital

       360         -         -   

 

Number of authorized shares (in million)

       3,000         -         -   

 

Par value in cents per share

         12         -         -   
    

 

Common shares

    

 

Common shares B

 
     Number
of shares
(thousands)
   Total amount      Number
of shares
(thousands)
     Total amount  

 

At January 1, 2011

  1,736,049      208         -         -   

 

Share issued

  173,605      21         -         -   

 

At December 31, 2011

  1,909,654      229         -         -   

 

Shares issued

  -      -         -         -   

 

Dividend

  62,376      7                     

 

At December 31, 2012

  1,972,030      236         -         -   

 

Shares issued

  120,713      14         579,005         69   

 

Dividend

  38,716      5         -         -   

 

At December 31, 2013

  2,131,459      256         579,005         69   
                                
    

Weighted average number of

common shares

(thousands)

    

Weighted average number of
common shares B

(thousands)

 
2011          1,881,116                  -   
2012          1,936,315                  -   
2013          2,035,240                  366,439   

 

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Preferred shares

 

                                                                   
              2013      2012      2011  

 

Authorized share capital

        -         250         250   

 

Par value in cents per share

              -         25         25   
     

 

Preferred shares A

     Preferred shares B  
      Number
of shares
(thousands)
     Total amount      Number
of shares
(thousands)
     Total amount  
At January 1, 2011      211,680         53         69,030         17   

 

Shares issued

     -         -         41,042         11   
At December 31, 2011      211,680         53         110,072         28   

 

Shares issued

     -         -         8,021         2   
At December 31, 2012      211,680         53         118,093         30   

 

Shares issued

     -         -         -         -   

 

Conversion

     (211,680      (53      (118,093      (30
At December 31, 2013      -         -         -         -   

All issued common shares and common shares B each have a nominal value of EUR 0.12 and are fully paid up. Repayment of capital can only be initiated by the Executive Board, is subject to approval of the Supervisory Board and must be resolved by the General Meeting of Shareholders. Moreover, repayment on common shares B needs approval of the related shareholders. Refer to ‘Other information’ for further information on dividend rights.

Vereniging Aegon, based in The Hague, the Netherlands, holds all of the issued common shares B.

In the years 2003 through 2010, 69,030,000 class B preferred shares were issued under these option rights. In March 2011, Vereniging Aegon exercised its option rights to purchase in aggregate 41,042,000 class B preferred shares at par value. It did this to correct dilution caused by Aegon’s issuance of shares conducted under Aegon’s US Shelf Registration, which comprised the sale of 173,604,912 common shares of Aegon N.V. at a price of EUR 5.20 per share in March 2011. In August 2012 and October 2012, Vereniging Aegon exercised its option rights to purchase in aggregate 8,021,000 class B Preferred Shares at par value. It did this to correct dilution caused by Aegon’s issuance of shares on June 15, 2012, being the final dividend 2011 in the form of stock dividend, and its issuance of shares on September 15, 2012, being the interim dividend 2012 in the form of stock dividend. In July 2013, Vereniging Aegon exercised its option rights to purchase in aggregate 12,691,745 common shares B at market value. It did this to prevent dilution caused by Aegon’s issuance of shares on May 1, 2013, May 16, 2013, in connection with the Long Term Incentive Plans for senior management and the issuance of shares on June 14, 2013, being the final dividend 2012 in the form of stock-dividend.

With regard to granted share appreciation rights and option rights and their valuation refer to note 14.

32.2 Share premium

 

                                                                   
                      2013               2012               2011  

 

At January 1

        8,780        8,787        7,906   

 

 

Additions

        -        -        881   

 

Repayment

        (400     -        -   

 

Share dividend

 

          (5     (7     -   
At December 31         8,375        8,780        8,787   

 

Share premium relating to:

         

 

- Common shares

        8,375        6,728        6,735   

 

- Preferred shares

 

          -        2,052        2,052   
Total share premium           8,375        8,780        8,787   

 

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244   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 32

 

The share premium account reflects the balance of paid-in amounts above par value at issuance of new shares less the amounts charged for share dividends and the repayment of share premium to preferred shareholders. Upon the conversion of the preferred shares, share premium on preferred shares have been allocated to share premium relating to common shares.

32.3 Treasury shares

On the balance sheet date Aegon N.V. and its subsidiaries held 41,307,910 (2012: 28,713,730) of its own common shares with a par value of EUR 0.12 each.

Movements in the number of treasury shares of Aegon N.V. were as follows:

 

     2013      2012      2011  
     Number
of shares
(thousands)
     Number
of shares
(thousands)
     Number
of shares
(thousands)
 

At January 1

    26,981         27,503         27,520   

 

Transactions in 2013:

       

 

Sale: 1 transaction, price EUR 5.02

    (5,408      -         -   

 

Sale: 1 transaction, price EUR 4.99

    (783      -         -   

 

Purchase: transactions, average price EUR 5.62

    19,047         

 

Transactions in 2012:

       

 

Sale: 1 transaction, price EUR 3.52

    -         (9      -   

 

Sale: 1 transaction, price EUR 3.36

    -         (513      -   

 

Transactions in 2011:

       

 

Sale: 1 transaction, price EUR 5.39

 

    -         -         (17

 

At December 31

    39,837         26,981         27,503   

As part of their insurance and investment operations, subsidiaries within the Group also hold Aegon N.V. common shares, both for their own account and for account of policyholders. These shares have been treated as treasury shares and are (de)recognized at the consideration paid or received.

 

      2013      2012      2011  
      Number
of shares
(thousands)
     Total
amount
     Number
of shares
(thousands)
     Total amount      Number
of shares
(thousands)
     Total amount  

Held by Aegon N.V.

     39,837         278         26,981         228         27,503         235   

 

Held by subsidiaries

     1,471         14         1,733         15         1,863         17   
At December 31      41,308         292         28,714         243         29,366         252   

Aegon does not hold common shares B as treasury shares.

 

    

 

Weighted average number of treasury shares, including  
treasury shares held by subsidiaries (thousands)  

2011   29,303  
2012   28,933  
2013   29,497  

 

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32.4 Revaluation reserves

 

                                               
     Available-for-
sale
investments
   Real estate
held for own
use
     Cash flow
hedging
reserve
     Total  

 

At January 1, 2013

  4,969      39         1,065         6,073   

 

Gross revaluation

  (3,238)      (4      (496      (3,738

 

Net (gains) / losses transferred to income statement

  (435)      -         (26      (461

 

Foreign currency translation differences

  (113)      (1      (33      (147

 

Tax effect

  1,073      1         192         1,267   

 

Other

  4      -         -         4   
At December 31, 2013   2,262      35         702         2,998   

 

At January 1, 2012 1)

  2,314      43         1,124         3,481   

 

Gross revaluation

  4,200      (5      6         4,201   

 

Net (gains) / losses transferred to income statement

  (465)      -         (63      (528

 

Foreign currency translation differences

  (24)      -         (29      (53

 

Tax effect

  (1,075)      1         27         (1,047

 

Other

  19      -         -         19   
At December 31, 2012   4,969      39         1,065         6,073   

 

At January 1, 2011

  493      41         424         958   

 

Gross revaluation

  3,012      2         1,016         4,030   

 

Net (gains) / losses transferred to income statement

  (513)      -         (18      (531

 

Foreign currency translation differences

  101      1         60         162   

 

Tax effect

  (794)      (1      (360      (1,155
At December 31, 2011 1)   2,299      43         1,122         3,464   
  1   Amounts for 2012 and 2011 have been restated for the changes in accounting policies IFRS 10, 11 and IAS 19. Refer to note 2 for details about these changes.

The revaluation accounts for both available-for-sale investments and for real estate held for own use include unrealized gains and losses on these investments, net of tax. Upon sale, the amounts realized are recognized in the income statement (for available-for-sale investments) or transferred to retained earnings (for real estate held for own use). Upon impairment, unrealized losses are recognized in the income statement.

The closing balances of the revaluation reserve for available-for-sale investments relate to the following instruments:

 

                                               
            2013      2012      2011  

 

Shares

        249         194         125   

 

Debt securities

        1,976         4,737         2,183   

 

Other

          36         38         (9
Revaluation reserve for available-for-sale investments           2,262         4,969         2,299   

The cash flow hedging reserve includes (un)realized gains and losses on the effective portions of hedging instruments, net of tax. The amounts are recognized in the income statement at the moment of realization of the hedged position to offset the gain or loss from the hedged cash flow. No amounts have been released from equity to be included in the initial measurement of non-financial assets or liabilities.

32.5 Remeasurement of defined benefit plans

 

                                               
            2013      2012      2011  

 

At January 1

        (1,085      (979      (547

 

Remeasurements of defined benefit plans

        562         (149      (583

 

Tax effect

        (202      37         180   

 

Net exchange differences

          19         6         (29
Total remeasurement of defined benefit plans           (706      (1,085      (979

 

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246   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 33

 

32.6 Other reserves

 

      Foreign
currency
translation
reserve
    Net foreign
investment
hedging
reserve
    Equity
movements of
joint ventures
and associates
    Total  

At January 1, 2013

     (748     (274     (23     (1,045

Movement in foreign currency translation and net foreign investment hedging reserves

     (883     79        -        (803

 

Tax effect

     40        (20     -        21   

 

Recycling of revaluation reserve on disposal of joint ventures and associates

     -        -        18        18   

 

Equity movements of joint ventures

     -        -        22        22   

 

Equity movements of associates

     -        -        10        10   
At December 31, 2013      (1,591     (214     28        (1,777

At January 1, 2012 1)

     (666     (243     (72     (981

Movement in foreign currency translation and net foreign investment hedging reserves

     (74     (41     (1     (116

 

Tax effect

     (8     10        1        3   

 

Equity movements of joint ventures

     -        -        27        27   

 

Equity movements of associates

     -        -        22        22   
At December 31, 2012      (748     (274     (23     (1,045

At January 1, 2011

     (1,030     (277     (36     (1,343

Movement in foreign currency translation and net foreign investment hedging reserves

     364        45        -        409   

 

Tax effect

     (1     (11     -        (12

 

Equity movements of associates

     -        -        (18     (18
At December 31, 2011 1)      (667     (243     (54     (964
  1   Amounts for 2012 and 2011 have been restated for the changes in accounting policies IFRS 10, 11 and IAS 19. Refer to note 2 for details about these changes.

The foreign currency translation reserve includes the currency results from investments in non-euro denominated subsidiaries. The amounts are released to the income statement upon the sale of the subsidiary.

The net foreign investment hedging reserve is made up of gains and losses on the effective portions of hedging instruments, net of tax. The amounts are recognized in the income statement at the moment of realization of the hedged position to offset the gain or loss from the net foreign investment.

The equity movements of joint ventures and associates reflect Aegon’s share of changes recognized directly in the joint venture’s and associate’s equity.

33 Convertible core capital securities

In 2011, Aegon repurchased 375 million convertible core capital securities. The total payment to the Dutch State amounted to EUR 2,250 million of which EUR 1,500 million related to the repurchase of the convertible core capital securities and EUR 750 million related to the premium attached to this repurchase. With these transactions Aegon completed the repurchase of all EUR 3 billion convertible core capital securities issued to the Dutch State in 2008.

 

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34 Other equity instruments

 

      Junior
perpetual
capital
securities
     Perpetual
cumulative
subordinated
bonds
     Share options
and incentive
plans 1)
     Non-cumulative
subordinated
notes
     Total  

At January 1, 2013

     4,192         453         102         271         5,018   

 

Shares granted / Share options cost incurred

     -         -         54         -         54   

 

Shares vested / Share options forfeited

     -         -         (57      -         (57
At December 31, 2013      4,192         454         99         271         5,015   

At January 1, 2012

     4,192         453         75         -         4,720   

 

Issuance of non-cumulative subordinated notes

     -         -         -         271         271   

 

Shares granted / Share options cost incurred

     -         -         32         -         32   

 

Shares vested / Share options forfeited

     -         -         (5      -         (5
At December 31, 2012      4,192         453         102         271         5,018   

At January 1, 2011

     4,192         453         59         -         4,704   

 

Shares granted / Share options cost incurred

     -         -         20         -         20   

 

Shares vested / Share options forfeited

     -         -         (4      -         (4
At December 31, 2011      4,192         453         75         -         4,720   
  1   Share options and incentive plans include the shares and options granted to personnel which are not yet vested

 

Junior perpetual capital

securities

   Coupon rate      Coupon date, as of      Year of
next call
     2013      2012      2011  

USD 500 million

     6.50%         Quarterly, December 15         2014         424         424         424   

 

USD 250 million

     floating LIBOR rate  1)         Quarterly, December 15         2014         212         212         212   

 

USD 550 million

     6.875%         Quarterly, September 15         2014         438         438         438   

 

EUR 200 million

     6.0%         Annually, July 21         2014         200         200         200   

 

USD 1,050 million

     7.25%         Quarterly, December 15         2014         745         745         745   

 

EUR 950 million

     floating DSL rate  2)         Quarterly, July 15         2014         950         950         950   

 

USD 500 million

     floating CMS rate  3)         Quarterly, July 15         2014         402         402         402   

 

USD 1 billion

     6.375%         Quarterly, June 15         2015         821         821         821   
At December 31                                          4,192                 4,192         4,192   
  1   The coupon of the USD 250 million junior perpetual capital securities is reset each quarter based on the then prevailing three-month LIBOR yield plus a spread of 87.5 basis points, with a minimum of 4%.
  2   The coupon of the EUR 950 million junior perpetual capital securities is reset each quarter based on the then prevailing ten-year Dutch government bond yield plus a spread of ten basis points, with a maximum of 8%.
  3   The coupon of the USD 500 million junior perpetual capital securities is reset each quarter based on the then prevailing ten-year US dollar interest rate swap yield plus a spread of ten basis points, with a maximum of 8.5%.

The interest rate exposure on some of these securities has been swapped to a three-month LIBOR and/or EURIBOR based yield.

The securities have been issued at par. The securities have subordination provisions and rank junior to all other liabilities. The conditions of the securities contain certain provisions for optional and required coupon payment deferral and mandatory coupon payment events. Although the securities have no stated maturity, Aegon has the right to call the securities for redemption at par for the first time on the coupon date in the years as specified, or on any coupon payment date thereafter.

On February 10, 2014, Aegon called for the redemption of the USD 550 million in junior perpetual capital securities with a coupon of 6.875% issued in 2006. The redemption is effective March 15, 2014, when the principal amount of USD 550 million was repaid with accrued interest.

 

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Table of Contents
248   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 35

 

 

                                                                                                                 

Perpetual cumulative

subordinated bonds

   Coupon rate      Coupon date      Year of next call        2013      2012      2011  

EUR 114 million

     4.156%  1) ,  4)         Annual, June 8         2015         114         114         114   

 

EUR 136 million

     5.185%  2) ,  4)           Annual, October 14         2018         136         136         136   

 

EUR 203 million

     4.260%  3) ,  4)         Annual, March 4         2021         203         203         203   
At December 31                                 454         453         453   
  1   The coupon of the EUR 114 million bonds was originally set at 8% until June 8, 2005. Subsequently, the coupon has been reset at 4.156% until 2015.
  2   The coupon of the EUR 136 million bonds was originally set at 7.25% until October 14, 2008. Subsequently, the coupon has been reset at 5.185% until October 14, 2018.
  3   The coupon of the EUR 203 million bonds was originally set at 7.125% until March 4, 2011. Subsequently, the coupon has been reset at 4.26% until March 4, 2021.
  4   If the bonds are not called on the respective call dates and after consecutive period of ten years, the coupons will be reset at the then prevailing effective yield of ten-year Dutch government securities plus a spread of 85 basis points.

The bonds have the same subordination provisions as dated subordinated debt. In addition, the conditions of the bonds contain provisions for interest deferral and for the availability of principal amounts to meet losses.

Although the bonds have no stated maturity, Aegon has the right to call the bonds for redemption at par for the first time on the coupon date in the year of next call.

 

                                                                                                     

Non-cumulative

subordinated notes

   Coupon rate      Coupon date    Year of next call        2013      2012      2011  

USD 525 million

          8%       Quarterly, February 15      2017         271         271              -   
At December 31                             271         271            -   

On February 7, 2012, Aegon issued USD 525 million in aggregate principal amount of 8.00% non-cumulative subordinated notes, due 2042, in an underwritten public offering in the United States registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. The subordinated notes bear interest at a fixed rate of 8.00% and have been priced at 100% of their principal amount. Any cancelled interest payments will not be cumulative.

The securities are subordinated and rank senior to the junior perpetual capital securities, equally with the perpetual cumulative subordinated bonds and junior to all other liabilities. The conditions of the securities contain certain provisions for optional and required cancellation of interest payments. The securities have a stated maturity of 30 years, however Aegon has the right to call the securities for redemption at par for the first time on the first coupon date in 2017, or on any coupon payment date thereafter.

These notes are recognized as a compound instrument due to the nature of this financial instrument. Compound instruments are separated into an equity component and a liability component. At December 31, 2013 the equity component amount to EUR 271 million, subordinated borrowings amounts to EUR 44 million and a deferred tax liability amounting to EUR 84 million.

Refer to note 36 for details of the component classified as subordinated borrowings.

35 Trust pass-through securities

 

      Coupon rate      Coupon rate    Year of issue      Year of maturity      Year of next call      2013      2012  

USD 18 million  1)

     Floating       Quarterly, July 23      2004         2034         2014         14         15   

 

USD 225 million  2)

     7.65%       Semi-annually, December 1      1996         2026         n.a.         85         102   

 

USD 190 million  2)

     7.625%       Semi-annually, November 15      1997         2037         n.a.         36         38   
At December 31                                               135         155   
  1   Issued by a subsidiary of Aegon N.V.
  2   Issued by a subsidiary of, and guaranteed by Aegon N.V.

Trust pass-through securities are securities through which the holder participates in a trust. The assets of these trusts consist of junior subordinated deferrable interest debentures issued by Transamerica Corporation and Clark Consulting Inc. The trust pass-through securities carry provisions with regard to deferral of distributions for extension periods up to a maximum of ten consecutive semi-annual periods. The trust pass-through securities are subordinated to all other unsubordinated borrowings and liabilities. There were no defaults or breaches of conditions during the period.

The fair value of these loans amount to EUR 122 million (2012: EUR 129 million).

 

 

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249

 

36 Subordinated borrowings

Subordinated borrowings are subordinated to all other unsubordinated borrowings and liabilities. There have been no defaults or breaches of conditions during the period.

Subordinated borrowings include a liability of EUR 44 million (2012: EUR 42 million) relating to the non-cumulative subordinated notes issued on February 7, 2012. The liability component of the non-cumulative subordinated notes is related to the redemption amount. For further information on the non-cumulative subordinated notes and its subordination refer to note 34.

37 Insurance contracts

 

      2013      2012  

Life insurance

     90,803         93,662   

 

Non-life insurance

     

 

- Unearned premiums and unexpired risks

     3,886         4,093   

 

- Outstanding claims

     1,990         1,978   

 

- Incurred but not reported claims

     680         675   

 

Incoming reinsurance

     3,284         3,596   
At December 31      100,642         104,004   
     
      2013      2012  

Non-life insurance:

     

 

- Accident and health insurance

     5,917         6,097   

 

- General insurance

     638         649   
Total non-life insurance      6,555         6,746   
     
Movements during the year in life insurance:    2013      2012  

At January 1

     93,662         93,456   

 

Acquisitions though business combinations

     9         -   

 

Disposals

     -         (8

 

Portfolio transfers and acquisitions

     1,262         54   

 

Gross premium and deposits – existing and new business

     7,234         6,369   

 

Unwind of discount / interest credited

     4,504         3,996   

 

Insurance liabilities released

     (10,779      (10,792

 

Changes in valuation of expected future benefits

     (1,321      347   

 

Loss recognized as a result of liability adequacy testing

     3         1   

 

Shadow accounting adjustments

     (692      389   

 

Net exchange differences

     (3,079      (519

 

Transfer (to) / from insurance contracts for account of policyholders

     (16      277   

 

Other

     14         92   
At December 31      90,803         93,662   

 

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250   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 38

 

 

Movements during the year in non-life insurance:    2013       2012   

At January 1

     6,746          6,204    

 

Gross premiums – existing and new business

     2,147          2,339    

 

Unwind of discount / interest credited

     256          251    

 

Insurance liabilities released

     (942)         (1,144)   

 

Changes in valuation of expected future claims

     (1)         24    

 

Change in unearned premiums

     (1,242)         (1,221)   

 

Change in unexpired risks

     (3)         (5)   

 

Incurred related to current year

     637          729    

 

Incurred related to prior years

     289          338    

 

Release for claims settled current year

     (271)         (296)   

 

Release for claims settled prior years

     (589)         (658)   

 

Shadow accounting adjustments

     (166)         135    

 

Loss recognized as a result of liability adequacy testing

             170    

 

Change in IBNR

     16          (41)   

 

Net exchange differences

     (326)         (79)   
At December 31      6,555          6,746    
     
Movements during the year in incoming reinsurance:    2013       2012   

At January 1

     3,596          3,862    

 

Gross premium and deposits – existing and new business

     1,385          1,816    

 

Unwind of discount / interest credited

     241          272    

 

Insurance liabilities released

     (1,677)         (2,229)   

 

Change in unearned premiums

               

 

Changes in valuation of expected future benefits

     (29)         (28)   

 

Net exchange differences

     (150)         (54)   

 

Other

     (90)         (43)   
At December 31      3,284          3,596    

 

38 Insurance contracts for account of policyholders

 

     
Insurance contracts for account of policyholders    2013        2012   

At January 1

     76,169          72,559    

 

Portfolio transfers and acquisitions

     (1,121)         (68)   

 

Gross premium and deposits – existing and new business

     11,031          6,627    

 

Unwind of discount / interest credited

     7,964          7,255    

 

Insurance liabilities released

     (6,154)         (8,545)   

 

Fund charges released

     (1,216)         (940)   

 

Changes in valuation of expected future benefits

     40          53    

 

Transfer (to) / from insurance contracts

     16          (277)   

 

Net exchange differences

     (2,457)         (504)   

 

Other

     40            
At December 31      84,311         76,169    

 

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251

 

39 Investment contracts

 

              2013       2012   

Investment contracts

              14,545          17,767    
     

 

Without 
discretionary 
participation 
features 

    

 

With 
discretionary 
participation 
features 

     Total   

At January 1, 2013

     17,095          672          17,767    

 

Portfolio transfers and acquisitions

     (80)                 (80)   

 

Deposits

     2,088                  2,088    

 

Withdrawals

     (4,661)                 (4,661)   

 

Investment contracts liabilities released

             (185)         (185)   

 

Interest credited

     345                  345    

 

Fund charges released

     (6)                 (6)   

 

Movements related to fair value hedges

     (127)                 (127)   

 

Net exchange differences

     (457)         (21)         (478)   

 

Other

     (118)                 (118)   
At December 31, 2013      14,079          466                  14,545    

At January 1, 2012

     20,127          719          20,846    

 

Portfolio transfers and acquisitions

     (17)                 (17)   

 

Deposits

     2,298                  2,298    

 

Withdrawals

     (5,618)                 (5,618)   

 

Investment contracts liabilities released

             (68)         (68)   

 

Interest credited

     443                  443    

 

Fund charges released

     (9)                 (9)   

 

Movements related to fair value hedges

     (72)                 (72)   

 

Net exchange differences

     (165)         21          (144)   

 

Other

     108                  108    
At December 31, 2012      17,095          672          17,767    

 

Investment contracts consist of the following:

           2013       2012   

Institutional guaranteed products

        3,814          6,073    

 

Fixed annuities

        5,562          5,979    

 

Savings accounts

        4,283          4,385    

 

Investment contracts with discretionary participation features

        466          672    

 

Other

              420          658    
At December 31               14,545          17,767    

 

  Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013   LOGO  


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252   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 40

 

40 Investment contracts for account of policyholders

 

      2013       2012   

Investment contracts for account of policyholders 1)

     82,608          78,418    
  1   Refer to note 50 for a summary of all financial assets and financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss.

 

      Without 
discretionary 
participation 
features 
     With 
discretionary 
participation 
features 
     Total   

At January 1, 2013

     29,188          49,230          78,418    

 

Gross premium and deposits – existing and new business

     8,702          3,422          12,124    

 

Withdrawals

     (7,578)                 (7,578)   

 

Interest credited

     3,781          5,405          9,187    

 

Investment contracts liabilities released

             (6,879)         (6,879)   

 

Fund charges released

     (184)                 (184)   

 

Net exchange differences

     (1,249)         (1,198)         (2,448)   

 

Other

     (32)                 (32)   
At December 31, 2013      32,628          49,981                  82,608    

At January 1, 2012

     26,687          44,746          71,433    

 

Gross premium and deposits – existing and new business

     5,541          5,307          10,848    

 

Withdrawals

     (5,300)                 (5,300)   

 

Interest credited

     2,613          3,627          6,240    

 

Investment contracts liabilities released

             (5,782)         (5,782)   

 

Fund charges released

     (169)                 (169)   

 

Net exchange differences

     (99)         1,332          1,233    

 

Other

     (85)                 (85)   
At December 31, 2012      29,188          49,230          78,418    

 

41 Borrowings

 

        
              2013       2012   

Debentures and other loans

        11,830          13,219    

 

Commercial paper

        135          413    

 

Bank overdrafts

        39          93    

 

Short-term deposits

              16          17    
At December 31         12,020          13,742    

Current

        1,002          2,626    

 

Non-current

              11,018          11,116    

Total fair value of borrowings

              12,308          14,511    

Debentures and other loans

During 2013, residential mortgage backed securities (RMBSs) were issued under the Dutch SAECURE program for a total amount of EUR 750 million, while an amount of EUR 1,168 million was repaid. In addition, Aegon redeemed USD 750 million senior notes which matured.

During 2012, RMBSs were issued under the Dutch SAECURE program for a total amount of EUR 2,050 million. Also, EUR 1,500 million was borrowed from the European Central Bank (ECB), under its Long Term Refinancing Operation (LTRO) program. The net proceeds of these borrowings were used to finance a part of the Dutch mortgage portfolio of Aegon the Netherlands.

Bank overdrafts are largely part of cash pool agreements with banks and matched by cash balances. IFRS does not permit net presentation of these cash balances and bank overdrafts under the current agreements with these banks.

 

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253

 

A detailed composition of the debentures and other loans is included in the following table:

Debentures and other loans

 

(sorted at maturity)    Coupon rate      Coupon date      Issue / Maturity       2013       2012   

USD 750 million Senior Notes  13)

     4.75%         Semi-annually         2003 / 13                  569    

 

EUR 2,068 mln “SAECURE 6” RMBS note  2), 3)

     Floating         Quarterly         2006 / 13                  1,229    

 

Revolving Loan Facility Warehouse Mortgage Loans  2)

     Floating         Monthly         - / 2014-16          510          249    

 

EUR 500 million Medium-Term Notes  12), 15)

     4.125%         December 8         2004 / 14          517          532    

 

USD 500 million Senior Unsecured Notes  15)

     4.625%         Semi-annually         2009 / 15          362          378    

 

EUR 1,018 million “SAECURE 7” RMBS Note  2), 4)

     Floating         Quarterly         2010 / 15          825          914    

 

GBP 35 million Note issue agreement  2), 5), 6)

     Floating         Quarterly         2010 / 15          15          25    

 

EUR 212 / USD 600 “SAECURE 11” RMBS Note  2), 7)

     Floating         Quarterly         2012 / 15          600          649    

 

EUR 1,500 million ECB LTRO  2)

     Floating         At Maturity         2012 / 15          1,500          1,500    

 

EUR 1,500 million “SAECURE 10” RMBS Note  2), 8)

     Floating         Quarterly         2011 / 16          1,269          1,378    

 

EUR 842 million “SAECURE 9” RMBS Note  2), 9)

     Floating         Quarterly         2010 / 16          670          735    

 

EUR 1,365 million “SAECURE 12” RMBS Note  2), 10)

     Floating         Quarterly         2012 / 17          1,297          1,365    

 

EUR 500 million Unsecured Notes  15)

     3%         July 18         2012 / 17          498          498    

 

EUR 750 million ‘SAECURE 13’ RMBS Note  2), 11)

     Floating         Quarterly         2013 / 18          738            

 

EUR 75 million Medium-Term Notes  1), 12), 15)

     4.625%         December 9         2004 / 19          85          82    

 

USD 500 million Senior Notes  1), 12), 15)

     5.75%         Semi-annually         2005 / 20          416          436    

 

USD 305 million Note issue agreement  2)

     5.54% / 8.88%         Quarterly         2002 / 22          58          78    

 

GBP 250 million Note issue agreement  2), 5), 6)

     Floating         April 21         2008 / 23          17          92    

 

USD 292 million Senior Secured Note  2)

     Floating         Quarterly         2012 / 23          207          216    

 

GBP 250 million Medium-Term Notes  15)

     6.125%         December 15         1999 / 31          298          305    

 

USD 1.54 billion Variable Funding Surplus Note  5), 13)

     Floating         Quarterly         2006 / 36          1,089          1,091    

 

USD 550 million Floating Rate Guaranteed Note  5), 14)

     Floating         Quarterly         2007 / 37          345          360    

 

GBP 400 million Senior Unsecured Notes  15)

     6.625%         Semi-annually         2009 / 39          474          486    

 

Other

                                40          52    
At December 31                                 11,830              13,219    
  1   Issued by subsidiaries of, and guaranteed by Aegon N.V.
  2   Issued by a subsidiary of Aegon N.V.
  3   The first optional redemption date was August 2013; the legal maturity date was August 2098. Notes were fully collateralized by mortgage loans which are part of Aegon’s general account investments.
  4   The first optional redemption date is August 2015; the legal maturity date is August 2093. Notes are fully collateralized by mortgage loans which are part of Aegon’s general account investments.
  5   Outstanding amounts can vary up to the maximum stated nominal amount.
  6   Private Value-in-Force (ViF) securitization by Aegon UK to monetize a portion of future profits associated with an existing book of unit-linked business.
  7   The first optional redemption date is July 2015; the legal maturity date is July 2092. Notes are fully collateralized by mortgage loans which are part of Aegon’s general account investments.
  8   The first optional redemption date is February 2016; the legal maturity date is February 2094. Notes are fully collateralized by mortgage loans which are part of Aegon’s general account investments.
  9   The first optional redemption date is March 2016; the legal maturity date is September 2092. Notes are fully collateralized by mortgage loans which are part of Aegon’s general account investments.
  10   The first optional redemption date is October 2017; the legal maturity date is July 2092. Notes are fully collateralized by mortgage loans which are part of Aegon’s general account investments.
  11   The first optional redemption date is February 2018; the legal maturity date is November 2093. Notes are fully collateralized by mortgage loans which are part of Aegon’s general account investments.
  12   Measured at fair value.
  13   This debenture is issued by a wholly owned captive that is consolidated in the Aegon N.V. consolidated financial statements. A guarantee has been provided by Aegon N.V. - refer to note 51 (commitments and contingencies).
  14   This debenture is issued by a wholly owned captive that is consolidated in the Aegon N.V. consolidated financial statements.
  15   These loans are considered senior debt in calculating financial leverage in the capital and solvency note as disclosed in note 49.

Included in debentures and other loans is EUR 1,017 million (2012: EUR 1,050 million) relating to borrowings measured at fair value. For the year 2013, Aegon’s credit spread had a negative impact of EUR 44 million on income before tax (2012: negative impact of EUR 48 million) and a negative impact of EUR 30 million on shareholders’ equity (2012: negative impact of EUR 34 million). The cumulative negative impact of Aegon’s credit spread, based on observable market data, on income before tax amounted to EUR 20 million (2012: EUR 24 million positive impact).

 

  Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013   LOGO  


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254   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 42

 

The difference between the contractually required payment at maturity date and the carrying amount of the borrowings amount to EUR 55 million (2012: EUR 67 million).

 

Undrawn committed borrowing facilities:            2013            2012  

Floating-rate

 

     

- Expiring within one year

 

     1,433         1,248   

- Expiring beyond one year

     2,018         2,020   
At December 31      3,451         3,268   

There were no defaults or breaches of conditions during the period.

42 Prov isions

 

           2013          2012  

At January 1

 

     330         444   

Additional provisions

 

     60         97   

Disposals

 

     (122      (38

Unused amounts reversed through the income statement

 

     (6      (22

Unwinding of discount and change in discount rate

 

     2         7   

Used during the year

 

     (81      (116

Net exchange differences

 

     (1      2   

Other

     (2      (44
At December 31      182         330   

Current

     99         129   

 

Non-current

     82         201   

The provisions mainly consist of provisions for contingent consideration relating to joint ventures (earn out) of EUR 57 million (2012: EUR 187 million), restructuring provisions of EUR 39 million (2012: EUR 56 million), provisions for unearned commission of EUR 33 million (2012: EUR 33 million) and litigation provisions of EUR 23 million (2012: EUR 10 million).

The contingent consideration relating to joint ventures reflects earn out payments, which will be payable if specific targets, as set out in the purchase agreements, are met in the future. The expected timing of resulting outflows vary between 2014 and 2017.

In 2013, Disposals contain a release of an earn out provision in Spain of EUR 120 million as Aegon has finalized exiting its joint venture with Unnim. In 2012 Disposals contain a release of an earn out provision in Spain of EUR 38 million relating to the disposal of the Banca Civica joint venture.

In 2012, Other reflects the release of earn out provisions relating to Caja Cantabria. Refer to note 25 for more details.

43 Defined benefit plans

 

            2013            2012  

Retirement benefit plans

     2,790         3,282   

 

Other post-employment benefit plans

     236         246   
Total defined benefit plans      3,026         3,528   

Retirement benefit plans in surplus

     34         22   

 

Other post-employment benefit plans in surplus

     -         -   
Total defined benefit assets      34         22   

Retirement benefit plans in deficit

     2,824         3,304   

 

Other post-employment benefit plans in deficit

     236         246   
Total defined benefit liabilities      3,060         3,550   

 

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      2013      2012  
Movements during the year in defined
benefit plans
   Retirement
benefit plans
     Other post-
employment-
benefit plans
    Total      Retirement
benefit plans
     Other post-
employment
benefit plans
     Total  

At January 1

 

     3,282         246        3,528         3,038         274         3,312   

Defined benefit expenses

 

     214         19        233         242         (13      229   

Remeasurements of defined benefit plans

 

     (558      (4     (562      146         3         149   

Contributions paid

 

     (23      -        (23      (37      -         (37

Benefits paid

 

     (96      (16     (112      (99      (16      (115

Net exchange differences

 

     (27      (9     (36      (6      (3      (9

Other

     (1      -        (1      (2      1         (1
At December 31      2,790         236        3,026         3,282         246         3,528   

 

The amounts recognized in the statement of financial position are determined as follows:

 

  

  
      2013      2012  
      Retirement
benefit plans
     Other post-
employment-
benefit plans
    Total      Retirement
benefit plans
     Other post-
employment
benefit plans
     Total  

 

Present value of wholly or partly funded obligations

 

     3,376         -        3,376         3,617         -         3,617   

Fair value of plan assets

     (2,909      -        (2,909      (2,747      -         (2,747
     467         -        467         870         -         870   

Present value of wholly unfunded obligations  1)

  

 

 

 

2,323

 

  

     236        2,559         2,412         246         2,658   
At December 31      2,790         236        3,026         3,282         246         3,528   
  1   Assets held by Aegon the Netherlands backing retirement benefits of EUR 2,194 million (2012: EUR 2,280 million) do not meet the definition of plan assets and as such were not deducted in calculating this amount. Instead, these assets are recognized as general account assets. Consequently, the return on these assets does not form part of the calculation of defined benefit expenses.  

The fair value of Aegon’s own transferable financial instruments included in plan assets and the fair value of other assets used by Aegon included in plan assets was nil in both 2013 and 2012.

 

                                                                                                                 
      2013      2012  
Defined benefit expenses    Retirement
 benefit plans
     Other post-
employment-
   benefit plans
    Total      Retirement
  benefit plans
     Other post-
employment
  benefit plans
    Total  

Current year service cost

     88         10        98         97         9        106   

Net interest on the net defined benefit liability (asset)

     124         9        134         141         11        152   

 

Past service cost

     1         -        1         4         (33     (29
Total defined benefit expenses      214         19        233         242         (13     229   
              2011  
                             Retirement
benefit plans
     Other post-
employment
benefit plans
    Total  

Current year service cost

             92         8        100   

Net interest on the net defined benefit liability (asset)

             125         12        137   

 

Past service cost

                               (66      1        (65
Total defined benefit expenses                                151         21        172   

Defined benefit expenses are included in “Commissions and expenses” in the income statement.

 

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256   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 43

 

 

                                 
Movements during the year of the present value of the defined benefit obligations   2013     2012  

At January 1 restated

 

    6,276        5,855   

Current year service cost

 

    98        106   

Interest expense

 

    243        267   

Remeasurements of the defined benefit obligations:

 

   

- Actuarial gains and losses arising from changes in demographic assumptions

 

    5        31   

- Actuarial gains and losses arising from changes in financial assumptions

 

    (286     312   

Past service cost

 

    1        (29

Contributions by plan participants

 

    11        11   

Benefits paid

 

    (266     (263

Net exchange differences

    (146     (14
At December 31     5,935        6,276   

 

                                 
Movements during the year in plan assets for retirement benefit plans   2013     2012  

At January 1

 

    2,747        2,543   

Interest income (based on discount rate)

 

    109        115   

Remeasurements of the net defined liability (asset)

 

    281        194   

Contributions by employer

 

    34        48   

Contributions by plan participants

 

    -        -   

Benefits paid

 

    (154     (149

Net exchange differences

    (108     (4
At December 31     2,909        2,747   

 

              2013              2012  
Breakdown of plan assets for retirement benefit plans    Quoted      Unquoted      Quoted      Unquoted  

Equity instruments

 

     331         6         261         4   

Debt instrument

 

     322         471         343         514   

Derivatives

 

     -         25         -         7   

Investment funds

 

     29         1,485         23         1,364   

Structured securities

 

     -         6         -         6   

Other

     9         225         16         209   
At December 31      690         2,219         643         2,104   

Defined benefit plans are mainly operated by Aegon USA, Aegon the Netherlands and Aegon UK. The following sections contain a general description of the plans in each of these subsidiaries and a summary of the principal actuarial assumptions applied in determining the value of defined benefit plans.

Aegon USA

Aegon USA has defined benefit plans covering substantially all its employees that are qualified under the Internal Revenue Service Code, including all requirements for minimum funding levels. The defined benefit plans are governed by the Board of Managers of Aegon USA. The Board of Managers has the full power and discretion to administer the plan and to apply all of its provisions, including such responsibilities as, but not limited to, developing the investment policy and managing assets for the plan, maintaining required funding levels for the plan, deciding questions related to eligibility and benefit amounts, resolving disputes that may arise from plan participants and for complying with the plan provisions, and legal requirements related to the plan and its operation. The benefits are based on years of service and the employee’s eligible annual compensation. The plans provide benefits based on a traditional final average formula or a cash balance formula (which defines the accrued benefit in terms of a stated account balance), depending on the age and service of the plan participant. The defined benefit plans were unfunded by EUR 207 million at December 31, 2013 (2012: EUR 611 million unfunded).

Investment strategies are established based on asset/liability studies by actuaries which are updated as they consider appropriate. These studies, along with the investment policy, assist to develop the appropriate investment criteria for the plan, including asset allocation mix, return objectives, investment risk and time horizon, benchmarks and performance standards and restrictions and prohibitions. The overall goal is to maximize total investment returns to provide sufficient funding for the present and anticipated

 

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future benefit obligations within the constraints of a prudent level of portfolio risk and diversification. Aegon believes that the asset allocation is an important factor in determining the long-term performance of the plan. The plan uses multiple asset classes as well as sub-classes to meet the asset allocation and other requirements of the investment policy, which minimizes investment risk. From time to time the actual asset allocation may deviate from the desired asset allocation ranges due to different market performance among the various asset categories. If it is determined that rebalancing is required, future additions and withdrawals will be used to bring the allocation to the desired level.

Aegon USA maintains minimum required funding levels as set forth by the Internal Revenue Code. If contributions are required, the funding would be provided from the Company’s general account assets. Pension plan contributions were not required for Aegon USA in 2013 or 2012.

Aegon USA also sponsors supplemental retirement plans to provide senior management with benefits in excess of normal retirement benefits. The plans are unfunded and are not qualified under the Internal Revenue Code. The supplemental retirement plans are governed by either Aegon USA, LLC, or the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors of Aegon US Holding Corporation. Aegon USA, LLC, or the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors has the full power and discretion to apply all of the plan’s provisions, including such responsibilities as, but not limited to, interpret the plan provisions, to make factual determinations under the plan, to determine plan benefits, and to comply with any statutory reporting and disclosure requirements. The benefits are based on years of service and the employee’s eligible annual compensation. The plans provide benefits based on a traditional final average formula or a cash balance formula (which defines the accrued benefit in terms of a stated account balance), depending on the age and service of the plan participant. The Company funds the benefit payments of the supplemental retirement plans from its general account assets. The unfunded amount related to these plans, for which a liability has been recorded, was EUR 192 million (2012: EUR 208 million).

Aegon USA provides health care benefits to retired employees, which are unfunded plans. The post-retirement health care plans are administered by Aegon USA, LLC, which has delegated the claims administration to third party administrators. Aegon USA, LLC (“Company”) maintains two plans which provide retiree medical benefits. For each plan, the Company has the fiduciary responsibility to administer the plan in accordance with its terms, and decides questions related to eligibility and determines plan provisions and benefit amounts. Under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), the Company has the fiduciary responsibility to monitor the third party claims administrator to ensure it is doing its job properly and to remove the third party administrator if it is not properly doing its job. In addition, the Company has the fiduciary obligation to interpret the provisions of the plans, and to comply with any statutory reporting and disclosure requirements. Finally, the Company reviews the terms of the plans and make changes to the plans if and when appropriate. The Company funds the benefit payments of the post-retirement health care plans from its general account assets. The post-retirement health benefit liability amounted to EUR 191 million (2012: EUR 198 million).

The weighted average duration of the defined benefit obligation is 12.7 years (2012: 14.2 years).

The principal actuarial assumptions that apply for the year ended December 31 are as follows:

 

Actuarial assumptions used to determine defined benefit obligations at year-end    2013      2012  

 

Demographic actuarial assumptions

 

  

 

 

 

2014 static

 

  

  

 

 

 

2013 static

 

  

Mortality

     mortality table  1)         mortality table  1)   

Financial actuarial assumptions

 

     

Discount rate

 

     4.75%         4.00%   

Salary increase rate

 

     3.91%         3.91%   

Health care trend rate

     8.50%         7.25%   
  1   Table in accordance with IRS regulation 1.430(h)(3)-1.

 

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Table of Contents
258   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 43

 

The principal actuarial assumptions have an effect on the amounts reported for the defined benefit obligation. A change as indicated in The table below in the principal actuarial assumptions would have the following effects on the defined benefit obligation per year-end:

 

2013   

Estimated approximate

effects on the defined

benefit obligation

 

Demographic actuarial assumptions

  

 

10% increase in mortality rates

     (49

 

10% decrease in mortality rates

     49   

Financial actuarial assumptions

  

 

100 basis points increase in discount rate

     (283

 

100 basis points decrease in discount rate

     350   

 

100 basis points increase in salary increase rate

     29   

 

100 basis points decrease in salary increase rate

     (25

 

100 basis points increase in health care trend rate

     15   

 

100 basis points decrease in health care trend rate

     (13

The above sensitivity analysis is based on a change in an assumption while holding all other assumptions constant. In practice, this is unlikely to occur, and changes in some of the assumptions may be correlated. When calculating the sensitivity of the defined benefit obligation to significant actuarial assumptions the same method (present value of the defined benefit obligation calculated with the projected unit credit method at the end of the reporting period) has been applied as when calculating the pension liability recognized within the statement of financial position.

 

2013   

 

Target allocation of plan

assets for retirement

benefit plans for the next

annual period is:

 

Equity instruments

     15 - 55%   

 

Debt instruments

     30 - 50%   

 

Other

     12 - 30%   

Aegon the Netherlands

Aegon the Netherlands has a number of defined benefit plans and a small number of defined contribution plans. The defined benefit plans are governed by the Management Board of Aegon the Netherlands. The Management Board has the full power and discretion to administer the plan including developing investment policy and managing assets for the plans (although these assets do not qualify as ‘plan assets’ as defined by IFRS), deciding questions related to eligibility and benefit amounts, and any disputes that may arise from plan participants and for complying with the plan provisions, and legal requirements related to the plan and its operation. Aegon the Netherlands runs, in principle, full actuarial and investment risk regarding the defined benefit plans. A part of this risk can be attributed to plan participants by lowering indexation or by increasing employee contributions.

Investment strategies are established based on asset and liability studies. The overall goal is to maximize total investment returns to provide sufficient funding for the present and anticipated future benefit obligations within the constraints of a prudent level of portfolio risk. These studies use for example return objectives and various investment instruments. Investment restrictions are updated regularly and they result in asset allocation mix and hedges.

The contributions to the retirement benefit plan of Aegon the Netherlands are paid by both the employees and the employer, with the employer contribution being variable. The benefits covered are retirement benefits, disability, death and survivor pension and are based on an average salary system. Employees earning more than EUR 45,978 per year (as at January 1, 2013) have an option to contribute to a defined contribution plan for the excess salary. However, the cost for the company remains the same. The defined benefit plans were unfunded by EUR 2,119 million at December 31, 2013 (2012: EUR 2,191 million). As the assets held by Aegon the Netherlands for retirement benefits do not meet the definition of plan assets, they were not deducted in calculating this amount. Instead, these assets are recognized as general account assets. Consequently, the return on these assets do not form part of the calculation of defined benefit expenses.

 

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Aegon the Netherlands also has a post-retirement medical plan that contributes to the health care coverage of employees and beneficiaries after retirement. For this plan, the Aegon the Netherlands has the responsibility to administer the plan in accordance with its terms, and decides questions related to eligibility and determines plan provisions and benefit amounts. In addition, Aegon the Netherlands has the obligation to interpret the provisions of the plans, and to comply with any statutory reporting and disclosure requirements. Finally, Aegon the Netherlands reviews the terms of the plans and makes changes to the plans if and when appropriate. The liability related to this plan amounted to EUR 42 million at December 31, 2013 (2012: EUR 44 million).

The weighted average duration of the defined benefit obligation is 15.9 years (2012: 17.5 years).

The principal actuarial assumptions that apply for the year ended December 31 are as follows:

 

Actuarial assumptions used to determine defined benefit obligations at year-end    2013      2012  

 

Demographic actuarial assumptions

  

 

 

 

Aegon table

 

  

  

 

 

 

Aegon table

 

  

 

Mortality

     2013  1)         2012  1)   

Financial actuarial assumptions

     

 

Discount rate

     3.70%         3.60%   

 

Salary increase rate

     2.25%         2.25%   

 

Price inflation

     2.00%         2.00%   
  1   Based on prospective mortality table of the Dutch Actuarial Society with minor methodology adjustments

The principal actuarial assumptions have an effect on the amounts reported for the defined benefit obligation. A change as indicated in the table below in the principal actuarial assumptions would have the following effects on the defined benefit obligation per year-end:

 

2013    Estimated approximate
effects on the defined
benefit obligation
 

 

Demographic actuarial assumptions

  

 

10% increase in mortality rates

     (23

 

10% decrease in mortality rates

     79   

Financial actuarial assumptions

  

 

100 basis points increase in discount rate

     (331

 

100 basis points decrease in discount rate

     359   

 

100 basis points increase in salary increase rate

     16   

 

100 basis points decrease in salary increase rate

     (16

 

100 basis points increase in price inflation

     (2

 

100 basis points decrease in price inflation

     1   

The above sensitivity analysis is based on a change in an assumption while holding all other assumptions constant. In practice, this is unlikely to occur, and changes in some of the assumptions may be correlated. When calculating the sensitivity of the defined benefit obligation to significant actuarial assumptions the same method (present value of the defined benefit obligation calculated with the projected unit credit method at the end of the reporting period) has been applied as when calculating the defined benefit obligation recognized within the statement of financial position.

Aegon UK

Aegon UK operated a defined benefit pension scheme providing benefits for staff based on final pensionable salary and years of service. The scheme closed to new entrants a number of years ago and closed to future accrual on March 31, 2013. Aegon UK now offers a defined contribution pension scheme to all employees.

The pension scheme is administered separately from Aegon UK and is governed by Trustees, who are required to act in the best interests of the pension scheme members.

The pension scheme Trustees are required to carry out triennial valuations on the scheme’s funding position, with the latest valuation being as at March 31, 2013. As part of this triennial valuation process, a schedule of contributions is agreed between the Trustees and Aegon UK in accordance with UK pensions legislation and guidance issued by the Pensions Regulator in the UK. The schedule of contributions includes deficit reduction contributions to clear any scheme deficit.

 

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Table of Contents
260   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 43

 

The investment strategy for the scheme is determined by the Trustees in consultation with Aegon UK. Currently 40% of assets are invested in growth assets (i.e. primarily equities) and 60% are Liability Driven Investments where the investments are a portfolio of fixed interest and inflation linked bonds and related derivatives, selected to broadly match the interest rate and inflation profile of liabilities.

Under the scheme rules pensions in payment increase in line with the UK Retail Price Index, and deferred benefits increase in line with the UK Consumer Price Index. The pension scheme is therefore exposed to UK inflation changes as well as interest rate risks, investment returns and changes in the life expectancy of pensioners.

The weighted average duration of the defined benefit obligation is 24.4 years (2012: 25.0 years).

The principal actuarial assumptions that apply for the year ended December 31 are as follows:

 

Actuarial assumptions used to determine defined benefit obligations at year-end   2013     2012  

 

Demographic actuarial assumptions

 

 

 

 

  UK mortality

 

  

 

 

 

 

UK mortality

 

  

 

Mortality

    table  1)        table 2)   

Financial actuarial assumptions

   

 

Discount rate

 

 

 

 

4.60%

 

  

 

 

 

 

4.60%

 

  

 

Price inflation

 

 

 

 

3.40%

 

  

 

 

 

 

3.00%

 

  

  1   SAPS S1NA light -2 years CMI 2012 1.25% p.a.
  2   SAPS S1NA light -2 years CMI 2011 1.25% p.a.

The principal actuarial assumptions have an effect on the amounts reported for the defined benefit obligation. A change as indicated in the table below in the principal actuarial assumptions would have the following effects on the defined benefit obligation per year-end:

 

2013    Estimated approximate
effects on the defined
benefit obligation
 

 

Demographic actuarial assumptions

  

 

10% increase in mortality rates

     (24

 

10% decrease in mortality rates

     26   

Financial actuarial assumptions

  

 

100 basis points increase in discount rate

     (250

 

100 basis points decrease in discount rate

     344   

 

100 basis points increase in price inflation

     132   

 

100 basis points decrease in price inflation

     (204

The above sensitivity analysis is based on a change in an assumption while holding all other assumptions constant. In practice, this is unlikely to occur, and changes in some of the assumptions may be correlated. When calculating the sensitivity of the defined benefit obligation to significant actuarial assumptions the same method (present value of the defined benefit obligation calculated with the projected unit credit method at the end of the reporting period) has been applied as when calculating the pension liability recognized within the statement of financial position.

