Edgar Filing: AMERISAFE INC

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10-Q

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, DC 20549

FORM 10-Q

QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)

OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

FOR THE QUARTERLY PERIOD ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

Commission file number:

001-12251

AMERISAFE, INC.

(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)


Texas		75-2069407
(State of Incorporation)		(I.R.S. Employer Identification Number)

2301 Highway 190 West, DeRidder, Louisiana		70634
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)		(Zip Code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (337) 463-9052

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

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

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

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

As of October 28, 2015, there were 19,093,792 shares of the Registrant’s common stock, par value $.01 per share, outstanding.

TABLE OF CONTENTS


		Page No.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS			3

PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1	Financial Statements		4

Item 2	Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations		17

Item 3	Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk		22

Item 4	Controls and Procedures		23

PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

Item 2	Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds		23

Item 6	Exhibits		24

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This report contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. You should not place undue reliance on these statements. These forward-looking statements include statements that reflect the current views of our senior management with respect to our financial performance and future events with respect to our business and the insurance industry in general. Statements that include the words “expect,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “project,” “forecast,” “estimate,” “may,” “should,” “anticipate” and similar statements of a future or forward-looking nature identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements address matters that involve risks and uncertainties. Accordingly, there are or will be important factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those indicated in these statements. We believe that these factors include, but are not limited to, the following:

•

increased competition on the basis of types of insurance offered, premium rates, coverage availability, payment terms, claims management, safety services, policy terms, overall financial strength, financial ratings and reputation;

•

the cyclical nature of the workers’ compensation insurance industry;

•

general economic conditions, including recession, inflation, performance of financial markets, interest rates, unemployment rates and fluctuating asset values;

•

greater frequency or severity of claims and loss activity, including as a result of natural or man-made catastrophic events, than our underwriting, reserving or investment practices anticipate based on historical experience or industry data;

•

technology breaches or failures, including those resulting from a malicious cyber attack on the Company or its policyholders and medical providers;

•

adverse developments in economic, competitive or regulatory conditions within the workers’ compensation insurance industry;

•

decreased demand for our insurance;

•

changes in regulations, laws, rates, or rating factors applicable to the Company, its policyholders or the agencies that sell its insurance;

•

loss of the services of any of our senior management or other key employees;

•

changes in rating agency policies, practices or ratings;

•

changes in the availability, cost or quality of reinsurance and the failure of our reinsurers to pay claims in a timely manner or at all;

•

decreased level of business activity of our policyholders caused by decreased business activity generally, and in particular in the industries we target;

•

changes in legal theories of liability under our insurance policies;

•

developments in capital markets that adversely affect the performance of our investments;

•

the effects of U.S. involvement in hostilities with other countries and large-scale acts of terrorism, or the threat of hostilities or terrorist acts; and

•

other risks and uncertainties described from time to time in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”).

The foregoing factors should not be construed as exhaustive and should be read together with the other cautionary statements included in this report, and under the caption “Risk Factors” in Item 1A of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014. If one or more events related to these or other risks or uncertainties materialize, or if our underlying assumptions prove to be incorrect, actual results may differ materially from what we anticipate.

PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1.

Financial Statements.

AMERISAFE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(in thousands, except share and per share data)


	September 30, 2015			December 31, 2014
	(unaudited)
Assets
Investments:
Fixed maturity securities—held-to-maturity, at amortized cost (fair value $679,893 and $664,371 in 2015 and 2014, respectively)	$	660,250		$	639,631
Fixed maturity securities—available-for-sale, at fair value (cost $364,748 and $327,004 in 2015 and 2014, respectively)		369,833			331,242
Equity securities—available-for-sale, at fair value (cost $0 in 2015 and 2014)		31			28
Short-term investments		7,057			33,684
Other investments		11,759			11,748

Total investments		1,048,930			1,016,333
Cash and cash equivalents		99,899			90,956
Amounts recoverable from reinsurers		91,092			85,888
Premiums receivable, net of allowance		194,086			178,917
Deferred income taxes		31,688			31,231
Accrued interest receivable		12,208			11,637
Property and equipment, net		6,945			7,240
Deferred policy acquisition costs		21,089			19,649
Federal income tax recoverable		—			1,082
Other assets		46,603			14,287

Total assets	$	1,552,540		$	1,457,220

Liabilities and shareholders’ equity
Liabilities:
Reserves for loss and loss adjustment expenses	$	720,710		$	687,602
Unearned premiums		176,270			168,576
Reinsurance premiums payable		274			843
Amounts held for others		49,287			42,827
Policyholder deposits		47,944			48,722
Insurance-related assessments		33,531			29,315
Federal income tax payable		979			—
Accounts payable and other liabilities		30,000			30,110
Payable for investments purchased		2,969			2,257

Total liabilities		1,061,964			1,010,252

Shareholders’ equity:
Common stock:
Voting—$0.01 par value authorized shares—50,000,000 in 2015 and 2014; 20,352,042 and 20,155,936 shares issued and 19,093,792 and 18,897,686 shares outstanding in 2015 and 2014, respectively		203			201
Additional paid-in capital		203,322			199,138
Treasury stock at cost (1,258,250 shares in 2015 and 2014)		(22,370	)		(22,370	)
Accumulated earnings		306,061			267,189
Accumulated other comprehensive income, net		3,360			2,810

Total shareholders’ equity		490,576			446,968

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity	$	1,552,540		$	1,457,220

See accompanying notes.