 

2013   Target allocation of plan  
assets for retirement  
benefit plans for  
The next annual period is:  

Equity instruments

  40%  

Debt instruments

  60%  

New Markets

New Markets mostly operate defined contribution plans.

 

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44 Deferred revenue liabilities

 

     2013        2012  

At January 1

    104           103   

 

Income deferred

 

    9           9   

Release to income statement

 

    (23        (11

Net exchange differences

 

    (1        1   

Other

    (2        2   
At December 31     88           104   

 

45 Deferred tax

 

      
     2013        2012  

Deferred tax assets

    37           93   

 

Deferred tax liabilities

 

    2,304           3,096   
Total net deferred tax liability / (asset)     2,268           3,003   
      
Deferred tax assets comprise temporary differences on:   2013        2012  

Real estate

    -           9   

 

Financial assets

    (3        25   

 

Deferred expenses, VOBA and other intangible assets

    2           1   

 

Defined benefit plans

    4           -   

 

Losses

    21           7   

 

Other

    13           51   

 

At December 31

    37           93   

 

Other, in 2012, includes the tax asset in respect of the winding up of some entities.

 

      
Deferred tax liabilities comprise temporary differences on:   2013        2012  

Real estate

    371           385   

 

Financial assets

    1,794           3,610   

 

Insurance and investment contracts

    (1,876        (2,691

 

Deferred expenses, VOBA and other intangible assets

    3,476           3,319   

 

Defined benefit plans

    (382        (627

 

Losses

    (698        (580

 

Other

    (380        (320

 

At December 31

            2,304           3,096   

 

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Table of Contents
262   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 45

 

 

      Real
estate
     Financial
assets
     Insurance
contracts
      Deferred expenses,
VOBA and other
intangible assets
       Defined
Benefit
plans
      Losses     Other     Total   

At January 1, 2013

     376         3,585         (2,692     3,318         (627     (587     (370     3,003    

Acquisitions through business combinations

     -         -         -        1         -        -        -          

 

Disposal of a business

     -         -         -        -         -        1        1          

 

Charged to income statement

     (4      (581      737        330         33        (157     (86     271    

 

Charged to equity

     (1      (1,107      -        -         191        (1     (21     (940)   

 

Net exchange differences

     (1      (80      78        (165      17        27        18        (107)   

 

Other

     3         (19      -        (9      -        (3     66        38    
At December 31, 2013      371         1,797         (1,876     3,475         (386     (720     (394     2,268    

At January 1, 2012

     261         1,999         (2,335     3,283         (622     (623     (275     1,688    

 

Charged to income statement

     (16      490         (406     42         (26     26        (87     23    

 

Charged to equity

     (1      923         -        -         (42     4        23        907    

 

Net exchange differences

     (1      (52      22        (1      4        4        -        (24)   

 

Other

     133         225         27        (6      59        2        (31     409    
At December 31, 2012      376         3,585         (2,692     3,318         (627     (587       (370       3,003    

The decrease of deferred corporate income tax liabilities primarily relates to a decrease of unrealized profits in 2013 in respect of financial assets due to an increase in market interest rates partially offset by tightening of credit spreads. Prior year adjustments (refer to note 18) led to an increase of deferred corporate income tax liabilities, with the main impact on financial assets, insurance contracts and defined benefit plans. In 2012, Other in real estate results from a restructuring of the real estate portfolio.

Deferred corporate income tax assets are recognized for tax losses carried forward to the extent that the realization of the related tax benefit through future taxable profits is probable. For an amount of gross EUR 358 million; tax EUR 71 million (2012: gross EUR 88 million; tax EUR 16 million) the realization of the deferred tax asset is dependent on the projection of future taxable profits from existing business in excess of the profits arising from the reversal of existing taxable temporary differences.

For the following amounts, arranged by loss carry forward periods, the deferred corporate income tax asset is not recognized:

 

      Gross amounts     

 

Not recognized

deferred tax assets

 
      2013      2012      2013      2012  

< 5 years

     105         145         29         37   

 

³ 5 – 10 years

     38         21         9         5   

 

³ 10 – 15 years

     151         -         52         -   

 

³ 15 – 20 years

     10         17         3         5   

 

Indefinitely

     720         920         185         209   
At December 31      1,024         1,103         278         257   

Deferred corporate income tax assets in respect of deductible temporary differences are recognized to the extent that the realization of the related tax benefit through future taxable profits is probable. For the following amounts relating to available-for-sale financial assets, defined benefit plans and other items the recognition of the deferred corporate income tax asset is dependent on future taxable profits in excess of the profits arising from the reversal of existing taxable temporary differences:

 

      Gross amounts      Deferred tax assets  
      2013      2012      2013      2012  

Deferred corporate income tax asset dependent on retaining bonds and similar investments until the earlier of market recovery or maturity

     1,201         890         420         311   

Deferred corporate income tax asset dependent on the realization of capital profits

     470         683         164         239   

 

Other

     30         3         9         1   
At December 31      1,701         1,576         593         551   

 

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Aegon did not recognize deferred corporate income tax assets in respect of deductible temporary differences relating to Other items for the amount of gross EUR 39 million; tax EUR 8 million (2012: gross EUR 37 million; tax EUR 9 million).

Deferred corporate income tax liabilities have not been recognized for withholding tax and other taxes that would be payable on the unremitted earnings of certain subsidiaries, branches, associates and joint ventures. The unremitted earnings totaled gross EUR 1,753 million; tax EUR 438 million (2012: gross EUR 1,754 million; tax EUR 438 million).

All deferred taxes are non-current by nature.

46 Other liabilities

 

      2013        2012  

Payables due to policyholders

     1,131           1,681   

 

Payables due to brokers and agents

     812           1,058   

 

Payables out of reinsurance

     1,442           1,609   

 

Social security and taxes payable

     115           68   

 

Income tax payable

     6           118   

 

Investment creditors

     202           1,305   

 

Cash collateral

     8,426           10,106   

 

Repurchase agreements

     2,252           2,217   

 

Other creditors

     2,237           2,432   
At December 31      16,625           20,594   

Current

     14,643           17,567   

 

Non-current

     1,981           3,027   

The carrying amounts disclosed reasonably approximate the fair values at year end, given the predominantly current nature of the other liabilities.

47 Accruals

 

      2013        2012  

Accrued interest

     142           181   

 

Accrued expenses

     117           148   
At December 31      259           329   

The carrying amounts disclosed reasonably approximate the fair values as at the year end.

48 Guarantees in insurance contracts

For financial reporting purposes Aegon distinguishes between the following types of minimum guarantees:

  ¿   Financial guarantees: these guarantees are treated as bifurcated embedded derivatives, valued at fair value and presented as derivatives (refer to note 2.9 and note 3);
  ¿   Total return annuities: these guarantees are not bifurcated from their host contracts because they are presented and valued at fair value together with the underlying insurance contracts (refer to note 2.19);
  ¿   Life contingent guarantees in the United States: these guarantees are not bifurcated from their host contracts, presented and valued in accordance with insurance accounting (ASC 944, Financial Services - Insurance) together with the underlying insurance contracts (refer to note 2.19); and
  ¿   Minimum investment return guarantees in the Netherlands: these guarantees are not bifurcated from their host contracts, valued at fair value and presented together with the underlying insurance contracts (refer to note 2.19 and note 3).

In addition to the guarantees mentioned above, Aegon has traditional life insurance contracts that include minimum guarantees that are not valued explicitly; however, the adequacy of all insurance liabilities, net of VOBA and DPAC, and including all guarantees, are assessed periodically (refer to note 2.19).

 

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264  

Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 48

 

 

a. Financial guarantees

In the United States and New Markets (VA’s sold in United Kingdom), a guaranteed minimum withdrawal benefit (GMWB) is offered directly on some variable annuity products Aegon issues and is also assumed from a ceding company. Variable annuities allow a customer to provide for the future on a tax-deferred basis and to participate in equity or bond market performance. Variable annuities allow a customer to select payout options designed to help meet the customer’s need for income upon maturity, including lump sum payment or income for life or for a period of time. This benefit guarantees that a policyholder can withdraw a certain percentage of the account value, starting at a certain age or duration, for either a fixed period or during the life of the policyholder.

In Canada, variable products sold are known as “Segregated Funds”. Segregated funds are similar to variable annuities, except that they include a capital protection guarantee for mortality and maturity benefits (guaranteed minimum accumulation benefits). The initial guarantee period is ten years. The ten-year period may be reset at the contractholder’s option for certain products to lock-in market gains. The reset feature cannot be exercised in the final decade of the contract and for many products can only be exercised a limited number of times per year. The management expense ratio charged to the funds is not guaranteed and can be increased by management decision. In addition, Aegon Canada sells a contract with a minimum guaranteed withdrawal benefit. The contract provides capital protection for longevity risk in the form of a guaranteed minimum annuity payment.

In the Netherlands, individual variable unit-linked products have a minimum benefit guarantee if premiums are invested in certain funds. The sum insured at maturity or upon the death of the beneficiary has a minimum guaranteed return (in the range of 3% to 4%) if the premium has been paid for a consecutive period of at least ten years and is invested in a mixed fund and/or fixed-income funds. No guarantees are given for equity investments only.

The following table provides information on the liabilities for financial guarantees for minimum benefits, net of present value of the expected future premiums that are received to cover these guarantees:

 

                      2013                                      2012                  
      United
States  1)
     Canada  1)      The
Nether-
lands 2)
     New
Markets
     Total  3)      United
States  1)
     Canada  1)      The
Nether-
lands 2)
     New
Markets
     Total  3)  

At January 1

     692         63         1,324         29         2,108         645         89         1,306         42         2,082   

Incurred guarantee benefits 4)

     (762      (53      (142      -         (958      58         (22      18         -         54   

 

Paid guarantee benefits

     -         (1      -         (33      (34      -         (5      -         (13      (18

 

Net exchange differences

     (2      (3      -         -         (5      (11      1         -         -         (10

At December 31

     (72      6         1,181         (4      1,112         692         63         1,324         29         2,108   

Account value 5)

     19,745         1,423         10,326         503         31,997         14,608         1,678         8,187         431         24,904   

 

Net amount at risk 6)

     264         24         1,225         (4      1,509         412         49         1,405         29         1,895   

 

  1   Guaranteed minimum accumulation and withdrawal benefits.  
  2   Fund plan and unit-linked guarantees.  
  3   Balances are included in the derivatives liabilities on the face of the statement of financial position; refer to note 24.  
  4   Incurred guarantee benefits mainly comprise the effect of guarantees from new contracts, releases related to expired out-of-the-money guarantees and fair value movements during the reporting year.  
  5   Account value reflects the actual fund value for the policyholders.  
  6   The net amount at risk represents the sum of the positive differences between the discounted maximum amount payable under the guarantees and the account value.  

The decrease of incurred guarantee benefits mainly relates to fair value movements due to increasing interest rates and equity markets, partly offset by tightening own credit spread. Financial guarantees in the United States and New Markets became an asset during 2013, mainly due to net presentation of expected discounted cash outflow to customers and the expected discounted cash inflow from premiums. Due to increasing returns on investments, driven by favorable capital markets, the expected pay out on financial guarantees for minimum benefits decreased.

Aegon Americas reinsures the elective guaranteed minimum withdrawal benefit rider issued with a ceding company’s variable annuity contracts. The rider is essentially a return of premium guarantee, which is payable over a period of at least fourteen years from the date that the policyholder elects to start withdrawals. At contract inception, the guaranteed remaining balance is equal to the premium payment. The periodic withdrawal is paid by the ceding company until the account value is insufficient to cover additional withdrawals. Once the account value is exhausted, Aegon pays the periodic withdrawals until the guaranteed remaining balance is exhausted. At December 31, 2013, the reinsured account value was EUR 2.7 billion (2012: EUR 3.0 billion) and the guaranteed remaining balance was EUR 1.8 billion (2012: EUR 2.4 billion).

 

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The reinsurance contract is accounted for as a derivative and is carried in Aegon’s statement of financial position at fair value. At December 31, 2013, the contract had a value of EUR 22 million (2012: EUR 90 million). Aegon entered into a derivative program to mitigate the overall exposure to equity market and interest rate risks associated with the reinsurance contract. This program involves selling equity futures contracts (S&P 500, Nasdaq, FTSE100 and NKY225 in accordance with Aegon’s exposure) to mitigate the effect of equity market movement on the reinsurance contract and the purchase of over-the-counter interest rate swaps to mitigate the effect of movements in interest rates on the reinsurance contracts.

b. Total return annuities

Total Return Annuity (TRA) is an annuity product in the United States which provides customers with a pass-through of the total return on an underlying portfolio of investment securities (typically a mix of corporate and convertible bonds) subject to a cumulative minimum guarantee. Both the assets and liabilities are carried at fair value, however, due to the minimum guarantee not all of the changes in the market value of the asset will be offset in the valuation of the liability. This product exists in both the fixed annuity and life reinsurance lines of business and in both cases represents closed blocks. The product excluding the guarantees is fully reinsured in the form of modified coinsurance, so only the liability for the minimum guarantee is recorded on Aegon’s books.

Product balances as of December 31, 2013 were EUR 372 million in fixed annuities (2012: EUR 432 million) and EUR 104 million in life reinsurance (2012: EUR 112 million).

c. Life contingent guarantees in the United States

Certain variable insurance contracts in the United States also provide guaranteed minimum death benefits (GMDB) and guaranteed minimum income benefits (GMIB). Under a GMDB, the beneficiaries receive the greater of the account balance or the guaranteed amount upon the death of the insured. The net amount at risk for GMDB contracts is defined as the current GMDB in excess of the capital account balance at the balance sheet date.

The GMIB feature provides for minimum payments if the contractholder elects to convert to an immediate pay-out annuity. The guaranteed amount is calculated using the total deposits made by the contractholder, less any withdrawals and sometimes includes a roll-up or step-up feature that increases the value of the guarantee with interest or with increases in the account value.

The additional liability for guaranteed minimum benefits that are not bifurcated are determined (based on ASC 944) each period by estimating the expected value of benefits in excess of the projected account balance and recognizing the excess over the accumulation period based on total expected assessments. The estimates are reviewed regularly and any resulting adjustment to the additional liability is recognized in the income statement. The benefits used in calculating the liabilities are based on the average benefits payable over a range of stochastic scenarios. Where applicable, the calculation of the liability incorporates a percentage of the potential annuitizations that may be elected by the contract holder. In the table below, no significant movements are shown at incurred guarantee benefits due to differences in measurement compared to financial guarantees and life contingent guarantees in the Netherlands.

 

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266   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 48

 

 

The following table provides information on the liabilities for guarantees for minimum benefits that are included in the valuation of the host contracts:

 

              2013                            2012                
     GMDB  1)      GMIB  2)      Total  4)      GMDB  1)      GMIB  2)      Total  4)  

 

At January 1

     386         702         1,088         376         872         1,248   

 

Incurred guarantee benefits  5)

     9         4         13         90         (75      15   

 

Paid guarantee benefits

     (57      (32      (90      (74      (86      (160

 

Net exchange differences

     (15      (29      (44      (6      (9      (15

At December 31

     323         644         967         386         702         1,088   
    

 

GMDB  1) , 3)

     GMIB  2) , 3)             GMDB  1) , 3)      GMIB  2) , 3)         

Account value  6)

     38,379         6,142            32,882         5,987      

Net amount at risk  7)

     1,577         386            2,667         636      

Average attained age of contractholders

     68         68                  67         67            

 

  1 Guaranteed minimum death benefit in the United States.  
  2 Guaranteed minimum income benefit in the United States.  
  3 Note that the variable annuity contracts with guarantees may offer more than one type of guarantee in each contract; therefore, the amounts listed are not mutually exclusive.  
  4 Balances are included in the insurance liabilities on the face of the statement of financial position; refer to note 37.  
  5 Incurred guarantee benefits mainly comprise the effect of guarantees from new contracts, releases related to expired out-of-the-money guarantees and value changes as a consequence of interest movements during the reporting year.  
  6 Account value reflects the actual fund value for the policyholders.  
  7 The net amount at risk is defined as the present value of the minimum guaranteed annuity payments available to the contract holder determined in accordance with the terms of the contract in excess of the current account balance.  

d. Minimum investment return guarantees in the Netherlands

The traditional life and pension products offered by Aegon in the Netherlands include various products that accumulate a cash value. Premiums are paid by customers at inception or over the term of the contract. The accumulation products pay benefits on the policy maturity date, subject to survival of the insured. In addition, most policies also pay death benefits if the insured dies during the term of the contract. The death benefits may be stipulated in the policy or depend on the gross premiums paid to date. Premiums and amounts insured are established at inception of the contract. The amount insured can be increased as a result of profit sharing, if provided for under the terms and conditions of the product. Minimum interest guarantees exist for all generations of traditional accumulation products written. Older generations contain a 4% guarantee; in recent years the guarantee has decreased to 3%.

The traditional group pension contracts offered by Aegon in the Netherlands include large group insurance contracts that have an individually determined asset investment strategy underlying the pension contract. The guarantee given is that the profit sharing is the maximum of 0% and the realized return on an asset portfolio specified in the policy conditions, adjusted for technical interest rates ranging from 3% to 4%. If the adjusted return is negative, the 0% minimum is effective, but the loss in any given year is carried forward to be offset against any future surpluses within the contract period. In general, a guarantee is given for the life of the underlying employees so that their pension benefit is guaranteed. Large group contracts also share technical results (mortality risk and disability risk). The contract period is typically five years and the premiums are fixed over this period.

These guarantees are valued at fair value and are included as part of insurance liabilities with the underlying host insurance contracts in note 37.

 

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The following table provides information on the liabilities for guarantees that are included in the valuation of the host contracts, net of the present value of the expected future premiums that are received to cover these guarantees:

 

      2013      2012  
     GMI  1) 2)      GMI  1) 2)  

 

At January 1

     3,684         3,254   

 

Incurred guarantee benefits  3)

     (1,222      430   

 

At December 31

     2,462         3,684   

 

Account value 4)

     14,557         15,702   

 

Net amount at risk 5)

     2,756         3,841   

 

  1   Guaranteed minimum investment return in the Netherlands.  
  2   Balances are included in the insurance liabilities on the face of the statement of financial position; refer to note 37.  
  3   Incurred guarantee benefits mainly comprise the effect of guarantees from new contracts, releases related to expired out-of-the-money guarantees and fair value movvements during the reporting year.  
  4   Account value reflects the liability value of the insurance contracts as a whole.  
  5   The net amount at risk represents the sum of the differences between the guaranteed and actual amount that is credited to the policyholders. For Individual policies only positive differences are included, for Group pensions contracts carry forwards of negative differences are recognize.  

Fair value measurement of guarantees in insurance contracts

The fair values of guarantees mentioned above (with the exception of life contingent guarantees in the United States) are calculated as the present value of future expected payments to policyholders less the present value of assessed rider fees attributable to the guarantees. For further details refer to note 3.

For equity volatility, Aegon uses a term structure assumption with market-based implied volatility inputs for the first five years and a long-term forward rate assumption of 25% thereafter. The volume of observable option trading from which volatilities are derived generally declines as the contracts’ term increases, therefore, the volatility curve grades from implied volatilities for five years to the ultimate rate. The resulting volatility assumption in year 20 for the S&P 500 index (expressed as a spot rate) was 23.9% at December 31, 2013 and 24.4% at December 31, 2012. Correlations of market returns across underlying indices are based on historical market returns and their inter-relationships over a number of years preceding the valuation date. Assumptions regarding policyholder behavior, such as lapses, included in the models are derived in the same way as the assumptions used to measure insurance liabilities.

Had Aegon used a long-term equity implied volatility assumption that was five volatility points higher or lower, the impact on income before tax would have been a decrease of EUR 117 million or an increase of EUR 115 million, respectively, in 2013 IFRS income before tax (2012: EUR 118 million decrease and EUR 104 million increase).

These assumptions are reviewed at each valuation date, and updated based on historical experience and observable market data, including market transactions such as acquisitions and reinsurance transactions.

Aegon utilizes different risk management strategies to mitigate the financial impact of the valuation of these guarantees on the results including asset and liability management and derivative hedging strategies to hedge certain aspects of the market risks embedded in these guarantees. Guarantees valued at fair value contributed a net loss before tax of EUR 188 million (2012: gain of EUR 289 million) to earnings. The main drivers of this loss before tax are positive results related to increases in risk free rates of EUR 2,014 million (2012: EUR 714 million loss), EUR 514 million related to an increase in equity markets (2012: EUR 491 million loss), EUR 67 million related to decreases in equity volatilities (2012: EUR 124 million loss) offset by EUR 302 million related to decreasing own credit spread (2012: EUR 465 million loss). Hedges related to these guarantee reserves contributed fair value losses of EUR 2,525 million to income before tax (2012: EUR 407 million gains) and DPAC offset and other contributed a gain of EUR 44 million (2012: EUR 446 million gain).

Guarantee reserves decreased EUR 2,341 million in 2013 (2012: increase of EUR 381 million).

 

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268   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 49

 

 

49 Capital and solvency

Aegon’s total capitalization reflects the capital employed in insurance activities and consists of shareholders’ capital and total gross financial leverage. Aegon aims to bring total gross financial leverage below 30% of total capitalization as measured by the gross financial leverage ratio. The gross financial leverage ratio is calculated by dividing the total gross financial leverage by the total capitalization. At December 31, 2013 the gross financial leverage ratio was 30.0%.

Additionally, Aegon manages capital adequacy at the level of its country units and their operating companies. The goal is to ensure that Aegon companies maintain their financial strength. Aegon maintains its companies’ capital adequacy levels at which ever is the higher of local regulatory requirements and the relevant local Standard & Poor’s requirements for very strong capitalization, and any additionally self-imposed economic requirements.

The following table shows the composition of the total capitalization and the calculation of the gross financial leverage ratio:

 

                Note        2013        2012  

Total shareholders’ equity

         32           20,059           23,449   

 

Non-controlling interests and share options not yet exercised

         34, SOFP  2)           109           115   

 

Revaluation reserves

         32           (2,998        (6,073

 

Remeasurement of defined benefit plans

             32           706           1,085   
Shareholders’ capital                         17,876           18,576   

Junior perpetual capital securities

         34           4,192           4,192   

 

Perpetual cumulative subordinated bonds

         34           454           453   

 

Non-Cumulative Subordinate Note

         34           271           271   

 

Trust pass-through securities

         35           135           155   

 

Subordinated borrowings

         36           44           42   

 

Currency revaluation other equity instruments 1)

                        (261        (123
Hybrid leverage                         4,834           4,990   

Senior debt

         41  3)           2,683           3,304   

 

Commercial paper and other short term debt

             41           151           430   
Senior leverage                         2,834           3,734   
Total financial leverage                         7,668           8,724   
                  
Total capitalization                         25,544           27,300   
                  
Gross financial leverage ratio                         30.0%           31.9%   

 

  1 Other equity instruments that are denominated in foreign currencies are, for purpose of calculating the capital base, revalued to the period-end exchange rate.  
  2   Non-controlling interests are disclosed in the statement of financial position.  
  3   Senior debt for financial leverage calculation also contains swaps and other senior debt for an amount of EUR 33 million (2012: EUR 18 million).  

Aegon N.V. is subject to certain financial covenants in some of its financial agreements (such as issued debentures, credit facilities and ISDA agreements). Under these financial covenants, an event of default may occur if and when any financial indebtedness of any member of the Group is not paid when due, or not paid within any applicable grace period. The financial agreements may also include a cross default provision which may be triggered if and when any financial indebtedness of any member of the Group is declared to be or otherwise becomes due and payable prior to its specified maturity as a result of an event of default.

All financial agreements are closely monitored periodically to assess the likelihood of a breach of any financial covenant and the likelihood thereof in the near future. On the basis of this assessment, a breach of any such covenant has not occurred.

Insurance, reinsurance, investment management and banking companies are required to maintain a minimum solvency margin based on applicable local regulations. For managing Aegon’s capital, the life insurance and life reinsurance regulations in the EU and the United States are of main importance. Aegon’s Insurance Group Directive ratio (IGD ratio) was 212% at the end of 2013 (2012: 228%). The calculation of the IGD ratio is based on Solvency I capital requirements for entities within the EU (Pillar 1 for Aegon UK), and local regulatory solvency measurements for non-EU entities. Specifically, required capital for the life insurance companies in the US is calculated as two times the upper end of the Company Action Level range (200%) as applied by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners in the US. The calculation of the IGD ratio excludes the available and required capital of the UK With Profits fund.

 

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In the United States, regulation of the insurance business is principally at the state level. State insurance regulators and the National Association of Insurance Commissioners have adopted risk-based capital (RBC) requirements for insurance companies. Risk-based capital calculations measure the ratio of a company’s statutory capital, which is measured on a prudent regulatory accounting basis, to a minimum capital amount determined by the risk-based capital formula. The risk-based capital formula measures exposures to investment risk, insurance risk, market risk, and general business risk. The formula applies a covariance calculation to determine the appropriate risk-based capital. Life reinsurance is treated as life insurance. The most pertinent risk-based capital measure is the company action level (CAL) risk-based capital. This is the highest regulatory intervention level and is the level at which a company has to submit a plan to its state regulators. The CAL is 200% of the authorized control level (ACL), the level at which regulators are permitted to seize control of the company. At the end of 2013 the combined risk-based capital ratio of Aegon’s life insurance subsidiaries in the United States was approximately 440% of the CAL risk-based capital.

For the insurance and reinsurance undertakings of Aegon in the EU, the European Solvency I directives are applicable, as implemented in the relevant member states. Solvency I allows member states to require solvency standards, exceeding the minimum requirements set by the Solvency I directives. For life insurance companies the Solvency I capital requirement is by and large the sum of 4% of insurance and investment liabilities for general account and 1% of insurance and investment liabilities for account policyholders if no guaranteed investment returns are given. At the end of 2013, Aegon the Netherlands consolidated solvency capital ratio based on IFRS was approximately 240% excluding Aegon bank.

The Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) regulates insurance companies in the United Kingdom under the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 and sets minimum solvency standards. Companies must manage their solvency positions according to the most stringent of the published Solvency I measure (Pillar 1) and a privately submitted economic capital measure (Pillar 2). For Aegon UK, the published measure continues to be the most stringent requirement. The Pillar I ratio in the United Kingdom, including the With Profits fund, was approximately 150% at the end of the fourth quarter of 2013 (With Profits fund included at unaudited June 30, 2013 values). The local regulator (PRA) requires the total capital number of the With-Profits funds to be equal to the available capital.

Aegon N.V. is subject to legal restrictions on the amount of dividends it can pay to its shareholders. Under Dutch law the amount that is available to pay dividends consists of total shareholders’ equity less the issued and outstanding capital and less the reserves required by law. The revaluation account and legal reserves, foreign currency translation reserve and other, cannot be freely distributed. In case of negative balances for individual reserves legally to be retained, no distributions can be made out of retained earnings to the level of these negative amounts. Total distributable reserves under Dutch law amount to EUR 9,684 million at December 31, 2013 (2012: EUR 10,341 million).

The ability of Aegon’s subsidiaries, principly insurance companies, to pay dividends to the holding company is constrained by the need for these subsidiaries to remain adequately capitalized to the levels set by local insurance regulations and governed by local insurance regulatory authorities. Based on the capitalization level of the local subsidiary, local insurance regulators are able to restrict and/or prohibit the transfer of dividends to the holding company. In addition, the ability of subsidiaries to pay dividends to the holding company can be constrained by the need for these subsidiaries to have sufficient shareholders’ equity as determined by law. The capitalization level and shareholders’ equity of the subsidiaries can be impacted by various factors (e.g. general economic conditions, capital markets risks, underwriting risk factors, changes in government regulations, legal and arbitrational proceedings). To mitigate the impact of such factors on the ability of subsidiaries to pay dividends, the subsidiaries hold additional capital in excess of the levels required by local insurance regulations.

The ability of the holding company to meet its cash obligations depends on the amount of liquid assets on its balance sheet and on the ability of the subsidiaries to pay dividends to the holding company. In order to ensure the holding company’s ability to fulfill its cash obligations, it is the company’s policy that, the holding company holds liquid assets in reserve to fund at least 1.5 years of holding company operating and funding expenses, without having to rely on the receipt of dividends from its subsidiaries.

Optas N.V., an indirect subsidiary of Aegon N.V., holds statutory reserves of EUR 997 million (2012: EUR 981 million) which are restricted. Included in Aegon N.V.’s legal reserves is an amount of EUR 458 million related to Optas N.V. which represents the increase in statutory reserves since the acquisition of Optas N.V. by Aegon (2012: EUR 441 million). The statutory reserves of Optas N.V. are linked to the acquired negative goodwill related to Optas N.V. at acquisition date.

 

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270   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 50

 

 

50 Summary of total financial assets and financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss

The table that follows summarizes the carrying amounts of financial assets and financial liabilities that are classified as at fair value through profit or loss, with appropriate distinction between those financial assets and financial liabilities held for trading and those that, upon initial recognition, were designated as at fair value through profit or loss.

 

        2013            2012      
        Trading      Designated        Trading      Designated  

Investments for general account

       121         4,712           754         4,809   

 

Investments for account of policyholders

       -         164,037           -         151,960   

 

Derivatives with positive values not designated as hedges

       12,725         -           19,349         -   
Total financial assets at fair value through profit or loss        12,846         168,749           20,103         156,769   

Investment contracts for account of policyholders

       -         32,628           -         29,188   

 

Derivatives with negative values not designated as hedges

       11,326         -           17,183         -   

 

Borrowings

       -         1,017           -         1,050   
Total financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss        11,326         33,645           17,183         30,238   

Investments for general account

The Group manages certain portfolios on a total return basis which have been designated at fair value through profit or loss. This includes portfolios of investments in limited partnerships and limited liability companies (primarily hedge funds) for which the performance is assessed internally on a total return basis. In addition, some investments that include an embedded derivative that would otherwise have required bifurcation, such as convertible instruments, preferred shares and credit linked notes, have been designated at fair value through profit or loss.

Investments for general account backing insurance and investment liabilities, that are carried at fair value with changes in the fair value recognized in the income statement, are designated at fair value through profit or loss. The Group elected to designate these investments at fair value through profit or loss, as a classification of financial assets as available-for-sale would result in accumulation of unrealized gains and losses in a revaluation reserve within equity whilst changes to the liability would be reflected in net income (accounting mismatch).

Investments for account of policyholders

Investments held for account of policyholders comprise assets that are linked to various insurance and investment contracts for which the financial risks are borne by the customer. Under the Group’s accounting policies these insurance and investment liabilities are measured at the fair value of the linked assets with changes in the fair value recognized in the income statement. To avoid an accounting mismatch the linked assets have been designated as at fair value through profit or loss.

In addition, the investment for account of policyholders include with profit assets, where an insurer manages these assets together with related liabilities on a fair value basis in accordance with a documented policy of asset and liability management. In accordance with Group’s accounting policies, these assets have been designated as at fair value through profit or loss.

Investment contracts for account of policyholders

With the exception of the financial liabilities with discretionary participating features that are not subject to the classification and measurement requirements for financial instruments, all investment contracts for account of policyholders that are carried at fair value or at the fair value of the linked assets are included in the table above.

Derivatives

With the exception of derivatives designated as a hedging instrument, all derivatives held for general account and held for account of policyholders are included in the table above.

 

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Borrowings

Borrowings designated as at fair value through profit or loss includes financial instruments that are managed on a fair value basis together with related financial assets and financial derivatives (Refer to note 41).

Gains and losses recognized in the income statement on financial assets and financial liabilities classified as at fair value through profit or loss can be summarized as follows:

 

      2013            2012        
        Trading     Designated        Trading     Designated  

Net gains and (losses)

     8,672        6,263         6,713        5,763   

No loans and receivables were designated at fair value through profit or loss.

Changes in the fair value of investment contracts for account of policyholders designated at fair value through profit or loss were not attributable to changes in Aegon’s credit spread. There are also no differences between the carrying amounts of these financial liabilities and the contractual amounts payable at maturity (net of surrender penalties).

Refer to note 41 Borrowings for the impact of Aegon’s credit spread on the fair value of the  borrowings designated at fair value through profit or loss.

51 Commitments and contingencies

Investments contracted

In the normal course of business, the Group has committed itself through purchase and sale transactions of investments, mostly to be executed in the course of 2014. The amounts represent the future outflow and inflow, respectively, of cash related to these investment transactions that are not reflected in the consolidated statement of financial position.

 

     2013           2012        
     Purchase                 Sale     Purchase                 Sale  

Real estate

    -        7        -        23   

 

Mortgage loans

    330        44        312        60   

 

Private loans

    106        -        25        -   

 

Other

    364        -        365        -   

Mortgage loans commitments represent undrawn mortgage loan facility provided and outstanding proposals on mortgages. The sale of mortgage loans relates to pre-announced redemptions on mortgage loans. Private loans represents deals on Aegon’s portfolio of private placement securities that Aegon has committed to, but have not yet settled and funded. Other commitments include future purchases of interests in investment funds and limited partnerships.

Other commitments and contingencies

 

          2013                 2012  

Guarantees

    662        660   

 

Standby letters of credit

    40        41   

 

Share of contingent liabilities incurred in relation to interests in joint ventures

    64        102   

 

Other guarantees

    27        3   

 

Other commitments and contingent liabilities

    22        28   

Guarantees include those given on account of asset management commitments and guarantees associated with the sale of investments in low-income housing tax credit partnerships in the United States. Standby letters of credit amounts reflected above are the liquidity commitment notional amounts. In addition to the guarantees shown in the table, guarantees have been given for fulfillment of contractual obligations such as investment mandates related to investment funds.

 

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272   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 51

 

 

Contractual obligations

An Aegon N.V. indirect US life subsidiary has a net worth maintenance agreement with its subsidiary Transamerica Life (Bermuda) Ltd, pursuant to which Transamerica Life Insurance Company, a US life insurance subsidiary, will provide capital sufficient to maintain a S&P “AA” financial strength rating and capital sufficient to comply with the requirements of the countries in which its branches are located.

Aegon USA, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Aegon N.V., has provided a parental guarantee to TLIC Riverwood Reinsurance, Inc. (TRRI), an affiliated captive reinsurer, for the cash payments required fulfilling reinsurance payments to Transamerica Life Insurance Company, to the extent that the assets in the captive (TRRI) are not sufficient to cover reinsurance obligations. As at December 31, 2013, this amounted to EUR 1,333 million (2012 EUR: 1,267 million).

Aegon N.V. has guaranteed and is severally liable for the following:

  ¿   Due and punctual payment of payables due under letter of credit agreements applied for by Aegon N.V. as co-applicant with its captive insurance companies that are subsidiaries of Transamerica Corporation, Aegon USA, LLC and Commonwealth General Corporation. At December 31, 2013, the letter of credit arrangements utilized by captives to provide collateral to affiliates amounted to EUR 2,392 million (2012: EUR 3,260 million); as at that date no amounts had been drawn, or were due under these facilities. Other letter of credit arrangements amount to EUR 158 million (2012: EUR 346 million); as at that date no amounts had been drawn, or were due under these facilities;
  ¿   Due and punctual payment of payables due under letter of credit agreements applied for by captive insurance companies that are subsidiaries of Transamerica Corporation. At December 31, 2013, the letter of credit agreements amount to EUR 2,633 million (2012: 2,642 million); as at that date no amounts had been drawn, or were due under these facilities;
  ¿   Due and punctual payment of payables due in relation to debt that was issued by a captive insurance company that is a subsidiary of Transamerica Corporation. As at December 31, 2013, this debt amounted to EUR 1,089 million and is included in the ‘debentures and other loans’ table in note 41 (Borrowings) of the consolidated financial statements of the Group in the line USD 1.54 billion Variable Funding Surplus Note.
  ¿   Due and punctual payment of payables by the consolidated group companies Transamerica Corporation, Aegon Funding Company LLC, Commonwealth General Corporation and Transamerica Finance Corp. with respect to bonds, capital trust pass-through securities and notes issued under commercial paper programs amount to EUR 485 million (2012: EUR 507 million);
  ¿   Due and punctual payment of any amounts owed to third parties by the consolidated group company Aegon Derivatives N.V. in connection with derivative transactions. Aegon Derivatives N.V. only enters into derivative transactions with counterparties with which ISDA master netting agreements including collateral support annex agreements have been agreed; net (credit) exposure on derivative transactions with these counterparties was therefore limited as at December 31, 2013.

Legal and arbitration proceedings, regulatory investigations and actions

Aegon is involved in litigation in the ordinary course of business, including litigation where compensatory or punitive damages and mass or class relief are sought. Current and former customers, both institutional as well as individual, and groups representing customers, initiate litigation. Also, certain groups encourage others to bring lawsuits in respect of products. Aegon has established litigation policies to deal with claims, defending when the claim is without merit and seeking to settle in certain circumstances. There can be no assurances that Aegon will be able to resolve existing litigation in the manner it expects or that existing or future litigation will not result in unexpected liability.

Certain of the products we sell are complex and involve significant investment risks that may be assumed by Aegon’s customers. Aegon has, from time to time, received claims from certain current and former customers, and groups representing customers, in respect of certain products. Aegon has in the past agreed to make payments, in some cases substantial, or adjustments to policy terms to settle those claims or disputes if we believed it was appropriate to do so.

In addition, the insurance industry has routinely been the subject of litigation, investigations, regulatory activity and challenges by various governmental and enforcement authorities and policyholder advocate groups concerning certain practices. In this context, Aegon refers to the unclaimed property examinations that unclaimed property administrators and state insurance regulators performed of the life insurance industry in the United States, including certain of Aegon’s subsidiaries. Among these were multi-state examinations that included the collective action of many states. Additionally, some states conducted separate examinations or instituted separate enforcement actions in regard to unclaimed property laws and related claims settlement practices. As other insurers in the United States have done, Aegon Americas identified certain additional internal processes that it has implemented or is in the process of implementing. Aegon Americas originally established reserves related to this matter of approximately EUR 117 million since 2011. Like various other major insurers

 

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in the United States, Aegon subsidiaries in the United States entered into settlements with insurance regulators regarding claims settlement practices. Certain examinations are still ongoing. While Aegon believes the reserves it has established for these unclaimed property-related matters are adequate to cover expected obligations, there can be no assurances that actual exposures may not exceed reserve amounts or that additional sources of liability related to those examinations or other unclaimed property-related matters will not arise in the future.

Aegon subsidiaries have received inquiries from local authorities and policyholder advocate groups in various jurisdictions including the United States, the United Kingdom and the Netherlands. In the normal course of business, reviews of processes and procedures are undertaken to ensure that customers have been treated fairly, and to respond to matters raised by policyholders and their representatives. There is a risk that the Group is not able to resolve some or all such matters in the manner that it expects. In certain instances, Aegon subsidiaries modified business practices in response to such inquiries or the findings thereof. Aegon has also sought and intends to continue to seek to settle certain claims, including via policy modifications, in appropriate circumstances. Aegon refers to the settlement Aegon reached in 2009 with Stichting Verliespolis and Stichting Woekerpolis in the Netherlands, two major customer interest groups. In 2012, Aegon accelerated certain product improvements that reduce future costs and that increase policy value for its customers with unit-linked insurance policies. With these measures, Aegon committed to the ‘best of class’ principles of the Dutch Ministry of Finance for certain existing unit-linked products. These principles were the result of an industry-wide review by the Ministry of the various agreements reached between individual insurance companies and customer interest groups in relation to unit-linked insurance policies. The Ministry made a strong appeal to all industry participants to apply its principles. As a result of this acceleration, Aegon took a one-off charge of EUR 265 million before tax in 2012. In addition, Aegon decided to reduce future policy costs for the large majority of its unit-linked portfolio. This is expected to decrease income before tax over the remaining duration of the policies by approximately EUR 125 million in aggregate, based on the present value at the time of the decision. While parties such as the Ombudsman Financiële Dienstverlening (The Netherlands financial services industry ombudsman) supported the arrangements, it is uncertain whether public debate over the adequacy generally of the arrangements reached with customer interest groups, as well as ongoing discussion in the Dutch Parliament, will not continue in the future and lead to re-examination and adjustment of the settlements made. It is not yet possible to determine the direction or outcome of any further debate, including what actions, if any, Aegon may take in response thereto, or the impact that any such actions may have on Aegon’s business, results of operations and financial position. In addition to the above, certain Aegon subsidiaries have been informed that relevant local regulators may seek fines or other monetary penalties or changes in the way Aegon conducts its business.

Proceedings in which Aegon is involved

In June, 2013, the Dutch Supreme Court denied Aegon’s appeal from a ruling of the Court of Appeal with respect to a specific Aegon unit-linked product, the “Koersplan”-product. In 2011, the Court of Appeal had ruled that Aegon should have more clearly informed its customers about the amount of premium which the company charged in relation to the death benefit embedded in the product, sold during the period 1989-1998. Prior to the ruling Aegon had already taken steps to improve its communications with customers as well as adjusting the amounts charged to Koersplan-customers. As a result of the Dutch Supreme Court’s denial of appeal, Aegon will compensate the approximately 35,000 holders of KoersPlan-products who were plaintiffs in the litigation and took a charge of EUR 25 million in Q2 2013. It is possible that holders of KoersPlan-products that were not plaintiffs in the litigation also expect or demand a form of compensation. It is not yet possible to determine what actions, if any, Aegon may take in connection with any such expectations or demands due to commercial necessity or future rulings, or the impact that any such actions may have on Aegon’s business, results of operations and financial position.

Generally speaking, individual customers as well as policyholder advocate groups and their representatives, continue to focus on the fees and charges included in products, as well as transparency aspects. Aegon expects this to remain an industry issue for the foreseeable future. Recently, a group of policyholders filed a claim against Aegon in Poland over the fees payable by a customer in case of early surrender of the policy contract. In September 2013, the Klachteninstituut Financiële Dienstverlening (KIFID), rendered an interim decision against another insurance company in the Netherlands. KIFID is an independent body that offers an alternative forum for customers to file complaints or claims over financial services. Its decisions may be appealed to the courts. In its interim decision, KIFID found that the consumer had not been adequately informed of the so-called initial costs embedded within its unit linked policy, nor of the leverage component thereof, and challenged the contractual basis for the charges. There are claims pending with KIFID filed by customers over Aegon products and that arguably include similar allegations. If KIFID were to finally decide unfavorably and that decision were to be upheld by a court, there can be no assurances that ultimately the aggregate exposure to Aegon of such adverse decision would not have a material adverse effect on Aegon’s results of operations or financial position if the principles underlying any such decision were to be applied also to Aegon products.

 

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274   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 52

 

Aegon and other US industry participants have been named in lawsuits alleging, among other things, that asset-based fees charged for investment products offered on 401(k) platforms were higher than those generally available in the market. Matters like these are being defended vigorously; however, at this time, due to its nature and the type of claims, it is not practicable for Aegon to quantify a range or maximum liability or the timing of the financial impact, if any. There can be no assurance that such claims may not have a material adverse effect on Aegon’s results of operations or financial position.

Future lease payments

 

           2013                      2012          
Future lease payments  

 

Not later
than 1 year

   1-5 years      Later than 5
years
     Not later
than 1 year
     1-5 years      Later than 5
years
 

Operating lease obligations

  66      164         253         83         204         300   

 

Operating lease rights

  58      149         49         65         160         56   

The operating lease obligations relate mainly to office space leased from third parties. The total of future minimum sublease payments expected to be received on non-cancellable subleases is EUR 7 million (2012: EUR 9 million).

The operating lease rights relate to non-cancellable commercial property leases.

52 Transfers of financial assets

Transfers of financial assets occur when Aegon transfers contractual rights to receive cash flows of financial assets or when Aegon retains the contractual rights to receive the cash flows of the transferred financial asset, but assumes a contractual obligation to pay the cash flows to one or more recipients in that arrangement.

In the normal course of business Aegon is involved in the following transactions:

 

  ¿   Transferred financial assets that are not derecognized in their entirety:

 

  ¿   securities lending; whereby Aegon legally (but not economically) transfers assets and receives cash and non-cash collateral. The transferred assets are not derecognized. The obligation to repay the cash collateral is recognized as a liability.  

The non-cash collateral is not recognized on the balance sheet;

 

  ¿   repurchase activities; whereby Aegon receives cash for the transferred assets. The financial assets are legally (but not economically) transferred, but are not derecognized. The obligation to repay the cash received is recognized as a liability.  

 

  ¿   Transferred financial assets that are derecognized in their entirety and Aegon does not have a continuing involvement (normal sale).

 

  ¿   Transferred financial assets that are derecognized in their entirety, but where Aegon has a continuing involvement:

 

  ¿   securitizations whereby mortgage loans are transferred to a securitization vehicle which is not part of the Group and where Aegon has a continuing involvement in the transferred assets.  

 

  ¿   Collateral accepted in the case of securities lending, reverse repurchase agreement and derivative transactions.

 

  ¿   Collateral pledged in the case of (contingent) liabilities, repurchase agreements, securities borrowing and derivative transactions.

The following disclosures provide details for transferred financial assets that are not derecognized in their entirety, transferred financial asset that are derecognized in their entirety, but where Aegon has a continuing involvement and assets accepted and pledged as collateral.

 

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52.1 Transferred financial assets that have not been derecognized in their entirety

The following table reflects the carrying amount of financial assets that have been transferred to another party in such a way that part or all of the transferred financial assets do not qualify for derecognition. Furthermore, it reflects the carrying amounts of the associated liabilities.

 

     2013
    

 

Available-for-sale      

financial assets      

  Financial assets at fair  
value through profit or loss  
                 Shares         Debt securities         Debt securities        

 

Investments  

for account of  
policyholders  

Carrying amount of transferred assets

  264         7,994         31         436  

 

Carrying amount of associated liabilities

  281         8,051         32         447  
     2012
    

 

Available-for-sale      

financial assets      

  Financial assets at fair value through  
profit or loss  
     Shares         Debt securities         Debt securities  

 

Investments for  
account of  
policyholders  

Carrying amount of transferred assets

  272         8,038         26   795  

 

Carrying amount of associated liabilities

  297         8,075         27   814  

Securities lending and repurchase activities

The table above includes financial assets that have been transferred to another party under securities lending and repurchase activities.

Aegon retains substantially all risks and rewards of those transferred assets, this includes credit risk, settlement risk, country risk and market risk. The assets are transferred in return for cash collateral or other financial assets. Non-cash collateral is not recognized in the statement of financial position. Cash collateral is recorded on the statement of financial position as an asset and an offsetting liability is established for the same amount as Aegon is obligated to return this amount upon termination of the lending arrangement. Cash collateral is usually invested in pre-designated high quality investments. The sum of cash and non-cash collateral is typically greater than the market value of the related securities loaned. Refer to 52.3 and 52.4 for an analysis of collateral accepted and pledged in relation to securities lending and repurchase agreements.

52.2 Transferred financial assets that are derecognized in their entirety, but where Aegon has continuing involvement

Aegon has no transferred financial assets with continuing involvement that are derecognized in their entirely as per year-end 2012 and 2013.

 

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276   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 52

 

52.3 Assets accepted

Aegon receives collateral related to securities lending and reverse repurchase activities. Non-cash collateral is not recognized in the statement of financial position. To the extent that cash is paid for reverse repurchase agreements, a receivable is recognized for the corresponding amount.

The following table analyses the fair value of the assets received in relation to securities lending and reverse repurchase activities:

 

Securities lending    2013     2012  

Carrying amount of transferred financial assets

     6,347        6,780   

 

Fair value of cash collateral received

     4,165        3,562   

 

Fair value of non-cash collateral received

     2,286        3,296   
Net exposure      (104     (78

 

Non-cash collateral that can be sold or repledged in the absence of default

     1,517        1,802   

 

Non-cash collateral that has been sold or transferred

     -        -   

 

Reverse repurchase agreements    2013     2012  

Cash paid for reverse repurchase agreements

     2,752        4,411   

 

Fair value of non-cash collateral received

     2,782        4,428   
Net exposure      (31     (17

 

Non-cash collateral that can be sold or repledged in the absence of default

     1,704        3,710   

 

Non-cash collateral that has been sold or transferred

     -        -   

The above items are conducted under terms that are usual and customary to standard securities lending activities, as well as requirements determined by exchanges where the bank acts as intermediary.

In addition, Aegon can receive collateral related to derivative transactions that it enters into. The credit support agreement will normally dictate the threshold over which collateral needs to be pledged by Aegon or its counterparty. Transactions requiring Aegon or its counterparty to post collateral are typically the result of over-the-counter derivative trades, comprised mostly of interest rate swaps, currency swaps and credit swaps. Refer to the credit risk section in note 4 for details on collateral received for derivative transactions.

 

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52.4 Assets pledged

Aegon pledges assets that are on its statement of financial position in securities borrowing transactions, in repurchase transactions, and against long-term borrowings. In addition, in order to trade derivatives on the various exchanges, Aegon posts margin as collateral.

These transactions are conducted under terms that are usual and customary to standard long-term borrowing, derivative and securities borrowing activities, as well as requirements determined by exchanges where the bank acts as intermediary.

Non-cash financial assets that are borrowed or purchased under agreement to resell are not recognized in the statement of financial position.

To the extent that cash collateral is paid, a receivable is recognized for the corresponding amount. If other non-cash financial assets are given as collateral, these are not derecognized.

The following tables analyse the carrying amount of collateral pledged and the corresponding amounts.

 

Assets pledged for general account and contingent liabilities    2013     2012  

General account (contingent) liabilities

     3,154        3,885   

 

Collateral pledged

     4,016        6,270   
Net exposure      (863     (2,385

Non-cash collateral that can be sold or repledged by the counterparty

     -        -   
    
Assets pledged for repurchase agreements    2013     2012  

Cash received on repurchase agreements

     2,252        2,216   

 

Collateral pledged (transferred financial assets)

     2,377        2,351   
Net exposure      (125     (135

As part of Aegon’s mortgage loan funding program in the Netherlands, EUR 5.4 billion (2012: EUR 6.3 billion) have been pledged as security for notes issued (refer to note 41). In addition, in order to trade derivatives on the various exchanges, Aegon posts margin as collateral. The amount of collateral pledged for derivative transactions is EUR 1,852 million (2012: EUR 1,641 million).