AMERISAFE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

(in thousands, except share and per share data)

(unaudited)


	Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2015			2014			2015			2014
Revenues
Gross premiums written	$	91,061		$	93,962		$	297,872		$	303,485
Ceded premiums written		(4,232	)		(3,823	)		(9,317	)		(10,655	)

Net premiums written	$	86,829		$	90,139		$	288,555		$	292,830

Net premiums earned	$	90,504		$	95,928		$	280,860		$	278,677
Net investment income		6,923			6,495			20,646			20,048
Net realized gains/(losses) on investments		40			(152	)		(2,518	)		181
Fee and other income		3			65			206			227

Total revenues		97,470			102,336			299,194			299,133

Expenses
Loss and loss adjustment expenses incurred		48,942			61,822			166,252			185,570
Underwriting and certain other operating costs		9,293			7,822			26,043			24,624
Commissions		6,696			7,022			20,606			20,696
Salaries and benefits		6,278			6,183			18,070			18,090
Policyholder dividends		371			139			1,024			340

Total expenses		71,580			82,988			231,995			249,320

Income before income taxes		25,890			19,348			67,199			49,813
Income tax expense		7,950			5,869			19,810			13,012

Net income		17,940			13,479			47,389			36,801

Net income available to common shareholders	$	17,940		$	13,479		$	47,389		$	36,801


Earnings per share
Basic	$	0.95		$	0.72		$	2.51		$	1.98

Diluted	$	0.94		$	0.71		$	2.48		$	1.95


Shares used in computing earnings per share
Basic		18,968,718			18,676,033			18,911,675			18,603,227

Diluted		19,096,259			18,929,777			19,088,140			18,905,880


Extraordinary cash dividends declared per common share	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	0.50

Cash dividends declared per common share	$	0.15		$	0.12		$	0.45		$	0.36

See accompanying notes.

AMERISAFE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(in thousands)

(unaudited)


	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2015		2014		2015		2014
Net income	$	17,940	$	13,479	$	47,389	$	36,801

Other comprehensive income:
Unrealized gain on securities, net of tax		1,308		117		550		6,373

Comprehensive income	$	19,248	$	13,596	$	47,939	$	43,174

AMERISAFE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

(in thousands, except share data)

(unaudited)


	Common Stock				Treasury Stock						Additional Paid-In Capital		Accumulated Earnings			Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss		Total
	Shares		Amount		Shares			Amounts			Additional Paid-In Capital		Accumulated Earnings			Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss		Total
Balance at December 31, 2014		20,155,936	$	201		(1,258,250	)	$	(22,370	)	$	199,138	$	267,189		$	2,810	$	446,968
Comprehensive income		—		—		—			—			—		47,389			550		47,939
Options exercised		156,850		2		—			—			1,275		—			—		1,277
Tax benefit from share-based payments		—		—		—			—			1,795		—			—		1,795
Restricted common stock issued		39,256		—		—			—			502		—			—		502
Share-based compensation		—		—		—			—			612		—			—		612
Dividends to stockholders		—		—		—			—			—		(8,517	)		—		(8,517	)

Balance at September 30, 2015		20,352,042	$	203		(1,258,250	)	$	(22,370	)	$	203,322	$	306,061		$	3,360	$	490,576

See accompanying notes.

AMERISAFE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(in thousands)

(unaudited)


	Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2015			2014
Operating Activities
Net income	$	47,389		$	36,801
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation		1,030			958
Net amortization of investments		12,295			11,336
Deferred income taxes		(752	)		(3,616	)
Net realized (gains)/losses on investments		2,518			(181	)
Net realized losses on sale of fixed assets		24			—
Share-based compensation		691			988
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Premiums receivable, net		(15,169	)		(22,036	)
Accrued interest receivable		(571	)		(26	)
Deferred policy acquisition costs		(1,440	)		(1,845	)
Amounts held by others		(27,847	)		(1,081	)
Other assets		(1,712	)		(2,669	)
Reserves for loss and loss adjustment expenses		33,108			62,052
Unearned premiums		7,694			14,153
Reinsurance balances		(5,773	)		(13,817	)
Amounts held for others and policyholder deposits		5,682			9,423
Accounts payable and other liabilities		5,555			12,354

Net cash provided by operating activities		62,722			102,794

Investing Activities
Purchases of investments held-to-maturity		(145,771	)		(151,608	)
Purchases of investments available-for-sale		(114,406	)		(104,172	)
Purchases of short-term investments		(7,000	)		(72,900	)
Proceeds from maturities of investments held-to-maturity		115,656			79,042
Proceeds from sales and maturities of investments available-for-sale		70,652			42,633
Proceeds from sales and maturities of short-term investments		33,341			112,652
Purchases of property and equipment		(759	)		(771	)

Net cash used in investing activities		(48,287	)		(95,124	)

Financing Activities
Proceeds from stock option exercises		1,277			1,820
Tax benefit from share-based payments		1,795			1,975
Dividends to stockholders		(8,564	)		(15,998	)

Net cash used in financing activities		(5,492	)		(12,203	)

Change in cash and cash equivalents		8,943			(4,533	)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period		90,956			123,077

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$	99,899		$	118,544

See accompanying notes.