 

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278   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 53

 

53 Offsetting, enforceable master netting arrangements and similar agreements

The following table provides details relating to the effect or potential effect of netting arrangements, including rights of set-off associated with the entity’s recognized financial assets and recognized financial liabilities.

 

                          Related amounts not set off in
the statements of financial
position
        
Financial assets subject to
offsetting, enforceable
master netting arrangements
and similar agreements
   Gross
amounts of
recognized
financial
assets
     Gross amounts of
recognized financial
liabilities set off in
the statement of
financial position
     Net amounts of
financial assets
presented in
the statement of
financial position
     Financial
instruments
     Cash collateral
received
(excluding
surplus
collateral)
     Net
amount
 
2013                  

 

Derivatives

     13,217         30         13,187         9,728         2,964         496   
At December 31      13,217         30         13,187         9,728         2,964         496   
2012                  

 

Derivatives

     20,685         40         20,645         15,267         4,900         478   
At December 31      20,685         40         20,645         15,267         4,900         478   
                          Related amounts not set off in
the statements of financial
position
        
Financial liabilities subject to
offsetting, enforceable
master netting arrangements
and similar agreements
   Gross
amounts of
recognized
financial
liabilities
     Gross amounts of
recognized financial
assets set off in
the statement of
financial position
     Net amounts of
financial liabilities
presented in
the statement of
financial position
     Financial
instruments
     Cash collateral
pledged
(excluding
surplus
collateral)
     Net
amount
 
2013                  

 

Derivatives

     10,419         30         10,389         9,885         86         418   
At December 31      10,419         30         10,389         9,885         86         418   
2012                  

 

Derivatives

     15,335         40         15,295         14,818         136         341   
At December 31      15,335         40         15,295         14,818         136         341   

Financial assets and liabilities are offset in the statement of financial position when the Group has a legally enforceable right to offset and has the intention to settle the asset and liability on a net basis, or to realize the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.

Aegon mitigates credit risk in derivative contracts by entering into collateral agreements, where practical, and in ISDA master netting agreements for each of the Aegon’s legal entities to facilitate Aegon’s right to offset credit risk exposure. The credit support agreement will normally dictate the threshold over which collateral needs to be pledged by Aegon or its counterparty. Transactions requiring Aegon or its counterparty to post collateral are typically the result of over-the-counter derivative trades, comprised mostly of interest rate swaps, currency swaps and credit swaps. These transactions are conducted under terms that are usual and customary to standard long-term borrowing, derivative, securities lending and securities borrowing activities, as well as requirements determined by exchanges where the bank acts as intermediary.

 

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54 Business combinations

Acquisitions

2013

On February 8, 2013, Aegon closed the acquisition of 100% of Fidem Life, a life insurance company in Ukraine. Fidem Life is rebranded ‘Aegon Ukraine’ and is integrated into the governance and management structure of Aegon CEE.

2012

There were no acquisitions during 2012.

2011

There were no acquisitions during 2011.

Divestments / Disposals

2013

On June 12, 2013, Aegon UK announced the sale of national independent financial advisor (IFA) Positive Solutions to Intrinsic Financial Services. The loss on the sale amounted to EUR 22 million. The sale is completed in the third quarter of 2013.

On December 30, 2013, Aegon Czech Republic has completed the sale of its local pension business. The consideration amounted to EUR 6 million and resulted in a book loss of EUR 7 million.

2012

There were no divestments/disposals during 2012.

2011

On November 24, 2011, Aegon completed the sale of its UK-based Guardian life and pension business for a total cash consideration of GBP 275 million to Cinven, a European private equity group. The sale of the Guardian life and pension business in the United Kingdom resulted in a loss of EUR 7 million, mainly originated from the disentaglement costs associated with the sale.

Underlying earnings before tax for Guardian life and pension totaled GBP 23 million in 2010. Gross written premiums for 2010 was GBP 129 million and net income for 2010 was GBP 26 million.

On August 9, 2011, Aegon completed the divestment of its life reinsurance business, Transamerica Reinsurance (TARe), to SCOR. The divestment resulted in a total after-tax consideration of USD 1.4 billion, consisting of cash proceeds of USD 0.9 billion and a capital release of USD 0.5 billion. Aegon has retained certain blocks of business consisting primarily of variable annuity guarantee products with a book value of USD 0.4 billion. The divestment of TARe consists of a series of reinsurance agreements between various statutory insurance entities and SCOR for the US domestic business. In addition, SCOR has acquired Transamerica International Reinsurance Ireland (TIRI), a company that includes reinsurance contracts that are assumed by Aegon US domestic companies which have been retroceded to TIRI, and has taken over the operational assets and systems of TARe.

The business residing in Transamerica International Reinsurance, Bermuda (TIRe) has been retroceded to SCOR. TIRe will continue to provide reserve credit security for redundant reserves to Aegon USA’s ceding companies. Aegon will maintain approximately half of the collateral requirements needed for reinsurance reserve financing. This obligation provides reserve credit security and will run off over approximately 15 years. Refer to note 28 and 29 for details on the reinsurance treatment of this divestment.

 

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280   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 55

 

55 Group companies

Subsidiaries

The principle subsidiaries of the parent company Aegon N.V. are listed by geographical segment. All are wholly owned, directly or indirectly, unless stated otherwise, and are involved in insurance or reinsurance business, asset management or services related to these activities. The voting power in these subsidiaries held by Aegon is equal to the shareholdings.

Americas

 

  ¿   Aegon USA, LLC, Cedar Rapids, Iowa (United States)

 

  ¿   Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company, Little Rock, Arkansas (United States)

 

  ¿   Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company of New York, New York, New York (United States)

 

  ¿   Monumental Life Insurance Company, Cedar Rapids, Iowa (United States)

 

  ¿   Stonebridge Casualty Insurance Company, Columbus, Ohio (United States)

 

  ¿   Stonebridge Life Insurance Company, Rutland, Vermont (United States)

 

  ¿   Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, Inc., Albany, New York (United States)

 

  ¿   Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Cedar Rapids, Iowa (United States)

 

  ¿   Western Reserve Life Assurance Co. of Ohio, Columbus, Ohio (United States)

 

  ¿   Transamerica Life Canada, Toronto, Ontario (Canada)

The Netherlands

 

  ¿   Aegon Bank N.V., Utrecht

 

  ¿   Aegon Levensverzekering N.V., The Hague

 

  ¿   Aegon Schadeverzekering N.V., The Hague

 

  ¿   Optas Pensioenen N.V., Rotterdam

 

  ¿   Aegon Spaarkas N.V., The Hague

 

  ¿   Unirobe Meeùs Groep B.V., The Hague

 

  ¿   TKP Pensioen B.V., Groningen

 

  ¿   Aegon Hypotheken B.V., The Hague

United Kingdom

 

  ¿   Scottish Equitable plc, Edinburgh

 

  ¿   Origen Financial Services Ltd., London

New Markets

 

  ¿   Aegon España S.A., Madrid (Spain) (99.98%)

 

  ¿   Aegon Magyarország Általános Biztosító Zártkörűen Működő Részvénytársaság, Budapest (Hungary)

 

  ¿   Aegon Towarzystwo Ubezpieczeń na Życie Spółka Akcyjna, Warsaw (Poland)

 

  ¿   Aegon Life Ukraine PJSC, Kiev (Ukraine)

 

  ¿   Aegon PENSII - Societate de Administrare a Fondurilor de Pensii Private S.A., Clui (Romania)

The legally required list of participations as set forth in articles 379 and 414 of Book 2 of the Dutch Civil Code has been registered with the Trade Register in The Hague. Aegon N.V. has issued a statement of liability as meant in article 403 of Book 2 of the Dutch Civil Code for its subsidiary company Aegon Derivatives N.V.

 

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Joint ventures

The principal joint ventures are listed by geographical segment.

The Netherlands

 

  ¿   AMVEST Vastgoed B.V., Utrecht (50%), property management and development

New Markets

 

  ¿   Aegon-CNOOC Life Insurance Company Ltd, Shanghai (China), life insurance company (50%)

 

  ¿   Aegon Sony Life Insurance Cy, Tokyo (Japan), life insurance company (50%)

 

  ¿   Caja Badajoz Vida y Pensiones, SA de Seguros, Badajoz (Spain), life insurance and pension company (50%)

 

  ¿   Cantabria Vida y Pensiones, SA de Seguros y Reaseguros, Santander (Spain), life insurance and pension company (50%)

 

  ¿   Liberbank Vida y Pensiones, Seguros y Reaseguros, S.A., Oviedo (Spain), life insurance and pension company (50%)

 

  ¿   Aegon Santander Generales Seguros y Reaseguros, S.A., Madrid (Spain), non-life insurance company (51%)

 

  ¿   Aegon Santander Vida Seguros y Reaseguros, S.A., Madrid (Spain), life insurance company (51%)

 

  ¿   Aegon Industrial Fund Management Co., Ltd, Shanghai (China), investment management company (49%)

Refer to note 25 for further details on joint ventures.

Investments in associates

The principal investments in associates are listed by geographical segment.

The Netherlands

 

  ¿   N.V. Levensverzekering-Maatschappij “De Hoop”, The Hague, life reinsurance company (33.3%)

United Kingdom

 

  ¿   Tenet Group Limited, Leeds, independent financial advisers (22%)

 

  ¿   7IM, London, investment management company (25,1%)

New Markets

 

  ¿   La Mondiale Participations S.A., Lille (France), life insurance and pension company (35%)

 

  ¿   Seguros Argos, S.A. de C.V., Mexico City (Mexico), life insurance company (49%)

 

  ¿   Aegon Religare Life Insurance Company, Mumbai (India), life insurance company (26%)

 

  ¿   Mongeral Aegon, Seguros e Previdencia S.A., Rio de Janeiro (Brazil), life insurance company (50%)

Refer to note 26 for further details on investments in associates.

 

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282

  Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 56

 

56 Related party transactions

Related party transactions include, among others, transactions between Aegon N.V. and Vereniging Aegon.

On July 5, 2013, and with effect of June 14, 2013, Vereniging Aegon exercised its option rights to purchase in aggregate 12,691,745 common shares B at fair value of a common share B (being 1/40th of the Market value of a common share in the capital of the company at the time of issuance) to mitigate dilution caused by Aegon’s issuance of shares on June 14, 2013, being the final dividend 2012 in the form of stock dividend.

On May 29, 2013, the Articles of Association of Aegon N.V. were amended, which included the conversion of all outstanding 329,773,000 preferred shares a and B with a nominal value of EUR 0.25 each, all owned by Vereniging Aegon, into 120,713,389 common shares and 566,313,694 common shares B with a nominal value of EUR 0.12 each. The financial rights attached to a common share B was determined at 1/40th of the financial rights attached to a common share. (see also the section “Major Shareholders”).

On May 29, 2013, Aegon N.V. and Vereniging Aegon entered into an amendment of the Amended 1983 Merger Agreement between Aegon N.V. and Vereniging Aegon. Following this 2013 amendment, Vereniging Aegon’s call option relates to common shares B. Vereniging Aegon may exercise its call option on common shares B to keep or restore its total stake at 32.6% irrespective of the circumstances which caused the total shareholding to be or become lower than 32.6% (see also the section “Major Shareholders”).

On May 29, 2013, Aegon N.V. and Vereniging Aegon entered into a Voting Rights Agreement, which ensures that under normal circumstances, i.e. except in the event of a Special Cause, Vereniging Aegon will no longer be allowed to exercise more votes than is proportionate to the financial rights represented by its shares. This means that in absence of a ‘Special Cause”, Vereniging Aegon may cast 1 vote for every common share it holds and only 1 vote for every 40 common shares B it holds. (see also the section “Major Shareholders”).

On February 15, 2013, Aegon N.V. and Vereniging Aegon reached an agreement to simplify the capital structure of Aegon N.V. and to exchange all of Aegon’s preferred shares for cash and common shares, subject to approval by the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders, which was given on May 15, 2013.

On October 15, 2012, Vereniging Aegon exercised its option rights to purchase in aggregate 3,907,000 class B preferred shares at par value to mitigate dilution caused by Aegon’s issuance of shares on September 15, 2012, being the interim-dividend 2012 in the form of stock-dividend.

On August 15, 2012, Vereniging Aegon exercised its option rights to purchase in aggregate 4,114,000 class B preferred shares at par value to mitigate dilution caused by Aegon’s issuance of shares on June 15, 2012, being the final dividend 2011 in the form of stock-dividend.

On June 15, 2011, Aegon repurchased 187.5 million of the convertible core capital securities. The total payment to the Dutch government on June 15, 2011 amounted to EUR 1.125 billion and included a premium of EUR 375 million. Including this repurchase Aegon had repurchased the full EUR 3 billion convertible core capital securities from the Dutch State. The total amount Aegon has paid to the Dutch State amounts to EUR 4.1 billion. Of this amount, EUR 3 billion covered the original issue of core capital securities, while an additional EUR 1.1 billion was paid in premium and interest.

On March 15, 2011, Vereniging Aegon exercised its option rights to purchase in aggregate 41,042,000 class B preferred shares at par value to mitigate dilution caused by Aegon’s issuance of shares conducted under Aegon’s US Shelf Registration through the sale of 173,604,912 common shares of Aegon N.V. at a price of EUR 5.20 per share in March 2011.

On March 15, 2011, Aegon repurchased 187.5 million of the convertible core capital securities. The total payment to the Dutch government on March 15, 2011 amounted to EUR 1.125 billion and included a premium of EUR 375 million.

 

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The Management Board, which assists the Executive Board in pursuing Aegon’s strategic goals, is formed by members of the Executive Board, the CEO’s of Aegon USA, Aegon the Netherlands, Aegon UK and Aegon Central & Eastern Europe and Aegon’s Chief Risk Officer. The total remuneration for the members of the Management Board over 2013 was EUR 15.2 million (2012: EUR 13.8 million), consisting of EUR 5.0 million (2012: EUR 4.1 million) fixed compensation, EUR 6.3 million variable compensation awards (2012: EUR 6.2 million), EUR 1.3 million (2012: EUR 0.6 million) other benefits, EUR 1.6 million (2012: EUR 2.3 million) pension premiums and EUR 1.0 million (2012: EUR 0.6 million) reflecting 16% crisis tax which was accrued for members of the Management Board employed in the Netherlands. Expenses as recognized under IFRS in the income statement for variable compensation and pensions differ from the variable compensation awards and pension premiums paid due to the accounting treatment under respectively IFRS 2 and IAS 19. IFRS expenses related to variable compensation amounted to EUR 6.3 million (2012: EUR 5.5 million) and for pensions EUR 1.7 million (2012: EUR 1.4 million).

Additional information on the remuneration and share-based compensation of members of the Executive Board and the remuneration of the Supervisory Board is disclosed in the sections below (all amounts in EUR ‘000, except where indicated otherwise).

Remuneration of active members of the Executive Board

The information below reflect the compensation and various related expenses for members of the Executive Board. Under the current remuneration structure, introduced in 2011, rewards are paid out over a number years, or in the case of shares, vest over a number of years. This remuneration-structure has made it more relevant to present rewards earned during a certain performance year instead of what was received in a certain year.

Fixed compensation

 

      2013      2012  

Alexander R. Wynaendts

 

    

 

  1,049

 

  

 

    

 

1,049

 

  

 

Darryl D. Button  1)

 

    

 

475

 

  

 

    

 

-

 

  

 

Jan J. Nooitgedagt  2)

     434         744   

 

  1   Mr. Button was appointed as CFO and member of Aegon’s Executive Board per May 15, 2013. Fixed compensation is disclosed for the period that Mr. Button has been part of the Executive Board.  
  2   Mr. Nooitgedagt’s fixed compensation is reflective of his time with Aegon till retirement as per August 1, 2013.

Conditional variable compensation awards

 

      2013      2012  

Alexander R. Wynaendts

 

    

 

  1,032

 

  

 

    

 

1,018

 

  

 

Darryl D. Button  1)

 

    

 

468

 

  

 

    

 

-

 

  

 

Jan J. Nooitgedagt  2)

     434         699   

 

  1   Mr. Button was appointed as CFO and member of Aegon’s Executive Board per May 15, 2013. Conditional variable compensation is disclosed for the period that Mr. Button has been part of the Executive Board.  
  2   Mr. Nooitgedagt’s conditional variable compensation is reflective of his time with Aegon till retirement as per August 1, 2013.

The amounts in the table represent the conditional variable compensation awards earned during the related performance year. Expenses recognized under IFRS accounting treatment in the income statement for conditionally awarded cash and shares differ from the awards. For the performance year 2013 and previous performance years, expenses under IFRS for Mr. Wynaendts amount to EUR 1,026 (2012: EUR 1.093).

For Mr. Button, the expenses under IFRS with regard to conditionally awarded cash and shares recognized in the income statement during the performance year 2013 for his role as CFO and member of Aegon’s Executive Board amount to EUR 288. In performance year 2013 and previous performance years Mr. Button has been awarded with variable compensation in his role as CFO of Americas and Head of Corporate Financial Center. The related expenses under IFRS for those awards recognized in 2013 for the period that Mr. Button has been part of the Executive Board amount to EUR 500.

Expenses recognized in the income statement for Mr. Nooitgedagt amount to EUR 836 (2012: 736). Under IFRS, expenses related to conditional variable compensation awards are recognized in full at retirement date. Therefore, expenses under IFRS in 2013 for Mr. Nooitgedagt relate to the conditional variable compensation awards for the performance year 2013 as well as for previous performance years. The vesting conditions and applicable holding periods for the awards of Mr. Nooitgedagt remain nevertheless unchanged.

 

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284   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 56

 

2013

During the performance year 2013 Mr. Wynaendts was awarded EUR 1,032 in total conditional variable compensation. Mr. Button was awarded EUR 468 for the period he served as member of the Executive Board.

Variable compensation is split 50/50 in a cash payment and an allocation of shares. Of the variable compensation related to performance year 2013 40% is payable in 2014. Accordingly, Mr. Wynaendts and Mr. Button will receive a cash payment of EUR 206 and EUR 94 respectively. The number of shares to be made available in 2014 related to performance year 2013 is 41,961 and 19,146 for Mr. Wynaendts and Mr. Button respectively. The vested shares, with the exception of shares sold to meet income tax obligations, are subject to a three year retention (holding) period before they are at the disposal of the Executive Board members.

The remaining part of variable compensation for the performance year 2013 (60%), for Mr. Wynaendts EUR 309 and 62,943 shares and for Mr. Button EUR 140 and 28,716 shares, is to be paid out in equal portions in 2015, 2016 and 2017, subject to ex-post assessments, that may result in downward adjustments and may be subject to additional conditions being met. Any payout will be split 50/50 in cash payment and an allocation of shares vesting. To the vested shares, with the exception of shares sold to meet income tax obligations, a retention (holding) period is applicable for a further three years, before they are at the disposal of the Executive Board members.

Mr. Nooitgedagt was awarded EUR 434 variable compensation for the period he served as a member of the Executive Board in 2013. Variable compensation is split 50/50 in a cash payment and an allocation of shares. Of the variable compensation related to performance year 2013 40% is payable in 2014. Accordingly, Mr. Nooitgedagt will receive a cash payment of EUR 87. The number of shares to be made available in 2014 related to performance year 2013 is 17,650. The remaining part of 60%, EUR 130 and 26,478 shares is to be paid out in future years, subject to ex-post assessments, that may result in downward adjustments. In each of the years 2015, 2016 and 2017, equal portions of the deferred variable compensation over 2013 may be made available. Any pay-out will be split 50/50 in cash payment and an allocation of shares vesting. The vested shares (with the exception of shares sold to meet income tax obligations) are subject to a three year retention (holding) period before they are at the disposal of Mr. Nooitgedagt.

2012

Over the performance year 2012 Mr. Wynaendts was awarded EUR 1,018 in total conditional variable compensation. Mr. Nooitgedagt was awarded EUR 699.

Variable compensation is split 50/50 in a cash payment and an allocation of shares. Of the variable compensation related to performance year 2012 40% was payable in 2013. Accordingly, Mr. Wynaendts and Mr. Nooitgedagt received a cash payment of EUR 204 and EUR 140 respectively. The number of shares that was made available in 2013 related to performance year 2012 was 65,111 and 44,741 for Mr. Wynaendts and Mr. Nooitgedagt respectively. To the vested shares, with the exception of shares sold to meet income tax obligations, a retention (holding) period is applicable for a future three years, before they are at the disposal of the Executive Board members.

The remaining part of variable compensation for the performance year 2012 (60%), for Mr. Wynaendts EUR 305 and 97,665 shares and for Mr. Nooitgedagt EUR 210 and 67,110 shares, is to be paid out in future years, subject to ex-post assessments, that may result in downward adjustments and may be subject to additional conditions being met. In each of the years 2014, 2015 and 2016, 20% of the total variable compensation over 2012 may be made available. Any payout will be split 50/50 in a cash payment and an allocation of shares vesting. To the vested shares, with the exception of shares sold to meet income tax obligations, are subject to a three year retention (holding) period, before they are at the disposal of the Executive Board members.

 

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The table below illustrates all the conditionally awarded cash and shares of the members of the Executive Board during 2013, and the years in which each component will be paid out and/or vest, subject to the conditions as mentioned:

 

      Conditional granted
performance related
remuneration
         Timing of vesting, subject to targets and conditions          
Shares by reference period            2012      2013      2014      2015      2016      2017  

Alexander R. Wynaendts

                    

 

2007

     18,506  4)         9,253         -         -         -         9,253         -   

 

2009-2011

     147,296  5)         147,296         -         -         -         -         -   

 

2010-2012

     112,040 6)         -         112,040 6)         -         -         -         -   

 

2011  1)

     86,519         34,607         17,304         17,304         17,304         -         -   

 

2012 2)

     162,776         -         65,111         32,555         32,555         32,555         -   

 

2013 3)

     104,904         -         -         41,961         20,981         20,981         20,981   
Total number of shares      632,041         191,156         194,455         91,820         70,840         62,789         20,981   

Darryl D. Button

                    

 

2013 3)

     47,862         -         -         19,146         9,572         9,572         9,572   
Total number of shares      47,862         -         -         19,146         9,572         9,572         9,572   

Jan. J. Nooitgedagt

                    

 

2009-2011

     96,663  5)         96,663         -         -         -         -         -   

 

2010-2012

     82,427 6)         -         82,427 6)         -         -         -         -   

 

2011  1)

     56,251         22,501         11,250         11,250         11,250         -         -   

 

2012 2)

     111,851         -         44,741         22,370         22,370         22,370         -   

 

2013 3)

     44,128         -         -         17,650         8,826         8,826         8,826   
Total number of shares      347,192         119,164         138,418         51,270         42,446         31,196         8,826   

Cash (in EUR)

                    

 

Alexander R. Wynaendts

                    

 

2011

     245,385  7)         7)         81,795         81,795         81,795         -         -   

 

2012 2)

     508,840         -         203,536         101,768         101,768         101,768         -   

 

2013 3)

     515,817         -         -         206,327         103,163         103,163         103,163   
Total cash      1,270,042         -         285,331         389,890         286,726         204,931         103,163   

Darryl D. Button

                    

 

2013 3)

     233,833         -         -         93,533         46,767         46,767         46,767   
Total cash      233,833         -         -         93,533         46,767         46,767         46,767   

Jan J. Nooitgedagt

                    

 

2011

     159,540  8)         8)         53,180         53,180         53,180         -         -   

 

2012 2)

     349,646         -         139,859         69,929         69,929         69,929         -   

 

2013 3)

     216,980            -         86,792         43,396         43,396         43,396   
Total cash      726,166         -         193,039         209,901         166,505         113,325         43,396   

 

  1   The number of shares is based on the share price at grant of EUR 4.727.
  2   The number of shares is based on the share price at grant of EUR 3.126.
  3   The number of shares is based on the share price at grant of EUR 4.917.
  4   During the vesting period, dividend payments on these shares are deposited in blocked savings accounts on behalf of the executive members. For active members of the Executive Board 50% of the shares vested in 2012 and 50% will vest in 2016.  
  5   These shares vested in 2012 and are subject to an additional two year holding period.
  6   These shares vested in 2013 on basis of actual realized performance and are subject to an additional two year holding period.
  7   The performance related cash remuneration granted over 2011, payable in 2012, of EUR 163,591 was waived by Mr. Wynaendts.
  8   The performance related cash remuneration granted over 2011, payable in 2012, of EUR 106,359 was waived by Mr. Nooitgedagt.

 

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286   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 56

 

Other benefits

 

        2013      2012  

Alexander R. Wynaendts

     132            111   

 

Darryl D. Button  1)

     508         -   

 

Jan J. Nooitgedagt  2)

     40         78   

 

  1   Mr. Button was appointed as CFO and member of Aegon’s Executive Board per May 15, 2013. Other benefits are disclosed for the period that Mr. Button has been part of the Executive Board.  
  2   Mr. Nooitgedagt’s other benefits are reflective of his time with Aegon till retirement as per August 1, 2013.

Other benefits concern non-monetary benefits (e.g. company car), social security contributions by the employer, and tax expenses borne by the Group. For Mr. Button these benefits also include all expenses related to his expatriation from the United States to the Netherlands, borne by the Group.

Pension contributions

 

        2013      2012  

Alexander R. Wynaendts

     652         1,228   

 

Darryl D. Button  1)

     114         -   

 

Jan J. Nooitgedagt  2)

     106         458   

 

  1   Mr. Button was appointed as CFO and member of Aegon’s Executive Board per May 15, 2013. Pension contributions are disclosed for the period that Mr. Button has been part of the Executive Board.  
  2   Mr. Nooitgedagt’s pension contributions are reflective of his time with Aegon till retirement as per August 1, 2013.

The amounts as presented in the table are the pension contributions in the related book year. Under IFRS the service cost as recognized in the income statement related to the defined benefit obligation of Mr. Wynaendts amount to EUR 736 (2012: EUR 580). Service cost for Mr. Button amount to EUR 114, and for Mr. Nooitgedagt EUR 44 (2012: EUR 175).

Total

The Dutch Government introduced a special tax-levy for Dutch employers: the ‘crisis tax’ (16% payable on salary expenses above EUR 150). This caused an increase of Aegon’s total remuneration expenses for Alexander R. Wynaendts of EUR 417 (2012: EUR 311) for Darryl D. Button EUR 54 and Jan J. Nooitgedagt EUR 190 (2012: EUR 173). For Darryl D. Button ‘crisis tax’ is disclosed for the period that Mr. Button has been part of the Executive Board. The resulting total amount of remuneration for Alexander R. Wynaendts related to 2013 is EUR 3,282 (2012: EUR 3,717), for Darryl D. Button EUR 1,619 and for Jan J. Nooitgedagt EUR 1,203 (2012: EUR 2,152).

Share options and interests in Aegon N.V. held by active members of the executive board

 

     Year     Number of
rights/options
per January 1,
2013
    Number of
rights/options
vested in
2013
    Number of
rights/options
exercised in
2013
    Number of
rights/options
expired/
forfeited in
2013
    Number of
rights/options
per December 31,
2013
    Number of
exercisable
rights/options
    Exercise
price EUR
 

Alexander R. Wynaendts

    2006        50,842        -        -        50,842        -        -        14,55   

Shares held in Aegon at December 31, 2013 by Alexander R. Wynaendts and Darryl D. Button amount to respectively 56,582 and 72,872. For each of the members of the Executive Board, the shares held in Aegon mentioned above do not exceed 1% of total outstanding share capital at the balance sheet date.

At the balance sheet date, Mr. Wynaendts had mortgage loans with Aegon totaling to EUR 735,292 with interest rates of 4.0%, 4.2% and 4.4%. In 2013 Mr. Wynaendts made repayments totaling to EUR 750,000 relating to his mortgage loans.

 

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Remuneration of active and retired members of the Supervisory Board

 

in EUR    2013      2012  

Robert J. Routs

     169,400         109,250   

 

Irving W. Bailey. II

     151,250         98,000   

 

Antony Burgmans

     105,270         87,000   

 

Shemaya Levy

     135,520         104,500   

 

Kornelis J. Storm

     110,110         83,000   

 

Ben van der Veer

     127,050         101,250   

 

Dirk P.M. Verbeek

     127,050         101,250   

 

Leo M. van Wijk

     117,370         86,250   

 

Dona D. Young (as of May 15, 2013)

     93,321         -   
Total for active members      1,136,341         770,500   

Karla M.H. Peijs (up to September 30, 2013)

     86,515         78,250   
Total        1,222,856         848,750   

Aegon’s Supervisory Board members are entitled to the following:

  ¿   A base fee for membership of the Supervisory Board itself. No attendance fees are paid to members for the attendance of the regular Supervisory Board meetings (2013: 7 meetings, 2012: 7 meetings);  
  ¿   An attendance fee of EUR 3,000 for each Supervisory Board meeting, attended in person or by video- or telephone conference, other than one of the regular Supervisory Board meetings;  
  ¿   A committee fee for members on each of the Supervisory Board’s Committees;
  ¿   An attendance fee for each Committee meeting attended in person or through video- and telephone conferencing facilities.

Not included in the table above is a premium for state health insurance paid on behalf of Dutch Supervisory Board members. The remuneration for Supervisory Board members is as of 2013 Dutch VAT liability compliant. The amounts 2013 include the VAT paid by Aegon.

Common shares held by Supervisory Board members

 

Shares held in Aegon at December 31    2013      2012  

Irving W. Bailey, II

     31,389         29,759   

 

Karla M.H. Peijs

     1,400         1,400   

 

Kornelis J. Storm

     243,979         238,897   

 

Ben van der Veer

     1,450         1,450   

 

Dirk P.M. Verbeek

     1,011         1,011   

 

Dona D. Young

     13,260         -   
Total        292,489           272,517   

Shares held by Supervisory Board members are only disclosed for the period they have been part of the Supervisory Board.

 

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288   Notes to the consolidated financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 57

 

57 Events after the balance sheet date

There were no events after the balance sheet date with a significant impact on the financial position of the company per December 31, 2013.

The Hague, the Netherlands, March 19, 2014

 

Supervisory Board   Executive Board

Robert J. Routs

  Alexander R. Wynaendts

 

Irving W. Bailey, II

 

 

Darryl D. Button

 

Antony Burgmans

 

 

Shemaya Levy

 

 

Kornelis J. Storm

 

 

Ben van der Veer

 

 

Dirk P.M. Verbeek

 

 

Leo M. van Wijk

 

 

Dona D. Young

 

 

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This page has been intentionally left blank.

 

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290   Financial statements of Aegon N.V.

 

 

Table of contents

 

Financial statements of Aegon N.V.

  

Income statement of Aegon N.V.

     291   

Statement of financial position of Aegon N.V.

     292   

 

Notes to the financial statements

  

1

  General information      293   

2

  Summary of significant accounting policies      293   

3

  Shares in group companies      296   

4

  Loans to group companies      296   

5

  Other investments      296   

6

  Receivables      297   

7

  Other assets      297   

8

  Share capital      297   

9

  Shareholders’ equity      299   

10

  Other equity instruments      302   

11

  Subordinated borrowings      303   

12

  Long-term borrowings      303   

13

  Short-term borrowings      303   

14

  Other liabilities      304   

15

  Number of employees      304   

16

  Accountants remuneration      304   

17

  Events after the balance sheet date      305   

 

Other information

  

Proposal for profit appropriation

     307   

Major shareholders

     307   
 

 

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Income statement of Aegon N.V.

For the year ended December 31

 

Amounts in EUR million      2013        2012  

Net income / (loss) group companies

       957           1,473   

 

Other income / (loss)

       21           69   
Net income / (loss)        978           1,542   

 

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292   Financial statements of Aegon N.V.

 

Statement of financial position of Aegon N.V.

As at December 31

 

Before profit appropriation, amounts in EUR million    Note        2013        2012  
Investments             

 

Shares in group companies

     3           21,707           24,401   

 

Loans to group companies

     4           4,320           4,379   

 

Other investments

     5           95           240   
          26,122           29,020   
Receivables      6             

 

Receivables from group companies

          2,660           2,634   

 

Other receivables

                324           72   
          2,984           2,706   
Other assets             

 

Cash and cash equivalents

          625           1,583   

 

Deferred tax asset

          -           19   

 

Other

     7           306           333   
          931           1,935   
Prepayments and accrued income             

 

Accrued interest and rent

                31           55   
Total assets           30,068           33,716   
Shareholders’ equity             

 

Share capital

     8           325           319   

 

Paid-in surplus

     9           8,376           8,780   

 

Revaluation account

     9           3,252           6,436   

 

Remeasurement of defined benefit plans of group companies

     9           (706        (1,085

 

Legal reserves – foreign currency translation reserve

     9           (1,806        (1,023

 

Legal reserves in respect of group companies

     9           3,428           3,474   

 

Retained earnings, including treasury shares

     9           6,212           5,006   

 

Net income / (loss)

     9           978           1,542   
          20,059           23,449   

 

Other equity instruments

     10           5,015           5,018   
Total equity           25,074           28,467   
Subordinated borrowings      11           44           42   
Long-term borrowings      12           2,233           2,850   
Short-term borrowings      13           151           431   
Other liabilities      14             

 

Loans from group companies

          559           282   

 

Payables to group companies

          1,675           1,082   

 

Deferred tax liability

          18           -   

 

Other

                302           483   
          2,554           1,847   

 

Accruals and deferred income

                12           79   
Total equity and liabilities                 30,068           33,716   

 

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Notes to the financial statements

1 General information

Aegon N.V., incorporated and domiciled in the Netherlands, is a public limited liability company organized under Dutch law and recorded in the Commercial Register of The Hague under its registered address at Aegonplein 50, 2591 TV, The Hague, the Netherlands. Aegon N.V. serves as the holding company for the Aegon Group and has listings of its common shares in Amsterdam and New York.

Aegon N.V. (or ‘the company’) and its subsidiaries (‘Aegon’ or ‘the Group’) have life insurance and pensions operations in over twenty countries in the Americas, Europe and Asia and are also active in savings and asset management operations, accident and health insurance, general insurance and to a limited extent banking operations. Headquarters are located in The Hague, the Netherlands. The Group employs nearly 27,000 people worldwide (2012: 26,500).

2 Summary of significant accounting policies

2.1 Basis of preparation

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles in the Netherlands as embodied in Part 9 of Book 2 of the Netherlands Civil Code. Based on article 2:362.8 of the Netherlands Civil Code, the valuation principles applied are based on International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IFRS), as used for the preparation of the consolidated financial statements of the Group.

With regard to the income statement of Aegon N.V., article 402, Part 9 of Book 2 of the Netherlands Civil Code has been applied, allowing a simplified format.

2.2 Foreign exchange translation

Aegon N.V.’s financial statements are prepared in euros, which is also Aegon N.V.’s functional currency. The euro is also the currency of the primary economic environment in which Aegon N.V. operates. Each company in the Group determines its own functional currency and items included in the financial statements of each entity are measured using that functional currency. Transactions in foreign currencies are translated to the functional currency using the exchange rates prevailing at the date of the transaction.

At the balance sheet date monetary assets, monetary liabilities and own equity instruments in foreign currencies are translated to the functional currency at the closing rate of exchange prevailing on that date. Non-monetary items carried at cost are translated using the exchange rate at the date of the transaction, whilst assets carried at fair value are translated at the exchange rate when the fair value was determined.

Exchange differences on monetary items are recognized in the income statement when they arise, except when they are deferred in equity as a result of a qualifying cash flow or net investment hedge. Exchange differences on non-monetary items carried at fair value are recognized in equity or the income statement, consistently with other gains and losses on these items.

2.3 Offsetting of assets and liabilities

Financial assets and liabilities are offset in the statement of financial position when Aegon N.V. has a legally enforceable right to offset and has the intention to settle the asset and liability on a net basis or simultaneously.

2.4 Investments

The group companies are stated at their net asset value, determined on the basis of IFRS as applied in the consolidated financial statements of the Group. For details on the accounting policies applied for the group companies refer to the consolidated financial statements.

Other investments are financial assets recognized on the trade date when the Group becomes a party to the contractual provisions of the instrument and are classified for accounting purposes depending on the characteristics of the instruments and the purpose for which they were purchased. They are initially recognized at fair value excluding interest accrued to date plus, in the case of a financial asset not at fair value through profit or loss, any directly attributable incremental transaction costs.

Available-for-sale assets are recorded at fair value with unrealized changes in fair value recognized in equity.

 

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294   Notes to the financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 2

 

The fair value of an asset is the amount for which it could be exchanged between knowledgeable, willing parties in an arm’s length transaction. For quoted financial assets for which there is an active market, the fair value is the bid price at the balance sheet date. In the absence of an active market, fair value is estimated by using present value based or other valuation techniques. Where discounting techniques are applied, the discount rate is based on current market rates applicable to financial instruments with similar characteristics. The valuation techniques that include non-market observable inputs can result in a different outcome than the actual transaction price at which the asset was acquired. Such differences are not recognized in the income statement immediately but are deferred. They are released over time to the income statement in line with the change in factors (including time) that market participants would consider in setting a price for the asset. Interest accrued to date is not included in the fair value of the financial asset.

Financial assets that are lent to a third party or that are transferred subject to a repurchase agreement at a fixed price are not derecognized as the Group retains substantially all the risks and rewards of the asset. A liability is recognized for cash collateral received, on which interest is accrued.

A security that has been received under a borrowing or reverse repurchase agreement is not recognized as an asset. A receivable is recognized for any related cash collateral paid by Aegon. The difference between sale and repurchase price is treated as investment income. If the Group subsequently sells that security, a liability to repurchase the asset is recognized and initially measured at fair value.

With the exception of cash collateral, assets received as collateral are not separately recognized as an asset until the financial asset they secure is foreclosed. When cash collateral is recognized, a liability is recorded for the same amount.

2.5 Derivatives

All derivatives are recognized on the statement of financial position at fair value. All changes in fair value are recognized in the income statement, unless the derivative has been designated as a hedging instrument in a cash flow hedge or a hedge of a net foreign investment. Derivatives with positive fair values are reported as other assets and derivatives with negative values are reported as other liabilities.

2.6 Cash and cash equivalents

Cash comprises cash at banks and in-hand. Cash equivalents are short-term highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less that are readily convertible to known cash amounts, are subject to insignificant risks of changes in value and are held for the purpose of meeting short-term cash requirements. Money market investments that are held for investment purposes (backing insurance liabilities, investment liabilities or equity based on asset liability management considerations) are not included in cash and cash equivalents but are presented as investment or investment for account of policyholders.

2.7 Other assets and receivables

Other assets include fixed assets, derivatives with positive fair values, other receivables and prepaid expenses. Other receivables are recognized at fair value and are subsequently measured at amortized cost.

2.8 Impairment of assets

An asset is impaired if the carrying amount exceeds the amount that would be recovered through its use or sale. Tangible, intangible and financial assets, if not held at fair value through profit or loss, are tested for impairment when there are indications that the asset may be impaired. Irrespective of the indications, goodwill and other intangible assets that are not amortized are tested at least annually. For assets denominated in a foreign currency, a decline in the foreign exchange rates is considered an indication of impairment.

2.9 Equity

Financial instruments that are issued by the company are classified as equity if they represent a residual interest in the assets of the company after deducting all of its liabilities and the company has an unconditional right to avoid delivering cash or another financial asset to settle its contractual obligation. In addition to common shares and preferred shares, the company has issued perpetual securities. Perpetual securities have no final maturity date, repayment is at the discretion of Aegon and for junior perpetual capital securities Aegon has the option to defer coupon payments at its discretion. The perpetual capital securities are classified as equity rather than debt, are measured at par and those that are denominated in US dollars are translated into euro using historical exchange rates.

 

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Non-cumulative subordinated notes are identified as a compound instrument due to the nature of this financial instrument. For these non-cumulative subordinated notes, Aegon has an unconditional right to avoid delivering cash or another financial asset to settle the coupon payments. The repayment of the principal is however not at the discretion of Aegon and therefore Aegon has a contractual obligation to settle the repayment in cash or another financial asset or through the exchange of financial assets and liabilities at potentially unfavorable conditions for Aegon. Compound instruments are separated into liability components and equity components. The liability component for the non-cumulative subordinated notes is equal to the present value of the redemption amount and subsequently carried at amortized cost using the effective interest rate method. The unwinding of the discount of this component is recognized in the income statement. The liability component is derecognized when the Group’s obligation under the contract expires, is discharged or is cancelled. The equity component is assigned the residual amount after deducting the liability component from the fair value of the instrument as a whole. The equity component in US dollars is translated into euro using historical exchange rates.

Incremental external costs that are directly attributable to the issuing or buying back of own equity instruments are recognized in equity, net of tax. For compound instruments incremental external costs that are directly attributable to the issuing or buying back of the compound instruments are recognized proportionate to the equity component and liability component, net of tax.

Dividends and other distributions to holders of equity instruments are recognized directly in equity, net of tax. A liability for non-cumulative dividends payable is not recognized until the dividends have been declared and approved.

Revaluation account includes unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sales assets and the positive changes in value that have been recognized in net income / (loss) relating to investments (including real estate) and which do not have a frequent market listing.

Legal reserves in respect of group companies include net increases in net asset value of subsidiaries and associates since their first inclusion, less any amounts that can be distributed without legal restrictions.

Treasury shares are own equity instruments reacquired by the Group. They are deducted from shareholders’ equity, regardless of the objective of the transaction. No gain or loss is recognized in the income statement on the purchase, sale, issue or cancellation of the instruments. If sold, the difference between the carrying amount and the proceeds is reflected in retained earnings. The consideration paid or received is recognized directly in shareholders’ equity. All treasury shares are eliminated in the calculation of earnings per share and dividend per common share.

2.10 Borrowings

A financial instrument issued by the company is classified as a liability if the contractual obligation must be settled in cash or another financial asset or through the exchange of financial assets and liabilities at potentially unfavorable conditions for the company.

Borrowings are initially recognized at their fair value including directly attributable transaction costs and are subsequently carried at amortized cost using the effective interest rate method, with the exception of specific borrowings that are designated as at fair value through profit or loss to eliminate, or significantly reduce, an accounting mismatch, or specific borrowings which are carried as at fair value through the profit and loss as part of a fair value hedge relationship. The liability is derecognized when the company’s obligation under the contract expires or is discharged or cancelled.

Borrowings include the liability component of non-cumulative subordinated notes. These notes are identified as a compound instrument due to the nature of this financial instrument. Compound instruments are separated into equity components and liability components. The liability component for the non-cumulative subordinated notes is related to the redemption amount. For further information on accounting policy of the non-cumulative subordinated notes refer to note 2.9.

2.11 Contingent assets and liabilities

Contingent assets are disclosed in the notes if the inflow of economic benefits is probable, but not virtually certain. When the inflow of economic benefits becomes virtually certain, the asset is no longer contingent and its recognition is appropriate.

A provision is recognized for present legal or constructive obligations arising from past events, when it is probable that it will result in an outflow of economic benefits and the amount can be reliably estimated. If the outflow of economic benefits is not probable, a contingent liability is disclosed, unless the possibility of an outflow of economic benefits is remote.

 

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296   Notes to the financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 3

 

2.12 Events after the balance sheet date

The financial statements are adjusted to reflect events that occurred between the balance sheet date and the date when the financial statements are authorized for issue, provided they give evidence of conditions that existed at the balance sheet date.

Events that are indicative of conditions that arose after the balance sheet date are disclosed, but do not result in an adjustment of the financial statements themselves.

3 Shares in group companies

 

      2013      2012  

At January 1

     24,401         20,266   

 

Capital contributions and acquisitions

     5,924         4,363   

 

Divestments and capital repayments

     (5,392      (361

 

Dividend received

     (847      (3,767

 

Net income / (loss) for the financial year

     957         1,473   

 

Revaluations

     (3,336      2,427   
At December 31      21,707         24,401   

For a list of names and locations of the most important group companies, refer to note 55 of the consolidated financial statements of the Group. The legally required list of participations as set forth in article 379 of Book 2 of the Netherlands Civil Code has been registered with the Commercial Register of The Hague.

4 Loans to group companies

 

      2013      2012  
Loans to group companies – long-term      

 

At January 1

       3,206             4,110   

 

Additions / (repayments)

     773         (894

 

Other changes

     (164      (10
At December 31      3,815         3,206   
Loans to group companies – short-term      

 

At January 1

     1,173         1,347   

 

Additions / (repayments)

     (664      (182

 

Other changes

     (4      8   
At December 31      505         1,173   
Total      4,320         4,379   

5 Other investments

 

                Money market and other
short-term investments
        
      Shares – AFS      FVTPL 1)                Total  

At January 1, 2013

     -         240         240   

 

Additions

     -         435         435   

 

Disposals

     -         (580      (580

 

Revaluations

     -         -         -   
At December 31, 2013      -         95         95   

At January 1, 2012

     11         270         281   

 

Additions

     7         140         147   

 

Disposals

     (16      (170      (186

 

Revaluations

     (2      -         (2
At December 31, 2012      -         240         240   

 

  1   Fair value through profit or loss.

The money market and other short-term investments fully consist of investments in money market funds.

 

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6 Receivables

Receivables from group companies and other receivables have a maturity of less than one year. Other receivables include an income tax receivable of EUR 15 million (2012: EUR 59 million).

Aegon N.V., together with certain of its subsidiaries, is part of a tax grouping for Dutch corporate income tax purposes. The members of the fiscal entity are jointly and severally liable for any taxes receivable or payable by the Dutch tax grouping.

7 Other assets

Other assets include derivatives with positive fair values of EUR 306  million (2012: EUR 330 million).

8 Share capital

 

Issued and outstanding    2013      2012  

Common shares

     256         236   

 

Common shares B

     69         -   

 

Preferred shares A

     -         53   

 

Preferred shares B

     -         30   
Total share capital         325         319   

 

Authorized    2013      2012  

Common shares

     720         360   

 

Common shares B

     360         -   

 

Preferred shares A

     -         125   

 

Preferred shares B

     -         125   
At December 31      1,080         610   

 

Par value in cents per share    2013      2012  

Common shares

           12         12   

 

Common shares B

     12         -   

 

Preferred shares A

     -         25   

 

Preferred shares B

     -           25   

On February 15, 2013, Aegon N.V. and Vereniging Aegon entered into an agreement to simplify the capital structure of Aegon and to cancel all of Aegon’s preferred shares, of which Vereniging Aegon was the sole owner. The execution of this agreement was subject to the approval of the General Meeting of Shareholders of Aegon N.V. This approval was granted at the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders on May 15, 2013. For details refer to the ‘Major Shareholders’ section.

All issued common shares and common shares B each have a nominal value of EUR 0.12 and are fully paid up. Repayment of capital can only be initiated by the Executive Board, is subject to approval of the Supervisory Board and must be resolved by the General Meeting of Shareholders. Moreover, repayment on common shares B needs approval of the related shareholders. Refer to Other information for further information on dividend rights.

Vereniging Aegon, based in The Hague, the Netherlands, holds all of the issued common shares B.

In the years 2003 through 2010, 69,030,000 class B preferred shares were issued under these option rights. In March 2011, Vereniging Aegon exercised its option rights to purchase in aggregate 41,042,000 class B preferred shares at par value. It did this to correct dilution caused by Aegon’s issuance of shares conducted under Aegon’s US Shelf Registration, which comprised the sale of 173,604,912 common shares of Aegon N.V. at a price of EUR 5.20 per share in March 2011. In August 2012 and October 2012, Vereniging Aegon exercised its option rights to purchase in aggregate 8,021,000 class B Preferred Shares at par value. It did this to correct dilution caused by Aegon’s issuance of shares on June 15, 2012, being the final dividend 2011 in the form of stock dividend, and its issuance of shares on September 15, 2012, being the interim dividend 2012 in the form of stock dividend. In July 2013, Vereniging Aegon exercised its option rights to purchase in aggregate 12,691,745 common shares B at market value.

 

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298   Notes to the financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 8

 

It did this to prevent dilution caused by Aegon’s issuance of shares on May 1, 2013, May 16, 2013, in connection with the Long Term Incentive Plans for senior management and the issuance of shares on June 14, 2013, being the final dividend 2012 in the form of stock-dividend.

The following table shows the movement during the year in the number of common shares:

 

Number of common shares    2013      2012  

At January 1

     1,972,029,595         1,909,654,051   

 

Shares issued

     120,713,389         -   

 

Share dividend

     38,715,879         62,375,544   
At December 31      2,131,458,863         1,972,029,595   

The following table shows the movement during the year in the number of common shares B:

 

Number of common shares B    2013      2012  

At January 1

     -         -   

 

Shares issued

     579,005,440         -   

 

Share dividend

     -         -   
At December 31         579,005,440                                -   

The weighted average number of EUR 0.12 common shares for 2013 was 2,035,239,751 (2012: 1,907,382,542).

The weighted average number of EUR 0.12 common shares B for 2013 was 366,439,040 (2012: nil).

The shares repurchased by Aegon, although included in the issued and outstanding number of shares, are excluded from the calculation of the weighted average number of shares. The number has been adjusted for share dividend.

Long Term Incentive Plan, share appreciation rights and share options

For detailed information on the long term incentive plan, share appreciation rights and share options granted to senior executives and other Aegon employees, refer to note 14 to the consolidated financial statements of the Group.

Board remuneration

Detailed information on remuneration of active and retired members of the Executive Board including their share and share option rights, remuneration of active and retired members of the Supervisory Board along with information about shares held in Aegon by the members of the Boards is included in note 56 to the consolidated financial statements of the Group.