AMERISAFE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

Note 1. Basis of Presentation

AMERISAFE, Inc. (the “Company”) is an insurance holding company incorporated in the state of Texas. The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its subsidiaries: American Interstate Insurance Company (“AIIC”), Silver Oak Casualty, Inc. (“SOCI”), American Interstate Insurance Company of Texas (“AIICTX”), Amerisafe Risk Services, Inc. (“RISK”) and Amerisafe General Agency, Inc. (“AGAI”). AIIC and SOCI are property and casualty insurance companies organized under the laws of the state of Nebraska. AIICTX is a property and casualty insurance company organized under the laws of the state of Texas. RISK, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, is a claims and safety services company, currently servicing only affiliated insurance companies. AGAI, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, is a general agent for the Company. AGAI sells insurance, which is underwritten by AIIC, SOCI and AIICTX, as well as by nonaffiliated insurance carriers. The assets and operations of AGAI are not significant to that of the Company and its consolidated subsidiaries. The terms “AMERISAFE,” the “Company,” “we,” “us” or “our” refer to AMERISAFE, Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries, as the context requires.

The Company provides workers’ compensation insurance for small to mid-sized employers engaged in hazardous industries, principally construction, trucking, manufacturing, oil and gas, and agriculture. Assets and revenues of AIIC represent at least 95% of comparable consolidated amounts of the Company for each of 2015 and 2014.

In the opinion of management of the Company, the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements contain all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring accruals) necessary to present fairly the financial position, the results of operations and cash flows for the periods presented. The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the instructions to Form 10-Q under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and therefore do not include all information and footnotes to be in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”). The results for the interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results of operations that may be expected for the year. The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements contained herein should be read in conjunction with our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014.

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified to conform with the current year presentation.

Note 2. Stock Options and Restricted Stock

As of September 30, 2015, the Company has three equity incentive plans: the AMERISAFE 2005 Equity Incentive Plan (the “2005 Incentive Plan”), the AMERISAFE 2010 Non-Employee Director Restricted Stock Plan (the “2010 Restricted Stock Plan”) and the AMERISAFE 2012 Equity and Incentive Compensation Plan (the “2012 Incentive Plan”). The 2005 Incentive Plan expired on October 27, 2015. No grants will be made under the 2005 Incentive Plan after October 27, 2015 but all grants made on or prior to such date will continue in effect thereafter subject to the terms and conditions of the 2005 Incentive Plan. See Note 12 to our consolidated financial statements included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014 for additional information regarding the Company’s incentive plans.

During the nine months ended September 30, 2015, the Company granted 50,461 and 7,112 shares of restricted common stock to executive officers and non-employee directors, respectively. The market value of the restricted shares granted totaled $2.6 million. During the nine months ended September 30, 2014, the Company granted 4,312 and 4,866 shares of restricted common stock to executive officers and non-employee directors, respectively. The market value of the restricted shares granted totaled $0.4 million.

During the nine months ended September 30, 2015, options to purchase 156,850 shares of common stock were exercised. During the nine months ended September 30, 2014, options to purchase 204,667 shares of common stock were exercised. In connection with these exercises, the Company received $1.3 million and $1.8 million of stock option proceeds, respectively.

The Company recognized share-based compensation expense of $0.7 million in the nine months ended September 30, 2015 and $1.0 million for the same period of 2014.

Note 3. Earnings Per Share

The Company computes earnings per share (“EPS”) in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 260, Earnings Per Share. The Company has no participating unvested common shares which contain nonforfeitable rights to dividends and applies the treasury stock method in computing basic and diluted earnings per share.

Basic EPS is calculated by dividing income available to common shareholders by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period. The diluted EPS calculation includes potential common shares assumed issued under the treasury stock method, which reflects the potential dilution that would occur if any outstanding options or warrants were exercised or restricted stock becomes vested, and includes the “if converted” method for participating securities if the effect is dilutive.


	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2015		2014		2015		2014
	(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
Basic EPS:
Net income available to common shareholders - basic	$	17,940	$	13,479	$	47,389	$	36,801

Basic weighted average common shares		18,968,718		18,676,033		18,911,675		18,603,227
Basic earnings per common share	$	0.95	$	0.72	$	2.51	$	1.98

Diluted EPS:
Net income available to common shareholders - diluted	$	17,940	$	13,479	$	47,389	$	36,801

Diluted weighted average common shares:
Weighted average common shares		18,968,718		18,676,033		18,911,675		18,603,227
Stock options and performance shares		127,541		253,744		176,465		302,653

Diluted weighted average common shares		19,096,259		18,929,777		19,088,140		18,905,880

Diluted earnings per common share	$	0.94	$	0.71	$	2.48	$	1.95

Note 4. Investments

The gross unrealized gains and losses on, and the amortized cost and fair value of, those investments classified as held-to-maturity at September 30, 2015 are summarized as follows:


	Amortized Cost		Gross Unrealized Gains		Gross Unrealized Losses			Fair Value
	(in thousands)
States and political subdivisions	$	417,804	$	16,307	$	(195	)	$	433,916
Corporate bonds		170,176		555		(241	)		170,490
Commercial mortgage-backed securities		43,396		586		—			43,982
U.S. agency-based mortgage-backed securities		14,094		1,393		(1	)		15,486
U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. Government agencies		12,365		1,074		—			13,439
Asset-backed securities		2,415		224		(59	)		2,580