 

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9 Shareholders’ equity

 

     Share
capital
    Paid-in
surplus
    Revaluation
account
   

Remeasurement
of defined
benefit plans

of group
companies

    Legal
reserves
FCTR
    Legal
reserves
group
companies
    Retained
earnings
    Treasury
shares
    Net
income/
(loss)
    Total  

At January 1, 2013

    319        8,780        6,436        (1,085     (1,023     3,474        5,249        (243     1,542        23,449   

Net income 2012 retained

    -        -        -          -        -        1,542        -        (1,542     -   

 

Net income 2013

    -        -        -                -        -        -        -        978        978   
Total net income / (loss)     -        -        -          -        -        1,542        -        (564     978   

Foreign currency translation differences and movement in foreign investment hedging reserves

    -        -        -        -        (783     -        -        -        -        (783

 

Changes in revaluation subsidiaries

    -        -        (3,078     -        -        -        -        -        -        (3,078

 

Remeasurement of defined benefit plans of group companies

    -        -        -        379        -        -        -        -        -        379   

 

Transfer to legal reserve

    -        -        (109     -        -        (46     206        -        -        51   

 

Other

    -        -        3        -        -        -        (4     -        -        (1
Other comprehensive income / (loss)     -        -        (3,184     379        (783     (46     202        -        -        (3,432

Shares issued

    2        -        -        -        -        -        -        -        -        2   

 

Repurchased and sold own shares

    -        (400     -        -        -        -        (1     -        -        (401

 

Dividend common shares

    4        (4     -        -        -        -        (240     -        -        (240

 

Dividend preferred shares

    -        -        -        -        -        -        (83     -        -        (83

 

Treasury shares

    -        -        -        -        -        -        (30     (47     -        (77

 

Dividend withholding tax reduction

    -        -        -        -        -        -        -        -        -        -   

 

Coupons and premium on convertible core capital securities and coupon on perpetual securities, net of tax

    -        -        -        -        -        -        (167     -        -        (167

 

Other

    -        -        -        -        -        -        30        -        -        30   
At December 31, 2013     325        8,376        3,252        (706     (1,806     3,428        6,502        (290     978        20,059   

 

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300   Notes to the financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 9

 

 

     Share
capital
    Paid-in
surplus
    Revaluation
account
    Remeasurement
of defined
benefit plans of
group companies
    Legal
reserves
FCTR
    Legal
reserves
group
companies
    Retained
earnings
    Treasury
shares
    Net
income/
(loss)
    Total  
At January 1, 2012     310        8,787        3,634        -        (910     3,285        5,277        (252)        869        21,000   

 

Changes in accounting policies relating to IFRS 10 and 11 1)

    -        -        17        -        -        -        (139     -        -        (122

 

Changes in accounting policies relating to IAS 19  1)

    -        -        -        (979     -        -        -        -        15        (964

 

At January 1, 2012

(restated)

    310        8,787        3,651        (979)        (910)        3,285        5,138        (252)        884        19,914   

Net income 2011 retained

    -        -        -          -        -        884        -        (884     -   

 

Net income 2012

    -        -        -                -        -        -        -        1,542        1,542   
Total net income / (loss)     -        -        -          -        -        884        -        658        1,542   

Foreign currency translation differences and movement in foreign investment hedging reserves

    -        -        -        -        (113     -        -        -        -        (113

 

Changes in revaluation subsidiaries

    -        -        2,573        -        -        -        -        -        -        2,573   

 

Remeasurement of defined benefit plans of group companies

    -        -        -        (106     -        -        -        -        -        (106

 

Transfer to legal reserve

    -        -        193        -        -        189        (333     -        -        49   

 

Other

    -        -        19        -        -        -        (25     -        -        (6
Other comprehensive income / (loss)     -        -        2,785        (106     (113     189        (358     -        -        2,397   

Shares issued

    2        -        -          -        -        -        -        -        2   

 

Dividend common shares

    7        (7     -          -        -        (148     -        -        (148

 

Dividend preferred shares

    -        -        -          -        -        (59     -        -        (59

 

Treasury shares

    -        -        -          -        -        (6     9        -        3   

 

Dividend withholding tax reduction

    -        -        -          -        -        3        -        -        3   

 

Coupons and premium on convertible core capital securities and coupon on perpetual securities, net of tax

    -        -        -          -        -        (195     -        -        (195

 

Other

    -        -        -                -        -        (10     -        -        (10
At December 31, 2012     319        8,780        6,436        (1,085     (1,023     3,474        5,249        (243     1,542        23,449   

 

  1   Amounts have been restated for the changes in accounting policies as describes in note 2 of the consolidated financial statements.

 

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The balance of the revaluation account, which includes revaluation reserves for real estate and investments that do not have a frequent market listing, consists for EUR 6,527 million (2012: EUR 9,353 million) of items with positive revaluation and for EUR 978 million of items with negative revaluation (2012: EUR 927 million negative revaluation).

The revaluation account and legal reserves, foreign currency translation reserve and other, can not be freely distributed. In case of negative balances for individual reserves legally to be retained, no distributions can be made out of retained earnings to the level of these negative amounts.

Certain of Aegon’s subsidiaries, principally insurance companies, are subject to restrictions on the amounts of funds they may transfer in the form of cash dividends or otherwise to their parent companies. There can be no assurance that these restrictions will not limit or restrict Aegon in its ability to pay dividends in the future.

Optas N.V., an indirect subsidiary of Aegon N.V., holds statutory reserves of EUR 997 million (2012: EUR 981 million) which are restricted. Included in Aegon N.V.’s legal reserves is an amount of EUR 458 million related to Optas N.V. which represents the increase in statutory reserves since the acquisition of Optas N.V. by Aegon (2012: EUR 441 million). The statutory reserves of Optas N.V. are linked to the acquired negative goodwill related to Optas N.V. at acquisition date.

On the balance sheet date Aegon N.V. and its subsidiaries held 41,307,910 of its own common shares with a face value of EUR 0.12 each. Most of the shares have been purchased to neutralize the dilution effect of issued share dividend and to hedge share based payment plans for executives and employees. Movements in the number of repurchased own shares held by Aegon N.V. were as follows:

 

      2013      2012   

At January 1

     26,981,154         27,503,300    
Transactions in 2013:      

 

Sale: 1 transaction, price EUR 5.02

     (5,408,521        

 

Sale: 1 transaction, price EUR 4.99

     (783,458        

 

Purchase: transactions, average price EUR 5.62

     19,047,358           

 

Transactions in 2012:

     

 

Sale: 1 transaction, price EUR 3.52

     -         (9,533)   

 

Sale: 1 transaction, price EUR 3.36

     -         (512,613)   
At December 31      39,836,533         26,981,154    

As part of their insurance and investment operations, subsidiaries within the Group also hold Aegon N.V. common shares, both for their own account and for account of policyholders. These shares have been treated as treasury shares and are included at their consideration paid or received.

 

     2013         2012      
     Number of
shares
    Consideration     Number of
shares
    Consideration  

Held by Aegon N.V.

    39,836,533        278        26,981,154        228   

 

Held by subsidiaries

    1,471,377        14        1,732,576        15   
Total at December 31     41,307,910        292        28,713,730        243   

The consideration for the related shares is deducted from or added to the retained earnings.

 

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302   Notes to the financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 10

 

 

10 Other equity instruments

 

      Junior
perpetual
capital
      securities
     Perpetual
cumulative
  subordinated
bonds
    

Share

    options and

incentive
plans 1)

       Non-cumulative
subordinated
notes
     Total  

At January 1, 2013

     4,192         453         102         271         5,018   

 

Shares granted / Share options cost incurred

     -         -         54         -         54   

 

Shares vested / Share options forfeited

     -         -         (57      -         (57
At December 31, 2013      4,192         454         99         271                 5,015   

At January 1, 2012

     4,192         453         75         -         4,720   

 

Issuance of non-cumulative subordinated notes

     -         -         -         271         271   

 

Shares granted / Share options cost incurred

     -         -         32         -         32   

 

Shares vested / Share options forfeited

     -         -         (5      -         (5
At December 31, 2012      4,192         453         102         271         5,018   

 

Junior perpetual

capital securities

   Coupon rate      Coupon date, as of      Year of next call      2013      2012  

USD 500 million

     6.50%         Quarterly, December 15         2014         424         424   

 

USD 250 million

     floating LIBOR rate  1)         Quarterly, December 15         2014         212         212   

 

USD 550 million

     6.875%         Quarterly, September 15         2014         438         438   

 

EUR 200 million

     6.00%         Annually, July 21         2014         200         200   

 

USD 1,050 million

     7.25%         Quarterly, December 15         2014         745         745   

 

EUR 950 million

     floating DSL rate  2)         Quarterly, July 15         2014         950         950   

 

USD 500 million

     floating CMS rate  3)         Quarterly, July 15         2014         402         402   

 

USD 1 billion

     6.375%         Quarterly, June 15         2015         821         821   
At December 31                                 4,192         4,192   

 

  1   The coupon of the USD 250 million junior perpetual capital securities is reset each quarter based on the then prevailing three-month LIBOR yield plus a spread of 87.5 basis points, with a minimum of 4%.  
  2   The coupon of the EUR 950 million junior perpetual capital securities is reset each quarter based on the then prevailing ten-year Dutch government bond yield plus a spread of ten basis points, with a maximum of 8%.  
  3   The coupon of the USD 500 million junior perpetual capital securities is reset each quarter based on the then prevailing ten-year US dollar interest rate swap yield plus a spread of ten basis points, with a maximum of 8.5%.  

The interest rate exposure on some of these securities has been swapped to a three-month LIBOR and/or EURIBOR based yield.

The securities have been issued at par. The securities have subordination provisions and rank junior to all other liabilities. The conditions of the securities contain certain provisions for optional and required coupon payment deferral and mandatory coupon payment events. Although the securities have no stated maturity, Aegon has the right to call the securities for redemption at par for the first time on the coupon date in the years as specified, or on any coupon payment date thereafter.

On February 10, 2014 Aegon called for the redemption of the USD 550 million in junior perpetual capital securities with a coupon of 6.875% issued in 2006. The redemption is effective March 15, 2014, when the principal amount of USD 550 million was repaid with accrued interest.

 

Perpetual cumulative

subordinated bonds

   Coupon rate      Coupon date, as of      Year of next call          2013          2012  

EUR 114 million

     4.156%  1) ,  4)         Annual, June 8         2015         114         114   

EUR 136 million

     5.185%  2) ,  4)         Annual, October 14         2018         136         136   

EUR 203 million

     4.260%  3) ,  4)         Annual, March 4         2021         203         203   
At December 31                                 454         453   
  1   The coupon of the EUR 114 million bonds was originally set at 8% until June 8, 2005. Subsequently, the coupon has been reset at 4.156% until 2015.  
  2   The coupon of the EUR 136 million bonds was originally set at 7.25% until October 14, 2008. Subsequently, the coupon has been reset at 5.185% until October 14, 2018.  
  3   The coupon of the EUR 203 million bonds was originally set at 7.125% until March 4, 2011. Subsequently, the coupon has been reset at 4.26% until March 4, 2021.  
  4   If the bonds are not called on the respective call dates and after consecutive period of ten years, the coupons will be reset at the then prevailing effective yield of ten-year Dutch government securities plus a spread of 85 basis points.  

 

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The bonds have the same subordination provisions as dated subordinated debt. In addition, the conditions of the bonds provide for interest deferral and for the availability of principal amounts to meet losses. Although the bonds have no stated maturity, Aegon has the right to call the bonds for redemption at par for the first time on the coupon date in the years as specified.

 

Non-cumulative subordinated notes    Coupon rate      Coupon date, as of      Year of next call      2013      2012  

USD 525 million

     8%         Quarterly, February 15         2017         271         271   
At December 31                                 271         271   

On February 7, 2012, Aegon issued USD 525 million in aggregate principal amount of 8.00% non-cumulative subordinated notes, due 2042, in an underwritten public offering in the United States registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. The subordinated notes bear interest at a fixed rate of 8.00% and have been priced at 100% of their principal amount. Any cancelled interest payment will not be cumulative.

The securities are subordinated and rank senior to the junior perpetual capital securities, equally with the perpetual cumulative subordinated bonds and junior to all other liabilities. The conditions of the securities contain certain provisions for optional and required cancellation of interest payments. The securities have a maturity of 30 years, however Aegon has the right to call the securities for redemption at par for the first time on the coupon date in 2017, or on any coupon payment date thereafter.

These notes are recognized as a compound instrument due to the nature of this financial instrument. Compound instruments are separated into an equity component and liability component. At December 31, 2013 the equity component amounts to EUR 271 million, subordinated borrowings amounts to EUR 44 million and a deferred tax liability amounting to EUR 84 million.

The proceeds from the issuance of the subordinated notes are used for general corporate purposes.

Refer to note 11 for details of the component classified as subordinated borrowings.

1 1 Subordinated borrowings

Subordinated borrowings include the liability component of the non-cumulative subordinated notes. The liability component for the non-cumulative subordinated notes is related to the redemption amount. For further information on the non-cumulative subordinated notes refer to note 10.

1 2 Long-term borrowings

 

      2013      2012  

Remaining terms less than 1 year

     517         569   

Remaining terms 1 - 5 years

     860         1,408   

Remaining terms 5 - 10 years

     85         82   

Remaining terms over 10 years

     771         791   
At December 31      2,233         2,850   
The repayment periods of borrowings vary from within one year up to a maximum of 27 years. The interest rates vary from 3.000%
to 6.625% per annum. The market value of the long-term borrowings amounts to EUR 2,518 million (2012: EUR 3,126 million).
 
1 3 Short-term borrowings  
   
      2013      2012  

Amounts owed to credit institutions

     -         1   

Short term deposits

     151         430   
At December 31      151         431   

All short-term borrowings have a maturity of less than one year.

 

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304   Notes to the financial statements of Aegon N.V. Note 14

 

1 4 Other liabilities

Loans from and payables to group companies have a maturity of less than one year. Other includes derivatives with negative fair values of EUR 272 million (2012: EUR 350 million).

Commitments and contingencies

Aegon N.V. entered into a contingent capital letter for an amount of JPY 7.5 billion (EUR 52 million) to support its joint venture Aegon Sony Life Insurance Company meeting local statutory requirements.

Aegon N.V. has guaranteed and is severally liable for the following:

  ¿   Due and punctual payment of payables due under letter of credit agreements applied for by Aegon N.V. as co-applicant with its captive insurance companies that are subsidiaries of Transamerica Corporation, Aegon USA, LLC and Commonwealth General Corporation. At December 31, 2013, the letter of credit arrangements utilized by captives to provide collateral to affiliates amounted to EUR 2,392 million (2012: EUR 3,260 million); as at that date no amounts had been drawn, or were due under these facilities. Other letter of credit arrangements amount to EUR 158 million (2012: EUR 346 million); as at that date no amounts had been drawn, or were due under these facilities;
  ¿   Due and punctual payment of payables due under letter of credit agreements applied for by captive insurance companies that are subsidiaries of Transamerica Corporation. At December 31, 2013, the letter of credit agreements amount to EUR 2,633 million (2012: 2,642 million); as at that date no amounts had been drawn, or were due under these facilities;
  ¿   Due and punctual payment of payables due in relation to debt that was issued by a captive insurance company that is a subsidiary of Transamerica Corporation. As at December 31, 2013, this debt amounted to EUR 1,089 million and is included in the ‘debentures and other loans’ table in note 41 (Borrowings) of the consolidated financial statements of the Group in the line USD 1.54 billion Variable Funding Surplus Note.
  ¿   Due and punctual payment of payables by the consolidated group companies Transamerica Corporation, Aegon Funding Company LLC, Commonwealth General Corporation and Transamerica Finance Corp. with respect to bonds, capital trust pass-through securities and notes issued under commercial paper programs amount to EUR 485 million (2012: EUR 507 million);
  ¿   Due and punctual payment of any amounts owed to third parties by the consolidated group company Aegon Derivatives N.V. in connection with derivative transactions. Aegon Derivatives N.V. only enters into derivative transactions with counterparties with which ISDA master netting agreements including collateral support annex agreements have been agreed; net (credit) exposure on derivative transactions with these counterparties was therefore limited as at December 31, 2013.

1 5 Number of employees

Other than the Executive Board members, there were no employees employed by Aegon N.V. in either 2013 or 2012.

1 6 Accountants remuneration

 

      Total remuneration      Of which Ernst & Young
Accountants LLP (NL)
 
      2013      2012      2013      2012  

Audit

     19         19         6         5   

Other audit

     2         7         1         6   

Tax

     -         -         -         -   

Other services

     1         -         -         -   
Total      22         26         7         11   

 

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1 7 Events after the balance sheet date

There were no events after the balance sheet date with a significant impact on the financial position of the company per December 31, 2013.

The Hague, March 19, 2014

 

Supervisory Board      Executive Board

Robert J. Routs

     Alexander R. Wynaendts

Irving W. Bailey, II

     Darryl D. Button

Antony Burgmans

    

Shemaya Levy

    

Kornelis J. Storm

    

Ben van der Veer

    

Dirk P.M. Verbeek

    

Leo M. van Wijk

    

Dona D. Young

    

 

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  Other information Proposal for profit appropriation    307

 

O ther information

P roposal for profit appropriation

Appropriation of profit will be determined in accordance with the articles 31 and 32 of the Articles of Association of Aegon N.V. The relevant provisions read as follows:

  1. The General Meeting of Shareholders shall adopt the annual accounts.  
  2. If the adopted profit and loss account shows a profit, the Supervisory Board may decide, upon the proposal of the Executive Board, to set aside part of the profit to augment and/or form reserves.  
  3. The profits remaining after application of 2 above shall be put at the disposal of the General Meeting of Shareholders. The Executive Board, subject to the approval of the Supervisory Board, shall make a proposal for that purpose. A proposal to pay a dividend shall be dealt with as a separate agenda item at the General Meeting of Shareholders.  
  4. The Executive Board may, subject to the approval of the Supervisory Board, make one or more interim distributions to the holders of common shares and common shares B.  
  5. Distributions are made in accordance with the principle as laid down in article 4 of the Articles of Association of Aegon N.V. that the financial rights attaching to a Common Share B are one-fortieth (1/40 th ) of the financial rights attaching to a Common Share.  
  6. The Executive Board may, subject to the approval of the Supervisory Board, decide that a distribution on common shares and common shares B shall not take place as a cash payment but as a payment in common shares, or decide that holders of common shares and common shares B shall have the option to receive a distribution as a cash payment and/or as a payment in common shares, out of the profit and/or at the expense of reserves, provided that the Executive Board is designated by the General Meeting to issue shares. Subject to the approval of the Supervisory Board, the Executive Board shall also determine the conditions applicable to the aforementioned choices.  
  7. The company’s policy on reserves and dividends shall be determined and can be amended by the Supervisory Board, upon the proposal of the Executive Board. The adoption and thereafter each amendment of the policy on reserves and dividends shall be discussed and accounted for at the General Meeting of Shareholders under a separate agenda item.  

At the Annual General Meeting of shareholders on May 21, 2014, the Executive Board will, absent unforeseen circumstances, propose a final dividend for 2013 of EUR 0.11 per Common Share and EUR 0.00275 per 40 Common Shares B. The final dividend will be paid in cash or stocks at the election of the shareholder. The value of the stock dividend will be approximately equal to the cash dividend.

If the proposed dividend is approved by shareholders, Aegon shares will be quoted ex-dividend on May 23, 2014. The record date for the dividend will be May 27, 2014. Shareholders can elect to receive a dividend in cash or in shares during the dividend election period, which will run from May 30, 2014 up to and including June 13, 2014. The dividend will be payable as of June 20, 2014.

In order to reflect the prevailing market price of Aegon N.V. common shares fully within the indication provided, the number of dividend coupons that give entitlement to a new common share of EUR 0.12 will be determined on June 13, 2014 after 5.30 pm, based on the average share price on NYSE Euronext Amsterdam in the five trading days from June 9, 2014 up to and including June 13, 2014.

 

      2013      2012  

Dividend on preferred shares

     -         59   

Final dividend on common shares

     232         214   

Earnings to be retained

     746         1,269   

Net income attributable to equity holders of Aegon N.V.

     978         1,542   

M ajor shareholders

General

As of December 31, 2013, Aegon’s total authorized share capital consisted of 6,000,000,000 common shares with a par value of EUR 0.12 per share and 3,000,000,000 common shares B with a par value of EUR 0.12 per share. At the same date, there were 2,131,458,863 common shares and 579,005,440 common shares B issued. Of the issued common shares, 39,836,533 common shares were held by Aegon as treasury shares and 1,471,377 treasury shares were held by its subsidiaries.

All of Aegon’s common shares and common shares B are fully paid and not subject to calls for additional payments of any kind. All of Aegon’s common shares are registered shares. Holders of shares of New York registry hold their common shares in the registered form issued by Aegon’s New York transfer agent on Aegon’s behalf. Shares of New York registry and shares of Netherlands registry are exchangeable on a one-to-one basis and are entitled to the same rights, except that cash dividends are paid in US dollars on shares of New York registry.

 

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308   Other information Major shareholders

 

As of December 31, 2013, 225 million common shares were held in the form of New York Registry shares. As of December 31, 2013, there were approximately 20,800 record holders of Aegon’s New York Registry shares resident in the United States.

Vereniging Aegon

Vereniging Aegon is the continuation of the former mutual insurer AGO. In 1978, AGO demutualized and Vereniging AGO became the only shareholder of AGO Holding N.V., which was the holding company for its insurance operations. In 1983, AGO Holding N.V. and Ennia N.V. merged into Aegon N.V. Vereniging AGO initially received approximately 49% of the common shares (reduced gradually to less than 40%) and all of the preferred shares in Aegon N.V., giving it voting majority in Aegon N.V. At that time Vereniging AGO changed its name to Vereniging Aegon.

The objective of Vereniging Aegon is the balanced representation of the interests of Aegon N.V. and all of its stakeholders, including shareholders, Aegon Group companies, insured parties, employees and other relations of the companies.

In accordance with the 1983 Merger Agreement, Vereniging Aegon had certain option rights on preferred shares to prevent dilution of voting power as a result of share issuances by Aegon N.V. This enabled Vereniging Aegon to maintain voting control at the General Meeting of Shareholders of Aegon N.V. In September 2002, Aegon N.V. effected a capital restructuring whereby Vereniging Aegon, among others, sold 206,400,000 common shares to Aegon N.V. for the amount of EUR 2,064,000,000; Vereniging Aegon contributed these as additional paid-in capital on the then existing Aegon N.V. preferred shares. As a result of this capital restructuring, Vereniging Aegon’s beneficial ownership interest in Aegon N.V.’s common shares decreased from approximately 37% to approximately 12% and its beneficial ownership interest in Aegon N.V.’s voting shares decreased from approximately 52% to approximately 33%.

On May 9, 2003, Aegon’s shareholders approved certain changes to Aegon’s corporate governance structure. Preferred shares with a nominal value of EUR 0.12 were converted into 211,680,000 new class A preferred shares with a nominal value of EUR 0.25, and class B preferred shares were created with a nominal value of EUR 0.25 each. No class B preferred shares were issued at that time. The voting rights pertaining to the preferred shares were adjusted accordingly to 25/12 vote per preferred share. However, in May 2003, Aegon N.V. and Vereniging Aegon entered into a Preferred Shares Voting Agreement, pursuant to which Vereniging Aegon agreed to exercise one vote only per preferred share, except in the event of a “Special Cause”, as defined hereunder.

In May 2003, Aegon N.V. and Vereniging Aegon amended the option arrangements under the 1983 Merger Agreement so that, in the event of an issuance of shares by Aegon N.V., Vereniging Aegon could purchase as many class B preferred shares as would enable Vereniging Aegon to prevent or correct dilution to below its actual percentage of voting shares, to a maximum of 33%.

On February 15, 2013, Aegon N.V. and Vereniging Aegon entered into an agreement to simplify the capital structure of Aegon and to cancel all of Aegon’s preferred shares, of which Vereniging Aegon was the sole owner. The execution of this agreement was subject to the approval of the General Meeting of Shareholders of Aegon N.V. This approval was granted at the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders on May 15, 2013.

The simplified capital structure entailed, but was not limited to, the amendment of the articles of association of Aegon N.V., including the conversion of all outstanding 329,773,000 preferred shares A and B, with a nominal value of EUR 0.25 each, into 120,713,389 common shares and 566,313,695 common shares B, with a nominal value of EUR 0.12 each. The financial rights attached to a common share B were determined at 1/40 th of the financial rights attached to a common share.

The simplified capital structure also entailed the amendment of the Voting Rights Agreement between Aegon N.V. and Vereniging Aegon, known as the Preferred Shares Voting Agreement before May 2013. As a matter of Dutch corporate law, the shares of both classes offer equal full voting rights, as they have equal nominal values (EUR 0.12). The amended Voting Rights Agreement ensures that under normal circumstances, i.e. except in the event of a Special Cause, Vereniging Aegon will no longer be able to exercise more votes than is proportionate to the financial rights represented by its shares. This means that in the absence of a Special Cause Vereniging Aegon may cast one vote for every common share it holds and one vote only for every 40 common shares B it holds. As “Special Cause” qualifies the acquisition of a 15% interest in Aegon N.V., a tender offer for Aegon N.V. shares or a proposed business combination by any person or group of persons, whether individually or as a group, other than in a transaction approved by the Executive Board and the Supervisory Board. If, in its sole discretion, Vereniging Aegon determines that a Special Cause has occurred, Vereniging Aegon will notify the General Meeting of Shareholders and retain its right to exercise the full voting power of one vote per common share B for a limited period of six months.

 

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The simplified capital structure also included an amendment to the Amended 1983 Merger Agreement between Aegon N.V. and Vereniging Aegon. Following this 2013 amendment, Vereniging Aegon’s call option relates to common shares B. Vereniging Aegon may exercise its call option to keep or restore its total stake at 32.6%, irrespective of the circumstances which cause the total shareholding to be or become lower than 32.6%.

In the years 2003 through 2010, 69,030,000 class B preferred shares were issued under these option rights. In March 2011, Vereniging Aegon exercised its option rights to purchase in aggregate 41,042,000 class B preferred shares at par value. It did this to correct dilution caused by Aegon’s issuance of shares conducted under Aegon’s US Shelf Registration, which comprised the sale of 173,604,912 common shares of Aegon N.V. at a price of EUR 5.20 per share in March 2011. In August 2012 and October 2012, Vereniging Aegon exercised its option rights to purchase in aggregate 8,021,000 class B Preferred Shares at par value. It did this to correct dilution caused by Aegon’s issuance of shares on June 15, 2012, being the final dividend 2011 in the form of stock dividend, and its issuance of shares on September 15, 2012, being the interim dividend 2012 in the form of stock dividend. In July 2013, Vereniging Aegon exercised its option rights to purchase in aggregate 12,691,745 Common Shares B at market value. It did this to correct dilution caused by Aegon’s issuance of shares on May 1, 2013 and May 16, 2013 in connection with the Long Term Incentive Plans for senior management, the issuance of shares on June 14, 2013, being the final dividend 2012 in the form of stock-dividend.

Development of shareholding in Aegon N.V.

 

Number of shares      Common         Common B         Preferred A         Preferred B   

At January 1, 2013

     171,974,055         -         211,680,000         118,093,000   

Exchange of Preferred A and B shares

     120,713,389         566,313,695         (211,680,000      (118,093,000

Exercise option right common shares B

     -         12,691,745         -         -   
At December 31, 2013      292,687,444         579,005,440         -         -   

Accordingly, at December 31, 2013, the voting power of Vereniging Aegon under normal circumstances amounts to approximately 14.58%, based on the number of outstanding and voting shares (excluding issued common shares held in treasury by Aegon N.V.). In the event of a Special Cause, Vereniging Aegon’s voting rights will increase, currently to 32.6%, for up to six months.

At December 31, 2013, the General Meeting of Members of Vereniging Aegon consisted of 17 members. The majority of the voting rights is with the 15 members who are not employees or former employees of Aegon N.V. or one of the Aegon Group companies, nor current or former members of the Supervisory Board or the Executive Board of Aegon N.V. The two other members are elected by the General Meeting of Members of Vereniging Aegon from the Executive Board of Aegon N.V.

Vereniging Aegon has an Executive Committee consisting of 7 members, 5 of whom are not, nor have ever been, related to Aegon, including the chairman and the vice chairman. The other two members are also members of the Executive Board of Aegon N.V. Resolutions of the Executive Committee, other than regarding the amendment of the Articles of Association of Vereniging Aegon, are made with an absolute majority of the votes. When a vote in the Executive Committee results in a tie, the General Meeting of Members has the deciding vote. Regarding the amendment of the Articles of Association of Vereniging Aegon, a special procedure requires a unanimous proposal from the Executive Committee, thereby including the consent of the representatives of Aegon N.V. at the Executive Committee. Following the amendment of the Articles of Association put into effect on September 13, 2005, this requirement does not apply in the event of a hostile change of control at the General Meeting of Shareholders of Aegon N.V., in which event Vereniging Aegon may amend its Articles of Association without the cooperation of Aegon N.V. Furthermore, the two members of the Executive Board of Aegon N.V. who are also members of the Executive Committee have no voting rights on several decisions that relate to Aegon N.V., as set out in the Articles of Association of Vereniging Aegon.

Other major shareholders

To Aegon’s knowledge based on the filings made with the Netherlands Authority for Financial Markets, the AFM, the US-based investment management firm Dodge & Cox and the US-based investment management firm FMR LLC each hold a capital and voting interest in Aegon N.V in excess of 3%.

 

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310   Other financial information Schedules to the financial statements

 

Schedules to the financial statements

Schedule I

Summary of investments other than investments in related parties

 

As at December 31, 2013         
Amounts in million EUR    Cost 1)      Fair value      Book value  

Shares:

        

Available-for-sale

     488         787         787   

Fair value through profit or loss

     1,553         1,250         1,250   

Bonds:

        

Available-for-sale and held-to-maturity:

        

US government

     5,538         5,522         5,522   

Dutch government

     3,705         3,824         3,824   

Other government

     12,766         13,272         13,272   

Mortgage backed

     9,433         9,800         9,800   

Asset backed

     6,780         7,019         7,019   

Corporate

     45,851         48,725         48,725   

Money market investments

     5,524         5,524         5,524   

Other

     1,042         1,163         1,163   

Subtotal

     90,638         94,849         94,849   

Bonds:

        

Fair value through profit or loss

     1,348         1,350         1,350   

Other investments at fair value through profit or loss

     2,113         2,234         2,234   

Mortgages

     29,369            29,369   

Private loans

     1,783            1,783   

Deposits with financial institutions

     292            292   

Policy loans

     1,955            1,955   

Receivables out of share lease agreements

     4            4   

Other

     131            131   

Subtotal

     33,533            33,533   

Real estate:

        

Investments in real estate

     1,532            1,532   
Total      131,205                  135,533   
  1   Cost is defined as original cost for available-for-sale shares and amortized cost for available-for-sale and held-to-maturity bonds

 

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Schedule II

Condensed financial information of registrant

Statement of financial position of Aegon N.V.

As at December 31

 

Before profit appropriation, amounts in EUR million

     2013         2012   

Investments

     

Shares in group companies

     21,707         24,401   

Loans to group companies

     4,320         4,379   

Other investments

     95         240   
     26,122         29,020   

Receivables

     

Receivables from group companies

     2,660         2,634   

Other receivables

     324         72   
     2,984         2,706   

Other assets

     

Cash and cash equivalents

     625         1,583   

Deferred tax asset

     -         19   

Other

     306         333   
     931         1,935   

Prepayments and accrued income

     

Accrued interest and rent

     31         55   
Total assets      30,068         33,716   

Shareholders’ equity

     

Share capital

     325         319   

Paid-in surplus

     8,376         8,780   

Revaluation account

     3,252         6,436   

Remeasurement of defined benefit plan of group companies

     (706      (1,085

Legal reserves – foreign currency translation reserve

     (1,806      (1,023

Legal reserves in respect of group companies

     3,428         3,474   

Retained earnings, including treasury shares

     6,212         5,006   

Net income / (loss)

     978         1,542   
     20,059         23,449   

Other equity instruments

     5,015         5,018   
Total equity      25,074         28,467   

Subordinated borrowings

     44         42   

Long-term borrowings

     2,233         2,850   

Short-term borrowings

     151         431   

Other liabilities

     

Loans from group companies

     559         282   

Payables to group companies

     1,675         1,082   

Deferred tax liability

     18         -   

Other

     302         483   
     2,554         1,847   

Accruals and deferred income

     12         79   
Total equity and liabilities      30,068         33,716   

 

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312   Other financial information Schedules to the financial statements

 

Income statement of Aegon N.V.

For the year ended December 31

 

Amounts in EUR million

     2013         2012         2011   

Net income / (loss) group companies

     957         1,473         971   

Other income / (loss)

     21         69         (87
Net income      978         1,542         884   

Condensed cash flow statement of Aegon N.V.

For the year ended December 31

 

Amounts in EUR million

     2013         2012         2011   

Income / (loss) before tax

     992         1,518         852   

Adjustments

     (388      (1,250      (925
Net cash flows from operating activities      604         268         (73

Purchase and disposal of individual intangible assets

     -         -         -   
Net cash flows from investing activities      -         -         -   

Issuance and repurchase of share capital

     (493      2         913   

Dividends paid

     (323      (207      (59

Issuance, repurchase and coupons of convertible core capital securities

     -         -         (2,250

Issuance, repurchase and coupons of perpetual securities

     (194      (230      (237

Issuance, repurchase and coupons of non-cumulative subordinated notes

     (28      241         -   

Issuance and repurchase of borrowings

     (524      431         1,492   
Net cash flows from financing activities      (1,562      237         (141
Net increase / (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents      (958      505         (214

 

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Schedule III

Supplementary insurance information

 

Column A   Column B     Column C     Column D     Column E     Column F  

Segment

Amounts in million EUR

  Deferred policy
acquisition costs
    Future policy
benefits
    Unearned
premiums
    Other policy claims
and benefits
    Premium revenue  

2013

         

Americas

    7,554        142,368        3,704        1,318        7,826   

The Netherlands

    138        51,555        121        1,247        4,245   

United Kingdom

    3,387        68,572        -        -        6,537   

New markets

    602        8,771        62        103        1,319   

Holding and other activities

    3        3        -        1        12   
Total     11,685        271,269        3,886        2,669        19,939   

2012

Americas

    7,000        141,101        3,900        1,378        8,208   

The Netherlands

    178        48,976        138        1,158        3,699   

United Kingdom

    3,520        67,037        -        -        6,047   

New markets

    541        8,113        55        116        1,095   

Holding and other activities

    -        -        -        1        -   
Total     11,239        265,227        4,093        2,653        19,049   

2011

Americas

    6,837        140,969        3,480        1,317        7,502   

The Netherlands

    238        45,971        156        1,078        3,881   

United Kingdom

    3,411        62,320        -        -        6,474   

New markets

    541        9,957        51        125        1,664   

Holding and other activities

    -        -        -        -        -   
Total     11,027        259,217        3,687        2,520        19,521   
     Column G     Column H     Column I     Column J     Column K  
Amounts in million EUR  

Net investment

income

   

Benefits,

claims and losses

   

Amortization of

deferred policy

acquisition costs

   

Other operating

expenses

    Premiums written  

2013

         

Americas

    3,365        7,777        545        2,627        5,102   

The Netherlands

    2,309        3,815        47        963        4,225   

United Kingdom

    2,053        7,945        255        487        6,135   

New markets

    178        666        114        498        1,353   

Holding and other activities

    4        1        -        57        16   
Total     7,909        20,204        961        4,632        16,831   

2012

Americas

    3,643        8,672        608        2,615        4,907   

The Netherlands

    2,231        4,338        71        971        3,682   

United Kingdom

    2,337        6,898        266        468        5,631   

New markets

    195        651        108        386        1,125   

Holding and other activities

    7        -        -        66        1   
Total     8,413        20,559        1,053        4,506        15,346   

2011

Americas

    3,551        5,643        917        2,519        4,451   

The Netherlands

    2,189        3,812        70        1,065        3,852   

United Kingdom

    2,152        6,342        217        618        6,138   

New markets

    258        1,017        114        453        1,673   

Holding and other activities

    17        -        -        168        -   
Total     8,167        16,814        1,318        4,823        16,114   

 

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314   Other financial information Schedules to the financial statements

 

Schedule IV

Reinsurance

 

Amounts in million EUR   Gross amount     Ceded to other
companies
   

Assumed from

other companies

    Net amount     % of amount
assumed to net
 

For the year ended December 31, 2013

         

Life insurance in force

    898,135        896,012        583,733        585,856        100

Premiums

         

Life insurance

    15,650        2,756        1,462        14,356        10

Non-Life insurance

    2,827        352        -        2,475        0
Total premiums     18,477        3,108        1,462        16,831        9

For the year ended December 31, 2012

         

Life insurance in force

    927,075        1,057,502        684,275        553,848        124

Premiums

Life insurance

    14,383        3,298        1,818        12,903        14

Non-Life insurance

    2,849        404        -        2,445        0
Total premiums     17,232        3,702        1,818        15,348        12

For the year ended December 31, 2011

Life insurance in force

    953,819        1,073,026        755,821        636,614        119

Premiums

Life insurance

    15,100        3,042        1,753        13,811        13

Non-Life insurance

    2,668        365        -        2,303        0
Total premiums     17,768        3,407        1,753        16,114        11

 

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Schedule V

Valuation and qualifying accounts

 

Amounts in million EUR    2013      2012      2011  

Balance at January 1

     355         337         332   

Addition charged to earnings

     47         79         93   

Amounts written off and other changes

     (46      (65      (81

Currency translation

     (4      5         (7
Balance at December 31      351         356         337   

The provisions can be analyzed as follows:

        

Mortgages

     163         167         156   

Other loans

     77         57         43   

Receivables

     111         132         138   
Total      351         356         337   

 

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316   Other financial information Auditor’s report on the Annual Report on Form 20-F

 

Auditor’s report on the Annual Report on Form 20-F

To: The Supervisory Board, the Executive Board and Shareholders of Aegon N.V.

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

We have audited the accompanying consolidated statements of financial position of Aegon N.V., as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, and the related consolidated income statement and statements of comprehensive income, changes in equity, and cash flow for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2013. Our audits also include the other financial information included on pages 310 to 315. These financial statements and schedules are the responsibility of the company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements and schedules based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in The Netherlands and the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of Aegon N.V. at December 31, 2013 and 2012 and the consolidated results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2013, in conformity with International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standard Board. Also, in our opinion, the related financial statement schedules, when considered in relation to the basic financial statements taken as a whole, present fairly in all material respects the information set forth therein.

As discussed in Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company changed its method for consolidation, joint arrangements and employee benefits effective January 1, 2013.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), Aegon N.V.‘s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2013, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (1992 framework) and our report dated March 19, 2014 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

The Hague, the Netherlands, March 19, 2014

Ernst & Young Accountants LLP

 

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Additional information

 

  ¿   Supervision
  ¿   Risk factors
  ¿   Property, plants and equipment
  ¿   Employees and labor relations
  ¿   Dividend policy
  ¿   The offer and listing
  ¿   Memorandum and Articles of Association
  ¿   Material contracts
  ¿   Exchange controls
  ¿   Taxation
  ¿   Principal accountant fees and services
  ¿   Purchases of equity securities by the issuer and affiliated purchasers
  ¿   Quarterly results – unaudited
  ¿   Documents on display
  ¿   Glossary
  ¿   Disclaimer
  ¿   Contact
 

 

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Supervision

Individual companies in the Aegon Group are each subject to solvency supervision in their respective home countries. Based on European Union legislation (EU Directive 98/79/EC, the Insurance Group Directive) adopted in 1998, EU supervisors, such as De Nederlandsche Bank (DNB or Dutch Central Bank) are required to carry out “supplementary supervision” on EU insurance companies in an insurance group. The supplementary supervision of insurance companies in an insurance group enables EU supervisors to make a detailed assessment of the financial position of the EU insurance companies that are part of that group. The Directive requires DNB to take into account the relevant financial affiliations between the insurance companies and other entities in the group. In this respect, Aegon is required to submit reports to its supervisors twice a year setting out supplemental capital adequacy calculations of the insurance companies, risk concentrations and significant transactions and positions between insurance and non-insurance companies in the Aegon Group.

Since the beginning of October 2009, Aegon has been subject to supplemental group supervision by the Dutch Central Bank in accordance with the requirements of the European Union’s Financial Conglomerate Directive. Supplemental group supervision pursuant to the Financial Conglomerate Directive includes supplementary capital adequacy requirements for financial conglomerates and supplementary supervision on risk concentrations and intra-group transactions in the financial conglomerate.

Both the insurance and banking companies in the Aegon Group are required to maintain a minimum solvency margin based on local requirements. The required solvency margin is the sum of the margins of each of Aegon’s insurance and banking subsidiaries, based on the local requirements. Available liability capital includes shareholders’ equity, convertible core capital securities, perpetual capital securities, and dated subordinated debt and senior debt.

Risk factors

Aegon faces a number of risks, some of which may arise from internal factors, such as inadequate compliance systems. Others, such as movements in interest rates or unexpected changes in longevity or mortality trends, are external in nature. Aegon’s most significant risk is to changes in financial markets, related particularly to movements in interest rates, equity and credit markets. These risks, whether internal or external, may affect the company’s operations, its earnings, its share price, the value of its investments, or the sale of certain products and services. The next two sections describe risks relating to Aegon’s businesses and risks relating to Aegon’s common shares.

I - Risks relating to Aegon’s businesses

The following covers some key risk factors that may affect Aegon’s businesses and operations, as well as other risk factors that are particularly relevant to Aegon in the ongoing period of significant economic uncertainty. Additional risks to which Aegon is subject to include, but are not limited to, the factors mentioned under ‘Forward-looking statements’ (refer to pages 357-358), and the risks of Aegon’s businesses described elsewhere in this Annual Report.

Factors additional to those discussed below or elsewhere in this Annual Report may also affect Aegon’s businesses and operations adversely. The following risk factors should not be considered a complete list of potential risks that may affect Aegon and its subsidiaries.

 

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Risks related to the global financial markets and general economic conditions

Disruptions in global financial markets and general economic conditions have affected, continue to affect and may have a materially adverse effect on Aegon’s businesses, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.

Aegon’s results of operations and financial condition may be materially affected from time to time by general economic conditions, such as levels of employment, consumer lending or inflation in the countries in which we operate. Global financial markets have experienced extreme and unprecedented volatility and disruption in recent years and uncertainty remains today. These developments have created an unfavorable environment for banking activity generally. Bank lending has been lower than pre-financial crisis levels for some time, and housing markets in Europe and North America remain under pressure.

In addition to the risks described in this section, these conditions may result in reduced demand for Aegon’s products as well as impairments and reductions in the value of the assets in Aegon’s general account, separate account, and company pension schemes, among other assets. Aegon may also experience a higher incidence of claims and lapses or surrenders of policies. Aegon’s policyholders may choose to defer or stop paying insurance premiums, which may impact Aegon’s businesses, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition, and Aegon cannot predict definitively whether or when such actions may occur.

In Europe, countries such as Greece, Ireland, Italy, Portugal, Spain and Cyprus have been particularly affected by financial and economic conditions, creating a heightened perceived risk of default on the sovereign debt of those countries. Recovery has taken place but downside risk remains. There has also been concern about its effect on other European Union economies, the euro currency and the European Monetary Union. Aegon also cannot predict with certainty the effect a sovereign default may have on Aegon’s businesses, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition, although the effect of such events may be material and adverse.

Governmental action in the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, the United States, the European Union and elsewhere to address any of the above may impact Aegon’s businesses. Aegon cannot predict with certainty the effect that these or other government actions and actions by the ECB or the Federal Reserve may have on the financial markets or on Aegon’s businesses, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.

Credit risk

Defaults in Aegon’s debt securities, private placements and mortgage loan portfolios held in Aegon’s general account, or the failure of certain counterparties, may adversely affect Aegon’s profitability and shareholders’ equity.

Credit risk is the risk of loss resulting from the default by, or failure to meet contractual obligations of issuers and counterparties. For general account products, Aegon typically bears the risk for investment performance equaling the return of principal and interest. Aegon is exposed to credit risk on its general account fixed-income portfolio (debt securities, mortgages and private placements), over-the-counter (OTC) derivatives and reinsurance contracts. In addition, financial institutions acting as a counterparty on derivatives may not perform their obligations. Default by issuers and counterparties on their financial obligations may be due to, among other things, bankruptcy, lack of liquidity, market downturns or operational failures, and the collateral or security they provide may prove inadequate to cover their obligations at the time of the default.

Aegon’s investment portfolio among other investments contains Dutch government bonds, US Treasury, agency and state bonds, as well as other government issued securities. There continues to be uncertainty regarding the ability of certain European nations (in particular Greece, Ireland, Italy, Portugal and Spain) to satisfy their financial obligations. Due to the weak economic environment, Aegon may incur significant investment impairments due to defaults and overall declines in the capital markets. Further excessive defaults or other reductions in the value of these securities and loans may have a materially adverse effect on Aegon’s businesses, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.

Equity market risk

A decline in equity markets may adversely affect Aegon’s profitability and shareholders’ equity, sales of savings and investment products, and the amount of assets under management.

Exposure to equity markets exists in both assets and liabilities. Asset exposure exists through direct equity investment where Aegon bears all or most of the volatility in returns and investment performance risk. Equity market exposure is also present in insurance and investment contracts for account of policyholders where funds are invested in equities (such as variable annuities, unit-linked products and mutual funds). Although most of the risk remains with the policyholder, lower investment returns can reduce the asset

 

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management fee that Aegon earns on the asset balance in these products and prolonged investment under-performance may cause existing customers to withdraw funds and potential customers not to grant investment mandates.

Some of Aegon’s insurance and investment contract businesses have minimum return or accumulation guarantees, which requires Aegon to establish reserves to fund these future guaranteed benefits when equity market returns do not meet or exceed these guarantee levels. Aegon’s reported results under International Financial Reporting Standards, as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IFRS), are also at risk if returns are not sufficient to allow amortization of deferred policyholder acquisition costs (DPAC), which may impact the reported net income as well as shareholders’ equity. Volatile or poor market conditions may also significantly reduce the demand for some of Aegon’s savings and investment products, which may lead to lower sales and net income. Deteriorating general economic conditions may again result in significant decreases in the value of Aegon’s equity investments. The equity market conditions experienced through 2013 led to a recognized impairment loss on equity securities held in general account of EUR 3 million (2012: EUR 8 million, 2011: EUR 10 million).

Interest rate risk

Interest rate volatility or sustained low interest rate levels may adversely affect Aegon’s profitability and shareholders’ equity.

In periods of rapidly increasing interest rates, policy loans, surrenders and withdrawals may and usually do increase. Premiums in flexible premium policies may decrease as policyholders seek investments with higher perceived returns. This activity may result in cash payments by Aegon requiring the sale of invested assets at a time when the prices of those assets are affected adversely by the increase in market interest rates. This may result in realized investment losses. These cash payments to policyholders also result in a decrease in total invested assets and net income. Early withdrawals may also require accelerated amortization of DPAC, which in turn reduces net income.

During periods of sustained low interest rates, as experienced in recent years, Aegon may not be able to preserve margins as a result of minimum interest rate guarantees and minimum guaranteed crediting rates provided in policies. Also, investment earnings may be lower because the interest earnings on new fixed-income investments are likely to have declined with the market interest rates. A prolonged low interest rate environment may result in a lengthening of maturities of the policyholder liabilities from initial estimates, primarily due to lower policy lapses.

Life insurance and annuity products may be relatively more attractive to consumers, resulting in increased premium payments on products with flexible premium features and a higher percentage of insurance policies remaining in force year-to-year. The majority of assets backing the insurance liabilities are invested in fixed income securities. Aegon manages its investments and derivative portfolio, considering a variety of factors, including the relationship between the expected duration of its assets and liabilities. However, as interest rates remain at low levels, Aegon may have to reinvest the cash it receives as interest or proceeds from investments that mature or are sold at lower yields. Reinvestment at lower yields may reduce the spread between interest earned on investments and interest credited to some of our products and accordingly net income may decline. In addition, borrowers may prepay or redeem fixed maturity investments or mortgage loans in our investment portfolio in order to borrow at lower rates. Aegon can lower crediting rates on certain products to offset the decrease in spread. However, its ability to lower these rates may be limited by contractually guaranteed minimum rates or competition.

In general, if interest rates rise, there will be unrealized losses on assets carried at fair value that will be recorded in other comprehensive income (available-for-sale investments) or as negative income (investments at fair value through profit or loss) under IFRS. This is inconsistent with the IFRS accounting on much of Aegon’s liabilities, where corresponding economic gains from higher interest rates do not affect shareholders’ equity or income in the shorter term. Over time, the short-term reduction in shareholder equity and income due to rising interest rates would be offset in later years, all else being equal.

Base interest rates set by central banks and government treasuries remained at the historically low levels initiated in response to the worldwide recession and attempts to stimulate growth.

The profitability of Aegon’s spread-based businesses depends in large part upon the ability to manage interest rate spreads, credit spread risk and other risks inherent in the investment portfolio. Aegon may not be able to successfully manage interest rate spreads, credit spread risk and other risks in the investment portfolio or the potential negative impact of those risks. Investment income from general account fixed income investments for the years 2011, 2012 and 2013 was EUR 5.6 billion, EUR 5.7 billion and EUR 5.6 billion,

 

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respectively. The value of the related general account fixed income investment portfolio at the end of the years 2011, 2012 and 2013 was EUR 139 billion, EUR 142 billion and EUR 132 billion, respectively.

The sensitivity of Aegon’s net income and shareholders’ equity to a change in interest rates is provided in Note 4 to the consolidated financial statements on page 176.

Currency exchange rate risk

Fluctuations in currency exchange rates may affect Aegon’s reported results of operations.

As an international group, Aegon is subject to foreign currency translation risk. Foreign currency exposure also exists when policies are denominated in currencies other than Aegon’s functional currency. Currency risk in the investment portfolios backing insurance and investment liabilities are managed using asset liability matching principles. Assets allocated to equity are kept in local currencies to the extent shareholders´ equity is required to satisfy regulatory and Aegon’s self-imposed capital requirements. Therefore, currency exchange rate fluctuations may affect the level of Aegon’s consolidated shareholders´ equity as a result of translation of the equity of Aegon’s subsidiaries into euro, Aegon’s reporting currency. Aegon holds the remainder of its capital base (capital securities, subordinated and senior debt) in various currencies in amounts that are targeted to correspond to the book value of Aegon’s business units. This balancing is intended to mitigate currency translation impacts on equity and leverage ratios. Aegon may also hedge the expected dividends from its principal business units that maintain their equity in currencies other than the euro.

To the extent these expected dividends are not hedged or actual dividends vary from expected, Aegon’s net income and shareholders´ equity may fluctuate. As Aegon has significant business segments in the Americas and in the United Kingdom, the principal sources of exposure from currency fluctuations are from the differences between the US dollar and the euro and between the UK pound and the euro. Aegon may experience significant changes in net income and shareholders´ equity because of these fluctuations.

The exchange rates between Aegon’s primary operating currencies (US dollar, euro and UK pound) continued to fluctuate during 2013. In 2013, the US dollar ranged by 7% against the euro, finishing around 4% down from 2012. The UK pound fluctuated by around 9% against the euro ending the year with a 3% reduction from 2012.

For the Americas, which primarily conducts its business in US dollars, total revenues and net income in 2013 amounted to EUR 12.6 billion and EUR 446 million, respectively. For the UK, which primarily conducts its business in UK pounds, total revenues and net income in 2013 amounted to EUR 8.7 billion and EUR 120 million, respectively. On a consolidated basis, these represented 71% of the total revenues and 58% of the net income for the year 2013. Additionally, Aegon borrows in various currencies to hedge the currency exposure arising from its operations. As of December 31, 2013, Aegon has borrowed or swapped amounts in proportion to the currency mix of capital in units, which was denominated approximately 53% in US dollars, 28% in euro, 14% in UK pounds and 5% in Canadian dollars.

The possible abandonment of the euro currency by one or more members of the European Monetary Union may affect Aegon’s results of operations in the future.

It is possible that the euro may be abandoned as a currency in the future by countries that have already adopted its use. This may lead to the re-introduction of individual currencies in one or more European Monetary Union member states, or in more extreme circumstances, the dissolution of the European Monetary Union. It is not possible to predict with certainty the effect on the European and global economies of a potential dissolution of the European Monetary Union or the exit of one or more European Union member states from the European Monetary Union. Any such event may have a materially adverse effect on Aegon’s future financial condition and results of operations.

Liquidity risk

Illiquidity of certain investment assets may prevent Aegon from selling investments at fair prices in a timely manner.

Liquidity risk is inherent in much of Aegon’s businesses. Each asset purchased and liability sold has unique liquidity characteristics. Some liabilities can be surrendered, while some assets, such as privately placed loans, mortgage loans, real estate and limited partnership interests, are to some degree illiquid. Aegon continued to maintain its reserves of cash and liquid assets in 2013. In depressed markets, Aegon may be unable to sell or buy significant volumes of assets at quoted prices.

 

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Any security Aegon issues in significant volume may be issued at higher financing costs if funding conditions are impaired, as they have been from time to time in recent years. The requirement to issue securities can be driven by a variety of factors, for instance Aegon may need liquidity for operating expenses, debt servicing and the maintenance of capital levels of insurance subsidiaries. Although Aegon manages its liquidity position for extreme events, including greatly reduced liquidity in capital markets, if these conditions were to persist for an extended period of time, Aegon may need to sell assets substantially below prices at which they are currently recorded to meet its insurance obligations.

In 2013, approximately 40% of Aegon’s general account investments were not highly liquid.

Underwriting risk

Differences between actual claims experience and underwriting and reserve assumptions may require liabilities to be increased.

Aegon’s earnings depend significantly upon the extent to which actual claims experience is consistent with the assumptions used in setting the prices for Aegon’s products and establishing the technical liabilities for expected claims. If actual claims experience is less favorable than the underlying assumptions used in establishing such liabilities, Aegon’s income would be reduced. Furthermore, if less favorable claims experience became sustained, Aegon may be required to increase liabilities for other related products, which may reduce Aegon’s income. In addition, certain acquisition costs related to the sale of new policies and the purchase of policies already in force have been recorded as assets on the balance sheet and are being amortized into income over time. If the assumptions relating to the future profitability of these policies (such as future claims, investment income and expenses) are not realized, the amortization of these costs may be accelerated and may require write-offs due to an expectation of unrecoverability. This may have a materially adverse effect on Aegon’s results of operations and financial condition.

Sources of underwriting risk include policy lapses, policy claims (such as mortality and morbidity) and expenses. In general, Aegon is at risk if policy lapses increase, as sometimes Aegon is unable to fully recover up-front sales expenses despite the presence of commission recoveries or surrender charges and fees. In addition, some policies have embedded options which at times are more valuable to the client if they stay (lower lapses) or leave (higher lapses), which may result in losses to Aegon’s businesses. Aegon sells certain types of policies that are at risk if mortality or morbidity increases, such as term life insurance and accident insurance. Aegon also sells certain other types of policies, such as annuity products, that are at risk if mortality decreases (longevity risk). For example, certain current products as well as products sold in previous years based on standard longevity assumptions have become less profitable or unprofitable as longevity assumptions increase, which may result in Aegon incurring losses. If the trend toward increased longevity persists, Aegon’s annuity products may continue to experience adverse effects because the period of time over which benefit payments are made becomes longer as life expectancies increase. Aegon is also at risk if expenses are higher than assumed.

Modelling risk

Inaccuracies in (financial) models could have a significant adverse effect on Aegon’s business, results of operations and financial condition.

Reliance on various (financial) models to establish key results and assumptions is critical to Aegon’s operations. If these models prove to be inaccurate, the same may apply to assumptions that are based thereon. Aegon’s earnings depends significantly on models and assumptions used. Whereas the assumptions used to set the price for Aegon’s products, the inaccuracy of our financial models could have a significant adverse effect on Aegon’s business.

Other risks

Valuation of Aegon’s investments, allowances and impairments is subjective, and discrepant valuations may adversely affect Aegon’s results of operations and financial condition.

The valuation of many of Aegon’s financial instruments is based on methodologies, estimations and assumptions that are subject to different interpretations and may result in changes to investment valuations that may have a materially adverse effect on Aegon’s results of operations and financial condition. In addition, the determination of the amount of allowances and impairments taken on Aegon’s investments is subjective and may materially impact Aegon’s results of operations or financial position.

 

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Aegon may be required to increase its statutory reserves and/or hold higher amounts of statutory capital for some of its products, which will decrease Aegon’s returns on these products unless Aegon increases its prices.

The European Commission´s Solvency II directive, effective date pending, is expected to impose, among other things, substantially greater quantitative and qualitative capital requirements on some of Aegon’s businesses and at Group level, as well as supervisory and disclosure requirements, and may impact the structure, business strategies, and profitability of Aegon’s insurance subsidiaries and of the Group. Some of Aegon’s competitors who are headquartered outside the European Economic Area may not be subject to Solvency II requirements and may thereby be better able to compete against Aegon, particularly in Aegon’s businesses in the United States and Asia.

The National Association of Insurance Commissioners´ (NAIC) Model Regulation entitled ‘Valuation of Life Insurance Policies,’ commonly known as Regulation XXX, requires insurers in the United States to establish additional statutory reserves for term life insurance policies with long-term premium guarantees. In addition, Actuarial Guideline 38, The Application of the Valuation of Life Insurance Policies Regulation, commonly known as Regulation AXXX, or AG38, requires insurers to establish additional statutory reserves for certain universal life insurance policies with secondary guarantees. Virtually all of Aegon’s newly issued term and universal life insurance products in the United States are now affected by Regulations XXX and AXXX, respectively.

In response to the NAIC regulations, Aegon has implemented reinsurance and capital management actions to mitigate their impact. However, for a variety of reasons, Aegon may not be able to implement actions to mitigate the impact of Regulation XXX and AXXX on future sales of term or universal life insurance products, potentially resulting in an adverse impact on these products and Aegon’s market position in the life insurance market. In addition, the NAIC is reviewing internal captive reinsurance, the vehicle used in many capital management actions.

For some of Aegon’s products, market performance impacts the level of statutory reserves and statutory capital Aegon is required to hold, which may have an adverse effect on returns on capital associated with these products. Capacity for reserve funding available in the marketplace is currently limited as a result of market conditions generally. Aegon’s ability to efficiently manage capital and economic reserve levels may be impacted, thereby affecting profitability and return on capital.

Aegon may not be able to comply fully with, or obtain appropriate exemptions from, the wide variety of laws and regulations applicable to insurance companies and insurance holding companies. Failure to comply with or to obtain appropriate exemptions under any applicable laws may result in restrictions on Aegon’s ability to do business in one or more of the jurisdictions in which Aegon operates and may result in fines and other sanctions, which may have a materially adverse effect on Aegon’s businesses, financial position or results of operations.

There may be heightened oversight of insurers by regulatory authorities in the jurisdictions in which Aegon’s subsidiaries are domiciled and operate. Aegon cannot predict specific proposals that might be adopted, or what impact, if any, such proposals or, if enacted, such laws, may have on its businesses, results of operations, or financial condition. The European Union is adopting Solvency II as discussed above, the NAIC or state regulators may adopt revisions to applicable risk based capital formulas, local regulators in other jurisdictions in which Aegon’s subsidiaries operate may increase their capital requirements, or rating agencies may incorporate higher capital thresholds into their quantitative analyses, thus requiring additional capital for Aegon’s insurance subsidiaries.

Since 2012, further to a decision by the European Court of Justice, our European units may no longer use gender-related factors to determine premiums and benefits under insurance policies. We have not observed any negative financial or business impact through 2013 but there remains a risk of future adverse impact.

Aegon utilizes affiliated captives to manage risks related to universal life with secondary guarantees and level term life insurance policies. Through these structures, Aegon finances certain regulatory required reserves at a lower cost. To the extent that state insurance departments restrict Aegon’s use of captives and regulatory reserve requirements remain unchanged this could increase its cost, limit its ability to write these products in the future or lead to increased prices to consumers on those products. The NAIC continues to consider changes to corporate governance and insurers’ use of captives. Due to the uncertainty of the proposals it is not possible to provide an estimate of the effects at this time.

 

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A downgrade in Aegon’s ratings may increase policy surrenders and withdrawals, adversely affect relationships with distributors, and negatively affect Aegon’s results.

Claims-paying ability and financial strength ratings are factors in establishing the competitive position of insurers. A rating downgrade (or the potential for such a downgrade) of Aegon or any of its rated insurance subsidiaries may, among other things, materially increase the number of policy surrenders and withdrawals by policyholders of cash values from their policies. These withdrawals may require the sale of invested assets, including illiquid assets, at a price that may result in realized investment losses. These cash payments to policyholders would result in a decrease in total invested assets and a decrease in net income. Among other things, early withdrawals may also cause Aegon to accelerate amortization of DPAC, reducing net income.

Aegon has experienced downgrades and negative changes to its outlook in the past, and may experience downgrades and negative changes in the future. For example, during 2012, Fitch put a negative outlook on its long-term issuer default rating for Aegon N.V. and its insurer financial strength ratings for Aegon USA. Since 2012, Standard and Poor´s put a negative outlook on its insurer financial strength rating for Scottish Equitable (Aegon UK). A downgrade or potential downgrade, including changes in outlook, may result in higher funding costs and/or affect the availability of funding in the capital markets. In addition, a downgrade may adversely affect relationships with broker-dealers, banks, agents, wholesalers and other distributors of Aegon’s products and services, which may negatively impact new sales and adversely affect Aegon’s ability to compete. This would have a materially adverse effect on Aegon’s businesses, results of operations and financial condition.

Aegon cannot predict what actions rating agencies may take, or what actions Aegon may take in response to the actions of rating agencies, which may adversely affect Aegon’s businesses. As with other companies in the financial services industry, Aegon’s ratings may be downgraded at any time and without notice by any rating agency.

Changes in government regulations in the countries in which Aegon operates may affect profitability.

Aegon’s regulated businesses, such as insurance, banking and asset management, are subject to comprehensive regulation and supervision. The primary purpose of such regulation is to protect clients (i.e. policyholders), not holders of Aegon securities. Changes in existing laws and regulations may affect the way in which Aegon conducts business and the products offered. Additionally, the laws or regulations adopted or amended from time to time may be more restrictive or may result in higher costs than current requirements. The recent financial markets dislocation has resulted in, and may continue to result in further, extensive changes to existing laws, regulations and regulatory frameworks applicable to Aegon’s businesses in the countries in which it operates.

For example, in July 2010, the US Congress passed the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (Dodd-Frank Act), which provides for comprehensive changes to the regulation of financial services in the United States by granting existing government agencies and newly created government agencies and bodies (for example the Financial Stability Oversight, Federal Reserve Board, Commodity Futures Trading Commission and Securities and Exchange Commission) authority to promulgate new financial regulations applicable to systemically important non-bank financial institutions. The regulatory changes include or may include differing standards of capital for companies deemed systemically important financial institutions ‘SIFIs’ and other companies, as well as initiatives of U.S. State and international financial services regulators to develop international capital, accounting and solvency regulatory standards for internationally active companies. The primary impact to Aegon USA of the Dodd-Frank Act and similar financial services reform legislation by other countries in which Aegon operates will be the Derivatives Reform part of the Dodd-Frank Act, which aims to increase transparency of derivatives and reduce systemic risk. Aegon USA entities will be considered Category 2 under the regulations and will be required to begin clearing derivative transactions as they are phased in over time, beginning with the four categories of interest rate swaps and two categories of indexed credit default swaps on June 10, 2013. In addition, Aegon USA will have new reporting, initial margins and variation margins obligations under the Dodd-Frank Act and its regulations. However, Aegon cannot predict how the regulations will affect the financial markets generally or how the regulations will affect Aegon’s operations or financial condition.

In the United States, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) was enacted in 2011 and upheld by the US Supreme Court in 2012. PPACA significantly changes the regulation of health insurance in the United States, including in certain respects the regulation of supplemental health insurance products. The extent to which employers or individuals may discontinue their purchase of supplemental health insurance products as a result of these changes may significantly impact Aegon USA´s supplemental health insurance products business.

 

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For information relating to the European Commission´s Solvency II directive, see page 11. Aegon may be required to increase its statutory reserves and/or hold higher amounts of statutory capital for some of its products, which will decrease Aegon’s returns on these products unless Aegon increases its prices. Other initiatives, such as by the International Association of Insurance Supervisors, may create regulations that would increase capital and other requirements that would not be applicable to all carriers and create an uneven competitive playing field.

Changes in pension and employee benefit regulation, social security regulation, financial services regulation, taxation and the regulation of securities products and transactions may adversely affect Aegon’s ability to sell new policies or claims exposure on existing policies. For example, in Hungary, the mandatory pension business has been nationalized and therefore Aegon in Hungary has liquidated its mandatory pension business. Similarly, in December 2013 the Polish parliament approved legislation to overhaul the existing state pension system, which is a reason for Aegon to write down its intangible assets.

In general, changes in laws and regulations may materially increase Aegon’s direct and indirect compliance and other expenses of doing business and have a materially adverse effect on Aegon’s businesses, results of operations or financial condition.

The possibility of Scotland becoming independent from the remainder of the United Kingdom may affect Aegon UK’s results of operations in the future.

It is possible that following a referendum in September 2014, Scotland may vote to become independent from the remainder of the United Kingdom. Any actual changes would not take effect until after independence day, which based on Scottish Government indications would not be until March 2016 at the earliest. The details of any changes are impossible to predict with certainty at present, and will depend on post-referendum negotiations and agreements between the Scottish Government and other organizations at UK and EU level. Independence could result in inter alia changes in the monetary system, currency, taxation, regulatory and legal framework, and membership of the EU. Some possible outcomes of independence could have an adverse effect on Aegon UK’s business, financial condition and results of operations in the future.

Legal and arbitration proceedings and regulatory investigations and actions may adversely affect Aegon’s businesses, results of operations and financial position.

Aegon faces significant risks of litigation and regulatory investigations and actions in connection with Aegon’s activities as an insurer, securities issuer, employer, investment adviser, investor and taxpayer, among others.

Insurance companies are routinely the subject of litigation, investigation and regulatory activity by various governmental and enforcement authorities, individual claimants and policyholder advocate groups, involving wide-ranging subjects such as transparency issues and the charges included in products, employment or third party relationships, adequacy of operational processes, environmental matters, anti-competition, privacy, information security and intellectual property infringement. In this context, Aegon refers to the unclaimed property examinations that unclaimed property administrators and state insurance regulators performed of the life insurance industry in the United States, including certain of Aegon’s subsidiaries. Among these were multi-state examinations that included the collective action of many of the states. Additionally, some states conducted separate examinations or instituted separate enforcement actions in regard to unclaimed property laws and related claims practices. As other insurers in the United States have done, Aegon Americas identified certain additional internal processes that it has implemented or is in the process of implementing. Aegon Americas originally established reserves related to this matter of approximately EUR 117 million. Like various other major insurers in the United States, Aegon subsidiaries in the United States entered into settlements with insurance regulators regarding claims settlement practices. Certain examinations are still ongoing. While Aegon believes the reserves it has established for these unclaimed property-related matters are adequate to cover expected obligations, there can be no assurances that actual exposures may not exceed reserve amounts or that additional sources of liability related to these examinations or other unclaimed property-related matters will not arise in the future.

In addition, insurance companies are generally the subject of litigation, investigations and regulatory activity concerning common industry practices such as the disclosure of costs, both costs incurred upon inception of the policy as well as over the duration thereof, commissions, premiums and other issues relating to the transparency concerning certain products and services. In particular when these costs and charges apply for or take effect over a longer duration, as is the case for many of Aegon’s products. In addition, many of Aegon’s products offer returns that are affected by, among other things, fluctuations in equity markets as well as interest rate movements. As a result, such returns may prove to be volatile and occasionally disappointing. From time to time this results in disputes that lead to litigation and complaints to regulatory bodies. Complaints like these may lead to inquiries or investigations, regardless of their merit.

 

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Aegon cannot predict at this time the effect that litigation, investigations, and actions will have on the insurance industry or Aegon’s business. Lawsuits, including class actions and regulatory actions, may be difficult to assess or quantify, and may seek recovery of very large and/or indeterminable amounts, including bad faith, punitive and treble damages, and their existence and magnitude may remain unknown for substantial periods of time. Claimants may allege damages that are not quantifiable or supportable and may bear little relationship to their actual economic losses, or amounts they ultimately receive, if any.

Aegon and other US industry participants have been named in lawsuits alleging, among other things, that asset-based fees charged for investment products offered on 401(k) platforms were higher than those generally available in the market. In the Netherlands, certain current and former customers, and groups representing customers have initiated litigation, and certain groups are encouraging others to bring lawsuits against Aegon and other insurers, in respect of certain products including securities leasing products and unit-linked products (so called ‘beleggingsverzekeringen’, including the KoersPlan product).

Aegon has defended and Aegon intends to continue defending itself vigorously when Aegon believes claims are without merit. Aegon has also sought and will continue to seek to settle certain claims, including via policy modifications in appropriate circumstances. Aegon refers to the settlement Aegon reached in 2009 with two major customer interest groups in the Netherlands, Stichting Verliespolis and Stichting Woekerpolis Claim. In 2012, Aegon accelerated certain product improvements that reduce future costs and increase policy value for its customers with unit-linked insurance policies. With these measures, Aegon committed to an appeal by the Dutch Ministry of Finance to apply ‘best of class’ principles to certain existing unit-linked products. As a result of this acceleration, Aegon took a one-off charge of EUR 265 million before tax. In addition, Aegon decided to reduce future policy costs from 2013 onward for the large majority of its unit-linked portfolio. This is expected to decrease income before tax over the remaining duration of the policies by approximately EUR 125 million in aggregate, based on the present value at the time of the decision. While parties such as Ombudsman Financiële Dienstverlening (the Netherlands financial services industry ombudsman) supported the arrangements, it is uncertain whether public debate over the general adequacy of the arrangements reached with customer interest groups, as well as ongoing discussions in the Dutch Parliament, will not continue in the future and lead to re-examination and adjustment of the settlements made. It is not yet possible to determine the direction or outcome of any further debate, including what actions, if any, Aegon may take in response thereto, or the impact that any such actions may have on Aegon’s business, results of operations and financial position. Any such actions, whether triggered by legal requirements or commercial necessity, any substantial legal liability or a significant regulatory action, may have a materially adverse effect on Aegon’s businesses, results of operations and financial condition.

In June, 2013, the Dutch Supreme Court denied Aegon’s appeal from a ruling of the Court of Appeal with respect to a specific Aegon unit-linked product, the “Koersplan”-product. In 2011, the Court of Appeal had ruled that Aegon should have more clearly informed its customers about the amount of premium which the company charged in relation to the death benefit embedded in the product, sold during the period 1989-1998. Prior to the ruling Aegon had already taken steps to improve its communications with customers as well as adjusting the amounts charged to Koersplan-customers. As a result of the Dutch Supreme Court’s denial of appeal, Aegon will compensate the approximately 35,000 holders of KoersPlan-products who were plaintiffs in the litigation and took a charge of EUR 25 million in Q2 2013. It is possible that holders of KoersPlan-products that were not plaintiffs in the litigation also expect or demand a form of compensation. It is not yet possible to determine what actions, if any, Aegon may take in connection with any such expectations or demands due to commercial necessity or future rulings, or the impact that any such actions may have on Aegon’s business, results of operations and financial position.

Furthermore, recently a group of policyholders filed a claim against Aegon in Poland over the fees payable by a customer in case of early surrender of the policy contract. In September 2013, the Klachteninstituut Financiële Dienstverlening (KIFID), rendered an interim decision against another insurance company in The Netherlands. KIFID is an independent body that offers an alternative forum for customers to file complaints or claims over financial services. Its decisions may be appealed to the courts. In its interim decision, KIFID found that the consumer had not been adequately informed of the so-called initial costs embedded within its unit linked policy, nor of the leverage component thereof, and challenged the contractual basis for the charges. There are claims pending with KIFID that were filed over Aegon products and that arguably include similar allegations. If KIFID were to finally decide unfavorably and that decision were to be upheld by a court, there can be no assurances that ultimately the aggregate exposure to Aegon of such adverse decisions would not have a material adverse effect on Aegon’s results of operations or financial position if the principles underlying any such decision were to be applied also to Aegon products.

Certain of the products Aegon sells are complex and involve significant investment risks that may be assumed by Aegon’s customers. Aegon has, from time to time, received claims from certain current and former customers, and groups representing customers, in respect of certain products. Certain claims remain under review and may lead to disputes in the future. Aegon has in the past agreed to make payments, in some cases substantial, or adjustments to policy terms to settle those claims or disputes if Aegon believed it was

 

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appropriate to do so. While Aegon intends to defend itself vigorously against any claims that Aegon does not believe have merit, there can be no assurance that any claims brought against Aegon by its customers will not have a materially adverse effect on Aegon’s businesses, results of operations and financial position.

Aegon may be unable to manage Aegon’s risks successfully through derivatives.

Aegon is exposed to currency fluctuations, changes in the fair value of Aegon’s investments, the impact of interest rate, equity markets and credit spread changes and changes in mortality and longevity. Aegon uses common financial derivative instruments, such as swaps, options, futures and forward contracts to hedge some of the exposures related to both investments backing insurance products and company borrowings. This is a more pronounced risk to Aegon in view of the stresses suffered by financial institutions and the volatility of credit and equity markets. Aegon may not be able to manage the risks associated with these activities successfully through the use of derivatives. In addition, a counterparty may fail to honor the terms of its derivatives contracts with Aegon. Aegon’s inability to manage risks successfully through derivatives, a counterparty´s failure to honor Aegon’s obligations or the systemic risk that failure is transmitted from counterparty to counterparty may each have a material adverse effect on Aegon’s businesses, results of operations and financial condition.

Aegon’s ability to manage risks through derivatives may be negatively affected by the Dodd-Frank Act and legislative initiatives of the European Commission, which provide for a new framework of regulation of OTC derivatives markets. These new regulations, including the regulation of OTC transactions, central counterparties and trade repositories (EMIR) that was published by the Official Journal of the European Union on July 27, 2012, as well as the new regulation on markets in financial instruments (MIFIR) proposed by the European Commission on October 20, 2011, expected to be adopted in 2014, may require Aegon to mandatorily trade certain types of OTC derivative transactions on regulated trading venues and clear certain types of transactions currently traded in the OTC derivative markets through a central clearing organization. This may limit Aegon’s ability to customize derivative transactions for its needs. As a result, Aegon may experience additional collateral requirements and costs associated with derivative transactions.

State statutes and regulators may limit or prohibit the aggregate amount of dividends payable by Aegon’s subsidiaries and Aegon N.V., thereby limiting Aegon’s ability to make payments on debt obligations.

Aegon’s ability to make payments on debt obligations and pay some operating expenses is dependent upon the receipt of dividends from subsidiaries. Some of these subsidiaries have regulatory restrictions that can limit the payment of dividends. In addition, local regulators, acting to represent the interests of local policyholders, are taking an increasingly restrictive stance with respect to permitting dividend payments, which may affect Aegon’s ability to satisfy its debt obligations or pay its operating expenses.

Changes in accounting policies may affect Aegon’s reported results and shareholders’ equity.

Since 2005, Aegon’s financial statements have been prepared and presented in accordance with IFRS. Any future changes in these accounting principles may have a significant impact on Aegon’s reported results, financial condition and shareholders´ equity. This includes the level and volatility of reported results and shareholders´ equity. One of the standards that will be revised in the near future is IFRS 4 – Insurance Contracts. The IASB is currently deliberating on the comment letters received by its constituents with regard to the Exposure Draft that was published by the IASB in June 2013. The proposed changes in the accounting for insurance contracts will have a significant impact on Aegon’s financial position, however, it is not yet clear when the final standard will be issued.

Another standard that will be revised in the near future is IFRS 9 – Financial Instruments. The changes proposed by the IASB will have a significant impact on Aegon’s financial position. Recently the IASB has tentatively decided to require an entity to apply IFRS 9 for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018. Details on IFRS 9 are provided in note 2.1.3 of the financial statements.

Tax law changes may adversely affect Aegon’s profitability, as well as the sale and ownership of Aegon’s products.

Aegon is subject to the substance and interpretation of tax laws in all countries in which Aegon operates or invests. Tax risk is the risk associated with changes in tax laws, or the interpretation of tax laws, later jurisprudence or case law, or the introduction of new taxes or tax laws. This tax risk also includes the risk of changes in tax rates and the risk of consequences arising from failure to comply with procedures required by tax authorities. Failure to manage tax risks may lead to increased tax charges, including financial or operating penalties. This tax risk may have a direct materially adverse effect on Aegon’s profits and financial condition.

 

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Further, insurance products enjoy certain tax advantages, particularly in the United States and the Netherlands, which permit the tax deferred accumulation of earnings on the premiums paid by the holders of annuities and life insurance products under certain conditions and within certain limits. Taxes on this inside build-up of earnings may not be payable at all and, if payable, generally are due only when the earnings are actually paid.

The US Congress has, from time to time, considered possible legislation that may make Aegon’s products less attractive to consumers, including legislation that would reduce or eliminate the deferral of taxation on the accretion of value within certain annuities and life insurance products. This may have an impact on insurance products and sales in the United States.

The US Government, as well as state and local governments, also considers from time to time tax law changes that may increase the amount of taxes that Aegon pays. For example, the US Treasury Department and the Internal Revenue Service may propose new regulations regarding the methodology to determine the dividends received deduction (DRD) related to variable life insurance and variable annuity contracts. The DRD reduces the amount of dividend income subject to tax and is a significant component of the difference between Aegon’s effective tax rate and the federal statutory tax rate of 35%. A change in the DRD, including the possible elimination of this deduction, may reduce Aegon’s consolidated net income.

Any changes in tax laws, interpretation of tax laws, later jurisprudence or case law, or the introduction of new taxes or tax laws in all countries in which Aegon operates or invests, which affects Aegon’s products, may have a materially adverse effect on Aegon’s businesses, results of operations and financial condition.

Competitive factors may adversely affect Aegon’s market share.

Competition in Aegon’s business segments is based on service, product features, price, commission structure, financial strength, claims paying ability, ratings and name recognition. Aegon faces intense competition from a large number of other insurers, as well as non-insurance financial services companies such as banks, broker-dealers and asset managers, for individual customers, employers, other group customers, agents and other distributors of insurance and investment products. Consolidation in the global financial services industry can enhance the competitive position of some of Aegon’s competitors by broadening the range of their products and services, and increasing their distribution channels and their access to capital. In addition, development of alternative distribution channels for certain types of insurance and securities products, including through the internet, may result in increasing competition as well as pressure on margins for certain types of products. Traditional distribution channels are also challenged by the ban on sales-based commissions in some countries. These competitive pressures may result in increased pricing pressures on a number of products and services, particularly as competitors seek to win market share. This may harm Aegon’s ability to maintain or increase profitability.

The adverse market and economic conditions that began in the second half of 2007 and significantly worsened in 2008 and into 2009, with recovery beginning in late 2009 and in 2010, followed in 2011, 2012 and 2013 by further periods of volatility and weakness, particularly in the Eurozone, can be expected to result in changes in the competitive landscape. For example, the financial distress experienced by some financial services industry participants as a result of weak economic conditions and newly imposed regulation may lead to acquisition opportunities. Aegon’s ability or that of Aegon’s competitors to pursue such opportunities may be limited due to lower earnings, reserve increases, capital requirements or a lack of access to debt capital markets and other sources of financing. Such conditions may also lead to changes by Aegon or Aegon’s competitors in product offerings and product pricing that may affect Aegon and Aegon’s relative sales volumes, market shares and profitability. Additionally, the competitive landscape in which Aegon operates may be further affected by government-sponsored programs or actions taken in response to the severe dislocations in financial markets which occurred in 2008 and 2009, as well as the European sovereign debt crisis.

The default of a major market participant may disrupt the markets.

The failure of a sufficiently large and influential financial institution may disrupt securities markets or clearance and settlement systems in Aegon’s markets. This may cause market declines or volatility. Such a failure may lead to a chain of defaults that may adversely affect Aegon and Aegon’s contract counterparties. In addition, such a failure may impact future product sales as a potential result of reduced confidence in the insurance industry.

Aegon may be unable to attract and retain personnel who are key to the business.

As a global financial services enterprise with a decentralized management structure, Aegon relies, to a considerable extent, on the quality of local management in the various countries in which Aegon operates. The success of Aegon’s operations is dependent, among

 

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other things, on Aegon’s ability to attract and retain highly qualified professional personnel. Competition for key personnel in most countries in which Aegon operates is intense. Aegon’s ability to attract and retain key personnel, in particular senior officers, experienced portfolio managers, mutual fund managers and sales executives, is very much dependent on the competitiveness of the compensation package for employees in the market in which it competes. As a part of the governmental response in Europe and, to a certain extent, the United States to the financial crisis in 2008, there have been various legislative initiatives that have sought to give guidance or regulate the structure of remuneration for personnel, in particular senior management, with a focus on performance-related remuneration and limiting severance payments. With differences in interpretation of these regulations by local regulators on how the guidelines need to be applied, as well as to the question of whether they apply to insurance industries at all, these restrictions create an uncertain playing field and may adversely affect Aegon’s ability to compete for qualified employees, as well as Aegon’s ability to exchange employees between regions.

Reinsurers to whom Aegon has ceded risk may fail to meet their obligations.

Aegon’s insurance subsidiaries cede premiums to other insurers under various agreements that cover individual risks, group risks or defined blocks of business, on a co-insurance, yearly renewable term, excess or catastrophe excess basis. The purpose of these reinsurance agreements is to spread the risk and minimize the effect of losses. The amount of each risk retained depends on an evaluation of the specific risk, which is subject, in certain circumstances, to maximum limits based on the characteristics of coverage. Under the terms of the reinsurance agreements, the reinsurer agrees to reimburse for the ceded amount in the event a covered claim is paid. However, Aegon’s insurance subsidiaries remain liable to their policyholders for ceded insurance if any reinsurer fails to meet the obligations assumed by it. A bankruptcy or insolvency or inability of Aegon’s reinsurance counterparties to satisfy its obligations may have a materially adverse effect on Aegon’s financial position and results of operations. Refer to Schedule IV of this Annual Report for a table showing life insurance in force amounts on a direct, assumed and ceded basis for 2011, 2012 and 2013.

In accordance with industry practices, Aegon reinsures a portion of its life insurance exposure with unaffiliated insurance companies under traditional indemnity reinsurance arrangements. In 2013, approximately 60% of Aegon’s total direct and assumed (for which Aegon acts as a reinsurer for others) life insurance in force was ceded to other insurers. The major reinsurers of Aegon USA and Aegon Canada are SCOR SE (‘SCOR’), Munich Re, RGA and Swiss Re. The major reinsurers of Aegon UK are Swiss Re, Munich Re, Pacific Re and XL Re. The non-life reinsurance for Aegon The Netherlands is diversified across several providers including Lloyds market syndicates. The major reinsurers of Aegon Hungary for non- life are Swiss Re, Munich Re and Hannover Re and for life insurance Munich Re and RGA. Aegon Spain´s major reinsurers are General Re, RGA, National Re and SCOR. Aegon China´s major reinsurers are Hannover Re, Munich Re, China Re and Aegon India’s major reinsurer is RGA.

Reinsurance may not be available, affordable or adequate to protect Aegon against losses.

As part of Aegon’s overall risk and capacity management strategy, Aegon purchases reinsurance for certain risks underwritten by Aegon’s various business segments. Market conditions beyond Aegon’s control determine the availability and cost of the reinsurance protection Aegon purchases. Accordingly, Aegon may be forced to incur additional expenses for reinsurance or may not be able to obtain sufficient reinsurance on acceptable terms, which may adversely affect Aegon’s ability to write future business.

Aegon may have difficulty managing its expanding operations, and Aegon may not be successful in acquiring new businesses or divesting existing operations.

In recent years, Aegon has made a number of acquisitions and divestitures around the world and it is possible that Aegon may make further acquisitions and divestitures in the future. Growth by acquisition involves risks that may adversely affect Aegon’s operating results and financial condition. These include: the potential diversion of financial and management resources from existing operations; difficulties in assimilating the operations, technologies, products and personnel of the acquired company; significant delays in completing the integration of acquired companies; the potential loss of key employees or customers of the acquired company; potential losses from unanticipated litigation; and tax and accounting issues. In addition, expansion into new and emerging markets may involve heightened political, legal and regulatory risks, such as discriminatory regulation, nationalization or expropriation of assets, price controls and exchange controls.

Aegon’s acquisitions may result in additional indebtedness, costs, contingent liabilities and impairment expenses related to goodwill and other intangible assets. In addition, they may divert management´s attention and other resources. Divestitures of existing operations may result in Aegon assuming or retaining certain contingent liabilities. All of these may adversely affect Aegon’s businesses, results of operations and financial condition. Future acquisitions may also have a dilutive effect on the ownership and voting percentages of existing shareholders. There can be no assurance that Aegon will successfully identify suitable acquisition

 

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candidates or that Aegon will properly value acquisitions made. Aegon is unable to predict whether or when any prospective acquisition candidate will become available, or the likelihood that any acquisition will be completed once negotiations have commenced.

Catastrophic events, which are often unpredictable by nature, may result in material losses and abruptly and significantly interrupt Aegon’s business activities.

Aegon’s operating results and financial position may be adversely affected by volatile natural and man-made disasters such as hurricanes, windstorms, earthquakes, terrorism, riots, fires and explosions, pandemic disease and other catastrophes. Over the past several years, changing weather patterns and climatic conditions have added to the unpredictability and frequency of natural disasters in certain parts of the world and created additional uncertainty as to future trends and exposure. Generally, Aegon seeks to reduce its exposure to these events through individual risk selection, monitoring risk accumulation, and purchasing reinsurance. However, such events may lead to considerable financial losses to Aegon’s businesses. Furthermore, natural disasters, terrorism and fires may disrupt Aegon’s operations and result in significant loss of property, key personnel and information about Aegon and its clients. If its business continuity plans have not included effective contingencies for such events, Aegon may experience business disruption and damage to corporate reputation and financial condition for a substantial period of time.

Aegon regularly develops new financial products to remain competitive in its markets and to meet the expectations of its clients. If clients do not achieve expected returns on those products, Aegon may be confronted with legal claims, advocate groups and negative publicity.

Aegon may face claims from customers, both individual claimants as well as policyholder advocate groups, and negative publicity if Aegon’s products result in losses or fail to result in expected gains, regardless of the suitability of products for customers or the adequacy of the disclosure provided to customers by Aegon and by the intermediaries who distribute Aegon’s products. New products that are less well understood and that have less of a historical performance track record may be more likely to be the subject of such claims. Any such claims may have a materially adverse effect on Aegon’s results of operations, corporate reputation and financial condition.

Aegon may not be able to protect its intellectual property and may be subject to infringement claims.

Aegon relies on a combination of contractual rights with third parties and copyright, trademark, patent and trade secret laws to establish and protect Aegon’s intellectual property. Third parties may infringe on or misappropriate Aegon’s intellectual property, and it is possible that third parties may claim that Aegon has infringed on or misappropriated their intellectual property rights. Any resulting proceedings in which Aegon would have to enforce and protect its intellectual property, or defend itself against a claim of infringement of a third party´s intellectual property, may require significant effort and resources and may not prove successful. As a result of any proceeding in which Aegon would have to enforce and protect its intellectual property, Aegon may lose intellectual property protection, which may have a materially adverse effect on Aegon’s businesses, results of operation, financial condition and Aegon’s ability to compete. As a result of any proceeding in which Aegon would have to defend itself against a claim of infringement of a third party´s intellectual property, Aegon may be required to pay damages and provide injunctive relief, which may have a materially adverse effect on Aegon’s businesses, results of operations and financial condition.

Inadequate or failed processes or systems, human factors or external events may adversely affect Aegon’s profitability, reputation or operational effectiveness.

Operational risk is inherent in Aegon’s businesses and may manifest itself in many ways, including business interruption, poor vendor performance, information systems malfunctions or failures, regulatory breaches, processing errors, modeling errors, and/or internal and external fraud. These events may result in financial loss, harm Aegon’s reputation, or hinder Aegon’s operational effectiveness. Aegon’s management maintains a well-controlled environment and sound policies and practices to control these risks and keep operational risk at appropriate levels. Notwithstanding these control measures, however, operational risk is part of the business environment in which Aegon operates, and is inherent in Aegon’s size and complexity, as well as Aegon’s geographic diversity, and the scope of the businesses Aegon operates. Aegon’s risk management activities cannot anticipate every economic and financial outcome, or the specifics and timing of such outcomes. Furthermore, if the contractual arrangements put in place with any third party service providers are terminated, including contractual arrangements with providers of information technology, administrative or investment management services, Aegon may not be able to find an alternative provider on a timely basis or on equivalent terms. Aegon may incur losses from time to time due to these types of risks.

 

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Aegon’s operations support complex transactions and are highly dependent on the proper functioning of information technology and communication systems. Any failure of Aegon’s information technology or communications systems may result in a materially adverse effect on Aegon’s results of operations and corporate reputation.

While systems and processes are designed to support complex transactions and avoid systems failure, fraud, information security failures, processing errors and breaches of regulation, any failure may lead to a materially adverse effect on Aegon’s results of operations and corporate reputation. In addition, Aegon must commit significant resources to maintain and enhance its existing systems in order to keep pace with industry standards and customer preferences. If Aegon fails to keep up-to-date information systems, Aegon may not be able to rely on information for product pricing, risk management and underwriting decisions. In addition, even though backup and recovery systems and contingency plans are in place, Aegon cannot assure investors that interruptions, failures or breaches in security of these processes and systems will not occur, or if they do occur, that they can be adequately addressed. The occurrence of any of these events may have a materially adverse effect on Aegon’s businesses, results of operations and financial condition.

A computer system failure or security breach may disrupt Aegon’s businesses, damage Aegon’s reputation and adversely affect Aegon’s results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.

Aegon uses computer systems to store, retrieve, evaluate and utilize customer and company data and information. Aegon’s businesses are highly dependent on its ability to access these systems to perform necessary business functions such as providing customer support, administering variable products, making changes to existing policies, filing and paying claims, managing Aegon’s investment portfolios and producing financial statements. While Aegon has policies, procedures, automation and backup plans designed to prevent or limit the effect of failure, Aegon’s computer systems may be vulnerable to disruptions or breaches as a result of natural disasters, man-made disasters, criminal activity, pandemics or other events beyond Aegon’s control. The failure of Aegon’s computer systems for any reason may disrupt Aegon’s operations, result in the loss of customers and may adversely affect Aegon’s businesses, results of operations and financial condition.

Aegon retains confidential information on its computer systems, including customer information and proprietary business information. Any compromise to the security of Aegon’s computer systems that results in the disclosure of personally identifiable customer information may damage Argon’s reputation, expose Aegon to litigation, increase regulatory scrutiny, and require Aegon to incur significant technical, legal and other expenses.

Judgments of US courts may not be enforceable against Aegon in Dutch courts.

There is no treaty between the United States and the Netherlands providing for the reciprocal recognition and enforcement of judgments (other than arbitration awards) in civil and commercial matters. Judgments of US courts, including those predicated on the civil liability provisions of the US federal securities laws, may not be enforceable in Dutch courts. Therefore, Aegon’s investors that obtain a judgment against Aegon in the United States may not be able to require Aegon to pay the amount of the judgment unless a competent court in the Netherlands gives binding effect to the judgment. It may, however, be possible for a US investor to bring an original action in a Dutch court to enforce liabilities against Aegon, Aegon’s affiliates, directors, officers or any expert named therein who resides outside the United States, based upon the US federal securities laws.

II - Risks relating to Aegon’s common shares

Aegon’s share price may be volatile and may drop unexpectedly, making it difficult for investors to resell Aegon’s common shares at or above the price paid.

The price at which Aegon’s common shares trade is influenced by many factors, some of which are specific to Aegon and Aegon’s operations, and some of which are related to the insurance industry and equity markets in general. As a result of these factors, investors may not be able to resell their common shares at or above the price paid for them. In particular, the following factors, in addition to other risk factors described in this section, may have a material impact on the market price of Aegon’s common shares:

  ¿   Investor perception of Aegon as a company;
  ¿   Actual or anticipated fluctuations in Aegon’s revenues or operating results;
  ¿   Announcements of intended acquisitions, disposals or financings, or speculation about such acquisitions, disposals or financings;
  ¿   Changes in Aegon’s dividend policy, which may result from changes in Aegon’s cash flow and capital position;
  ¿   Sales of blocks of Aegon’s shares by significant shareholders, including Vereniging Aegon;
  ¿   A downgrade or rumored downgrade of Aegon’s credit or financial strength ratings, including placement on credit watch;

 

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  ¿   Potential litigation involving Aegon or the insurance industry in general;
  ¿   Changes in financial estimates and recommendations by securities research analysts;
  ¿   Fluctuations in capital markets including foreign exchange rates, interest rates and equity markets;
  ¿   The performance of other companies in the insurance sector;
  ¿   Regulatory developments in the Netherlands, the United States, the United Kingdom, and other countries in which Aegon operates;
  ¿   International political and economic conditions, including the effects of terrorist attacks, military operations and other developments stemming from such events, and the uncertainty related to these developments;
  ¿   News or analyst reports related to markets or industries in which Aegon operates;
  ¿   General insurance market conditions.

The high and low prices of Aegon’s common shares on NYSE Euronext Amsterdam were EUR 4.89 and EUR 3.05 respectively in 2012 and EUR 6.86 and EUR 4.42 respectively in 2013. The high and low sales prices of Aegon’s common shares on NYSE New York were USD 6.47 and USD 3.92 respectively in 2012 and USD 9.48 and USD 5.76 respectively in 2013. All share prices are closing prices.

Aegon and Aegon’s significant shareholders may offer additional common shares in the future, and these and other sales may adversely affect the market price of the outstanding common shares.

Aegon may decide to offer additional common shares in the future, for example, to strengthen Aegon’s capital position in response to regulatory changes or to effect an acquisition.

In connection with its refinancing in September 2002, Vereniging Aegon entered into an equity repurchase facility and a back-up credit facility. On February 9, 2010, both facilities were replaced by a three year term and revolving facilities agreement with a consortium of banks. In 2013, Vereniging Aegon entered into a new three year term and revolving facilities agreement with the same consortium of banks, replacing the three year term and revolving facilities agreement entered into in 2010. Under this agreement, Aegon’s common shares in the possession of Vereniging Aegon are pledged to the consortium of banks. If Vereniging Aegon were to default under the facilities agreement in force at that time, the lenders may dispose of Aegon’s common shares held by them as collateral in order to satisfy amounts outstanding.

An additional offering of common shares by Aegon, the restructuring of Aegon’s share capital, the sales of common shares by significant shareholders or by lenders to Vereniging Aegon, or the public perception that an offering or such sales may occur, may have an adverse effect on the market price of Aegon’s common shares. As of December 31, 2013, there were 2,131,458,863 common shares and 579,005,440 common shares B issued. Of these Vereniging Aegon held 292,687,444 common shares and all issued common shares B. All of Aegon’s outstanding common shares are freely tradable, and all shareholders, including large shareholders such as Vereniging Aegon, are free to resell their common shares at any time.

Vereniging Aegon, Aegon’s major shareholder, holds a large percentage of the voting shares and therefore has significant influence over Aegon’s corporate actions.

Prior to September 2002, Vereniging Aegon beneficially owned approximately 52% of the voting shares and thus held voting control over Aegon. In September 2002, Vereniging Aegon reduced its beneficial ownership to approximately 33% of the voting shares (excluding issued common shares held in treasury by Aegon). In 2003, Aegon and Vereniging Aegon amended the 1983 Merger Agreement, resulting in a right for Vereniging Aegon, upon issuance of shares by Aegon, to purchase as many class B preferred shares existing at that time as would enable it to prevent or offset a dilution to below its actual voting power percentage of 33%. In 2013, Aegon N.V. and Vereniging Aegon entered into an agreement to simplify the capital structure of Aegon and to cancel all of Aegon’s preferred shares, of which Vereniging Aegon was the sole owner. The execution of this agreement was approved by the General Meeting of Shareholders of Aegon N.V. on May 15, 2013. For details on the simplification of the corporate structure, please see the section Major Shareholders at pages 307-309.

The simplified capital structure included an amendment to the Amended 1983 Merger Agreement between Aegon N.V. and Vereniging Aegon. Following this 2013 amendment, Vereniging Aegon’s call option relates to common shares B. Vereniging Aegon may exercise its call option to keep or restore its total stake at 32.6%, irrespective of the circumstances which cause the total shareholding to be or become lower than 32.6%.

 

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The simplification of the capital structure also entailed the amendment of the Voting Rights Agreement between Aegon N.V. and Vereniging Aegon. As a matter of Dutch corporate law, the shares of both classes offer equal full voting rights, as they have equal nominal values (EUR 0.12). The amended Voting Rights Agreement ensures that under normal circumstances, i.e. except in the event of a Special Cause, Vereniging Aegon will no longer be able to exercise more votes than is proportionate to the financial rights represented by its shares. This means that in the absence of a Special Cause Vereniging Aegon may cast one vote for every common share it holds and one vote only for every 40 common shares B it holds for a limited period of 6 months. A Special Cause includes the acquisition of a 15% interest in Aegon N.V., a tender offer for Aegon N.V. shares or a proposed business combination by any person or group or persons, whether individually or as a group, other than in a transaction approved by the Executive Board and the Supervisory Board. Accordingly, at December 31, 2013, the voting power of Vereniging Aegon under normal circumstances amounted to approximately 14.58%, based on the number of outstanding and voting shares (excluding issued common shares held in treasury by Aegon N.V.). In the event of a Special Cause, Vereniging Aegon’s voting rights will increase to 32.64% for up to six months.

Consequently, Vereniging Aegon may have substantial influence on the outcome of corporate actions requiring shareholder approval, including:

  ¿   Adopting amendments to the Articles of Association;
  ¿   Adopting the annual accounts;
  ¿   Approving a consolidation or liquidation;
  ¿   Approving a tender offer, merger, sale of all or substantially all of the assets, or other business combination;
  ¿   In particular, during the periods when Vereniging Aegon is entitled to exercise its increased voting rights, it will generally have sufficient voting power to veto certain decisions presented to the General Meeting of Shareholders, including any proposal relating to the following matters:
  ¿   Rejecting binding Supervisory Board nominations for membership to the Supervisory Board and Executive Board;
  ¿   Appointing an Executive Board or Supervisory Board member other than pursuant to Supervisory Board nomination;
  ¿   Suspending or removing an Executive Board or Supervisory Board member other than pursuant to a Supervisory Board proposal.

Currency fluctuations may adversely affect the trading prices of Aegon’s common shares and the value of any cash distributions made.

Since Aegon’s common shares listed on NYSE Euronext Amsterdam are quoted in euros and Aegon’s common shares listed on NYSE Euronext New York are quoted in US dollars, fluctuations in exchange rates between the euro and the US dollar may affect the value of Aegon’s common shares. In addition, Aegon declares cash dividends in euros, but pays cash dividends, if any, on Aegon’s shares of New York registry in US dollars based on an exchange rate set the business day following the shareholder meeting approving the dividend. As a result, fluctuations in exchange rates may affect the US dollar value of any cash dividends paid.

Convertible securities (or other securities that permit or require Aegon to satisfy Aegon’s obligations by issuing common shares) that Aegon may issue may influence the market price for Aegon’s common shares.

Any market that develops for convertible securities or other securities that permit or require Aegon to satisfy obligations by issuing common shares that Aegon has issued or may issue in the future would be likely to influence, and be influenced by, the market for Aegon’s common shares.

For example, the price of Aegon’s common shares may become more volatile and may be depressed by investors´ anticipation of the potential resale in the market of substantial amounts of Aegon’s common shares received at maturity. Aegon’s common shares may also be depressed by the acceleration of any convertible securities (or other such securities) that Aegon has issued by investors who view such convertible securities (or other such securities) as a more attractive means of participation in Aegon’s equity. Negative results may also be produced by hedging or arbitrage trading activity that may develop involving such convertible securities (or other such securities) and Aegon’s common shares. Any such developments may negatively affect the value of Aegon’s common shares.

 

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Property, plants and equipment

In the United States, Aegon owns many of the buildings that the company uses in the normal course of its business, primarily as offices. Aegon owns 16 offices located throughout the United States with a total square footage of 2.0 million. Aegon also leases space for various offices located throughout the United States under long-term leases with a total square footage of 1.1 million. Aegon’s principal offices are located in Baltimore, Maryland; Cedar Rapids, Iowa; Los Angeles, California; St. Petersburg, Florida; Plano & Dallas, Texas; Harrison, New York; Little Rock, Arkansas; Atlanta, Georgia; and Exton, PA.

Other principal offices owned by Aegon are located in The Hague, the Netherlands; Budapest, Hungary; and Madrid, Spain. Aegon owns its headquarters and leases other offices in the Netherlands (Leeuwarden), the United Kingdom and Canada under long-term leases. Aegon believes that its properties are adequate to meet its current needs.

Employees and labor relations

At the end of 2013, Aegon had 26,981 employees of which were 4,753 agent-employees. Approximately 46% are employed in the Americas, 17% in the Netherlands, 9% in the United Kingdom and 28% in New Markets.

All of Aegon’s employees in the Netherlands, other than senior management, are covered by collective labor agreements, which are generally renegotiated annually on an industry wide basis. Individual companies then enter into employment agreements with their employees based on the relevant collective agreement. Since its founding, Aegon has participated in collective negotiations in the insurance industry and has based its employment agreements with its employees on the relevant collective agreement. The collective agreements are generally for a duration of one year. Aegon has experienced no significant strike, work stoppage or labor dispute in recent years.

Under Dutch law, members of the Central Works Council responsible for Aegon in the Netherlands are elected by Aegon the Netherlands’ employees. The Central Works Council has certain defined powers at the level of the Dutch subsidiary company Aegon Nederland N.V., including the right to make non-binding recommendations for appointments to its Supervisory Board and the right to enter objections against proposals for appointments to that Supervisory Board. Moreover, the Central Works Council of Aegon the Netherlands is to be consulted as regards a nomination for appointment pertaining to one seat on the Supervisory Board of Aegon.