Totals	$	660,250	$	20,139	$	(496	)	$	679,893

The gross unrealized gains and losses on, and the cost or amortized cost and fair value of, those investments classified as available-for-sale at September 30, 2015 are summarized as follows:


	Cost or Amortized Cost		Gross Unrealized Gains		Gross Unrealized Losses			Fair Value
	(in thousands)
Fixed maturity:
States and political subdivisions	$	166,520	$	6,685	$	(447	)	$	172,758
Corporate bonds		189,169		762		(451	)		189,480
U.S. agency-based mortgage-backed securities		9,059		7		(1,471	)		7,595

Total fixed maturity		364,748		7,454		(2,369	)		369,833
Other investments		10,000		1,759		—			11,759
Equity securities		—		31		—			31

Totals	$	374,748	$	9,244	$	(2,369	)	$	381,623

The gross unrealized gains and losses on, and the amortized cost and fair value of, those investments classified as held-to-maturity at December 31, 2014 are summarized as follows:


	Amortized Cost		Gross Unrealized Gains		Gross Unrealized Losses			Fair Value
	(in thousands)
States and political subdivisions	$	385,623	$	20,100	$	(58	)	$	405,665
Corporate bonds		176,880		374		(520	)		176,734
Commercial mortgage-backed securities		46,662		1,867		—			48,529
U.S. agency-based mortgage-backed securities		16,972		1,702		(2	)		18,672
U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. Government agencies		10,697		1,097		(2	)		11,792
Asset-backed securities		2,797		264		(82	)		2,979

Totals	$	639,631	$	25,404	$	(664	)	$	664,371

The gross unrealized gains and losses on, and the cost or amortized cost and fair value of, those investments classified as available-for-sale at December 31, 2014 are summarized as follows:


	Cost or Amortized Cost		Gross Unrealized Gains		Gross Unrealized Losses			Fair Value
	(in thousands)
Fixed maturity:
States and political subdivisions	$	151,744	$	7,302	$	(1,672	)	$	157,374
Corporate bonds		165,412		428		(470	)		165,370
U.S. agency-based mortgage-backed securities		9,848		2		(1,352	)		8,498

Total fixed maturity		327,004		7,732		(3,494	)		331,242
Other investments		10,000		1,748		—			11,748
Equity securities		—		28		—			28

Totals	$	337,004	$	9,508	$	(3,494	)	$	343,018

A summary of the cost and fair value of investments in fixed maturity securities, classified as held-to-maturity at September 30, 2015, by contractual maturity, is as follows:


Remaining Time to Maturity	Amortized Cost Basis		Fair Value
	(in thousands)
Within one year	$	125,030	$	125,807
After one year through five years		281,139		289,630
After five years through ten years		123,928		129,689
After ten years		70,248		72,719
U.S. agency-based mortgage-backed securities		14,094		15,486
Commercial mortgage-backed securities		43,396		43,982
Asset-backed securities		2,415		2,580

Total	$	660,250	$	679,893

A summary of cost and fair value of investments in fixed maturity securities, classified as available-for-sale at September 30, 2015, by contractual maturity, is as follows:


Remaining Time to Maturity	Amortized Cost Basis		Fair Value
	(in thousands)
Within one year	$	31,131	$	31,258
After one year through five years		183,756		185,173
After five years through ten years		25,294		25,470
After ten years		115,508		120,337
U.S. agency-based mortgage-backed securities		9,059		7,595

Total	$	364,748	$	369,833

The following table summarizes the fair value and gross unrealized losses on securities, aggregated by major investment category and length of time that the individual securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position:


	Less Than 12 Months				12 Months or Greater				Total
	Fair Value of Investments with Unrealized Losses		Gross Unrealized Losses		Fair Value of Investments with Unrealized Losses		Gross Unrealized Losses		Fair Value of Investments with Unrealized Losses		Gross Unrealized Losses
	(in thousands)
September 30, 2015
Held-to-Maturity
Fixed maturity securities:
Corporate bonds	$	52,041	$	192	$	20,270	$	49	$	72,311	$	241
States and political subdivisions		36,630		195		—		—		36,630		195
U.S. agency-based mortgage-backed securities		53		1		5		—		58		1
Asset-backed securities		—		—		1,480		59		1,480		59

Total held-to-maturity securities		88,724		388		21,755		108		110,479		496

Available-for Sale
Fixed maturity securities:
Corporate bonds	$	46,388	$	440	$	4,241	$	11	$	50,629	$	451
States and political subdivisions		11,419		61		4,263		386		15,682		447
U.S. agency-based mortgage-backed securities		486		26		7,023		1,445		7,509		1,471

Total available-for-sale securities		58,293		527		15,527		1,842		73,820		2,369

Total	$	147,017	$	915	$	37,282	$	1,950	$	184,299	$	2,865


	Less Than 12 Months				12 Months or Greater				Total
	Fair Value of Investments with Unrealized Losses		Gross Unrealized Losses		Fair Value of Investments with Unrealized Losses		Gross Unrealized Losses		Fair Value of Investments with Unrealized Losses		Gross Unrealized Losses
	(in thousands)
December 31, 2014
Held-to-Maturity
Fixed maturity securities:
Corporate bonds	$	129,788	$	520	$	—	$	—	$	129,788	$	520
States and political subdivisions		16,896		58		—		—		16,896		58
U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. Government agencies		3,385		2		—		—		3,385		2
U.S. agency-based mortgage-backed securities		78		2		—		—		78		2
Asset-backed securities		—		—		1,662		82		1,662		82

Total held-to-maturity securities		150,147		582		1,662		82		151,809		664


Available-for Sale
Fixed maturity securities:
Corporate bonds	$	106,185	$	470	$	—	$	—	$	106,185	$	470
States and political subdivisions		3,810		6		10,347		1,666		14,157		1,672
U.S. agency-based mortgage-backed securities		627		11		7,757		1,341		8,384		1,352

Total available-for-sale securities		110,622		487		18,104		3,007		128,726		3,494

Total	$	260,769	$	1,069	$	19,766	$	3,089	$	280,535	$	4,158

At September 30, 2015, the Company held 121 individual fixed maturity securities that were in an unrealized loss position, of which 28 individual fixed maturity securities were in a continuous unrealized loss position for longer than 12 months.

The Company holds investments in a long/short equity fund, accounted for under the equity method. The carrying value of this investment is $11.8 million at September 30, 2015.

Investment income is recognized as it is earned. The discount or premium on fixed maturity securities is amortized using the “constant yield” method. Anticipated prepayments, where applicable, are considered when determining the amortization of premiums or discounts. Realized investment gains and losses are determined using the specific identification method.

We regularly review our investment portfolio to evaluate the necessity of recording impairment losses for other-than-temporary declines in the fair value of specific investments. We consider various factors in determining if a decline in the fair value of an individual security is other-than-temporary. The key factors we consider are:

•

any reduction or elimination of preferred dividends, or nonpayment of scheduled principal or interest payments;

•

the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer of the applicable security, including any specific events that may affect its operations or earnings;

•

how long and by how much the fair value of the security has been below its cost or amortized cost;

•

any downgrades of the security by a rating agency;

•

our intent not to sell the security for a sufficient time period for it to recover its value;

•

the likelihood of being forced to sell the security before the recovery of its value; and

•

an evaluation as to whether there are any credit losses on debt securities.

We reviewed all securities with unrealized losses in accordance with the impairment policy described above. With the exception of four securities deemed to be other-than-temporarily impaired, the Company determined that the unrealized losses in the fixed maturity securities portfolio related primarily to changes in market interest rates since the date of purchase, current conditions in the capital markets and the impact of those conditions on market liquidity and prices generally, and the transfer of the investments from the available-for-sale classification to the held-to-maturity classification in January 2004. We expect to recover the carrying value of these securities as it is not more likely than not that we will be required to sell the securities before the recovery of the amortized cost basis.

During the nine months ended September 30, 2015, the Company impaired four fixed maturity securities in the amount of $2.7 million. The impairment charge is included in “Net realized gains/(losses) on investments” for 2015. We impaired the securities due to recent downgrades of the securities and the amount of the accumulated unrealized loss. After reviewing the change in relevant benchmark yields, the Company determined the loss was credit related.

During the nine months ended September 30, 2014, the Company impaired a fixed maturity security in the amount of $0.2 million. The impairment charge is included in “Net realized gains (losses) on investments” for 2014. We impaired the security due to a downgrade of the security and the amount of the accumulated unrealized loss.

Net realized losses in the nine months ended September 30, 2015 were $2.5 million resulting from an impairment loss of $2.7 million recognized for the other-than-temporary declines in the fair value of four fixed maturity securities. Net realized gains in the nine months ended September 30, 2014 were $0.2 million resulting from $0.4 million in gains on called fixed maturity securities offset by an impairment loss of $0.2 million recognized for the other-than-temporary decline in the fair value of a fixed maturity security.

Note 5. Income Taxes

In accordance with FASB ASC Topic 740, “Income Taxes,” we provide for the recognition and measurement of deferred income tax benefits based on the likelihood of their realization in future years. As of September 30, 2015, the Company had no material unrecognized tax benefits and no adjustments to liabilities or operations were required.

The Company recognizes interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions in income tax expense. There were no uncertain tax positions recognized for the periods ended September 30, 2015 and 2014.

Tax years 2011 through 2014 are subject to examination by the federal and state taxing authorities.

Note 6. Comprehensive Income and Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income

Comprehensive income was $19.2 million for the three months ended September 30, 2015, compared to $13.6 million for the three months ended September 30, 2014. Comprehensive income was $47.9 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2015, compared to $43.2 million for the same period in 2014. The difference between net income as reported and comprehensive income was due to changes in unrealized gains and losses, net of tax on available-for-sale securities.

Comprehensive income includes net income plus unrealized gains/losses on our available-for-sale investment securities, net of tax. In reporting comprehensive income on a net basis in the statement of income, we used a 35 percent tax rate. The following table illustrates the changes in the balance of each component of accumulated other comprehensive income for each period presented in the interim financial statements.


	Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2015			2014			2015			2014
	(in thousands)
Beginning balance	$	2,052		$	1,961		$	2,810		$	(4,295	)

Other comprehensive income/(loss) before reclassification		1,400			121			(188	)		6,192
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income		(92	)		(4	)		738			181

Net current period other comprehensive income/(loss)		1,308			117			550			6,373

Ending balance	$	3,360		$	2,078		$	3,360		$	2,078

The sale or other-than-temporary impairment of an available-for-sale security results in amounts being reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income to current period net income. The effects of reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income by the respective line items of net income are presented in the following table.