The number of employees per geographical area was:

 

      2013      2012      2011  

Americas

     12,256         11,967         12,242   

The Netherlands

     4,584         4,930         5,166   

United Kingdom

     2,400         2,793         3,203   

New Markets

     7,651         7,160         8,659   
     26,891         26,850         29,270   

Of which agent

     4,753         4,402         5,948   

Of which Aegon’s share of employees in joint ventures and associates

     1,462         1,546         1,073   

See Note 14 of the notes to the consolidated financial statements of this Annual Report for a description of share-based payments to employees.

 

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Dividend policy

Under Dutch law and Aegon’s Articles of Association, holders of Aegon’s common shares are entitled to dividends paid out of the profits remaining, if any, after the creation of a reserve account. Aegon’s Executive Board may determine the dividend payment date and the dividend record date for the common shares, which may vary for the various kinds of registered shares. Aegon’s Executive Board, with the approval of Aegon’s Supervisory Board, may also determine the currency or currencies in which the dividends will be paid. Aegon may make one or more interim distributions to the holders of common shares.

Aegon aims to pay out a sustainable dividend to allow equity investors to share in Aegon’s performance, which can grow over time if Aegon’s performance so allows. After investment in new business to generate organic growth, capital generation in Aegon’s operating subsidiaries is available for distribution to the holding company, while maintaining a capital and liquidity position in the operating subsidiaries in line with Aegon’s capital management and liquidity risk policies.

Aegon uses cash flows from its operating subsidiaries to pay holding expenses, including funding costs. The remaining cash flow is available to execute Aegon’s strategy and to fund dividends on its shares, subject to maintaining holding company targeted capital. Depending on circumstances, future prospects and other considerations, Aegon’s Executive Board may elect to deviate from this target. Aegon’s Executive Board will also take capital position, financial flexibility, leverage ratios and strategic considerations into account when declaring or proposing dividends on common shares.

Under normal circumstances, Aegon would expect to declare an interim dividend when announcing Aegon’s second quarter results and to propose a final dividend at the annual General Meeting of Shareholders for approval. Dividends would normally be paid in cash or stock at the election of the shareholder. The relative value of cash and stock dividends may vary. Stock dividends paid may, subject to capital management and other considerations, be repurchased in order to limit dilution.

When determining whether to declare or propose a dividend, Aegon’s Executive Board has to balance prudence versus offering an attractive return to shareholders, for example in adverse economic and/or financial market conditions. Also, Aegon’s operating subsidiaries are subject to local insurance regulations which could restrict dividends to be paid to us. There is no requirement or assurance that we will declare and pay any dividends.

Holders of common shares historically have been permitted to elect to receive dividends, if any, in cash or in common shares, except for the final dividend for 2002, as distributed in May 2003, which was made in common shares only. For dividends, which holders may elect to receive in either cash or common shares, the value of the stock alternative may differ slightly from the value of the cash option. We pay cash dividends on shares of New York registry in US dollars through Citibank, N.A., Aegon’s NYSE paying agent, based on the foreign exchange reference rate (as published each working day at 14:15 hours by the European Central Bank) on the business day following the announcement of the interim dividend or on the second business day following the shareholder meeting approving the relevant final dividend.

 

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The offer and listing

The principal market for Aegon’s common shares is NYSE Euronext Amsterdam. Aegon’s common shares are also listed on the NYSE Euronext New York.

The table below sets forth, for the calendar periods indicated, the high and low sales prices of Aegon’s common shares on NYSE Euronext Amsterdam and the NYSE Euronext New York as reported by Bloomberg and is based on closing prices. Share prices have been adjusted for all stock splits and stock dividends through December 31, 2010.

 

      NYSE Euronext Amsterdam  
(EUR)
     NYSE Euronext New York  
(USD)
 
      High      Low      High      Low  

 

2009

     6.17         1.85         9.23         2.30   

2010

     5.41         4.04         7.41         5.11   

2011

     5.68         2.68         7.92         3.62   

2012

     4.89         4.07         6.47         5.22   

2013

     6.86         4.23         9.48         5.76   

2011

           

First quarter

     5.68         4.58         7.92         6.13   

Second quarter

     5.58         4.36         8.03         6.23   

Third quarter

     4.80         2.68         6.99         3.62   

Fourth quarter

     3.73         2.79         5.41         3.66   

2012

           

First quarter

     4.52         3.05         5.93         3.92   

Second quarter

     4.20         3.19         5.60         3.96   

Third quarter

     4.50         3.35         5.88         4.06   

Fourth quarter

     4.89         4.08         6.47         5.22   

2013

           

First quarter

     5.17         4.46         6.85         5.81   

Second quarter

     5.38         4.23         7.08         5.76   

Third quarter

     6.00         5.31         7.96         6.90   

Fourth quarter

     6.86         5.57         9.48         7.53   

September 2013

     5.82         5.47         7.88         7.21   

October 2013

     5.98         5.57         8.20         7.53   

November 2013

     6.58         5.75         8.89         7.72   

December 2013

     6.86         6.20         9.48         8.52   

2014

           

January 2014

     6.96         6.46         9.46         8.67   

February 2014

     6.18         6.30         9.33         8.39   

March 2014 (through March 11, 2014)

     6.55         6.23         9.03         8.62   

On NYSE Euronext Amsterdam only Euronext registered shares may be traded and on the NYSE Euronext New York only New York Registry Shares may be traded.

 

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Additional company information

Memorandum and Articles of Association

Aegon is registered under number 27076669 in the Commercial Register of the Chamber of Commerce and Industries for Haaglanden, The Hague, the Netherlands.

Certain provisions of Aegon’s current Articles of Association are discussed below.

Objects and purposes

  ¿   The objects of Aegon are to incorporate, acquire and alienate shares and interests in, to finance and grant security for commitments of, to enter into general business relationships with, and to manage and grant services to legal entities and other entities, in particular those involved in the insurance business, and to do all that is connected therewith or which may be conducive thereto, all to be interpreted in the broadest sense.
  ¿   In achieving the aforesaid objects due regard shall be taken, within the scope of sound business operations, to provide fair safeguards for the interests of all the parties directly or indirectly involved in Aegon.

Provisions related to directors

For information with respect to provisions in the Articles of Association relating to members of the Supervisory Board and Executive Board, refer to the Governance section (pages 93-115).

Description of Aegon’s capital stock

Aegon has two types of shares: Common shares (par value EUR 0.12) and Common shares B (par value EUR 0.12).

Common characteristics of the common shares and common shares B

  ¿   All shares are in registered form.
  ¿   All shares have dividend rights except for those shares (if any) held by Aegon as treasury stock. Dividends which have not been claimed within five years lapse to Aegon.
  ¿   Each currently outstanding share is entitled to one vote except for shares held by Aegon as treasury stock. There are no upward restrictions.
  ¿   However, under normal circumstances, i.e. except in the event of a Special Cause, Vereniging Aegon will no longer be able to exercise more votes than is proportionate to the financial rights represented by its shares. This means that in the absence of a Special Cause Vereniging Aegon may cast one vote for every common share it holds and one vote only for every 40 common shares B it holds. As “Special Cause” qualifies the acquisition of a 15% interest in Aegon N.V., a tender offer for Aegon N.V. shares or a proposed business combination by any person or group of persons, whether individually or as a group, other than in a transaction approved by the Executive Board and the Supervisory Board. If, in its sole discretion, Vereniging Aegon determines that a Special Cause has occurred, Vereniging Aegon will notify the General Meeting of Shareholders and retain its right to exercise the full voting power of one vote per common share B for a limited period of six months
  ¿   All shares have the right to participate in Aegon’s net profits. Net profits is the amount of profits after contributions, if any, to a reserve account.
  ¿   In the event of liquidation, all shares have the right to participate in any remaining balance after settlement of all debts.
  ¿   The General Meeting of Shareholders may, at the proposal of the Executive Board, as approved by the Supervisory Board, resolve to reduce the outstanding capital either by (i) repurchasing shares and subsequently canceling them, or (ii) by reducing their nominal share value.
  ¿   There are no sinking fund provisions.
  ¿   All issued shares are fully paid-up; so there is no liability for further capital calls.
  ¿   There are no provisions discriminating against any existing or prospective holder of shares as a result of such shareholder owning a substantial number of shares.

Differences between common shares and common shares B

  ¿   The common shares are listed; the common shares B are not listed.
  ¿   The financial rights attaching to a Common Share B are one-fortieth (1/40th) of the financial rights attaching to a Common Share.
  ¿   A repayment on common shares B needs approval of the holders of common shares B.

 

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Actions necessary to change the rights of shareholders

A change to the rights of shareholders would require an amendment to the Articles of Association. The General Meeting of Shareholders (annual General Meeting or extraordinary General Meeting) may only pass a resolution to amend the Articles of Association pursuant to a proposal of the Executive Board with the approval of the Supervisory Board. The resolution requires a majority of the votes cast at the meeting in order to pass. The actual changes to the text of the Articles of Association will be executed by a civil law notary.

Furthermore, a resolution of the General Meeting of Shareholders to amend the Articles of Association which has the effect of reducing the rights attributable to holders of a specific class shall be subject to the approval of the meeting of holders of such class.

Conditions under which meetings are held

Annual General Meetings and extraordinary General Meetings of Shareholders shall be convened by public notice. Notice must be given no later than forty-two days prior to the date of the meeting. The notice must contain a summary agenda and indicate the place where the complete agenda together with the documents pertaining to the agenda may be obtained. The agenda is also sent to shareholders registered with the Company Register. New York Registry shareholders or their brokers receive a proxy solicitation notice.

For admittance to and voting at the meeting, shareholders must produce evidence of their shareholding as of the record date. The Dutch law determines that the record date is twenty-eight days prior to the General Meeting of Shareholders. Shareholders must notify Aegon of their intention to attend the meeting.

Limitation on the right to own securities

There are no limitations, either under the laws of the Netherlands or in Aegon’s Articles of Association, on the rights of non-residents of the Netherlands to hold or vote Aegon common shares or common shares B.

Provisions that would have the effect of delaying a change of control

A resolution of the General Meeting of Shareholders to suspend or dismiss a member of the Executive Board or a member of the Supervisory Board, other than pursuant to a proposal by the Supervisory Board, shall require at least two-thirds of the votes cast representing more than one-half of the issued capital.

In the event a “special cause” occurs (such as the acquisition of 15% of Aegon’s voting shares, a tender offer for Aegon’s shares or a proposed business combination by any person or group of persons, whether individually or as a group, other than in a transaction approved by the Executive Board and Supervisory Board), Vereniging Aegon will be entitled to exercise its full voting rights of one vote per each common share B for up to six months per “special cause”, thus increasing its current voting rights to 32.64%.

Threshold above which shareholder ownership must be disclosed

There are no such provisions in the Articles of Association. Dutch law requires public disclosure to an Authority for Financial Markets with respect to the ownership of listed shares when the following thresholds are met: 3%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 75% and 95%.

Material differences between Dutch law and US law with respect to the items above

Reference is made to the paragraph “Differences in company law practices for domestic companies” included in the Corporate Governance section.

Special conditions governing changes in the capital

There are no conditions more stringent than what is required by law.

 

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Material contracts

There are no material contracts.

Exchange controls

There are no legislative or other legal provisions currently in force in the Netherlands or arising under Aegon’s Articles of Association restricting remittances to holders of Aegon’s securities that are not resident in the Netherlands. Cash dividends payable in euros on Aegon’s common shares may be officially transferred from the Netherlands and converted into any other convertible currency.

Taxation

I Certain Netherlands tax consequences for holders of shares

The following section outlines certain material Netherlands tax consequences of the acquisition, holding, redemption and disposal of Aegon common shares, but does not purport to be a comprehensive description of all Netherlands tax considerations that may be relevant. This section is intended as general information only and each prospective investor should consult a professional tax adviser with respect to the tax consequences of an investment in Aegon common shares.

This section is based on tax legislation, published case law, treaties, regulations and published policy, in each case as in force as of the date hereof, and it does not take into account any developments or amendments thereof after that date whether or not such developments or amendments have retroactive effect.

This section does not address the Netherlands tax consequences for:

  i. Investment institutions (fiscale beleggingsinstellingen) ;  
  ii. pension funds, exempt investment institutions (vrijgestelde beleggingsinstellingen) or other entities that are exempt from Netherlands corporate income tax;  
  iii. corporate holders of Aegon common shares, the shareholding of which qualifies for the participation exemption (deelnemingsvrijstelling) of the Netherlands corporate income tax act 1969 (Wet op de vennootschapsbelasting 1969) . Generally speaking, a shareholding is considered to qualify as a participation for the participation exemption if it represents an interest of 5% or more of the nominal paid-up share capital;  
  iv. holders of Aegon common shares holding a substantial interest (aanmerkelijk belang) or deemed substantial interest (fictief aanmerkelijk belang) in Aegon and holders of Aegon common shares of whom a certain related person holds a substantial interest in Aegon. Generally speaking, a substantial interest in Aegon arises if a person, alone or, where such person is an individual, together with his or her partner (statutory defined term), directly or indirectly, holds or is deemed to hold (i) an interest of 5% or more of the total of capital issued by Aegon or of 5% or more of the issued capital of a certain class of Aegon shares, (ii) rights to acquire, directly or indirectly, such interest or (iii) certain profit sharing rights in Aegon;  
  v. persons to whom the beneficial interest in Aegon common shares is attributed based on the separated private assets (afgezonderd particulier vermogen) provisions of the Netherlands income tax act 2001 (Wet inkomstenbelasting 2001) ;  
  vi. entities which are a resident of Aruba, Curacao or Sint Maarten that have an enterprise which is carried on through a permanent establishment or a permanent representative on Bonaire, Sint Eustatius or Saba, to which permanent establishment or permanent representative the Aegon common shares are attributable;  
  vii. holders of Aegon common shares which are not considered the beneficial owner (uiteindelijk gerechtigde) of these shares or of the benefits derived from or realised in respect of the Aegon common shares; and  
  viii. individuals to whom Aegon common shares or the income therefrom are attributable to employment activities which are taxed as employment income in the Netherlands.  

Where this section refers to the Netherlands, such reference is restricted to the part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands that is situated in Europe and the legislation applicable in that part of the Kingdom.

 

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Dividend tax

Withholding requirement

Aegon is required to withhold 15% Netherlands dividend tax in respect of dividends paid on its common shares. In the Netherlands Dividend Tax Act 1965 (Wet op de dividendbelasting 1965) , dividends are defined as the proceeds from shares, which include:

  i. proceeds in cash or in kind including direct or indirect distributions of profit;  
  ii. liquidation proceeds, proceeds on redemption of Aegon common shares and, as a rule, the consideration for the repurchase of its own common shares by Aegon in excess of the average paid-in capital recognised for Netherlands dividend tax purposes, unless a particular statutory exemption applies;  
  iii. the par value of new common shares issued to a holder of Aegon common shares or an increase of the par value of Aegon common shares, except when the (increase in the) par value of Aegon common shares is funded out of its paid-in capital as recognised for Netherlands dividend tax purposes; and  
  iv. partial repayments of paid-in capital recognised for Netherlands dividend tax purposes, if and to the extent there are qualifying profits (zuivere winst), unless Aegon’s general meeting of the shareholders has resolved in advance to make such repayment and provided that the nominal value of Aegon common shares concerned has been reduced by an equal amount by way of an amendment of the articles of association.  

Residents of the Netherlands

If a holder of Aegon common shares is a resident of the Netherlands, or deemed to be a resident of the Netherlands for Netherlands corporate or individual income tax purposes, dividend tax which is withheld with respect to proceeds from Aegon common shares will generally be creditable for Netherlands corporate income tax or Netherlands income tax purposes.

Non-residents of the Netherlands

If a holder of Aegon common shares is a resident of a country other than the Netherlands and if a treaty for the avoidance of double taxation with respect to taxes on income is in effect between the Netherlands and that country, and such holder is a resident for the purposes of such treaty, such holder may, depending on the terms of that particular treaty, qualify for full or partial relief at source or for a refund in whole or in part of the Netherlands dividend tax. A refund of the Netherlands dividend tax is available to entities resident in another EU member state, Norway, Iceland, or Liechtenstein if (i) these entities are not subject to corporate income tax there and (ii) these entities would not be subject to Netherlands corporate income tax, if these entities would be tax resident in the Netherlands for corporate income tax purposes and (iii) these entities are not comparable to investment institutions (fiscale beleggingsinstellingen) or exempt investment institutions (vrijgestelde beleggingsinstellingen) . Furthermore, a similar refund of Netherlands dividend tax may be available to entities resident in other countries, under the additional condition that (i) the Aegon common shares are considered portfolio investments and (ii) the Netherlands can exchange information with this other country in line with the international standards for the exchange of information.

US-residents

Residents of the United States that qualify for, and comply with the procedures for claiming benefits under, the Convention between the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the United States of America for the avoidance of double taxation and the prevention of fiscal evasion with respect to taxes on income 1992 ( the US/NL Income Tax Treaty ) may, under various specified conditions, be eligible for a reduction of Netherlands dividend withholding tax rate from 15% to 5% if the resident of the United States is a company which holds directly at least 10% voting power in Aegon. The US/NL Income Tax Treaty provides, subject to certain conditions, for a complete exemption from, or refund of, Netherlands dividend withholding tax for dividends received by exempt pension trusts and exempt organizations, as defined therein.

Beneficial owner

A recipient of proceeds from Aegon common shares will not be entitled to any exemption, reduction, refund or credit of Netherlands dividend tax if such recipient is not considered to be the beneficial owner of such proceeds. The recipient will not be considered the beneficial owner of these proceeds, if, in connection with such proceeds, the recipient has paid a consideration as part of a series of transactions in respect of which it is likely:

  a. that the proceeds have in whole or in part accumulated, directly or indirectly, to a person or legal entity that would: - as opposed to the recipient paying the consideration, not be entitled to an exemption from dividend tax; or - in comparison to the recipient paying the consideration, to a lesser extent be entitled to a reduction or refund of dividend tax; and  
  b. that such person or legal entity has, directly or indirectly, retained or acquired an interest in Aegon common shares or in profit-sharing certificates or loans, comparable to the interest it had in similar instruments prior to the series of transactions being initiated.  

 

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Netherlands withholding tax upon redistribution of foreign dividends

Aegon must transfer to the Dutch tax authorities all Netherlands dividend withholding tax it withholds on dividends it distributed with respect to the Aegon common shares. Provided certain conditions are met, Aegon may apply a reduction with respect to the withholding tax that it has to pay over to the Dutch tax authorities. This reduction can be applied if Aegon distributes dividends that stem from dividends Aegon itself has received from certain qualifying non-Netherlands subsidiaries, provided these dividends received by Aegon are exempt from Dutch corporate income tax and were subject to withholding tax of at least 5% upon distribution to Aegon. The reduction is applied to the Netherlands dividend tax that Aegon must pay to the Netherlands tax authorities and not to the amount of the Netherlands dividend tax that Aegon must withhold. The reduction is equal to the lesser of:

  i. 3% of the amount of the dividends distributed by Aegon that are subject to withholding tax; and  
  ii. 3% of the gross amount of the dividends received during a certain period from the qualifying non-Netherlands subsidiaries.  

Corporate and individual income tax

Residents of the Netherlands

If a holder of Aegon common shares is a resident or deemed to be a resident of the Netherlands for Netherlands corporate income tax purposes and is fully subject to Netherlands corporate income tax or is only subject to Netherlands corporate income tax in respect of an enterprise to which Aegon common shares are attributable, income derived from Aegon common shares and gains realised upon the redemption or disposal of Aegon common shares are generally taxable in the Netherlands (at up to a maximum rate of 25%) under the Netherlands corporate income tax act 1969 (Wet op de vennootschapsbelasting 1969) .

If an individual is a resident or deemed to be a resident of the Netherlands for Netherlands individual income tax purposes (including an individual who has opted to be taxed as a resident of the Netherlands), income derived from Aegon common shares and gains realised upon the redemption or disposal of Aegon common shares are taxable at the progressive rates (at up to a maximum rate of 52%) under the Netherlands income tax act 2001 (Wet inkomstenbelasting 2001) if:

  i. the individual is an entrepreneur (ondernemer) and has an enterprise to which Aegon common shares are attributable or the individual has, other than as a shareholder, a co-entitlement to the net worth of an enterprise (medegerechtigde) , to which enterprise Aegon common shares are attributable; or  
  ii. such income or gains qualify as income from miscellaneous activities (resultaat uit overige werkzaamheden) , which include but are not limited to the performance of activities with respect to Aegon common shares that exceed regular, active portfolio management (normaal, actief vermogensbeheer) .  

If neither condition (i) nor condition (ii) above applies to an individual that holds Aegon common shares, such individual must determine taxable income with regard to Aegon common shares on the basis of a deemed return on income from savings and investments (sparen en beleggen) , rather than on the basis of income actually received or gains actually realised. This deemed return on income from savings and investments has been fixed at a rate of 4% of the individual’s yield basis (rendementsgrondslag) at the beginning of the calendar year, insofar as the individual’s yield basis exceeds a certain threshold. The individual’s yield basis is determined as the fair market value of certain qualifying assets held by the holder of Aegon common shares less the fair market value of certain qualifying liabilities on 1 January. The fair market value of Aegon common shares will be included as an asset in the individual’s yield basis. The 4% deemed return on income from savings and investments is taxed at a rate of 30%.

Non-residents of the Netherlands

If a person is neither a resident nor is deemed to be a resident of the Netherlands for Netherlands corporate or individual income tax purposes (nor has opted to be taxed as a resident of the Netherlands for individual income tax purposes), such person is not subject to Netherlands income tax in respect of income derived from Aegon common shares and gains realised upon the redemption or disposal of Aegon common shares, except if:

  i. the person is not an individual and (1) has an enterprise that is, in whole or in part, carried on through a permanent establishment or a permanent representative in the Netherlands to which permanent establishment or a permanent representative Aegon common shares are attributable, or (2) is (other than by way of securities) entitled to a share in the profits of an enterprise or a co-entitlement to the net worth of an enterprise, which is effectively managed in the Netherlands and to which enterprise Aegon common shares are attributable. This income and these gains are subject to Netherlands corporate income tax at up to a maximum rate of 25%.  

 

  ii. the person is an individual that (1) has an enterprise or an interest in an enterprise that is, in whole or in part, carried on through a permanent establishment or a permanent representative in the Netherlands to which permanent establishment or permanent representative Aegon common shares are attributable, or (2) realises income or gains with respect to Aegon common shares that qualify as income from miscellaneous activities (resultaat uit overige werkzaamheden) in the Netherlands which includes activities  

 

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  with respect to Aegon common shares that exceed regular, active portfolio management (normaal, actief vermogensbeheer) , or (3) is (other than by way of securities) entitled to a share in the profits of an enterprise that is effectively managed in the Netherlands and to which enterprise Aegon common shares are attributable. Income and gains derived from Aegon common shares as specified under (1) and (2) by an individual are subject to individual income tax at up to a maximum rate of 52%. Income derived from a share in the profits of an enterprise as specified under (3) that is not already included under (1) or (2) will be taxed on the basis of a deemed return on income from savings and investments (as described above under “Residents of the Netherlands”). The fair market value of the share in the profits of the enterprise (which includes Aegon common shares) will be part of the individual’s Netherlands yield basis.  

Gift and inheritance tax

Residents of the Netherlands

Generally, gift tax (schenkbelasting) or inheritance tax (erfbelasting) will be due in the Netherlands in respect of the acquisition of Aegon common shares by way of a gift by, or on behalf of, or on the death of, a holder of Aegon common shares that is a resident or deemed to be a resident of the Netherlands for the purposes of Netherlands Gift and Inheritance Tax Act 1956 (Successiewet 1956) at the time of the gift or his or her death. A gift made under a condition precedent is for the purposes of Netherlands Gift and Inheritance Tax Act 1956 deemed to be made at the time the condition precedent is fulfilled and is subject to gift tax if the donor is, or is deemed to be a resident of the Netherlands at that time.

A holder of Netherlands nationality is deemed to be a resident of the Netherlands for the purposes of the Netherlands Gift and Inheritance Tax Act 1956 if he or she has been resident in the Netherlands and dies or makes a gift within ten years after leaving the Netherlands. A holder of any other nationality is deemed to be a resident of the Netherlands for the purposes of the Netherlands Gift and Inheritance Tax Act 1956 if he or she has been resident in the Netherlands and makes a gift within a twelve months period after leaving the Netherlands. The same twelve-month rule may apply to entities that have transferred their seat of residence out of the Netherlands.

Non-residents of the Netherlands

No gift or inheritance tax will arise in the Netherlands in respect of the acquisition of Aegon common shares by way of a gift by, or as a result of, the death of, a holder that is neither a resident nor deemed to be a resident of the Netherlands for the purposes of Netherlands Gift and Inheritance Tax Act 1956, However, inheritance tax will be due in the case of a gift of Aegon common shares by, or on behalf of, a holder who at the date of the gift was neither a resident nor deemed to be a resident of the Netherlands for the purposes of the Netherlands Gift and Inheritance Tax Act 1956, but such holder dies within 180 days after the date of the gift, and at the time of his or her death is a resident or deemed to be a resident of the Netherlands for the purposes of the Netherlands Gift and Inheritance Tax Act 1956. A gift made under a condition precedent is deemed to be made at the time the condition precedent is fulfilled.

The proposed financial transactions tax (“FTT”)

The European Commission has published a proposal for a Directive for a common FTT in Belgium, Germany, Estonia, Greece, Spain, France, Italy, Austria, Portugal, Slovenia and Slovakia (the participating Member States).

The proposed FTT has a very broad scope and could, if introduced in its current form, apply to certain dealings in Aegon common shares (including secondary market transactions) in certain circumstances.

Under the current proposals the FTT could apply in certain circumstances to persons both within and outside of the participating Member States. Generally, it would apply to certain dealings in Aegon common shares where at least one party is a financial institution, and at least one party is established in a participating Member State. A financial institution may be, or be deemed to be, “established” in a participating Member State in a broad range of circumstances, including (a) by transacting with a person established in a participating Member State or (b) where the financial instrument which is subject to the dealings is issued in a participating Member State.

The FTT proposal remains subject to negotiation between the participating Member States and is subject to legal challenge. It may therefore be altered prior to any implementation, the timing of which remains unclear. Additional EU Member States may decide to participate. Prospective holders of Aegon common shares are advised to seek their own professional advice in relation to the FTT.

 

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Value added tax

In general, no value added tax will arise in respect of payments in consideration for the issue of Aegon common shares or in respect of a cash payment made under Aegon common shares, or in respect of a transfer of Aegon common shares.

Other taxes and duties

No registration tax, customs duty, transfer tax, stamp duty, capital tax or any other similar documentary tax or duty will be payable in the Netherlands by a holder of Aegon common shares in respect of or in connection with the subscription, issue, placement, allotment, delivery or transfer of the Aegon common shares.

II Taxation in the United States

This section describes certain US Federal income tax consequences to beneficial holders of common shares that are held as capital assets. This section does not address all US Federal income tax matters that may be relevant to a particular holder. Each investor should consult their tax advisor with respect to the tax consequences of an investment in the common shares. This section does not address tax considerations for holders of common shares subject to special tax rules including, without limitation, the following:

  ¿   Financial institutions;
  ¿   Insurance companies;
  ¿   Dealers or traders in securities or currencies;
  ¿   Tax-exempt entities;
  ¿   Regulated investment companies;
  ¿   Persons that will hold the common shares as part of a “hedging” or “conversion” transaction or as a position in a “straddle” or as part of a “synthetic security” or other integrated transaction for US Federal income tax purposes;
  ¿   Holders that own (or are deemed to own for US Federal income tax purposes) 10% or more of the voting shares of Aegon;
  ¿   Partnerships or pass-through entities or persons who hold common shares through partnerships or other pass-through entities; and
  ¿   Holders that have a “functional currency” other than the US dollar.

Further, this section does not address alternative minimum tax consequences or the indirect effects on the holders of equity interests in a holder of common shares. This section also does not describe any tax consequences arising under the laws of any taxing jurisdiction other than the Federal income tax laws of the US Federal government.

This section is based on the US Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, US Treasury regulations and judicial and administrative interpretations, in each case as in effect and available on the date of this Annual Report. All of the foregoing is subject to change, which change could apply retroactively and could affect the tax consequences described below.

For the purposes of this section, a “US holder” is a beneficial owner of common shares that is, for US Federal income tax purposes:

  ¿   a citizen or individual resident of the United States;
  ¿   a corporation created or organized in or under the laws of the United States or any state of the United States (including the District of Columbia);
  ¿   an estate, the income of which is subject to US Federal income taxation regardless of its source; or
  ¿   a trust, if a court within the United States is able to exercise primary supervision over its administration and one or more US persons have the authority to control all of the substantial decisions of such trust.

A non-US holder is a beneficial owner of common shares that is not a US holder.

Tax consequences to US Holders

Distributions

The gross amount of any distribution (including any amounts withheld in respect of Dutch withholding tax) actually or constructively received by a US holder with respect to common shares will be taxable to the US holder as a dividend to the extent of Aegon’s current and accumulated earnings and profits as determined under US Federal income tax principles. Such dividends will not qualify for the dividends received deduction otherwise allowable to corporations. Distributions in excess of current and accumulated earnings and profits are treated under US tax law as non-taxable return of capital to the extent of the US holder’s adjusted tax basis in the common shares. Distributions in excess of earnings and profits and such adjusted tax basis will generally be taxable to the US holder as capital gain from the sale or exchange of property. However, Aegon does not maintain calculations of its earnings and profits under US Federal income tax principles. Therefore, US holders of Aegon shares will generally be taxed on all distributions as dividends, even if some portion of the distributions might otherwise be treated as a non-taxable return of capital or as capital gain if the amount of

 

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US earnings and profits was known. The amount of any distribution of property other than cash will be the fair market value of that property on the date of distribution.

Certain “qualified dividend income” received by individual US holders is taxed at a maximum income tax rate of 20% in 2013 and subsequent years. Only dividends received from US corporations or from a “qualified foreign corporation” and on shares held by an individual US holder for a minimum holding period (generally, 61 days during the 121-day period beginning 60 days before the ex-dividend date) can qualify for this reduced rate. Aegon is eligible for benefits under the comprehensive income tax treaty between the Netherlands and the US; therefore, Aegon should be considered a “qualified foreign corporation” for this purpose. Accordingly, dividends paid by Aegon to individual US holders on shares held for the minimum holding period may qualify for a reduced income tax rate. Each US holder should consult their tax advisor regarding the applicable tax rate.

Distributions paid in currency other than US dollars (a “foreign currency”), including the amount of any withholding tax thereon, must be included in the gross income of a US holder in an amount equal to the US dollar value of the foreign currency calculated by reference to the exchange rate in effect on the date of receipt. This is the case regardless of whether the foreign currency is converted into US dollars. If the foreign currency is converted into US dollars on the date of receipt, a US holder generally should not be required to recognize foreign currency gain or loss in respect of the dividend. If the foreign currency received in the distribution is not converted into US dollars on the date of receipt, a US holder will have a basis in the foreign currency equal to its US dollar value on the date of receipt. Any gain or loss on a subsequent conversion or other disposition of the foreign currency will be treated as ordinary income or loss.

Dividends received by a US holder with respect to common shares will be treated as foreign source income for foreign tax credit limitation purposes. Subject to certain conditions and limitations, any Dutch income tax withheld on dividends may be deducted from taxable income or credited against a US holder’s Federal income tax liability. The limitation on foreign taxes eligible for the US foreign tax credit is calculated separately with respect to “passive category income” and “general category income”. Dividends distributed by Aegon generally will constitute “passive category income”, or, in the case of certain US holders, “financial services income”, which is treated as general category income. Each US holder should consult their tax advisor regarding the availability of the foreign tax credit under their particular circumstances.

The amount of the qualified dividend income paid by Aegon to a US holder that is subject to the reduced dividend income tax rate and that is taken into account for purposes of calculating the US holder’s US foreign tax credit limitation must be reduced by the “rate differential portion” of such dividend (which, assuming a US holder is in the highest income tax bracket, would generally require a reduction of the dividend amount by approximately 49.49% in 2013 and subsequent years). Each US holder should consult their tax advisor regarding the implications of the rules relating to qualified dividend income on the calculation of US foreign tax credits under their particular circumstances.

In general, upon making a distribution to shareholders, Aegon is required to remit all Dutch dividend withholding taxes to the Dutch tax authorities The full amount of the taxes so withheld should (subject to certain limitations and conditions) be eligible for the US holder’s foreign tax deduction or credit as described above. Investors are urged to consult their tax advisors regarding the general creditability or deductibility of Dutch withholding taxes.

Aegon generally affords shareholders an option to receive dividend distributions in cash or in stock. A distribution of additional common shares to US holders with respect to their common shares that is made pursuant to such an election will generally be taxable in the same manner as a cash dividend under the rules described above.

Sale or other disposition of shares

Upon the sale or exchange of common shares, a US holder will generally recognize gain or loss for US Federal income tax purposes on the difference between the US dollar value of the amount realized from such sale or exchange and the tax basis in those common shares. This gain or loss will be a capital gain or loss and will generally be treated as from sources within the United States. Investors should consult their tax advisors with respect to the treatment of capital gains (which may be taxed at lower rates than ordinary income for taxpayers who are individuals, trusts or estates that have held the common shares for more than one year) and capital losses (the deductibility of which is subject to limitations).

 

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If a US holder receives foreign currency upon a sale or exchange of common shares, gain or loss, if any, recognized on the subsequent sale, conversion or disposition of such foreign currency will be ordinary income or loss, and will generally be income or loss from sources within the United States for foreign tax credit limitation purposes. However, if such foreign currency is converted into US dollars on the date received by the US holder, the US holder generally should not be required to recognize any gain or loss on such conversion.

Passive foreign investment company considerations

Based on the nature of Aegon’s gross income, the average value of Aegon’s gross assets, and the active conduct of Aegon’s insurance business, Aegon does not believe that it could be classified as a Passive Foreign Investment Company (“PFIC”). If Aegon were treated as a PFIC in any year during which a US holder owns common shares, certain adverse tax consequences could apply. Investors should consult their tax advisors with respect to any PFIC considerations.

Tax consequences to non-US holders

A non-US holder generally will not be subject to US Federal income tax on dividends received on common shares or on any gain realized on the sale or exchange of common shares unless the gain is connected with a trade or business that the non-US holder conducts in the United States or unless the non-US holder is an individual, such holder was present in the United States for at least 183 days during the year in which such holder disposes of the common shares, and certain other conditions are satisfied. Non-US holders should consult their tax advisors with respect to the US Federal income tax consequences of dividends received on, and any gain realized from the sale or exchange of, the common shares.

Backup withholding and information reporting

Backup withholding and information reporting requirements may apply to certain payments on the common shares and to proceeds of a sale or redemption of the common shares to US holders made within the United States. Aegon, its agent, a broker, or any paying agent, as the case may be, may be required to withhold tax from any payment that is subject to backup withholding if a US holder fails to furnish the US holder’s taxpayer identification number, fails to certify that such US holder is not subject to backup withholding, or fails to otherwise comply with the applicable requirements of the backup withholding rules. Certain US holders are not subject to the backup withholding and information reporting requirements.

Non-US holders that provide the required tax certifications of exempt or foreign status will generally be exempt from US information reporting requirements and backup withholding. However, sales proceeds a non-US holder receives on a sale of common shares through a broker may be subject to information reporting and backup withholding if the non-US holder is not eligible for an exemption.

Backup withholding is not an additional tax. Any amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules from a payment to a US holder or a non-US holder generally may be claimed as a credit against such holder’s US Federal income tax liability provided that the required information is furnished to the US Internal Revenue Service. Investors should consult their tax advisors as to their qualification for exemption from backup withholding and the procedure for obtaining an exemption. Non-US holders should consult their tax advisors concerning the applicability of the information reporting and backup withholding rules.

Individual US holders may be required to report to the IRS certain information with respect to their beneficial ownership of certain foreign financial assets, such as the common shares, if the aggregate value of such assets exceeds USD 50,000 and the assets are not held through a US financial institution. US holders who fail to report required information could be subject to substantial penalties. Prospective investors should consult their own tax advisors concerning the application of the information reporting rules to their particular circumstances.

Principal accountant fees and services

EY has served as Aegon’s independent public accountant for each of the fiscal years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2013, for which audited financial statements appear in this Annual Report.

 

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The following table presents the aggregate fees for professional services and other services rendered by EY to Aegon in 2013, 2012 and 2011.

Fees EY

 

In million EUR    2013      2012      2011  

Audit fees

     19         19         22   

Audit related fees

     2         7         6   

Tax fees

     -         -         -   

All other fees

     1         -         1   
       22         26         29   

Audit fees consist of fees billed for the annual financial statement audit (including required quarterly reviews), subsidiary audits, equity investment audits and other procedures required to be performed by the independent auditor to be able to form an opinion on Aegon’s consolidated financial statements. These other procedures include information systems and procedural reviews and testing performed in order to understand and place reliance on the systems of internal control, and consultations relating to the audit or quarterly review. They also include fees billed for other audit services, which are those services that only the external auditor reasonably can provide, and include statutory audits or financial audits for subsidiaries or affiliates of the company and services associated with SEC registration statements, periodic reports and other documents filed with the SEC or other documents issued in connection with securities offerings.

Audit-related fees consist of fees billed for audit-related services including assurance and related services that are reasonably related to the performance of the audit or review of Aegon’s financial statements or that are traditionally performed by the independent auditor. Audit-related services include, among others, assurance services to report on internal controls for third parties, due diligence services pertaining to potential business acquisitions/dispositions; accounting consultations related to accounting, financial reporting or disclosure matters not classified as “Audit services”; assistance with understanding and implementing new accounting and financial reporting guidance from rulemaking authorities; financial audits of employee benefit plans; agreed-upon or expanded audit procedures related to accounting and/or billing records required to respond to or comply with financial, accounting or regulatory reporting matters; and assistance with internal control reporting requirements.

Tax fees include fees billed for tax compliance.

All other fees include fees billed for permissible non-audit services that Aegon believes are routine and recurring services, would not impair the independence of the auditor and are consistent with the SEC’s rules on auditor independence.

Audit Committee Pre-approval Policies and procedures

Aegon’s Audit Committee is responsible, among other matters, for the oversight of the external auditor. The Audit Committee has adopted a policy regarding pre-approval of audit and permissible non-audit services provided by Aegon’s independent auditors (the “Pre-approval Policy”).

Under the Pre-approval Policy, proposed services either

  ¿   May be pre-approved by the Audit Committee without consideration of specific case-by-case services (“general pre-approval”); or
  ¿   Require the specific pre-approval of the Audit Committee (“specific pre-approval”). Appendices to the Pre-approval Policy (that are adopted each year) set out the audit, audit-related, tax and other services that have received general pre-approval of the Audit Committee. All other audit, audit-related, tax and other services must receive specific pre-approval from the Audit Committee.

For the period 2011 to 2013, all services provided to Aegon by EY were pre-approved by the Audit Committee in accordance with the Pre-approval Policy.

 

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Changes in registrant’s certifying accountants

As announced at the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders in 2012, the audit of Aegon’s accounts from 2014 was put to tender in 2012. In February 2013, after a thorough process the Audit Committee and the Board decided to propose to shareholders to appoint PwC as the company´s independent auditor for the annual accounts of 2014 through 2016. These proposals were approved at the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders on May 15, 2013.

The reports of Ernst & Young Accountants LLP on the Company’s financial statements for the past two fiscal years did not contain an adverse opinion or a disclaimer of opinion and were not qualified or modified as to uncertainty, audit scope, or accounting principles.

In connection with the audits of the Company’s financial statements for each of the two fiscal years ended, there were no disagreements with Ernst & Young Accountants LLP on any matters of accounting principles or practices, financial statement disclosure, or auditing scope and procedures which, if not resolved to the satisfaction of Ernst & Young Accountants LLP would have caused Ernst & Young Accountants LLP to make reference to the matter in their report. The Company has requested Ernst & Young Accountants LLP to furnish it a letter addressed to the Commission stating whether it agrees with the above statements. A copy of that letter, dated March 19, 2014 is filed as Exhibit 15.1 to Aegon’s 2013 Annual Report on Form 20-F.

Purchases of equity securities by the issuer and affiliated purchasers

 

Period     
 
Total number of
shares purchased 1)
  
  
    
 
Average price paid
per share in EUR
  
  
    
 
 
 
 
Total number of
shares purchased as
part of publicly
announced plans or
programs 2)
  
  
  
  
  
    
 
 
 
 
Maximum number of
shares that may yet
be purchased under
the plans or programs
at end of month 2)
  
  
  
  
  

January 1 - 31, 2013

     6,215         5.27         -         -   

February 1 - 29, 2013

     8,269         5.27         -         -   

March 1 - 31, 2013

     5,210         5.27         -         -   

April 1 - 30, 2013

     10,294         4.52         -         -   

May 1 - 31, 2013

     6,837         5.27         -         -   

June 1 - 30, 2013

     6,924         5.27         -         -   

July 1 - 31, 2013

     7,301         5.27         -         -   

August 1 - 31, 2013

     5,760         6.03         -         -   

September 1 - 30, 2013

     10,997,091         5.60         10,990,305         8,057,053   

October 1 - 31, 2013

     8,062,179         5.66         8,057,053         -   

November 1 - 30, 2013

     4,078         6.78         -         -   

December 1 - 31, 2013

     4,832         6.78         -         -   
Total      19,124,990                  19,047,358            
  1   The shares have been purchased as part of a share purchase program, to neutralize the dilution effect of issued stock dividends and agent related incentive programs. Excluding Aegon shares purchased by index funds controlled by Aegon. Such purchases are made to the extent necessary to maintain a basket of securities within the relevant fund reflecting the underlying index.
  2   On September 17, 2013, a repurchase program to neutralize the dilutive effect of the 2013 interim dividend paid in shares was announced. As a consequence approximately 19 million shares have been repurchased between September 17 and October 14, 2013.

 

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Quarterly results – unaudited

 

     

2013

    

2012

 
      First
Quarter
     Second
Quarter
     Third
Quarter
     Fourth
Quarter
     Full Year      First
Quarter
     Second
Quarter
     Third
Quarter
     Fourth
Quarter
     Full Year  

Underlying earnings before tax

                             

Life

     240         264         279         233         1,014         229         268         312         259         1,068   

Individual savings and retirement products

     120         129         134         123         507         125         116         105         144         490   

Pensions

     82         88         105         110         386         91         94         98         69         352   

Non-life

     8         (7      6         4         12         9         (1      (2      9         15   

Distribution

     4         4         2         6         16         6         4         (1      6         15   

Asset Management

     23         26         24         23         95         29         23         25         24         101   

Other

     (38      (35      (25      (11      (109      (64      (55      (50      (55      (224

Share in underlying earnings before tax of associates

     6         9         6         3         24         14         8         7         5         34   
Underlying earnings before tax      445         478         531         491         1,945         439         457         494         461         1,851   

Fair value items

     (252      (158      (494      (229      (1,133      148         82         (142      (129      (41

Realized gains/(losses) on investments

     113         82         202         104         502         45         85         128         149         407   

Impairment charges

     (17      (57      (45      (1      (121      (41      (42      (35      (58      (176

Other income/(charges)

     (4      27         (42      (33      (52      (17      (254      3         106         (162

Run-off businesses

     (14      13         1         14         14         (2      7         12         (15      2   
Income before tax      271         385         154         346         1,155         572         335         460         514         1,881   

Income tax

     (41      (58      73         (149      (174      (47      (86      (83      (122      (338
Net income / (loss)      229         327         227         197         980         525         249         377         392         1,543   
Net underlying earnings      323         361         495         361         1,541         338         346         383         357         1,424   

Underlying earnings before tax

                             

Americas

     312         360         371         327         1,369         303         349         362         352         1,366   

The Netherlands

     85         74         85         110         355         81         74         85         85         325   

United Kingdom

     24         27         26         21         98         30         26         27         27         110   

New Markets

     62         52         74         49         236         88         64         70         52         274   

Holding and other activities

     (38      (35      (25      (15      (113      (63      (56      (50      (55      (224
Underlying earnings before tax      445         478         531         491         1,945         439         457         494         461         1,851   
Gross deposits (on and off balance sheet)      10,004         12,670         11,024         10,632         44,330         11,043         9,757         9,426         9,246         39,472   
Net deposits (on and off balance sheet)      591         2,912         2,933         1,876         8,312         1,079         811         1,325         390         3,605   

New life sales

                             

Life single premiums

     1,491         1,652         1,282         2,085         6,510         1,160         1,068         1,125         2,058         5,411   

Life recurring premiums annualized

     350         355         283         271         1,260         329         321         293         471         1,414   
Total recurring plus 1/10 single      499         520         412         480         1,911         445         428         405         677         1,955   

New premium production accident & health insurance

     225         173         167         181         746         195         187         190         196         768   

New premium production general insurance

     14         14         16         18         61         14         13         12         16         55   

 

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Documents on display

Aegon files annual reports with and furnishes other information to the Securities and Exchange Commission. You may read and copy any document filed with or furnished to the SEC by Aegon at the SEC’s public reference room at 450 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20549. Aegon’s SEC filings are also available to the public through the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Please call the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330 for further information on the public reference room in Washington D.C. and in other locations.

The SEC allows Aegon to “incorporate by reference” information into this Annual Report on Form 20-F, which means that:

  ¿   Incorporated documents are considered part of this Annual Report on Form 20-F; and
  ¿   Aegon can disclose important information to you by referring you to those documents.

Those documents contain important information about Aegon and its financial condition. You may obtain copies of those documents in the manner described above. You may also request a copy of those documents (excluding exhibits) at no cost by contacting us (refer to page 356).

 

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Glossary

Acquisition date is the date on which the acquirer effectively obtains control of the acquiree. In most cases this includes at least the transfer of risks and rewards related to the acquired business or assets/liabilities.

Actuarial funding enables a life insurance company to reduce the size of the unit reserves it holds for unit linked business to reflect some or all of the unit-linked charges it expects to receive in the future from the units nominally allocated. Actuarial funding is used on those contracts that have surrender penalties and the company will hold a minimum of the surrender value at all times.

Actuarial gains and losses relate to the accounting for post-employment benefit plans. They comprise the effects of experience adjustments and changes in assumptions used to determine the cost of a plan.

Alt-A mortgages relates to a type of US residential mortgage which are securitized home equity loans. Typical Alt-A borrower has a credit score high enough to obtain an: “A” standing. Alt- A mortgages are primarily backed by loans with fixed interest rates for the entire term of the loan.

Amortized cost is the amount at which the financial asset or liability is measured at initial recognition minus principal repayments, plus or minus the cumulative amortization using the effective interest rate method of any difference between that initial amount and the maturity amount and minus any reduction (directly or through the use of an allowance account) for impairment or uncollectability.

Asset Backed Securities (ABS) are securities whose value and income payments are derived from and collateralized (or “backed”) by a specified pool of underlying assets.

Assets held by long-term employee benefit funds are part of plan assets. These are assets (other than non-transferable financial instruments issued by the reporting entity) that:

  ¿   Are held by an entity that is legally separate from the reporting entity and exists solely to pay or fund employee benefits; and
  ¿   Are available to be used only to pay or fund employee benefits and are not available to the reporting entity’s own creditors.

Bifurcation is the measurement and presentation of embedded derivatives separate from the host contracts, as if they were stand-alone derivative financial instruments.

Binomial option pricing model uses a binomial lattice that represents possible paths that might be followed by the underlying asset’s price over the life of the option, for a given

number of time steps between valuation date and option expiration. Each node in the lattice represents a possible price of the underlying asset, at a particular point in time. The valuation process is iterative; it starts at each final node and then works backwards through the lattice to the first node, which is the valuation date, where the calculated result is the value of the option.

Business combination is the bringing together of separate entities or operations of entities into one reporting entity. This can be realized through a purchase transaction or by means of a merger. A business combination involving entities (or operations of entities) under common control is a business combination in which all of the combining entities (or operations of entities) ultimately are controlled by the same party or parties both before and after the combination, and that control is not transitory.

Capitalization is the recognition of a cost as part of the cost of an asset on the statement of financial position.

Cash generating unit is the smallest identifiable group of assets that generates cash inflows that are largely independent of the cash inflows from other assets or groups of assets.

Cedant is the policyholder under a reinsurance contract.

Claims settlement expenses are costs incurred in settling a claim. These costs include internal administration and payout costs, but also such items as attorney’s fees and investigation expenses.

Collateral is an asset pledged by a borrower to secure a loan and is subject to seizure in the case of default.

Collateralized Debt Obligation (CDO) isa type of asset-backed security which provides investors exposure to the credit risk of a pool of fixed income assets.

Collateralized Loan Obligation (CLO) is a type of CDO which is backed primarily by leveraged loans.

Commercial Mortgage Backed Securities (CMBS) is a type of mortgage-backed security that is secured by the loan on a commercial property.

Compound financial instruments are financial instruments that, from the issuer’s perspective, contain both a liability and an equity element.

Constructive obligation is an obligation that derives from an entity’s actions whereby an established pattern of past practice, published policies or a sufficiently specific current statement, the entity has indicated to other parties that it will accept certain responsibilities, and as a result, the entity has created a valid

 

 

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expectation on the part of those other parties that it will discharge those responsibilities.

Credit risk is the risk that one party to a financial instrument will fail to discharge an obligation and cause the other party to incur a financial loss.

Currency exchange rate risk is a market risk, namely the risk that the value of a financial instrument will fluctuate due to changes in foreign exchange rates.

Deferred tax assets are amounts of income taxes recoverable in future periods in respect of deductible temporary differences; the carryforward of unused tax losses; and the carryforward of unused tax credits.

Deferred tax liabilities are amounts of income taxes payable in future periods in respect of taxable temporary differences.

Defined benefit obligation is the present value, without deducting any plan assets, of expected future payments required to settle the obligation resulting from employee service in the current and prior periods.

Defined benefit plans are post-employment benefit plans other than defined contribution plans.

Defined contribution plans are post-employment benefit plans under which an entity pays fixed contributions into a separate entity (a fund) and will have no legal or constructive obligation to pay further contributions if the fund does not hold sufficient assets to pay all employee benefits relating to employee service in the current and prior periods.

Deferred Policy Acquisition Cost (DPAC) – are the variable costs related to the acquisition or renewal of insurance contracts and investment contracts with discretionary participation features.

Deposit accounting method includes amounts charged and paid to customers directly into the financial liability and not through the income statement as premium income and claims.

Derecognition is the removal of a previously recognized asset or financial liability from an entity’s statement of financial position.

Derivatives are financial instruments whose value changes in response to an underlying variable, that require little or no net initial investment and are settled at a future date.