Component of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,						Affected line item in the statement of income
	2015			2014			2015			2014
	(in thousands)
Unrealized gains/(losses) on available-for-sale securities	$	142		$	1		$	464		$	(270	)	Net realized gains/(losses) on investments

Other-than-temporary impairment		—			5			(1,600	)		(8	)	Net realized gains/(losses) on investments


		142			6			(1,136	)		(278	)	Income before income taxes

		(50	)		(2	)		398			97		Income tax expense


	$	92		$	4		$	(738	)	$	(181	)	Net income

Note 7. Fair Value Measurements

We carry available-for-sale securities at fair value in our consolidated financial statements and determine fair value measurements and disclosure in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 820, “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures.”

The Company determines the fair values of its financial instruments based on the fair value hierarchy established in ASC Topic 820, which requires an entity to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value. The standard defines fair value, describes three levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair value, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements.

Fair value is defined in ASC Topic 820 as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. Fair value is the price to sell an asset or transfer a liability and, therefore, represents an exit price, not an entry price. Fair value is the exit price in the principal market (or, if lacking a principal market, the most advantageous market) in which the reporting entity would transact. Fair value is a market-based measurement, not an entity-specific measurement, and, as such, is determined based on the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. The exit price objective of a fair value measurement applies regardless of the reporting entity’s intent and/or ability to sell the asset or transfer the liability at the measurement date.

ASC Topic 820 requires the use of valuation techniques that are consistent with the market approach, the income approach and/or the cost approach. The market approach uses prices and other relevant information generated by market transactions involving identical or comparable assets and liabilities. The income approach uses valuation techniques to convert future amounts, such as cash flows or earnings, to a single present value amount on a discounted basis. The cost approach is based on the amount that currently would be required to replace the service capacity of an asset, also known as current replacement cost. Valuation techniques used to measure fair value are to be consistently applied.

In ASC Topic 820, inputs refer broadly to the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability, including assumptions about risk, for example, the risk inherent in a particular valuation technique used to measure fair value (such as a pricing model) and/or the risk inherent in the inputs to the valuation technique. Inputs may be observable or unobservable:

•

Observable inputs are inputs that reflect the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability developed based on market data obtained from sources independent of the reporting entity.

•

Unobservable inputs are inputs that reflect the reporting entity’s own assumptions about the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability developed based on the best information available in the circumstances.

Valuation techniques used to measure fair value are intended to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs. ASC Topic 820 establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the use of inputs used in valuation techniques into the following three levels:

•

Level 1 inputs are quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the reporting entity has the ability to access at the measurement date.

•

Level 2 inputs are inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. Level 2 inputs include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability, or inputs that are derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data.

•

Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs for the asset or liability. Unobservable inputs are to be used to measure fair value to the extent that observable inputs are not available, thereby allowing for situations in which there is little, if any, market activity for the asset or liability at the measurement date.

In general, fair value is based upon quoted market prices, where available. If such quoted market prices are not available, fair value is based upon internally developed models that primarily use, as inputs, observable market-based parameters.

The fair values of the Company’s investments are based upon prices provided by an independent pricing service. The Company has reviewed these prices for reasonableness and has not adjusted any prices received from the independent provider. Securities reported at fair value utilizing Level 1 inputs represent assets whose fair value is determined based upon observable unadjusted quoted market prices for identical assets in active markets. Level 2 securities represent assets whose fair value is determined using observable market information such as previous day trade prices, quotes from less active markets or quoted prices of securities with similar characteristics. There were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 during the nine months ended September 30, 2015.

At September 30, 2015, assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are summarized below:


	September 30, 2015
	Level 1 Inputs		Level 2 Inputs		Level 3 Inputs		Total Fair Value
	(in thousands)
Financial instruments carried at fair value, classified as a part of:
Other investments	$	—	$	—	$	11,759	$	11,759
Securities available for sale—equity:
Domestic common stock		31		—		—		31
Securities available for sale—fixed maturity:
States and political subdivisions		—		172,758		—		172,758
Corporate bonds		—		189,480		—		189,480
U.S. agency-based mortgage-backed securities		—		7,595		—		7,595

Total securities available for sale—fixed maturity		—		369,833		—		369,833

Total available for sale	$	31	$	369,833	$	11,759	$	381,623

At September 30, 2015, assets and liabilities measured at amortized cost are summarized below:


	September 30, 2015
	Level 1 Inputs		Level 2 Inputs		Level 3 Inputs		Total Fair Value
	(in thousands)
Securities held-to-maturity—fixed maturity
States and political subdivisions	$	—	$	433,916	$	—	$	433,916
Corporate bonds		—		170,490		—		170,490
Commercial mortgage-backed securities		—		43,982		—		43,982
U.S. agency-based mortgage-backed securities		—		15,486		—		15,486
U.S. Treasury securities		13,439		—		—		13,439
Asset-backed securities		—		2,580		—		2,580

Total held-to-maturity	$	13,439	$	666,454	$	—	$	679,893

At December 31, 2014, assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are summarized below:


	December 31, 2014
	Level 1 Inputs		Level 2 Inputs		Level 3 Inputs		Total Fair Value
	(in thousands)
Financial instruments carried at fair value, classified as part of:
Other investments	$	—	$	—	$	11,748	$	11,748
Securities available for sale—equity:
Domestic common stock		28		—		—		28
Securities available for sale—fixed maturity:
States and political subdivisions		—		157,374		—		157,374
U.S. agency-based mortgage-backed securities		—		8,498		—		8,498
Corporate bonds		—		165,370		—		165,370

Total available for sale—fixed maturity	$	—	$	331,242	$	—	$	331,242

Total available for sale	$	28	$	331,242	$	11,748	$	343,018

At December 31, 2014, assets and liabilities measured at amortized cost are summarized below:


	December 31, 2014
	Level 1 Inputs		Level 2 Inputs		Level 3 Inputs		Total Fair Value
	(in thousands)
Securities held-to-maturity—fixed maturity:
States and political subdivisions	$	—	$	405,665	$	—	$	405,665
Corporate bonds		—		176,734		—		176,734
Commercial mortgage-backed securities		—		48,529		—		48,529
U.S. agency-based mortgage-backed securities		—		18,672		—		18,672
U.S. Treasury securities		11,792		—		—		11,792
Asset-backed securities		—		2,979		—		2,979

Total held-to-maturity	$	11,792	$	652,579	$	—	$	664,371

The Company determines fair value amounts for financial instruments using available third-party market information. When such information is not available, the Company determines the fair value amounts using appropriate valuation methodologies. Nonfinancial instruments such as real estate, property and equipment, deferred policy acquisition costs, deferred income taxes and loss and loss adjustment expense reserves are excluded from the fair value disclosure.

Cash and Cash Equivalents—The carrying amounts reported in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets for these financial instruments approximate their fair values, which are characterized as Level 1 assets.

Investments—The fair values for fixed maturity and equity securities are based on prices obtained from an independent pricing service. Equity and treasury securities are characterized as Level 1 assets, as their fair values are based on quoted prices in active markets. Fixed maturity securities, other than treasury securities, are characterized as Level 2 assets, as their fair values are determined using observable market inputs.

Short Term Investments—The carrying amounts reported in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets for these financial instruments approximate their fair values. These securities are characterized as Level 2 assets in the fair value hierarchy.

Other Investments—Other investments consist of limited partnership (LP) interests valued using the net asset value provided by the general partner of the LP, which approximates the fair value of the interest. The LP’s objective is to generate absolute returns by investing long and short in publicly-traded global securities. Redemptions are allowed monthly following a sixty day notice with no lock up periods. The Company has no unfunded commitments related to the LP. This investment is characterized as a Level 3 asset in the fair value hierarchy.

The following table summarizes the carrying values and corresponding fair values for financial instruments:


	As of September 30, 2015				As of December 31, 2014
	Carrying Amount		Fair Value		Carrying Amount		Fair Value
	(in thousands)
Assets:
Fixed maturity securities—held-to-maturity	$	660,250	$	679,893	$	639,631	$	664,371
Fixed maturity securities—available-for-sale		369,833		369,833		331,242		331,242
Equity securities		31		31		28		28
Cash and cash equivalents		99,899		99,899		90,956		90,956
Short-term investments		7,057		7,057		33,684		33,684
Other investments		11,759		11,759		11,748		11,748

The following table presents summary information regarding changes in the fair value of assets measured at fair value using Level 3 input.


	Nine Months Ended		Twelve Months Ended
	September 30, 2015		December 31, 2014
	(in thousands)
Beginning balance	$	11,748	$	10,591
Total unrealized gains		11		1,157

Ending balance	$	11,759	$	11,748

Note 8. Treasury Stock

The Company’s Board of Directors initiated a share repurchase program in February 2010. In October 2015, the Board reauthorized this program with a limit of $25.0 million. Unless reauthorized, the program will expire on December 31, 2016. Since the beginning of this plan, the Company has repurchased a total of 1,258,250 shares for $22.4 million, or an average price of $17.78, including commissions.

Note 9. Commitments and Contingencies

In February 2015, the Company was notified of an adverse verdict against its subsidiary, American Interstate Insurance Company, related to a 2009 workers’ compensation claim in the State of Iowa. The verdict was for $25.3 million, of which $0.3 million was for actual damages and $25.0 million was awarded for punitive damages. American Interstate is appealing both the verdict and the damage awards. The Company has posted an appeal bond in the amount of $27.8 million, as required by law. As of September 30, 2015, the Company’s total reserve for the claim was $2.6 million. The Company presently believes that this reserve amount, together with its reinsurance coverage, is adequate to satisfy this claim.

Note 10. Subsequent Events

On October 27, 2015, the Company’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.15 per share payable on December 28, 2015 to shareholders of record as of December 14, 2015. The Board intends to consider the payment of a regular cash dividend each calendar quarter.

On October 27, 2015, the Company’s Board of Directors declared an extraordinary cash dividend of $3.00 per share payable on December 28, 2015 to shareholders of record on December 14, 2015.

On October 27, 2015, the Company’s Board of Directors reauthorized the share repurchase program with a limit of $25.0 million. Unless reauthorized, the program will expire on December 31, 2016.

Item 2.

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

The following discussion should be read in conjunction with the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and the related notes included in Item 1of Part I of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, together with “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014.