Discretionary participation feature is a contractual right to receive, as a supplement to guaranteed benefits, additional benefits:

  ¿   That are likely to be a significant portion of the total contractual benefits;

 

¿   Whose amount or timing is contractually at the discretion of the issuer; and  

That are contractually based on:

¿   The performance of a specified pool of contracts or a specified type of contract;  
¿   Realized and/or unrealized investment returns on a specified pool of assets held by the issuer; or  
¿   The profit or loss of the company, fund or other entity that issues the contract.  

Effective interest rate method is a method of calculating the amortized cost of a financial asset or liability and of allocating the interest income or expense over the relevant period. The effective interest rate is the rate that exactly discounts estimated future cash payments or receipts through the expected life of the financial instrument or, when appropriate, a shorter period to the net carrying amount of the financial asset or liability.

Embedded derivative is a component of a hybrid instrument that also includes a non-derivative host contract, with the effect that some of the cash flows of the combined instrument vary in a way similar to a derivative.

Equity instruments are financial instruments issued by the Group that are classified as equity if they evidence a residual interest in the assets of the Group after deducting all of its liabilities.

Equity method is a method of accounting whereby the investment is initially recognized at cost and adjusted thereafter for the post-acquisition change in the investor’s share of net assets of the investee. The profit or loss of the investor includes the investor’s share of the profit or loss of the investee.

Equity volatility is the relative rate at which the price of equity changes.

Exchange differences are differences resulting from translating a given number of units of one currency into another currency at different exchange rates.

Finance lease is a lease that transfers substantially all the risks and rewards incident to ownership of an asset.

Financial asset is any asset that is:

¿   Cash;  
¿   An equity instrument of another entity;  
¿   A contractual right to receive cash or another financial asset from another entity or to exchange financial instruments with another party under conditions that are potentially favorable; or  
¿   A contract that will or may be settled in the entity’s own equity instruments; and is  
 

 

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  ¿   A non-derivative for which the entity is or may be obliged to receive a variable number of the entity’s own equity instruments; or
  ¿   A derivative that will or may be settled other than by the exchange of a fixed amount of cash or another financial asset for a fixed number of the entity’s own equity instruments.

Financial instrument is any contract that gives rise to both a financial asset of one entity and a financial liability or equity instrument of another entity.

Financial liability is any liability that is:

  ¿   A contractual obligation to deliver cash or another financial asset to another entity or to exchange financial assets or financial liabilities with another entity under conditions that are potentially unfavorable to the entity; or
  ¿   A contract that will or may be settled in the entity’s own equity instruments; and is
  ¿   A non-derivative for which the entity is or may be obliged to deliver a variable number of the entity’s own equity instruments; or
  ¿   A derivative that will or may be settled other than by the exchange of a fixed amount of cash or another financial asset for a fixed number of the entity’s own equity instruments.

Financial risks are risks of a possible future change in one or more of the following variables: a specified interest rate, financial instrument price, commodity price, foreign exchange rate, index or prices or rates, credit rating or credit index or other variable, provided in the case of a non-financial variable, that the variable is not specific to a party to the contract.

Firm commitment is a binding agreement for the exchange of a specified quantity of resources at a specified price on a specified future date or dates.

Foreign currency is a currency other than the functional currency of an entity within the Group.

Foreign operation is an entity that is a subsidiary, associate, joint venture or branch of a reporting entity within the Group, the activities of which are based or conducted in a country or currency other than those of the reporting entity.

Functional currency is the currency of the primary economic environment in which an entity within the Group operates.

General account investments are investments of which the financial risks are not borne by the policyholder.

Goodwill is the amount of future economic benefits arising from assets that are not capable of being individually identified and separately recognized as an asset in a business combination.

Guaranteed benefits are payments or other benefits to which a particular policyholder or investor has an unconditional right that is not subject to the contractual discretion of the issuer.

Hedge effectiveness is the degree to which changes in the fair value or cash flows of the hedged item that are attributable to a hedged risk are offset by changes in the fair value or cash flows of the hedging instrument.

Incremental cost is one that would not have been incurred if the entity had not acquired, issued or disposed of a financial instrument.

Insurance asset is an insurer’s contractual right under an insurance contract.

Insurance contract is a contract under which one party (the insurer) accepts significant insurance risk from another party (the policyholder) by agreeing to compensate the policyholder if a specified uncertain future event (the insured event) adversely affects the policyholder.

Insurance liability is an insurer’s contractual obligation under an insurance contract.

Insurance risk is a risk, other than financial risk, transferred from the holder of a contract to the issuer.

Interest rate risk is a market risk, namely the risk that the value of a financial instrument will fluctuate due to changes in market interest rates.

Joint control is the contractually agreed sharing of control over an economic activity, which exists when the strategic and operating decisions relating to the activity require the unanimous consent of the parties sharing control.

Liability adequacy testing is an assessment of whether the carrying amount of an insurance liability needs to be increased (or the carrying amount of related deferred policy acquisition costs or related intangible assets decreased) based on a review of future cash flows.

Liquidity risk is the risk that an entity will encounter difficulty in raising funds to meet commitments associated with financial instruments.

Master netting agreement is an agreement providing for an entity that undertakes a number of financial instrument transactions with a single counterparty to make a single net settlement of all financial instruments covered by the agreement in the event of default on, or termination of, any contract.

Negative amortization mortgages are loans whereby the payment made by the borrower may be less than the accrued

 

 

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interest due and the difference is added to the loan balance. When the accrued balance of the loan reaches the negative amortization limit (typically 110% to 125% of the original loan amount), the loan recalibrates to a fully amortizing level and a new minimum payment amount is determined.

Non-controlling interests are that portion of the profit or loss and net assets of a subsidiary attributable to equity interests that are not owned, directly or indirectly through subsidiaries, by the parent.

Monetary items are units of currency held and assets and liabilities to be received or paid in a fixed or determinable number of units of currency.

Monoline insurer is an insurance company which issues types of insurance for securities and bonds to cover the interest and principal when an issuer defaults.

Onerous contracts are contracts in which the unavoidable costs of meeting the obligations under the contract exceed the economic benefits expected to be received under it.

Operating expenses are all expenses associated with selling and administrative activities (excluding commissions) after reallocation of claim handling expenses to benefits paid.

Past service cost is the increase in the present value of the defined benefit obligation for employee service in prior periods, resulting in the current period from the introduction of, or changes to, post-employment benefits.

Plan assets are assets held by a long-term employee benefit fund and qualifying insurance policies.

Policy acquisition costs are the expenses incurred in soliciting and placing new business as well as renewal of existing business. It includes agent’s commissions, underwriting expenses, medical and credit report fees, marketing expenses and all other direct and indirect expenses of the departments involved in such activities.

Policyholder is a party that has a right to compensation under an insurance contract if an insured event occurs.

Presentation currency is the currency in which the financial statements are presented.

Price risk is a market risk, namely the risk that the value of a financial instrument will fluctuate as a result of changes in market prices.

Private loan is a non-derivative financial asset with a fixed interest rate and a maturity date, which is not bought in an active market but negotiated between the two parties involved. Private

loans are not embodied in securities. When a private loan takes the form of a private placement of bonds or other investments directly to an institutional investor like an insurance company, it has more the character of a bond loan and such financial instruments are classified as available-for-sale investments rather than as loans and receivables.

Projected unit credit method is an actuarial valuation method that sees each period of service as giving rise to an additional unit of benefit entitlement and measures each unit separately to build up the final obligation.

Qualifying insurance policies are a component of plan assets. These are insurance policies issued by an insurer that is not a related party of the reporting entity, if the proceeds of the policies:

¿   Can be used only to pay or fund employee benefits under a defined benefit plan; and  
¿   Are not available to the reporting entity’s own creditors.  

Real estate investments foreclosed are real estate investments purchased through foreclosure on the mortgage. Such purchases are not accounted for as mortgages, but as real estate investments until they can be sold at a better price than at the foreclosure. Meanwhile they yield a rental income.

Realizable value is the amount of cash or cash equivalents that could currently be obtained by selling an asset in an orderly disposal.

Recognition is the process of incorporating in the statement of financial position or income statement an item that meets the definition of an element and satisfies the following criteria for recognition:

¿   It is probable that any future economic benefit associated with the item will flow to or from the entity; and  
¿   The item has a cost or value that can be measured with reliability.  

Reinsurance assets are a cedant’s net contractual rights under a reinsurance contract.

Reinsurance contract is an insurance contract issued by one insurer to compensate another insurer for losses on one or more contracts issued by the cedant.

Renewal of a contract is when a policyholder takes whatever action is required, typically payment of a premium, in order to maintain benefits under the contract.

Repurchase agreement is a sale of securities with an agreement to buy back the securities at a specified time and price.

 

 

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Residential Mortgage Backed Security (RMBS) is an asset-backed security that is secured by a mortgage or collection of mortgages.

Return on plan assets is the investment income derived from plan assets, together with realized and unrealized gains and losses on the plan assets less any costs of administering the plan and less any tax payable by the plan itself.

Reverse repurchase agreement is a purchase of securities with the agreement to resell them at a later specified date and price.

Security lending involves a loan of a security from one party to another.

Settlement date is the date that a financial asset is delivered to the entity that purchased it.

Solvency II is the fundamental reform of European insurance solvency and risk governance legislation.

Sovereign exposures relates to government issued securities including Dutch Government bonds and US Treasury, agency and state bonds.

Spot exchange rate is the exchange rate for immediate delivery.

Spread is the difference between the current bid and the current ask or offered price of a given security.

Stochastic modeling is a statistical process that uses probability and random variables to predict a range of probable investment performances.

Temporary differences are differences between the carrying amount of an asset or liability in the statement of financial position and its tax base that will reverse over time.

Trade date is the date that an entity commits itself to purchase or sell an asset.

Transaction costs are incremental costs that are directly attributable to the acquisition, issue or disposal of a financial asset or liability.

Trust Pass-Through securities are securities through which the holders participate in a trust. The assets of these trusts consist of debentures issued by an Aegon Group company.

Unlocking of DPAC and VOBA refers to the process of updating the DPAC or the VOBA amortization schedule to reflect changes between the past and current expectations of key assumptions used in the projection of future gross profits.

Value of Business Acquired (VOBA) the difference between the fair value and the carrying amount of the insurance liabilities recognized when a portfolio of insurance contracts is acquired (directly from another insurance company or as part of a business combination).

 

 

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Contact

Headquarters

Aegon N.V.

Aegonplein 50

2591 TV The Hague

The Netherlands

Telephone: +31 (0) 70 344 32 10

www.aegon.com

Media Relations

Telephone: +31 (0) 70 344 89 56

E-mail: gcc@aegon.com

Investor Relations

Telephone: +31 (0) 70 344 83 05

or toll free (US only): 877-548 96 68

E-mail: ir@aegon.com

 

 

 

Colophon   
Consultancy and design    DartGroup, Amsterdam (NL)
Editing and production    Aegon Corporate Communications (NL)
Typesetting    DartGroup, Amsterdam (NL)

 

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Disclaimer

Cautionary note regarding non-IFRS measures

This document includes the non-IFRS financial measures: underlying earnings before tax, income tax and income before tax. These non-IFRS measures are calculated by consolidating on a proportionate basis Aegon’s joint ventures and associated companies. The reconciliation of these measures to the most comparable IFRS measures is provided in note 5 ‘Segment information’ of this report. Aegon believes that its non-IFRS measures, together with the IFRS information, provide meaningful information about the underlying operating results of Aegon’s business including insight into the financial measures that senior management uses in managing the business.

Functional currencies

This report contains certain information about Aegon’s results and financial condition in USD for the Americas and GBP for the United Kingdom because those businesses operate and are managed primarily in those currencies. None of this information is a substitute for or superior to financial information about us presented in EUR, which is the currency of Aegon’s primary financial statements.

Forward-looking statements

The statements contained in this document that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements as defined in the US Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The following are words that identify such forward-looking statements: aim, believe, estimate, target, intend, may, expect, anticipate, predict, project, counting on, plan, continue, want, forecast, goal, should, would, is confident, will, and similar expressions as they relate to Aegon. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Aegon undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which merely reflect company expectations at the time of writing. Actual results may differ materially from expectations conveyed in forward-looking statements due to changes caused by various risks and uncertainties. Such risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to the following:

  ¿   Changes in general economic conditions, particularly in the United States, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom.
  ¿   Changes in the performance of financial markets, including emerging markets, such as with regard to:
  ¿   The frequency and severity of defaults by issuers in Aegon’s fixed income investment portfolios;
  ¿   The effects of corporate bankruptcies and/or accounting restatements on the financial markets and the resulting decline in the value of equity and debt securities Aegon holds; and
  ¿   The effects of declining creditworthiness of certain private sector securities and the resulting decline in the value of sovereign exposure that Aegon holds.
  ¿   Changes in the performance of Aegon’s investment portfolio and decline in ratings of Aegon’s counterparties.
  ¿   Consequences of a potential (partial) break-up of the euro or the potential independence of Scotland from the United Kingdom.
  ¿   The frequency and severity of insured loss events.
  ¿   Changes affecting longevity, mortality, morbidity, persistence and other factors that may impact the profitability of Aegon’s insurance products.
  ¿   Reinsurers to whom Aegon has ceded significant underwriting risks may fail to meet their obligations.
  ¿   Changes affecting interest rate levels and continuing low or rapidly changing interest rate levels.
  ¿   Changes affecting currency exchange rates, in particular the EUR/USD and EUR/GBP exchange rates.
  ¿   Changes in the availability of, and costs associated with, liquidity sources such as bank and capital markets funding, as well as conditions in the credit markets in general such as changes in borrower and counterparty creditworthiness.
  ¿   Increasing levels of competition in the United States, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom and emerging markets.
  ¿   Changes in laws and regulations, particularly those affecting Aegon’s operations, ability to hire and retain key personnel, the products Aegon sells, and the attractiveness of certain products to its consumers.
  ¿   Regulatory changes relating to the insurance industry in the jurisdictions in which Aegon operates.
  ¿   Changes in customer behavior and public opinion in general related to, among other things, the type of products also Aegon sells, including legal, regulatory or commercial necessity to meet changing customer expectations.
  ¿   Acts of God, acts of terrorism, acts of war and pandemics.
  ¿   Changes in the policies of central banks and/or governments.
  ¿   Lowering of one or more of Aegon’s debt ratings issued by recognized rating organizations and the adverse impact such action may have on Aegon’s ability to raise capital and on its liquidity and financial condition.
  ¿   Lowering of one or more of insurer financial strength ratings of Aegon’s insurance subsidiaries and the adverse impact such action may have on the premium writings, policy retention, profitability and liquidity of its insurance subsidiaries.

 

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  ¿   The effect of the European Union’s Solvency II requirements and other regulations in other jurisdictions affecting the capital Aegon is required to maintain.
  ¿   Litigation or regulatory action that could require Aegon to pay significant damages or change the way Aegon does business.
  ¿   As Aegon’s operations support complex transactions and are highly dependent on the proper functioning of information technology, a computer system failure or security breach may disrupt Aegon’s business, damage its reputation and adversely affect its results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.
  ¿   Customer responsiveness to both new products and distribution channels.
  ¿   Competitive, legal, regulatory, or tax changes that affect profitability, the distribution cost of or demand for Aegon’s products.
  ¿   Changes in accounting regulations and policies or a change by Aegon in applying such regulations and policies, voluntary or otherwise, may affect Aegon’s reported results and shareholder’s equity.
  ¿   The impact of acquisitions and divestitures, restructurings, product withdrawals and other unusual items, including Aegon’s ability to integrate acquisitions and to obtain the anticipated results and synergies from acquisitions.
  ¿   Catastrophic events, either manmade or by nature, could result in material losses and significantly interrupt Aegon’s business.
  ¿   Aegon’s failure to achieve anticipated levels of earnings or operational efficiencies as well as other cost saving, excess capital and leverage ratio management initiatives.

Further details of potential risks and uncertainties affecting Aegon are described in its filings with the Netherlands Authority for the Financial Markets and the US Securities and Exchange Commission, including the Annual Report. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this document. Except as required by any applicable law or regulation, Aegon expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in Aegon’s expectations with regard thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based.

 

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Exhibits

Index to Exhibits

1   Articles of Association, incorporated by reference to Form 6-K filed with the SEC on June 4, 2013. (1)
4.1   1983 Amended Merger Agreement.
4.2   Voting Rights Agreement.
4.3   Employment Agreement between D.D. Button and Aegon N.V. (2)
4.4   Employment Agreement between A.R. Wynaendts and Aegon N.V. (3)
4.5   Not used.
4.6   Aegon N.V. Long-term Incentive Plan Rules (5)
4.7   Not used.
4.8   Assignment Agreement between A.R. Wynaendts and Aegon N.V. (7)
4.9   Senior Loan Agreement between Vereniging Aegon, The State of the Netherlands and Aegon N.V. dated December 1, 2008. (8)
4.10   Subscription Agreement between Vereniging Aegon, The State of the Netherlands and Aegon N.V. dated December 1, 2008. (9)
4.11   Agreement on Governance and Certain Other Matters between Vereniging Aegon, The State of the Netherlands and Aegon N.V.
  dated December 1, 2008. (10)
4.12   Amendment agreement Terms and Conditions of Aegon Securities between Vereniging Aegon, The State of the Netherlands and
  Aegon N.V. dated August 16, 2010. (11)
4.13   Aegon Group Executive Board Variable Compensation Plan Rules 2012.
4.14   Aegon Group Executive Board Variable Compensation Plan Rules 2013.
7   Ratio of earnings to fixed charges.
8   List of Subsidiaries of Aegon N.V. – Incorporation by reference to Note 55 of this Annual Report.
12.1   Certification of the Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13A-14 or 15D-14 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
12.2   Certification of the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13A-14 or 15D-14 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
13   Certification of the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350.
15   Consent of independent registered public accounting firm.
15.1   Letter from Aegon N.V.’s Independent Registered Accounting Firm for the audited fiscal years covered by this Annual Report.

(1) Incorporated by reference to Form 6K (0001104659-13-046533) filed with the SEC on June 4, 2013.

(2) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to Form 20-F 2009 filed with the SEC on March 29, 2010.

(3) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.11 to Form 20-F 2004 filed with the SEC on March 29, 2005.

(4) Not used.

(5) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.13 to Form 20-F 2004 filed with the SEC on March 29, 2005.

(6) Not used.

(7) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.15 to Form 20-F 2005 filed with the SEC on March 30, 2006.

(8) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.10 to Form 20-F 2008 filed with the SEC on March 31, 2009.

(9) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.11 to Form 20-F 2008 filed with the SEC on March 31, 2009.

(10) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.12 to Form 20-F 2008 filed with the SEC on March 31, 2009.

(11) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.12 to Form 20-F 2010 filed with the SEC on March 30, 2011.

The company agrees to furnish to the Securities and Exchange Commission upon request copies of instruments with respect to long-term debt of the company and its consolidated subsidiaries.

 

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Signatures

The registrant hereby certifies that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form 20-F and that it has duly caused and authorized the undersigned to sign this annual report on its behalf.

Date: March 19, 2014

Aegon N.V.

/s/ Darryl D. Button

 

 

                                                                                                                   

Darryl D. Button

Chief Financial Officer

 

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Exhibit 4.1

1983 Merger agreement

THIS 1983 MERGER AGREEMENT (the Agreement) was originally made on 18 October 1983, has been amended from time to time and now reads as stated herein.

Parties:

  1. Aegon N.V., a public company under the laws of the Netherlands, having its seat in The Hague and its office address at Aegonplein 50, 2591 TV The Hague (the Company); and  
  2. Vereniging Aegon, an association under the laws of the Netherlands, having its seat in The Hague and its office address at Aegonplein 50, 2591 TV The Hague (VA).  

These parties are jointly referred to as the Parties and each as a Party.

Recitals:

  (A) The Agreement was originally entered into on 18 October 1983 by and between the Parties, then named Vereniging AGO (currently Vereniging Aegon) and Ennia N.V. (currently Aegon N.V.), and Aegon Nederland N.V. The latter is no longer is a party to the Agreement pursuant to an amendment agreement dated 14 August 1995, which was co-signed by Aegon Nederland N.V.  
  (B) Clause 10 of the original Agreement still exists, with the amendments made thereto from time to time. Prior to the amend laid down herein, it was last amended by agreement between the Parties of 26 May 2003.  
  (C) On 15 May 2013, the general meeting of shareholders the Company has approved a plan (the Preferred Shares Amendment Plan) which inter alia provided for an amendment of the Company’s articles of association which was effectuated by notarial deed dated 29 May 2013. By said amendment of the Company’s articles, all of the Company’s then-existing preferred shares A and B were converted into a combination of common shares and common shares B (Common Shares B).  
  (D) In connection with the foregoing, also in effectuation of the Preferred Shares Amendment Plan, the Parties have agreed to amend the Agreement such that it from 29 May 2013 it reads as stated herein.  

It is agreed:

  1. Clause 10
  1.2 Clause 10 of the original Agreement (as amended from time to time) now reads as set forth in the attached Annex (Clause 10 of the 1983 Merger Agreement).  
  1.2 Capitalized terms used in the Annex to this Agreement will have the same meaning as the capitalized terms used in this Agreement.  

 

  2. GOVERNING LAW; RESOLUTION OF DISPUTES
  2.1 The Agreement is governed and must be construed in accordance with the laws of the Netherlands (without regard to Dutch rules relating to conflicts of laws).  
  2.2 The Parties shall use their best endeavors to settle any dispute with respect to or arising under the Agreement in an amicable way. In the event conciliation fails, all disputes in connection with the Agreement or any further agreements with respect to the subject matter hereof shall be submitted to the exclusive jurisdiction of a competent court of the Netherlands.  

 

  3. MISCELLANEOUS
  3.1 The Agreement may be amended only by a written instrument signed by the Parties. No provisions of the Agreement may be extended or waived orally, but only by a written instrument signed by the Party against whom enforcement of such extension or waiver is sought.  
  3.2 The governing language of the Agreement is the Dutch language and all notices and other communications hereunder must be in Dutch.  
  3.3 If any one or more of the provisions of the Agreement or any portion thereof shall be held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable in any respect, such invalidity, illegality or unenforceability will not affect or impair the validity, legality and enforceability of any other provision contained herein. The Parties agree that each of them shall negotiate in good faith to replace any such invalid, illegal or unenforceable provision(s) (or such portions thereof) with such valid, legal and enforceable provision(s) that preserve as closely as possible the economic effect intended by the invalid, illegal or unenforceable provision(s).  

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have caused this instrument to be duly executed on 29 May 2013.

 

 

Aegon N.V.

  

 

Vereniging Aegon

Signed by: A.R. Wynaendts    Signed by: W.M. van den Goorbergh

 

  Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013   LOGO  


362   Additional information

 

Annex clause 10 of the 1983 Merger agreement

Clause 10. Shareholding of VA

  10.1 VA will have the right, on an ongoing basis, to have at most so many Common Shares B issued to it as shall enable VA to keep or restore its Total Shareholding at 32.64%. Each exercise of this call option right must be made in writing to the Company. The issuance of Common Shares B pursuant to such exercise will be effective on the date the exercise notice is received by the Company or so much later as may be indicated in the exercise notice.  

For the purpose hereof, Total Shareholding, with regard to VA means the percentage of all of the Company’s shares outstanding which are legally and/or beneficially owned by VA at a given time. The term “shares outstanding” as used herein does not include shares held by the Company or a subsidiary thereof.

 

  10.2 Common Shares B issued pursuant to this clause 10 will be issued at an issue price equal to the higher of (i) the fair value of those shares at the effective time of issuance; and (ii) the nominal value of those shares. If the fair value of a Common Share B at the effective time of issuance is lower than its nominal value, the balance will be charged to the reserves of the Company.  

For the purpose hereof, the fair value of a Common Share B at the effective time of issuance will be deemed equal to 1/40th of the market value of a common share in the capital of the Company at that time. The market value of a common share at that time will be deemed to be the value weighted average price of the common shares calculated on the basis of all transactions in those shares on Euronext Amsterdam over the five trading days immediately preceding the date on which the issuance of the Common Share B concerned becomes effective.

  10.3 The call option rights of VA referred to in clause 10.1 shall apply at maximum to the non-issued part of the Common Shares B included from time to time in the Company’s authorised capital.  
  10.4 The call option rights of VA under this Agreement will terminate if and when the objects set forth in the articles of association of VA (as they read on 26 May 2003) are amended and/or Common Shares B held by VA are disposed of, except if such amendment and/or disposal occurs with the approval of the Company’s supervisory board.  
  10.5 If the call option rights of VA terminate in accordance with clause 10.4 hereof, all Common Shares B in issue can be cancelled in accordance with article 13 of the articles of association of the Company. VA, acting as the “meeting of holders of Common Shares B”, hereby irrevocably approves such cancellation in that case. This approval is given in accordance with article 13.3 of the Company’s articles of association.  
  10.6 It is acknowledged that, notwithstanding the above, a transfer of Common Shares B is subject to article 14A of the Company’s articles of association. If the supervisory board of the Company refuses to grant approval for a transfer of Common Shares B when requested by VA in accordance with that provision, the supervisory board may designate the Company as the person to which VA may transfer the Common Shares B concerned in accordance with said article 14A.  

 

  Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013   LOGO  

363

 

Exhibit 4.2

Voting rights agreement

THIS VOTING RIGHTS AGREEMENT (the Agreement) was originally made on 26 May 2003 and is hereby amended and now reads as stated herein.

Parties:

  1. Aegon N.V., a public company under the laws of the Netherlands, having its seat in The Hague and its office address at Aegonplein 50, 2591 TV The Hague (the Company); and  
  2. Vereniging Aegon, an association under the laws of the Netherlands, having its seat in The Hague and its office address at Aegonplein 50, 2591 TV The Hague (VA).  

These parties are jointly referred to as the Parties and each as a Party.

Recitals:

  (A) When the Agreement was originally made, on 26 May 2003, it was called the “Preferred Shares Voting Rights Agreement”.  
  (B) On 15 May 2013, the general meeting of shareholders the Company has approved a plan (the Preferred Shares Amendment Plan) which inter alia provided for an amendment of the Company’s articles of association which was effectuated by notarial deed dated 29 May 2013.  
  (C) By said amendment of the Company’s articles, all of the Company’s then-existing preferred shares A and B were converted into a combination of common shares and common shares B (Common Shares B).  
  (D) Also, article 41.1 of the Company’s articles of association was amended such that it now read as follows:  

“Each Share confers the right to cast one vote.

However, a holder of Common Shares B must enter in a voting rights agreement with the Company providing that, save if exercising more votes is consistent with the terms of that voting rights agreement, it will only cast one vote for every forty (40) Common Shares B it holds. The Company will make such voting rights agreement publicly available on its corporate website. If, with respect to a particular vote at a General Meeting of Shareholders, a holder of Common Shares B intends to exercise more than one vote for every forty (40) Common Shares B that holder holds, it will inform the meeting of such intention prior to the vote being taken and observe the provisions of the voting rights agreement concerned.”

  (E) In connection with the foregoing, also in effectuation of the Preferred Shares Amendment Plan, the Parties have agreed to amend the Agreement such that it from 29 May 2013 it reads as stated herein.  

It is agreed:

  1. Exercise of voting rights of common shares B  
  1.1 Except to the extent otherwise provided herein, VA may exercise one vote only for every 40 Common Shares B it holds from time to time.  
  1.2 VA reserves the right to exercise the “Full Voting Power” (as defined below) if a Special Cause (as referred to in clause 1.3) has occurred. For the purpose thereof Full Voting Power means the full voting power attaching to the Common Shares B pursuant to Article 41.1, first sentence, of the Articles of Association of the Company (i.e. one vote per share); however, the number of votes exercisable by VA in respect of Common Shares B in excess of the number of votes exercisable with respect to those shares pursuant to clause 1.1 is limited thus that it may not result in VA exercising in respect of its entire shareholding (taking its common shares and Common Shares B together) more than 32.64% of the voting rights attaching to all of the Company’s shares outstanding. The term “shares outstanding” as used herein does not include shares held by the Company or a subsidiary thereof, nor Common Shares B which cannot be voted pursuant to this Agreement.  
  1.3 As Special Causes may be regarded:  
  (a) the launch or other commencement by any person or a group of persons of, or an approach, notice or announcement regarding the intention by any person or group of persons to launch or otherwise commence, a tender offer, exchange offer or other bona fide offer (any such offer a Tender Offer) to acquire directly or indirectly shares in the capital of the Company, which Tender Offer the Executive Board and the Supervisory Board of the Company have not explicitly and unequivocally supported publicly by press release or otherwise and which, if such Tender Offer succeeds, would or could result in the person or group of persons having a 15%-Interest (as defined in sub-clause (d) below);  
  (b) a formal proposal or offer, or a notice or announcement regarding the intention to make a proposal or offer, by any person or group of persons to effect a merger or any other form of business combination directly or indirectly involving the Company or to acquire directly or indirectly all or a substantial part of the assets of the Company and its subsidiaries taken as a whole (any such proposal or offer a Business Combination Proposal), which Business Combination Proposal the Executive Board and the Supervisory Board of the Company have not explicitly and unequivocally supported publicly by press release or otherwise, whether such Business Combination Proposal is made to the Company, to holders of shares in the capital of the Company or to any subsidiary of the Company;  

 

  Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013   LOGO  


364   Additional information

 

  (c) the filing by any person or group of persons of any application or notification with any anti-trust, insurance or other regulatory authority in any jurisdiction in relation to or contemplation of any present or future Tender Offer or Business Combination Proposal which the Executive Board and the Supervisory Board of the Company have not explicitly and unequivocally supported publicly by press release or otherwise;  
  (d) any person or group of persons (other than VA), including affiliates or associates of such person or the members of such group of persons, except with the explicit and unequivocal approval of both the Executive Board and Supervisory Board of the Company, having acquired, alone or together with others, an interest in the Company (whether through the ownership of voting shares of the Company, powers of attorney, agreements or other coordinated action or otherwise) as confers the right to exercise 15% or more of the votes which can be exercised on one of more resolutions proposed at any general meeting of shareholders of the Company (a 15%-Interest), or of any other circumstance on the basis of which VA or the Company reasonably believes that a person or a group of persons referred to above has acquired, can acquire or intends to acquire a 15%-Interest; or  
  (e) any other circumstance in which, in the opinion of VA, VA not exercising the Full Voting Power would seriously harm the interests of the Company and the business connected with it.  

For the purpose of the provisions in this clause 1.3, the term shares in the capital of the Company shall be understood to include all options on shares and rights convertible into shares, depositary receipts of shares and options thereon or rights convertible therein, participation certificates, profit certificates and all other forms of rights which, directly or indirectly, whether or not conditional, give or can give the rights to shares or other entitlement to the capital of the Company, issued from time to time by or with the cooperation of the Company.

 

  1.4 Prior to VA using its right to exercise the Full Voting Power based on the foregoing, it shall announce the same in the general meeting of shareholders, which announcement shall include a statement with respect to the Special Cause which caused the exercise of the Full Voting Power. VA shall no longer make use of its right arising from a particular Special Cause to exercise the Full Voting Power if 6 months have lapsed after, with respect to the Special Cause concerned, the aforementioned announcement in the general meeting of shareholders of the Company was made.  
  1.5 VA may elect, after a Special Cause has occurred or commenced, to regard any related subsequent circumstance as a new Special Cause. In that case VA will make a new announcement in the general meeting of shareholders of the Company in accordance with the provision in Clause 1.2.  
  1.6 The Executive Committee of VA shall determine in its sole discretion whether and when an event or circumstance shall be regarded as a Special Cause.  

 

  2. Governing law; resolution of disputes  
  2.1 The Agreement is governed and must be construed in accordance with the laws of the Netherlands (without regard to Dutch rules relating to conflicts of laws).  
  2.2 The Parties shall use their best endeavours to settle any dispute with respect to arising under the Agreement in an amicable way. In the event conciliation fails, all disputes in connection with the Agreement or any further agreements with respect to the subject matter hereof shall be submitted to the exclusive jurisdiction of a competent court of the Netherlands.  

 

  3. Miscellaneous  
  3.1 The Agreement may be amended only by a written instrument signed by the Parties; provided that the Agreement can be amended on the part of the Company only pursuant to a resolution of the executive board which has been approved by the supervisory board and the general meeting of shareholders of the Company. No provision of the Agreement may be extended or waived orally, but only by a written instrument signed by the Party against whom enforcement of such extension or waiver is sought.  
  3.2 The Agreement constitutes a “voting rights agreement” as referred to in article 41.1 of the Company’s articles of association. The Agreement shall be publicly disclosed in the manner prescribed in the Company’s articles of association and made available at the office of the Company for inspection by shareholders.  
  3.3 The governing language of the Agreement is the Dutch language and all notices and other communications hereunder must be in Dutch.  
  3.4 If any one or more of the provisions of the Agreement or any portion thereof shall be held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable in any respect, such invalidity, illegality or unenforceability shall not affect or impair the validity, legality and enforceability of any other provision contained herein. The Parties agree that each of them shall negotiate in good faith to replace any such invalid, illegal or unenforceable provision(s) (or such portions thereof) with valid, legal and enforceable provision(s) that preserve as closely as possible the economic effect intended by the invalid, illegal or unenforceable provision(s).  

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have caused this instrument to be duly executed on 29 May 2013.

 

 

Aegon N.V.

  

 

Vereniging Aegon

Signed by: A.R. Wynaendts    Signed by: W.M. van den Goorbergh

 

  Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013   LOGO  

Exhibit 4.13

 

LOGO

THE HAGUE, MAY 2012

 

LOGO

 

LOGO   

AEGON GROUP

EXECUTIVE BOARD

VARIABLE

COMPENSATION

PLAN RULES 2012

 

LOGO


Previously submitted to DNB

     November 18, 2011   

Revised and updated

     May 1, 2012   

Approved by the AEGON N.V. Executive Board

     May 9, 2012   

Approved by the AEGON N.V. Supervisory Board

     May 15, 2012   

Submitted to DNB

     n.a.   

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

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DEFINITIONS

 

Agreement

   the agreement between the Participant and the Company concluded at the start of participation in the Plan Rules containing the terms and conditions relating to the Variable Compensation under the Plan Rules;

AEGON or the Company:

   AEGON N.V., a public limited liability company incorporated under Dutch law and having its statutory seat at AEGONplein 50, 2591 TV, The Hague, The Netherlands and, where applicable, any of its Subsidiaries;

AEGON Group:

   AEGON N.V. and its Subsidiaries;

Allocation:

   means the allocation of a Variable Compensation Grant following the Ex ante Risk-based Assessment pursuant to clause 4.5 and the assessment of actual realized performance on the Performance Indicators;

Business Day:

   any day on which the NYSE Euronext stock exchange in Amsterdam, the Netherlands (or its successor) is open for business;

Change of Control:

   a transaction or series of transactions or the conclusion of an agreement, that either alone or taken together may result in an outside party obtaining Control of the Company;

Claw Back:

   means the claw back right of the Company pursuant to clause 4.10;

Committee:

   the Compensation Committee of the Supervisory Board;

Control:

   means (i) the possession, directly or indirectly, of the majority of the outstanding shares in the capital of the Company, or (ii) the ability, directly or indirectly, to vote on the majority of the outstanding shares in the capital of the Company or (iii) the ability, directly or indirectly, to appoint the majority of the members of the Executive Board and/or the Supervisory Board;

 

   

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Disability or Disabled:

   a Participant who is totally and permanently disabled, as defined by any applicable disability law;

Deferred Part:

   means the part of the Variable Compensation which will be paid in equal parts during the three (3) subsequent years following the year after the Plan Year, if and to the extent the Performance Indicators have been achieved in accordance with these Plan Rules;

Ex-ante Risk-based Assessment:

   means the Assessment referred to in clause 4.5;

Ex-post Malus Assessment:

   means the Assessment referred to in clause 4.6;

Executive Board:

   the Executive Board of the Company;

Fixed Salary:

   the annual amount of fixed compensation to be determined as part of the Total Compensation, including holiday allowance and 13th month, if any;

Grant(s):

   the conditional grant of Variable Compensation to a Participant in relation to the Plan Year, as set out in section 2 of the Plan Rules;

Grant Date:

   has the meaning attributed hereto in section 2.8;

Grant Price:

   means the average Share price on the NYSE Euronext stock exchange in Amsterdam, the Netherlands during the period 15 December preceding the Plan Year and 15 January of the Plan Year;

Holding Period:

   means the holding period as referred to in clause 5.4;

Identified Staff:

   Employees of AEGON Group who have been classified by the Company as Identified Staff;

Participant:

   a Participant who is a member of the Executive Board AEGON N.V and who has accepted the terms and conditions of the Variable Compensation Plan Rules by signing the Agreement;

 

   

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Pay-out or Paid-out:

   means the pay-out of the cash part of the Variable Compensation in accordance with these Plan Rules;

Pay-out Date:

   means the date of a Pay-out in accordance with these Plan Rules;

Performance Indicators:

   the one-year performance indicators which will be used to calculate the Variable Compensation to be allocated to a Participant regarding the Plan Year in accordance with section 3 of these Plan Rules;

Plan Year or Performance Year:

   the financial year 2012 during which these Plan Rules are in place. In the event the Plan Rules are terminated prior to the end of the financial year, the expression “Plan Year:” shall refer to the period between January 1 and the date of termination;

Release(d):

   means the release of any Shares to the Participant following Vesting, or, in case a Holding Period applies at the end of such Holding Period, in accordance with these Plan Rules;

Release Date:

   the date of Release;

Remuneration Framework:

   the AEGON Group Global Remuneration Framework 2011/12, as may be amended from time to time;

Remuneration Policy:

   the AEGON N.V. Executive Board Remuneration Policy applicable to the members of the Executive Board as adopted by the Annual Meeting of Shareholders of the Company on 12 May 2011, and as may be amended from time to time;

Retirement:

   the (early) actual retirement of a Participant, either (i) under a pension plan of the Company or any of its Subsidiaries, as shall be in place from time to time or (ii) subsequent to a decision of the Company in accordance with the Company’s articles of incorporation or an individual employment contract. If under local laws the starting date of (early) retirement is at the option of the Participant, a Participant will only be considered a Good Leaver if such Participant actually starts drawing (early) retirement benefits;

 

   

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Sale:

   a sale of all or substantially all the shares in the capital of the Company or all or substantially all of the assets of the Company and its Subsidiaries;

Shares:

   a common share in the capital of the Company, with a nominal value of EUR 0.12 (twelve eurocent), as may be granted as part of the Variable Compensation;

Subsidiary:

   a direct or indirect subsidiary of the Company determined as such by the Company for the purpose of these Plan Rules;

Supervisory Board:

   the Supervisory Board of the Company;

Total Compensation:

   the Total direct Compensation during a calendar year for a Participant which consists of a Fixed Salary and Variable Compensation;

Upfront Part:

   means the part of the Variable Compensation which will vest after the completion of the plan year, one year following Allocation in accordance with these Plan Rules;

Variable Compensation:

   the variable component of the Total Compensation, consisting of an Upfront Part and a Deferred Part, in accordance with these Plan Rules;

Variable Compensation Plan Rules or Plan Rules:

   the Variable Compensation Plan Rules that set out the terms and conditions of the Variable Compensation, as may be amended from time to time;

Vest(ing):

   the occasion upon which a Participant is transferred the unconditional legal ownership of conditionally allocated granted Cash and / or Shares, as set out in the Plan Rules; notwithstanding that Release of Shares only take place after the lapsing of a Holding Period;

 

   

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Vesting Date:

   the date on which date the Cash and / or Shares will Vest in accordance with the Plan Rules; and

Vesting Schedule:

   The schedule based on which the Deferred Part of the Variable Compensation will Vest and be Paid-out or Released to Participants.

Words or expressions used in these Plan Rules shall, where appropriate, be interpreted as follows:

  1.1.1 Definitions and terms used in these Plan Rules can be found in the list of Definitions; these definitions as stated therein shall binding;  
  1.1.2 All references to the masculine gender include the feminine and vice versa;  
  1.1.3 All references to singular include the plural and vice versa if the context so requires;  
  1.1.4 All headings and sub-headings are for ease of reference only, and shall not affect the interpretation of any clauses of these Plan Rules;  
  1.1.5 All references to any enactment or terms under Dutch law shall be extended to other applicable laws or terms of any other country, or region of a country;  
  1.1.6 All references to tax and/or social security contributions and/or withholding taxes include any tax, social security contribution or withholding tax that is levied or withheld in the Netherlands or any other applicable jurisdiction.  

 

   

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  1. INTRODUCTION AND PURPOSE  

 

  1.1 These Variable Compensation Plan Rules (the Plan Rules) are intended to provide for Variable Compensation in the form of cash and / or Shares to eligible Executive Board members of AEGON N.V. to strengthen their commitment to the Company’s business strategy, risk tolerance and long-term performance, as further set out in the Remuneration Framework or any other arrangements applicable to Participants.  

 

  1.2 These Plan Rules are subject to the terms and conditions of the Remuneration Framework and the Remuneration policy and/or other arrangements regarding variable compensation that may apply to the Participant.  

 

  1.3 In the event of any discrepancies or inconsistencies between these Plan Rules and the Remuneration Framework, including the Remuneration Policy, the latter shall prevail.  

 

  1.4 In these Plan Rules, unless the context otherwise requires, the capitalized words and expressions shall have the meaning as set forth in the list of Definitions.  

 

  2. CONDITIONAL GRANT VARIABLE COMPENSATION  

 

  2.1 The Company may conditionally grant a Participant a conditional entitlement to Variable Compensation.  

 

  2.2 A conditional entitlement to Variable Compensation will only be made to a Participant upon acceptance of these Plan Rules. The Participant will sign an Agreement offered by the Company to such effect.  

 

  2.3 A Participant who becomes an employee of the company during the Plan Year, and who has signed an Agreement during the first six months of the Plan Year, may be granted a conditional entitlement to Variable Compensation which shall be on a pro rata basis to reflect the period of active service. Any deviations from this pro-rata principle and any Grants made upon employment at a later stage during the Plan Year will require prior approval of the Company.  

 

  2.4 In accordance with clause 4.3 of these Plan Rules, 50% of the Variable Compensation may be paid in Shares. The number of Shares to which a Participant will be conditionally entitled shall be calculated by dividing the relevant percentage (50%) of the Variable Compensation by the Grant Price and the outcome shall be rounded down to the nearest share. Any changes in the Fixed Salary during the Plan Year may have an impact on the Variable Compensation, to be determined by the Company in its sole discretion.  

 

   

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  2.5 The Variable Compensation is conditionally granted and the conditional right to Variable Compensation is subject to the conditions precedent (i) that, unless stated otherwise or approved by the Company, the Participant will remain employed within the AEGON Group uninterruptedly until the Vesting Date of each part of the Variable Compensation, (ii) that the minimum levels of the Performance Indicators are achieved, as further set out in clause 4.1 of these Plan Rules and (iii) an Ex-ante and an Ex-post Malus Assessment as set out in clauses 4.5 and 4.6 of these Plan Rules have been carried out.  

 

  2.6 The employment of the Participant is considered continued uninterruptedly in the case where the Participant’s employment is terminated due to long-term ill health, disability, (early) retirement, death or reduction of work force or redundancy of the job or position of the Participant without cause by the Participant, during the period until a Vesting Date and, consequently, such Participant is considered to be a “Good Leaver”. In addition, the Company may, at its full discretion, declare a Participant to be a Good Leaver. Long term ill health, disability and (early) retirement shall have the meaning as defined under the applicable rules and regulations within AEGON, or in the absence thereof, as determined under the applicable local laws and regulations. In case of any unclarity on whether the Participant qualifies as a Good Leaver, the Company in its sole discretion will decide.  

 

  2.7 In the event of termination of employment of a Good Leaver during the Plan Year, in principle, the Variable Compensation that shall be paid-out (including the number of conditionally granted Shares that shall Vest) shall be pro-rated to reflect the period of active service from the Grant Date until the termination of employment, subject to the final approval of the Company. The Variable Compensation that shall be paid out (including the number of conditionally granted Shares that shall Vest) shall be determined and paid out in accordance with clause 4 of these Plan Rules after the adoption of the Annual Report at the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders.  

 

  2.8 The Grant Date will be 1 January 2012, irrespectively whether the amount and/or value of the conditional Variable Compensation and/or the Performance Indicators will be set later.  

 

  3. PERFORMANCE INDICATORS  

 

  3.1 The Performance Indicators applicable to the Plan Year have been or shall be established by the Company in accordance with the guidelines of the Remuneration Framework, including the Remuneration Policy, and shall be based on financial and non-financial targets. In the process of setting and evaluating Performance Indicators and targets used for the determination of Variable Compensation, relevant experts from control functions shall be consulted or involved.  

 

  3.2 The Performance Indicators may consist of Group Indicators and Strategic / Functional / Personal Indicators which represent both financial and non-financial Indicators. Strategic / Functional / Personal Indicators shall be selected for a Participant individually and shall be provided to the Participant in writing.  

 

   

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  3.3 One-year minimum, target and maximum levels relating to the Performance Year will be set for each Performance Indicator.  

 

  4. ALLOCATION, VESTING, PAY-OUT AND RELEASE OF VARIABLE COMPENSATION  

 

  4.1 After the Performance Year, the Company shall assess the realized performance of each Performance Indicator and a comparison will be made between the minimum, target and maximum levels of the Performance Indicators and the realized performance. Subsequently, the amount of Variable Compensation (including the number of Shares) that will be Allocated will be established.  

 

  4.2 The following applies to Allocated Variable Compensation (if any), and subject to the Ex-ante Risk-based Assessment and the Ex-post Malus Assessment referred to in clauses 4.5 and 4.6:  
  4.2.1 all Allocated Variable Compensation and subsequent Vesting according to the applicable Vesting Schedule, will be made in cash and in Shares;  
  4.2.2 part of the Allocated Variable Compensation in cash, if any (the Upfront Part in Cash) shall Vest and shall be paid out as soon as possible after the adoption of the Company’s Annual Report relating to the Plan Year at the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders;  
  4.2.3 part of the Allocated Variable Compensation in Shares, if any (the Upfront Part in Shares) shall Vest as soon as possible after the adoption of the Company’s Annual Report relating to the Plan Year at the Annual General Meeting of shareholders and shall be Released after a further Holding Period as set out in clause 5.4;  
  4.2.4 the remaining part of the Allocated Variable Compensation, if any (the Deferred Part) shall be deferred and shall Vest in the subsequent financial years according to the applicable Vesting Schedule. The cash part shall be paid out as soon as possible after the adoption of the Company’s Annual Report relating to these subsequent financial year(s) at the respective Annual General Meetings of Shareholders and the Share part shall be Released after a further Holding Period as set out in clause 5.4.  

 

  4.3 Any details as referred to in clause 4.2 regarding (i) the amount of Allocated Variable Compensation, including the allotment in cash and / or Shares, (ii) the Pay-out (vesting) of the Upfront Part, (iii) the Vesting Schedule relating to the Deferred Part and related Pay-out and Release of such Deferred Variable Compensation and (iv) any Holding Period (if applicable), will be notified to the Participant in writing.  

 

  4.4 Except in the event a Participant is a Good Leaver, the Variable Compensation that is conditionally granted will become null and void on the date that the employment of the Participant is terminated prior to a Vesting Date of the Upfront Part or a Deferred Part.  

 

   

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  4.5 The Allocation of any part of the Variable Compensation is subject to an Ex-ante Risk-based Assessment by the Company in order to determine whether conditionally granted Variable Compensation should be Allocated in full or should be Allocated applying a downwards adjustment. This Ex-ante Risk-based Assessment will be applied in order to:  
  (i) ensure that the projected Variable Compensation is aligned with the risk profile of the AEGON Group;  
  (ii) provide a perspective on the long-term financial and risk effects of the equity element of Variable Compensation;  
  (iii) take into account quantitative and qualitative AEGON Group and individual factors mitigating performance results.  

 

  4.6 The Vesting of any Deferred Part of the Variable Compensation is subject to an Ex-post Malus Assessment by the Company in order to determine whether conditionally granted Variable Compensation should Vest in full or should be adjusted. This Ex-post Malus Assessment shall be based on informed judgment by the Company, taking into account significant and exceptional circumstances as well as risk outcomes that were not (sufficiently) reflected in the initially applied Performance Indicators and initial assessment of the Company’s and individual performance at the time of Allocation. Implementation of this authority will be on the basis of criteria such as, but not limited to:  
  (i) outcome of a re-assessment of the performance against the original financial Performance Indicators;  
  (ii) significant downturn in the Company’s financial performance;  
  (iii) evidence of misbehavior or serious error by the Participant;  
  (iv) significant failure in risk management;  
  (v) significant changes in the Company’s economic or regulatory capital base.  

 

  4.7 Depending on the outcome of the Ex-post Malus Assessment, the Company shall decide to (i) establish that the relevant Deferred Part of the Variable Compensation shall become unconditional and shall Vest or (ii) adjust the relevant Deferred Part of the Variable Compensation and decide that the Deferred Part shall only partially Vest (including the possible outcome that no Deferred Part of the Variable Compensation shall become unconditional and Vest).  

 

  4.8 The Company shall review these Ex-ante Risk-based and Ex-post Malus Assessment criteria in detail at each Allocation and Vesting Date and document its findings. Relevant experts from control functions shall be consulted or involved in this review process if required or desirable.  

 

  4.9 Any adjustment resulting from the Ex-post Malus Risk-based Assessment shall only be applied on the Deferred Part of the Variable Compensation, not on the Fixed Salary or the Upfront Part of the Variable Compensation. The adjustment may only be made downwards.  

 

   

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  4.10 The Company shall be authorized, in accordance with applicable laws and regulations, to reclaim (“Claw Back”) any Variable Compensation (whether Vested, Paid-out or Released) to the Participant in case of:  
  (i) incorrect data (including non-achievement of Performance Indicators on hindsight);  
  (ii) material financial restatements 1 ;  
  (iii) individual gross misconduct of the Participant; or  
  (iv) an instruction or request by a regulator to the Company to apply the Claw Back or to apply other measures, which will be deemed to be serious grounds (zwaarwegend belang) for the Company to comply with such instruction or request.  

 

  4.11 In the event of a Claw Back, the Company will determine the gross amount in cash that is subject to Claw Back. All or part of the Paid out, Vested or Released Variable Compensation that is subject to Claw Back will need to be repaid by the Participant at first demand by the Company as a gross amount in cash, and the entitlement on all or part of the Variable Compensation that is Vested and not yet Paid-out or Released that is subject to Claw Back will lapse , whereby any Shares will be taken into account for the Grant Price. The Company will be entitled to set-off or settle any gross amount owed by the Participant to the Company (i) by any current or future obligations if possible (including but not limited to any salary payments or pension payments) that the Company has against the Participant and/or (ii) against any Allocated and/ or Vested but not yet Paid-out or Released Variable Compensation, whereby any Shares will be taken into account for the Grant Price. If and to the extent the Company does not exercise the set-off or settlement right, the Participant will repay the gross amounts due in cash as soon as possible upon instructions of the Company.  

 

  4.12 The Company shall inform the Participant as soon as possible of the outcome of the Ex-ante, Ex-post Malus and Claw Back Assessment and its decision. The Participant shall have no claim for damages or compensation against the Company or a Subsidiary for any consequences (whether financial, tax, governmental, personal or other consequences) following the Ex-ante, Ex-post Malus or Claw Back Assessments resulting in the Variable Compensation being adjusted downwards.  

 

  4.13 The Company may, in its sole discretion, direct the Supervisory Board of AEGON N.V. to determine whether any further action may be necessary with respect to the Ex-post Malus and Claw Back Assessment for any local circumstances.  

 

  4.14 No dividend or interest will accrue on any part of the Variable Compensation before Vesting in accordance with these Plan Rules.  

1    Not resulting from mandatory restatements resulting from changes in IFRS and other applicable financial reporting regulations.

 

   

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  4.15 Vested Shares, subject to a Holding Period as set out in clause 5.4, will accrue dividends as from the Vesting Date, which dividend will be equal to the amount of dividends declared on the Company’s Shares. Accrued dividends will be paid out in cash and / or Shares at the Release Date.  

 

  4.16 In connection with any actual or potential Sale or Change of Control or a transaction concerning the sale of a Subsidiary or business unit within AEGON Group, the Company will take all such actions hereunder as it may determine to be necessary or appropriate to treat Participants equal and equitably hereunder, at the discretion of the Supervisory Board, including without limitation the modification or waiver of applicable Performance Indicators, and whether to establish or fund another arrangement intended for variable incentives.  

 

  5. TERMS AND CONDITIONS REGARDING THE SHARES  

 

  5.1 Transfer of ownership of the Shares to the Participant shall take place on the relevant Vesting Date. Upon Vesting, the Shares and any transactions regarding the Shares will be at the risk and for the account of the Participant.  

 

  5.2 At each of the Vesting Dates, the Shares, less any Shares which shall be sold and settled to pay for any applicable taxes, social security premiums and possible other deductions by the government due in connection with the Vesting of the Shares (unless the Participant indicates that he/she prefers that such Shares shall not be sold and settled, as set out in clause 5.3 of these Plan Rules), shall be registered in the shareholders register of the Company.  

 

  5.3 If a Participant prefers not to sell any Shares in connection with any applicable taxes, social security premiums and possible other deductions by the government due in connection with the Vesting, such Participant should notify the Compliance Officer of such preference in writing during any period which is not a closed period as referred to in clause 7.2 of these Plan Rules. The Participant acknowledges that he/ she should have sufficient funds available at the Vesting Date to pay any taxes due.  

 

  5.4 Notwithstanding Vesting, the Company will impose a restriction on the Participant to hold the Shares for a Holding Period of three (3) years following the relevant Vesting Date and the Participant will not be entitled to execute any transactions regarding the Shares during this Holding Period, except as provided in clause 7.3 of these Plan Rules. After this Holding Period, the Shares shall be Released and the Participant will be entitled to exercise its rights relating to the Shares as provided for in these Plan Rules. For the avoidance of any doubt, this provision will not be affected if the employment of a Participant is terminated during this Holding Period for whatever reason. The applicable Holding Period, as referred to in this section will be notified to the Participant in writing. No holding period will be imposed on any cash component of the Variable Compensation.  

 

   

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  5.5 Release of any Shares will take place at the Release Date following the end date of the relevant Holding Period.  

 

  6. TRANSACTIONS REGARDING THE SHARES  

 

  6.1 The Participant can only perform any Transactions regarding Shares, once they have been Vested and Released, in accordance with clause 5 and subject to the conditions of clause 7.  

 

  6.2 Transactions regarding the Shares can be executed only by submitting a request to the Company’s secretary. Transactions regarding the Shares can be executed on Business Days only. If it is not possible to exercise on the indicated day (for any reason), the exercise will take place on the first Business Day on which exercising the order will be possible, such at the risk of the Participant.  

 

  6.3 When the Participant has filed an order to sell all or part of the Shares, the Company will use its best efforts to sell the number of Shares indicated by the Participant at the NYSE Euronext stock exchange in Amsterdam, The Netherlands as soon as possible after the request as referred to in clause 6.2 of these Plan Rules has been received.  

 

  6.4 The Company shall pay the value of the Shares as calculated on the basis of the Share price at the NYSE Euronext stock exchange in accordance with clause 6.3 of these Plan Rules as soon as possible after the order has been processed and the Shares have been sold. The Company shall be entitled to withhold any (trade)costs, taxes (or other amounts to be deducted) due on the value of the Share after exercise. The remaining amount shall be remitted to the Participant in accordance with appropriate payroll practices. The Participant hereby accepts the tax consequences of any transactions regarding the Shares. In case of late payment the Company will have no obligation to compensate interest to the Participant.  

 

  6.5 Upon the termination of employment of a Participant, the Shares that have Vested pursuant to clause 4 and are held at the shareholders register of the Company shall, at the option of the Participant (or the legal personal representative of the deceased Participant), (i) remain registered in the shareholders register of the Company, (ii) be transferred into another current account as designated by the Participant to the Company or (iii) be sold and be paid to the Participant in accordance with clauses 6.3 and 6.4 of these Plan Rules. Such transfer or sale and the corresponding payment shall be executed at the lapse of the three-year Holding Period (if applicable) set out in clause 5.4 of these Plan Rules or as soon as possible thereafter.  

 

  6.6 The Company does not accept any liability with regard to the processing of any orders for any transactions regarding the Shares by the Participant in any way.  

 

   

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  6.7 The Company is entitled to amend the procedure for transactions regarding the Shares from time to time at its absolute discretion. The Company will inform the Participant of any relevant change in the procedure.  

 

  6.8 The costs of any transactions regarding the Shares will be for the account of the Participant.  

 

  7. REGULATORY RESTRICTIONS AND INSIDE INFORMATION  

 

  7.1 The Shares are stocks traded at the NYSE Euronext stock exchanges in Amsterdam and New York and, consequently, are governed by laws and regulations with regard to inside information. No transactions (including but not limited to a sale of the Shares) regarding the Shares may be effected when the Participant has inside information. Inside information is defined as “knowledge of information which is specific, which directly or indirectly concerns the Company or the trade in AEGON securities, which has not been made public and which, if made public, could have a significant influence on the price of the AEGON securities”.  

 

  7.2 In any event, no transaction regarding the Shares may be effected during the following black-out periods:  
  (i) a period immediately preceding the publication of the Company’s annual report;  
  (ii) a period immediately preceding the publication of the Company’s six-month results and the quarterly results or the announcement of any dividend or interim dividend; and  
  (iii) any additional black-out periods mandatory for designated employees as announced by the Company’s Compliance Officer from time to time.  
       The periods referred to under (i) and (ii) will be announced annually by the Compliance Officer.  

 

  7.3 The ban in clauses 5.4, 7.1 and 7.2 of these Plan Rules are not applicable in the event of a transaction regarding a Share that takes place at the Vesting Date to cover for any taxes, social insurance premiums and possible other deductions by the government due by the Participant in connection with the Vesting and/or, Release of the Shares into its account, in accordance with clauses 5.2 and 5.3 of these Plan Rules.  

 

  7.4 The Participant must at all times comply with the applicable laws and regulations and the Company’s insider trading rules (the “AEGON N.V. Employee Insider Trading Rules” or the “AEGON N.V. Insider Trading Rules”, whichever applies to a Participant) as amended from time to time. These regulations include the requirement for the Participant to notify any transactions within five days following such transaction (i) to the Company’s Compliance Officer and (ii) if the Participant qualifies as “designated insider” according to the AEGON N.V. Insider Trading Rules, to the Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets (“AFM”). Vesting is considered a transaction which require notification to the Company’s Compliance Officer and the AFM in accordance with the above insider dealing rules. In the event of any questions or doubts, the Participant should contact the Company’s Compliance Officer.  

 

   

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  8. ADDITIONAL CONDITIONS  

 

  8.1 The costs, legal mandatory tax deductions, employee social insurance premiums and possible other deductions by the government relating to the Variable Compensation (whether on the employee or on the employer) shall be for the account of the Participant and shall be deducted from the salary payment to the Participant or the pension payment to the Participant if possible. All expenses and costs in connection with the operation of these Plan Rules shall be borne by the Company.  

 

  8.2 The Shares that have been granted as part of the Variable Compensation are strictly personal and the right to receive such Shares cannot be assigned or transferred in any way or in any other manner of passing of title. The Shares that have been conditionally granted but not been delivered and transferred cannot be pledged or encumbered in any other way. The Shares that may have been assigned, transferred, pledged or encumbered in any manner in contravention of this clause become null and void and will not be delivered or transferred to the Participant.  

 

  8.3 The Participant hereby acknowledges and agrees that AEGON may disclose certain details to any governmental or regulatory authority (including tax authorities) regarding the Shares that a Participant has been conditionally granted and/or allocated including but not limited to the number, the value and any dividend regarding the Shares.  

 

  8.4 It is not allowed to hedge the Shares, for example by the selling or purchasing of options on Shares, whether or not marketable.  

 

  8.5 In the event of any changes in the capital structure of the Company between the start of the Plan Year (conditional grant of Variable Compensation) and the Vesting of Shares which results in an increase of the total share capital or a material change in the structure of the share capital or share premium of the Company and a change in the economic equivalence of the Shares, the Company may at its absolute discretion adjust the number of conditionally granted Shares in accordance with customary anti-dilution market practice provisions. Any such adjustment should not lead to the total Variable Compensation exceeding the amount of the Fixed Salary.  

 

  8.6 Granting the Variable Compensation (including Shares) to the Participant according to these Plan Rules is restricted to the Plan Year. Granting of Variable Compensation (including Shares) during any other financial year is the absolute discretion of the Company. The Company has no obligation to grant Variable Compensation (including Shares) in the future.  

 

   

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  8.7 The Company may at any time unilaterally amend any term or condition of these Plan Rules. In particular, the Company is free to amend any term or condition in the case of new (fiscal, employment or other) legislation and/or amended regulations and/or directions, requests or instructions by or on behalf of any financial supervising authorities and/or other guidelines as applicable from time to time within the financial sector.  

 

  8.8 The Shares do not form part of the employment agreement of any Participant, nor grant any Participant any employment rights or guarantee employment as an employee of the Company and no (future) rights or benefits can be obtained or implied other than as specifically set out in these Plan Rules.  

 

  8.9 No damages or compensation shall be payable in consequence of the termination of employment (whether or not in circumstances giving rise to a claim for wrongful or unfair dismissal or local equivalent thereof) or for any other reason whatsoever to compensate him for the loss of any rights the Participant would otherwise have had (actual or contingent) under these Plan Rules and the Participant shall be deemed irrevocably to have waived any such rights to which it may otherwise have been entitled.  

 

  8.10 No individual shall have any claim against the Company arising out of his not being admitted to participation in these Plan Rules which (for the avoidance of doubt) is entirely at the full discretion of the Company.  

 

  8.11 No Participant shall be entitled to claim compensation from the Company in respect of any sums paid by him pursuant to these Plan rules or for any diminution or extinction of its rights or benefits (actual or otherwise) under any Variable Compensation held by him/her following the lapse for any reason of any Variable Compensation held by him or otherwise in connection with these Plan Rules and the Company shall be entirely free to conduct its affairs as it sees fit without regard to any consequences under, upon or in relation to these Plan Rules or any Variable Compensation.  

 

  8.12 By accepting any Variable Compensation, the Participant hereby explicitly and unambiguously consents to the collection, storage, use, processing and transfer, in electronic or other form, of his/her personal data (as described below) by and among, as applicable, the Company for the exclusive purpose of implementing, administering and managing his/her Variable Compensation, and the transfer of such data by them to government and other regulatory authorities for the purpose of complying with their legal obligations in connection with any Grants of Variable Compensation.  

 

  8.13 This data may include the Participant’s name, home address and telephone number, email address, date of birth, social security number or other identification number, salary, nationality, job title, details of all rights and any other entitlement to shares (conditionally) granted, allocated, awarded, cancelled, purchased, vested, unvested or outstanding ( Data ). The Company is the data controller for these Data.  

 

   

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  8.14 The Participant further agrees that Data may be transferred to any third parties assisting in the implementation, administration and management in connection with these Plan Rules, that these recipients may be located in his/her country, or elsewhere including outside the European Economic Area, and that such location may have less adequate data privacy laws and protections than the Participant’s own country.  

 

  8.15 Data will be held only as long as necessary to implement, administer and manage these Plan rules. The Participant may, at any time, view the Data, request additional information about the storage and processing of the Data, require any necessary amendments to the Data or refuse or withdraw the consents herein, in any case without cost.  

 

  8.16 Refusing or withdrawing his/her consent as referred to in this clause 8, although it will not have any negative effect on his/her employment, may affect any potential Grant, Allocation, Vesting, Pay-out or Release of any Variable Compensation to the Participant.  

 

  8.17 If any provision in these Plan Rules are held to be invalid or unenforceable, no other provision of these Plan Rules will be affected thereby.  

 

  8.18 These Plan Rules are governed by Dutch Civil Law.  

 

  8.19 These Plan Rules shall apply for the Plan Year 2012 and will remain in force until the earlier of (i) any amendments are made to these Plan Rules and (ii) these Plan Rules are terminated by the Company, provided that no Grants will be made under these Plan Rules after 31 December 2012.  

 

  8.20 These Plan Rules will not be considered an amendment or adjustment of any short-term or long-term variable compensation plans existing prior to 1 January, 2012, and no further grants under any such plans will be made after 2012, and, if made, will be considered null and void.  

 

   

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Exhibit 4.14

 

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aegon.com    The Hague, March 2013


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Previously submitted to DNB

     November 18, 2011   

Revised and updated:

  

Approved by the Aegon N.V. Executive Board

     March 2013   

Submitted to DNB

     n.a.   


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DEFINITIONS   
Agreement:    the agreement between the Participant and the Company concluded at the start of participation in the Plan Rules containing the terms and conditions relating to the Variable Compensation under the Plan Rules.
Aegon or the Company:    Aegon N.V., a public limited liability company incorporated under Dutch law and having its statutory seat at Aegonplein 50, 2591 TV, The Hague, The Netherlands and, where applicable, any of its Subsidiaries.
Aegon Group:    Aegon N.V. and its Subsidiaries.
Allocation:    means the allocation of a Variable Compensation Grant following the Ex ante risk-based assessment pursuant to clause 4.5 and the assessment of actual realized performance on the Performance Indicators.
Business Day(s):    any day on which the NYSE Euronext stock exchange in Amsterdam, the Netherlands (or its successor) is open for business.
Change of Control:    a transaction or series of transactions or the conclusion of an agreement, that either alone or taken together may result in an outside party obtaining Control of the Company.
Claw Back:    means the claw back right of the Company pursuant to clause 4.10.
Committee:    the Compensation Committee of the Supervisory Board.
Control:    means (i) the possession, directly or indirectly, of the majority of the outstanding shares in the capital of the Company, or (ii) the ability, directly or indirectly, to vote on the majority of the outstanding shares in the capital of the Company or (iii) the ability, directly or indirectly, to appoint the majority of the members of the Executive Board and/or the Supervisory Board.
Disability or Disabled:    a Participant who is totally and permanently disabled, as defined by any applicable disability law.
Deferred Part:    means the part of the Variable Compensation which will be paid in equal parts during the three (3) subsequent years following the year after the Plan Year, if and to the extent the Performance Indicators have been achieved in accordance with these Plan Rules.
Ex-ante risk-based assessment:    means the assessment referred to in clause 4.5.

 

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Ex-post Malus assessment:    means the assessment referred to in clause 4.6.
Executive Board:    the Executive Board of the Company.
Fixed Salary:    the annual amount of fixed compensation to be determined as part of the Total Compensation, including holiday allowance and 13th month, if any.
Grant(s):    the conditional grant of Variable Compensation to a Participant in relation to the Plan Year, as set out in section 2 of the Plan Rules.
Grant Date:    has the meaning attributed hereto in section 2.8.
Grant Price:    means the average Share price on the NYSE Euronext stock exchange in Amsterdam, the Netherlands during the period 15 December preceding the Plan Year and 15 January of the Plan Year.
Holding Period:    means the holding period as referred to in clause 5.4.
Identified Staff:    Employees of Aegon Group who have been classified by the Company as Identified Staff.
Participant:    a Participant who is a member of the Executive Board Aegon N.V and who has accepted the terms and conditions of the Variable Compensation Plan Rules by signing the Agreement.
Pay-out or Paid-out:    means the pay-out of the cash part of the Variable Compensation in accordance with these Plan Rules.
Pay-out Date:    means the date of a Pay-out in accordance with these Plan Rules.
Performance Indicators:    the one-year performance indicators which will be used to calculate the Variable Compensation to be allocated to a Participant regarding the Plan Year in accordance with section 3 of these Plan Rules.
Plan Year or Performance Year:    the financial year 2013 during which these Plan Rules are in place. In the event the Plan Rules are terminated prior to the end of the financial year, the expression ‘Plan Year’ shall refer to the period between January 1 and the date of termination.
Release(d):    means the release of any Shares to the Participant following Vesting, or, in case a Holding Period applies at the end of such Holding Period, in accordance with these Plan Rules.
Release Date:    the date of Release.

 

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Remuneration Framework:    the Aegon Group Global Remuneration Framework 2013, as may be amended from time to time.
Remuneration Policy:.    the Aegon N.V. Executive Board Remuneration Policy applicable to the members of the Executive Board as adopted by the Annual Meeting of Shareholders of the Company on 12 May 2011, and as may be amended from time to time.
Retirement:    the (early) actual retirement of a Participant, either (i) under a pension plan of the Company or any of its Subsidiaries, as shall be in place from time to time or (ii) subsequent to a decision of the Company in accordance with the Company’s articles of incorporation or an individual employment contract. If under local laws the starting date of (early) retirement is at the option of the Participant, a Participant will only be considered a Good Leaver if such Participant actually starts drawing (early) retirement benefits.
Sale:    a sale of all or substantially all the shares in the capital of the Company or all or substantially all of the assets of the Company and its Subsidiaries.
Shares:    a common share in the capital of the Company, with a nominal value of EUR 0.12 (twelve eurocent), as may be granted as part of the Variable Compensation.
Subsidiary:    a direct or indirect subsidiary of the Company determined as such by the Company for the purpose of these Plan Rules.
Supervisory Board:    the Supervisory Board of the Company.
Total Compensation:    the Total direct Compensation during a calendar year for a Participant which consists of a Fixed Salary and Variable Compensation.
Upfront Part:    means the part of the Variable Compensation which will vest after the completion of the plan year, one year following Allocation in accordance with these Plan Rules.
Variable Compensation:    the variable component of the Total Compensation, consisting of an Upfront Part and a Deferred Part, in accordance with these Plan Rules.
Variable Compensation Plan Rules: or Plan Rules    the Variable Compensation Plan Rules that set out the terms and conditions of the Variable Compensation, as may be amended from time to time;
Vest(ing):    the occasion upon which a Participant is transferred the unconditional legal ownership of conditionally allocated granted Cash and / or Shares, as set out in the Plan Rules; notwithstanding that Release of Shares only take place after the lapsing of a Holding Period.

 

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Vesting Date:    the date on which date the Cash and / or Shares will Vest in accordance with the Plan Rules.
Vesting Schedule:    The schedule based on which the Deferred Part of the Variable Compensation will Vest and be Paid-out or Released to Participants.

Words or expressions used in these Plan Rules shall, where appropriate, be interpreted as follows:

  1.1.1. Definitions and terms used in these Plan Rules can be found in the list of Definitions; these definitions as stated therein shall binding.

 

  1.1.2. All references to the masculine gender include the feminine and vice versa.

 

  1.1.3. All references to singular include the plural and vice versa if the context so requires.

 

  1.1.4. All headings and sub-headings are for ease of reference only, and shall not affect the interpretation of any clauses of these Plan Rules.

 

  1.1.5. All references to any enactment or terms under Dutch law shall be extended to other applicable laws or terms of any other country, or region of a country.

 

  1.1.6. All references to tax and/or social security contributions and/or withholding taxes include any tax, social security contribution or withholding tax that is levied or withheld in the Netherlands or any other applicable jurisdiction.

 

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  1 Introduction and purpose
  1.1 These Variable Compensation Plan Rules (the Plan Rules) are intended to provide for Variable Compensation in the form of cash and / or Shares to eligible Executive Board members of Aegon N.V. to strengthen their commitment to the Company’s business strategy, risk tolerance and long-term performance, as further set out in the Remuneration Framework or any other arrangements applicable to Participants.

 

  1.2 These Plan Rules are subject to the terms and conditions of the Remuneration Framework and the Remuneration policy and/or other arrangements regarding variable compensation that may apply to the Participant.

 

  1.3 In the event of any discrepancies or inconsistencies between these Plan Rules and the Remuneration Framework, including the Remuneration Policy, the latter shall prevail.

 

  1.4 In these Plan Rules, unless the context otherwise requires, the capitalized words and expressions shall have the meaning as set forth in the list of Definitions.

 

  2 Conditional Grant Variable Compensation
  2.1 The Company may conditionally grant a Participant a conditional entitlement to Variable Compensation.

 

  2.2 A conditional entitlement to Variable Compensation will only be made to a Participant upon acceptance of these Plan Rules. The Participant will sign an Agreement offered by the Company to such effect.

 

  2.3 A Participant who becomes an employee of the company during the Plan Year, and who has signed an Agreement during the first six months of the Plan Year, may be granted a conditional entitlement to Variable Compensation which shall be on a pro rata basis to reflect the period of active service. Any deviations from this pro-rata principle and any Grants made upon employment at a later stage during the Plan Year will require prior approval of the Company.

 

  2.4 In accordance with clause 4.3 of these Plan Rules, 50% of the Variable Compensation may be paid in Shares. The number of Shares to which a Participant will be conditionally entitled shall be calculated by dividing the relevant percentage (50%) of the Variable Compensation by the Grant Price and the outcome shall be rounded down to the nearest share. Any changes in the Fixed Salary during the Plan Year may have an impact on the Variable Compensation, to be determined by the Company in its sole discretion.

 

  2.5. The Variable Compensation is conditionally granted and the conditional right to Variable Compensation is subject to the conditions precedent (i) that, unless stated otherwise or approved by the Company, the Participant will remain employed within the Aegon Group uninterruptedly until the Vesting Date of each part of the Variable Compensation, (ii) that the minimum levels of the Performance Indicators are achieved, as further set out in clause 4.1 of these Plan Rules and (iii) an Ex-ante and an Ex-post Malus assessment as set out in clauses 4.5 and 4.6 of these Plan Rules have been carried out.

 

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  2.6 The employment of the Participant is considered continued uninterruptedly in the case where the Participant’s employment is terminated due to long-term ill health, disability, (early) retirement, death or reduction of work force or redundancy of the job or position of the Participant without cause by the Participant, during the period until a Vesting Date and, consequently, such Participant is considered to be a “Good Leaver”. In addition, the Company may, at its full discretion, declare a Participant to be a Good Leaver. Long term ill health, disability and (early) retirement shall have the meaning as defined under the applicable rules and regulations within Aegon, or in the absence thereof, as determined under the applicable local laws and regulations. In case of any unclarity on whether the Participant qualifies as a Good Leaver, the Company in its sole discretion will decide.

 

  2.7 In the event of termination of employment of a Good Leaver during the Plan Year, in principle, the Variable Compensation that shall be paid-out (including the number of conditionally granted Shares that shall Vest) shall be pro-rated to reflect the period of active service from the Grant Date until the termination of employment, subject to the final approval of the Company. The Variable Compensation that shall be paid out (including the number of conditionally granted Shares that shall Vest) shall be determined and paid out in accordance with clause 4 of these Plan Rules after the adoption of the Annual Report at the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders, subject to any Holding Period.

 

  2.8 The Grant Date will be 1 January 2013, irrespectively whether the amount and/or value of the conditional Variable Compensation and/or the Performance Indicators will be set later.

 

  3 Performance Indicators
  3.1 The Performance Indicators applicable to the Plan Year have been or shall be established by the Company in accordance with the guidelines of the Remuneration Framework, including the Remuneration Policy, and shall be based on financial and non-financial targets. In the process of setting and evaluating Performance Indicators and targets used for the determination of Variable Compensation, relevant experts from control functions shall be consulted or involved.

 

  3.2 The Performance Indicators may consist of Group Indicators and Strategic / Functional / Personal Indicators which represent both financial and non-financial Indicators. Strategic / Functional / Personal Indicators shall be selected for a Participant individually and shall be provided to the Participant in writing.

 

  3.3 One-year minimum, target and maximum levels relating to the Performance Year will be set for each Performance Indicator.

 

  4 Allocation, Vesting, Pay-out and Release of Variable Compensation
  4.1 After the Performance Year, the Company shall assess the realized performance of each Performance Indicator and a comparison will be made between the minimum, target and maximum levels of the Performance Indicators and the realized performance. Subsequently, the amount of Variable Compensation (including the number of Shares) that will be Allocated will be established.

 

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  4.2 The following applies to Allocated Variable Compensation (if any), and subject to the Ex-ante risk-based assessment and the Ex-post Malus assessment referred to in clauses 4.5 and 4.6:

 

  4.2.1 all Allocated Variable Compensation and subsequent Vesting according to the applicable Vesting Schedule, will be made in cash and in Shares.
  4.2.2 part of the Allocated Variable Compensation in cash, if any (the Upfront Part in Cash) shall Vest and shall be paid out as soon as possible after the adoption of the Company’s Annual Report relating to the Plan Year at the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders.
  4.2.3 part of the Allocated Variable Compensation in Shares, if any (the Upfront Part in Shares) shall Vest as soon as possible after the adoption of the Company’s Annual Report relating to the Plan Year at the Annual General Meeting of shareholders and shall be Released after a further Holding Period as set out in clause 5.4.
  4.2.4 the remaining part of the Allocated Variable Compensation, if any (the Deferred Part) shall be deferred and shall Vest in the subsequent financial years according to the applicable Vesting Schedule. The cash part shall be paid out as soon as possible after the adoption of the Company’s Annual Report relating to these subsequent financial year(s) at the respective Annual General Meetings of Shareholders and the Share part shall be Released after a further Holding Period as set out in clause 5.4.

 

  4.3 Any details as referred to in clause 4.2 regarding (i) the amount of Allocated Variable Compensation, including the allotment in cash and / or Shares, (ii) the Pay-out (vesting) of the Upfront Part, (iii) the Vesting Schedule relating to the Deferred Part and related Pay-out and Release of such Deferred Variable Compensation and (iv) any Holding Period (if applicable), will be notified to the Participant in writing.

 

  4.4 Except in the event a Participant is a Good Leaver, the Variable Compensation that is conditionally granted will become null and void on the date that the employment of the Participant is terminated prior to a Vesting Date of the Upfront Part or a Deferred Part.

 

  4.5 The Allocation of any part of the Variable Compensation is subject to an Ex-ante risk-based assessment by the Company in order to determine whether conditionally granted Variable Compensation should be Allocated in full or should be Allocated applying a downwards adjustment. This Ex-ante risk-based assessment will be applied in order to:
  (i) ensure that the projected Variable Compensation is aligned with the risk profile of the Aegon Group;
  (ii) provide a perspective on the long-term financial and risk effects of the equity element of Variable Compensation;
  (iii) take into account quantitative and qualitative Aegon Group and individual factors mitigating performance results.

 

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  4.6 The Vesting of any Deferred Part of the Variable Compensation is subject to an Ex-post Malus assessment by the Company in order to determine whether conditionally granted Variable Compensation should Vest in full or should be adjusted. This Ex-post Malus assessment shall be based on informed judgment by the Company, taking into account significant and exceptional circumstances as well as risk outcomes that were not (sufficiently) reflected in the initially applied Performance Indicators and initial assessment of the Company’s and individual performance at the time of Allocation. Implementation of this authority will be on the basis of criteria such as, but not limited to:
  (i) outcome of a re-assessment of the performance against the original financial Performance Indicators;
  (ii) significant downturn in the Company’s financial performance;
  (iii) evidence of misbehavior or serious error by the Participant;
  (iv) significant failure in risk management;
  (v) significant changes in the Company’s economic or regulatory capital base.

 

  4.7 Depending on the outcome of the Ex-post Malus assessment, the Company shall decide to (i) establish that the relevant Deferred Part of the Variable Compensation shall become unconditional and shall Vest or (ii) adjust the relevant Deferred Part of the Variable Compensation and decide that the Deferred Part shall only partially Vest (including the possible outcome that no Deferred Part of the Variable Compensation shall become unconditional and Vest).

 

  4.8 The Company shall review these Ex-ante risk-based and Ex-post Malus assessment criteria in detail at each Allocation and Vesting Date and document its findings. Relevant experts from control functions shall be consulted or involved in this review process if required or desirable.

 

  4.9 Any adjustment resulting from the Ex-post Malus risk-based assessment shall only be applied on the Deferred Part of the Variable Compensation, not on the Fixed Salary or the Upfront Part of the Variable Compensation. The adjustment may only be made downwards.

 

  4.10 The Company shall be authorized, in accordance with applicable laws and regulations, to reclaim (‘Claw Back’) any Variable Compensation (whether Vested, Paid-out or Released) to the Participant in case of:
  (i) incorrect data (including non-achievement of Performance Indicators on hindsight);
  (ii) material financial restatements 1 ;
  (iii) individual gross misconduct of the Participant;
  (iv) an instruction or request by a regulator to the Company to apply the Claw Back or to apply other measures, which will be deemed to be serious grounds (zwaarwegend belang) for the Company to comply with such instruction or request; or
  (v) other circumstances as determined in applicable legislation from time to time.

1    Not resulting from mandatory restatements resulting from changes in IFRS and other applicable financial reporting regulations.

 

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  4.11 In the event of a Claw Back, the Company will determine the gross amount in cash that is subject to Claw Back. All or part of the Paid out, Vested or Released Variable Compensation that is subject to Claw Back will need to be repaid by the Participant at first demand by the Company as a gross amount in cash, and the entitlement on all or part of the Variable Compensation that is Vested and not yet Paid-out or Released that is subject to Claw Back will lapse, whereby any Shares will be taken into account for the Grant Price. The Company will be entitled to set-off or settle any gross amount owed by the Participant to the Company (i) by any current or future obligations if possible (including but not limited to any salary payments or pension payments) that the Company has against the Participant and/or (ii) against any Allocated and/or Vested but not yet Paid-out or Released Variable Compensation, whereby any Shares will be taken into account for the Grant Price. If and to the extent the Company does not exercise the set-off or settlement right, the Participant will repay the gross amounts due in cash as soon as possible upon instructions of the Company.

 

  4.12 The Company shall inform the Participant as soon as possible of the outcome of the Ex-ante, Ex-post Malus and Claw Back assessment and its decision. The Participant shall have no claim for damages or compensation against the Company or a Subsidiary for any consequences (whether financial, tax, governmental, personal or other consequences) following the Ex-ante, Ex-post Malus or Claw Back assessments resulting in the Variable Compensation being adjusted downwards.

 

  4.13 The Company may, in its sole discretion, direct the Supervisory Board of Aegon N.V. to determine whether any further action may be necessary with respect to the Ex-post Malus and Claw Back assessment for any local circumstances.

 

  4.14 No dividend or interest will accrue on any part of the Variable Compensation before Vesting in accordance with these Plan Rules.

 

  4.15 Vested Shares, subject to a Holding Period as set out in clause 5.4, will accrue dividends as from the Vesting Date, which dividend will be equal to the amount of dividends declared on the Company’s Shares. Accrued dividends will be paid out in Shares at the Release Date, unless the Company determines the dividends on the Shares granted under these Plan Rules to be paid out in cash or in cash and/or Shares at the option of the Participant. The Company may determine the form of dividend to be paid on the Shares granted under these Plan Rules annually in its sole discretion and irrespectively of the form of dividend to be paid on Shares held by other shareholders.

 

  4.16 In connection with any actual or potential Sale or Change of Control or a transaction concerning the sale of a Subsidiary or business unit within Aegon Group, the Company will take all such actions hereunder as it may determine to be necessary or appropriate to treat Participants equal and equitably hereunder, at the discretion of the Supervisory Board, including without limitation the modification or waiver of applicable Performance Indicators, and whether to establish or fund another arrangement intended for variable incentives.

 

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  5 Terms and Conditions regarding the Shares
  5.1 Transfer of ownership of the Shares to the Participant shall take place on the relevant Vesting Date. Upon Vesting, the Shares and any transactions regarding the Shares will be at the risk and for the account of the Participant.

 

  5.2 At each of the Vesting Dates, the Shares, less any Shares which shall be sold and settled to pay for any applicable taxes, social security premiums and possible other deductions by the government due in connection with the Vesting of the Shares (unless the Participant indicates that he/she prefers that such Shares shall not be sold and settled, as set out in clause 5.3 of these Plan Rules), shall be registered in the shareholders register of the Company.

 

  5.3 If a Participant prefers not to sell any Shares in connection with any applicable taxes, social security premiums and possible other deductions by the government due in connection with the Vesting, such Participant should notify the Compliance Officer of such preference in writing during any period which is not a closed period as referred to in clause 7.2 of these Plan Rules. The Participant acknowledges that he/she should have sufficient funds available at the Vesting Date to pay any taxes due.

 

  5.4 Notwithstanding Vesting, the Company will impose a restriction on the Participant to hold the Shares for a Holding Period of three (3) years following the relevant Vesting Date and the Participant will not be entitled to execute any transactions regarding the Shares during this Holding Period, except as provided in clause 7.3 of these Plan Rules. After this Holding Period, the Shares shall be Released and the Participant will be entitled to exercise its rights relating to the Shares as provided for in these Plan Rules. For the avoidance of any doubt, this provision will not be affected (i.e. the Holding Period remains in full force and effect) if the employment of a Participant is terminated during this Holding Period for whatever reason. However, the Holding Period and the restrictions to execute transactions regarding the Shares will end in case of and at the date of death of the Participant. The applicable Holding Period, as referred to in this section will be notified to the Participant in writing. No holding period will be imposed on any cash component of the Variable Compensation.

 

  5.5 Release of any Shares will take place at the Release Date following the end date of the relevant Holding Period.

 

  6 Transactions regarding the Shares
  6.1 The Participant can only perform any Transactions regarding Shares, once they have been Vested and Released, in accordance with clause 5 and subject to the conditions of clause 7.

 

  6.2 Transactions regarding the Shares can be executed only by submitting a request to the Company’s secretary. Transactions regarding the Shares can be executed on Business Days only. If it is not possible to exercise on the indicated day (for any reason), the exercise will take place on the first Business Day on which exercising the order will be possible, such at the risk of the Participant.

 

  6.3 When the Participant has filed an order to sell all or part of the Shares, the Company will use its best efforts to sell the number of Shares indicated by the Participant at the NYSE Euronext stock exchange in Amsterdam, The Netherlands as soon as possible after the request as referred to in clause 6.2 of these Plan Rules has been received.

 

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  6.4 The Company shall pay the value of the Shares as calculated on the basis of the Share price at the NYSE Euronext stock exchange in accordance with clause 6.3 of these Plan Rules as soon as possible after the order has been processed and the Shares have been sold. The Company shall be entitled to withhold any (trade) costs, taxes (or other amounts to be deducted) due on the value of the Share after exercise. The remaining amount shall be remitted to the Participant in accordance with appropriate payroll practices. The Participant hereby accepts the tax consequences of any transactions regarding the Shares. In case of late payment the Company will have no obligation to compensate interest to the Participant.

 

  6.5 Upon the termination of employment of a Participant, the Shares that have Vested pursuant to clause 4 and are held at the shareholders register of the Company shall, at the option of the Participant (or the legal personal representative of the deceased Participant), (i) remain registered in the shareholders register of the Company, (ii) be transferred into another current account as designated by the Participant to the Company or (iii) be sold and be paid to the Participant in accordance with clauses 6.3 and 6.4 of these Plan Rules. Such transfer or sale and the corresponding payment shall be executed at the lapse of the three-year Holding Period (if applicable) set out in clause 5.4 of these Plan Rules or as soon as possible thereafter.

 

  6.6 The Company does not accept any liability with regard to the processing of any orders for any transactions regarding the Shares by the Participant in any way.

 

  6.7 The Company is entitled to amend the procedure for transactions regarding the Shares from time to time at its absolute discretion. The Company will inform the Participant of any relevant change in the procedure.

 

  6.8 The costs of any transactions regarding the Shares will be for the account of the Participant.

 

  7 Regulatory restrictions and inside information
  7.1 The Shares are stocks traded at the NYSE Euronext stock exchanges in Amsterdam and New York and, consequently, are governed by laws and regulations with regard to inside information. No transactions (including but not limited to a sale of the Shares) regarding the Shares may be effected when the Participant has inside information. Inside information is defined as “knowledge of information which is specific, which directly or indirectly concerns the Company or the trade in Aegon securities, which has not been made public and which, if made public, could have a significant influence on the price of the Aegon securities”.

 

  7.2 In any event, no transaction regarding the Shares may be effected during the following black-out periods:
       (i) a period immediately preceding the publication of the Company’s annual report;
       (ii) a period immediately preceding the publication of the Company’s six-month results and the quarterly results or the announcement of any dividend or interim dividend; and
       (iii) any additional black-out periods mandatory for designated employees as announced by the Company’s Compliance Officer from time to time.
       The periods referred to under (i) and (ii) will be announced annually by the Compliance Officer.

 

  7.3 The ban in clauses 5.4, 7.1 and 7.2 of these Plan Rules are not applicable in the event of a transaction regarding a Share that takes place at the Vesting Date to cover for any taxes, social insurance premiums and possible other deductions by the government due by the Participant in connection with the Vesting and/or, Release of the Shares into its account, in accordance with clauses 5.2 and 5.3 of these Plan Rules.

 

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  7.4 The Participant must at all times comply with the applicable laws and regulations and the Company’s insider trading rules (the “Aegon N.V. Employee Insider Trading Rules” or the “Aegon N.V. Insider Trading Rules”, whichever applies to a Participant) as amended from time to time. These regulations include the requirement for the Participant to notify any transactions within five days following such transaction (i) to the Company’s Compliance Officer and (ii) if the Participant qualifies as ‘designated insider’ according to the Aegon N.V. Insider Trading Rules, to the Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets (“AFM”). Vesting is considered a transaction which require notification to the Company’s Compliance Officer and the AFM in accordance with the above insider dealing rules. In the event of any questions or doubts, the Participant should contact the Company’s Compliance Officer.

 

  8 Additional conditions
  8.1 The costs, legal mandatory tax deductions, employee social insurance premiums and possible other deductions by the government relating to the Variable Compensation (whether on the employee or on the employer) shall be for the account of the Participant and shall be deducted from the salary payment to the Participant or the pension payment to the Participant if possible. All expenses and costs in connection with the operation of these Plan Rules shall be borne by the Company.

 

  8.2 The Shares that have been granted as part of the Variable Compensation are strictly personal and the right to receive such Shares cannot be assigned or transferred in any way or in any other manner of passing of title. The Shares that have been conditionally granted but not been delivered and transferred cannot be pledged or encumbered in any other way. The Shares that may have been assigned, transferred, pledged or encumbered in any manner in contravention of this clause become null and void and will not be delivered or transferred to the Participant.

 

  8.3 The Participant hereby acknowledges and agrees that Aegon may disclose certain details to any governmental or regulatory authority (including tax authorities) regarding the Shares that a Participant has been conditionally granted and/or allocated including but not limited to the number, the value and any dividend regarding the Shares.

 

  8.4 It is not allowed to hedge the Shares, for example by the selling or purchasing of options on Shares, whether or not marketable.

 

  8.5 In the event of any changes in the capital structure of the Company between the start of the Plan Year (conditional grant of Variable Compensation) and the Vesting of Shares which results in an increase of the total share capital or a material change in the structure of the share capital or share premium of the Company and a change in the economic equivalence of the Shares, or on the basis of any applicable legislation, the Company may at its absolute discretion adjust the number of conditionally granted Shares in accordance with customary anti-dilution market practice provisions. Any such adjustment should not lead to the total Variable Compensation exceeding the amount of the Fixed Salary.

 

  8.6 Granting the Variable Compensation (including Shares) to the Participant according to these Plan Rules is restricted to the Plan Year. Granting of Variable Compensation (including Shares) during any other financial year is the absolute discretion of the Company. The Company has no obligation to grant Variable Compensation (including Shares) in the future.

 

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  8.7 The Company may at any time unilaterally amend any term or condition of these Plan Rules. In particular, the Company is free to amend any term or condition in the case of new (fiscal, employment or other) legislation and/or amended regulations and/or directions, requests or instructions by or on behalf of any financial supervising authorities and/or other guidelines as applicable from time to time within the financial sector.

 

  8.8 The Shares do not form part of the employment agreement of any Participant, nor grant any Participant any employment rights or guarantee employment as an employee of the Company and no (future) rights or benefits can be obtained or implied other than as specifically set out in these Plan Rules.

 

  8.9 No damages or compensation shall be payable in consequence of the termination of employment (whether or not in circumstances giving rise to a claim for wrongful or unfair dismissal or local equivalent thereof) or for any other reason whatsoever to compensate him for the loss of any rights the Participant would otherwise have had (actual or contingent) under these Plan Rules and the Participant shall be deemed irrevocably to have waived any such rights to which it may otherwise have been entitled.

 

  8.10 No individual shall have any claim against the Company arising out of his not being admitted to participation in these Plan Rules which (for the avoidance of doubt) is entirely at the full discretion of the Company.

 

  8.11 No Participant shall be entitled to claim compensation from the Company in respect of any sums paid by him pursuant to these Plan rules or for any diminution or extinction of its rights or benefits (actual or otherwise) under any Variable Compensation held by him/her following the lapse for any reason of any Variable Compensation held by him or otherwise in connection with these Plan Rules and the Company shall be entirely free to conduct its affairs as it sees fit without regard to any consequences under, upon or in relation to these Plan Rules or any Variable Compensation.

 

  8.12 By accepting any Variable Compensation, the Participant hereby explicitly and unambiguously consents to the collection, storage, use, processing and transfer, in electronic or other form, of his/her personal data (as described below) by and among, as applicable, the Company for the exclusive purpose of implementing, administering and managing his/her Variable Compensation, and the transfer of such data by them to government and other regulatory authorities for the purpose of complying with their legal obligations in connection with any Grants of Variable Compensation.

 

  8.13 This data may include the Participant’s name, home address and telephone number, email address, date of birth, social security number or other identification number, salary, nationality, job title, details of all rights and any other entitlement to shares (conditionally) granted, allocated, awarded, cancelled, purchased, vested, unvested or outstanding (Data). The Company is the data controller for these Data.

 

  8.14 The Participant further agrees that Data may be transferred to any third parties assisting in the implementation, administration and management in connection with these Plan Rules, that these recipients may be located in his/her country, or elsewhere including outside the European Economic Area, and that such location may have less adequate data privacy laws and protections than the Participant’s own country.

 

  8.15 Data will be held only as long as necessary to implement, administer and manage these Plan rules. The Participant may, at any time, view the Data, request additional information about the storage and processing of the Data, require any necessary amendments to the Data or refuse or withdraw the consents herein, in any case without cost.

 

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  8.16 Refusing or withdrawing his/her consent as referred to in this clause 8, although it will not have any negative effect on his/her employment, may affect any potential Grant, Allocation, Vesting, Pay-out or Release of any Variable Compensation to the Participant.

 

  8.17. If any provision in these Plan Rules are held to be invalid or unenforceable, no other provision of these Plan Rules will be affected thereby.

 

  8.18. These Plan Rules are governed by Dutch Civil Law.

 

  8.19 These Plan Rules shall apply for the Plan Year 2013 and will remain in force until the earlier of (i) any amendments are made to these Plan Rules and (ii) these Plan Rules are terminated by the Company, provided that no Grants will be made under these Plan Rules after 31 December 2013.

 

  8.20 These Plan Rules will not be considered an amendment or adjustment of any short-term or long-term variable compensation plans existing prior to 1 January, 2013, and no further grants under any such plans will be made after 2013, and, if made, will be considered null and void.

365

 

Exhibit 7

RATIO OF EARNINGS TO FIXED CHARGES

 

Year ended December 31,            2013              2012              2011              2010              2009  

Earnings:

              

Income before taxes

     1,147         1,866         938         1,914         (464

Add: Fixed charges included in earnings

     1,746         2,151         2,148         2,438         2,632   

(A) Total Earnings

     2,892         4,017         3,087         4,352         2,168   

Fixed charges:

              

Interest

     355         519         491         426         412   

Interest on fixed annuities, investment contracts and savings accounts

     1,391         1,632         1,657         2,012         2,220   

Sub-total fixed charges included in earnings

     1,746         2,151         2,148         2,438         2,632   

Dividend on preferred shares

     24         59         59         59         90   

Coupons on perpetual capital securities

     194         230         237         251         244   

Coupons on Non-Cumulative Subordinated Notes

     28         30         -         -         -   

(B) Total fixed charges

     1,992         2,470         2,444         2,748         2,966   

Ratio: (A) / (B)

     1.5         1.6         1.3         1.6         0.7   

Ratio excluding interest on fixed annuities, investment contracts and savings accounts

     2.6         2.8         1.8         3.2         (0.1

 

  Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013   LOGO  
366   Additional information

 

Exhibit 12.1

CERTIFICATION

PURSUANT TO RULE 13A-14 OR 15D-14 OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

I, Alexander R. Wynaendts, certify that

  1. I have reviewed this Annual Report on Form 20-F of Aegon N.V.;  
  2. Based on my knowledge, this annual report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;  
  3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the company as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;  
  4. The company’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the company and have:  
  a. Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the company, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;  
  b. Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;  
  c. Evaluated the effectiveness of the company’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and  
  d. Disclosed in this report any change in the company’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the period covered by the annual report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the company’s internal control over financial reporting; and  
  5. The company’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the company’s auditors and the audit committee of the company’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):  
  a. All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the company’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and  
  b. Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the company’s internal control over financial reporting.  

Date: March 19, 2014

/s/ Alexander R. Wynaendts

 

 

 

Alexander R. Wynaendts

  

 

Chief Executive Officer

  

 

  Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013   LOGO  

367

 

Exhibit 12.2

CERTIFICATION

PURSUANT TO RULE 13A-14 OR 15D-14 OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

I, Darryl D. Button, certify that

  1. I have reviewed this Annual Report on Form 20-F of Aegon N.V.;  
  2. Based on my knowledge, this annual report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;  
  3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the company as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;  
  4. The company’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the company and have:  
  a. Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the company, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;  
  b. Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;  
  c. Evaluated the effectiveness of the company’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and  
  d. Disclosed in this report any change in the company’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the period covered by the annual report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the company’s internal control over financial reporting; and  
  5. The company’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the company’s auditors and the audit committee of the company’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):  
  a. All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the company’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and  
  b. Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the company’s internal control over financial reporting.  

Date: March 19, 2014

/s/ Darryl D. Button

 

 

 

Darryl D. Button

  

 

Chief Financial Officer

  

 

  Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013   LOGO  
368   Additional information

 

Exhibit 13

CERTIFICATION

In connection with this Annual Report on Form 20-F of Aegon N.V. (the “company”) for the period ended December 31, 2013 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), we, Alexander R. Wynaendts, the Chief Executive Officer of the company and Darryl D. Button, the Chief Financial Officer of the company, each hereby certifies, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that to the best of his knowledge:

  1. The Report fully complies with the requirements of section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and  
  2. The information contained in the Report fairly represents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.  

Date: March 19, 2014

/s/ Alexander R. Wynaendts

 

 

 

Alexander R. Wynaendts

  

 

Chief Executive Officer

  

/s/ Darryl D. Button

 

 

 

Darryl D. Button

  

 

Chief Financial Officer

  

A signed original of this written statement required by Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 has been provided to Aegon and will be retained by Aegon and furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission or its staff upon request.

The foregoing certification is being furnished solely pursuant to 18 U.S.C. section 1350 and is not being filed as part of the Report or as a separate disclosure document.

 

  Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013   LOGO  

369

 

Exhibit 15

Consent of independent registered public accounting firm

We consent to the incorporation by reference in the following Registration Statements:

  1) Registration Statement (Form F-3 No. 333-178225) pertaining to Aegon USA Producer Stock Option and Award Plan,
  2) Registration Statement (Form F-3 No. 333-178224) pertaining to Aegon USA Producers’ Stock Purchase Plan,
  3) Registration Statement (Form F-3 No. 333-174878) pertaining to Aegon Funding Company LLC,
  4) Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-132841) pertaining to Aegon USA Companies Employee Stock Option Plan – 2006,
  5) Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-138210) pertaining to Aegon USA Companies Management Stock Option Plan – 2006,
  6) Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-144174) pertaining to Aegon USA Companies Employee Stock Option Plan – 2007,
  7) Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-144175) pertaining to Aegon USA Companies Management Stock Option Plan – 2007,
  8) Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-151984) pertaining to Aegon USA Companies Employee Stock Option Plan – 2008,
  9) Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-151983) pertaining to Aegon USA Companies Management Stock Option Plan – 2008,
  10) Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-150774) pertaining to Aegon USA, Inc. Profit Sharing Plan, and
  11) Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-157843) pertaining to Aegon USA, LLC Profit Sharing Plan.
  12) Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-183176) pertaining to Aegon N.V. LTIC Plan for Executive Board, Management Board, Senior Management and Other Managers – 2010, Aegon Group Identified Staff Variable Compensation Plan – 2011 and Aegon Group Long-Term Variable Compensation Plan for Other Staff – 2011.

of our reports dated March 19, 2014 with respect to the consolidated financial statements and schedules of Aegon N.V. and the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting of Aegon N.V. included in this Annual Report for the year ended December 31, 2013.

/s/ Ernst & Young Accountants LLP

The Hague, The Netherlands

March 19, 2014

 

  Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013   LOGO  
370   Additional information

 

Exhibit 15.1

Letter from Aegon N.V.’s Independent Registered Accounting Firm

for the audited fiscal years covered by this Annual Report.

March 19, 2014

United States Securities and Exchange Commission

Division of Corporation Finance

100 F. Street N.E. Washington, D.C.

20549-7010

Ladies and Gentlemen:

We have read the section referenced as Item 16F on page 348 under the heading ‘Change in Registrant’s Certifying Accountant’ of Aegon N.V.’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 2013 and are in agreement with the statements contained in the second and third paragraphs therein. We have no basis to agree or disagree with other statements of the registrant contained therein.

/s/ Ernst & Young Accountants LLP

The Hague, The Netherlands

 

  Annual Report on Form 20-F 2013   LOGO