We begin our discussion with an overview of our Company to give you an understanding of our business and the markets we serve. We then discuss our critical accounting policies. This is followed with a discussion of our results of operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2015 and 2014. This discussion includes an analysis of certain significant period-to-period variances in our consolidated statements of operations. Our cash flows and financial condition are discussed under the caption “Liquidity and Capital Resources.”

Business Overview

AMERISAFE is a holding company that markets and underwrites workers’ compensation insurance through its insurance subsidiaries. Workers’ compensation insurance covers statutorily prescribed benefits that employers are obligated to provide to their employees who are injured in the course and scope of their employment. Our business strategy is focused on providing this coverage to small to mid-sized employers engaged in hazardous industries, principally construction, trucking, manufacturing, oil and gas and agriculture. Employers engaged in hazardous industries pay substantially higher than average rates for workers’ compensation insurance compared to employers in other industries, as measured per payroll dollar. The higher premium rates are due to the nature of the work performed and the inherent workplace danger of our target employers. Hazardous industry employers also tend to have less frequent but more severe claims as compared to employers in other industries due to the nature of their businesses. We provide proactive safety reviews of employers’ workplaces. These safety reviews are a vital component of our underwriting process and also promote safer workplaces. We utilize intensive claims management practices that we believe permit us to reduce the overall cost of our claims. In addition, our audit services ensure that our policyholders pay the appropriate premiums required under the terms of their policies and enable us to monitor payroll patterns that cause underwriting, safety or fraud concerns. We believe that the higher premiums typically paid by our policyholders, together with our disciplined underwriting and safety, claims and audit services, provide us with the opportunity to earn attractive returns for our shareholders.

We actively market our insurance in 30 states and the District of Columbia through independent agencies, as well as through our wholly owned insurance agency subsidiary. We are also licensed in an additional 17 states and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Critical Accounting Policies

Understanding our accounting policies is key to understanding our financial statements. Management considers some of these policies to be very important to the presentation of our financial results because they require us to make significant estimates and assumptions. These estimates and assumptions affect the reported amounts of our assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses and related disclosures. Some of the estimates result from judgments that can be subjective and complex and, consequently, actual results in future periods might differ from these estimates.

Management believes that the most critical accounting policies relate to the reporting of reserves for loss and loss adjustment expenses, including losses that have occurred but have not been reported prior to the reporting date, amounts recoverable from reinsurers, premiums receivable, assessments, deferred policy acquisition costs, deferred income taxes, the impairment of investment securities and share-based compensation. These critical accounting policies are more fully described in Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014.

Results of Operations

The following table summarizes our consolidated financial results for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2015 and 2014.


	Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2015			2014			2015			2014
	(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
	(unaudited)
Gross premiums written	$	91,061		$	93,962		$	297,872		$	303,485
Net premiums earned		90,504			95,928			280,860			278,677
Net investment income		6,923			6,495			20,646			20,048
Total revenues		97,470			102,336			299,194			299,133
Total expenses		71,580			82,988			231,995			249,320
Net income		17,940			13,479			47,389			36,801
Diluted earnings per common share	$	0.94		$	0.71		$	2.48		$	1.95

Other Key Measures
Net combined ratio (1)		79.1	%		86.4	%		82.6	%		89.5	%
Return on average equity (2)		14.9	%		12.2	%		13.5	%		11.3	%
Book value per share (3)	$	25.69		$	23.85		$	25.69		$	23.85

(1)	The net combined ratio is calculated by dividing the sum of loss and loss adjustment expenses incurred, underwriting and certain other operating costs, commissions, salaries and benefits, and policyholder dividends by net premiums earned in the current period.

(2)	Return on average equity is calculated by dividing the annualized net income by the average shareholders’ equity for the applicable period.

(3)	Book value per share is calculated by dividing shareholders’ equity by total outstanding shares, as of the end of the period.

Consolidated Results of Operations for Three Months Ended September 30, 2015 Compared to September 30, 2014

Gross Premiums Written. Gross premiums written for the quarter ended September 30, 2015 were $91.1 million, compared to $94.0 million for the same period in 2014, a decrease of 3.1%. The decrease was attributable to a $4.6 million decrease in premiums resulting from payroll audits and related premium adjustments for policies written in previous quarters. These decreases were partially offset by a $2.0 million increase in annual premiums on voluntary policies written during the period and a $0.1 million increase in assumed premium from mandatory pooling arrangements. The effective loss cost multiplier, or LCM, for our voluntary business was 1.77 for the quarter ended September 30, 2015 compared to 1.80 for the same period in 2014.

Net Premiums Written. Net premiums written for the quarter ended September 30, 2015 were $86.8 million, compared to $90.1 million for the same period in 2014, a decrease of 3.7%. The decrease was primarily attributable to the decrease in gross premiums written. As a percentage of gross premiums earned, ceded premiums were 4.5% for the third quarter of 2015 compared to 3.8% for the third quarter of 2014. The increase in ceded premiums as a percentage of gross premiums earned reflects additional ceded premium of $1.8 million resulting from ceded losses offset by improved pricing for our 2015 reinsurance program. For additional information, see Item 1, “Business—Reinsurance” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014.

Net Premiums Earned. Net premiums earned for the third quarter of 2015 were $90.5 million, compared to $95.9 million for the same period in 2014, a decrease of 5.7%. The decrease was attributable to the decrease in net premiums written in the quarter and a decrease in the change in unearned premiums.

Net Investment Income. Net investment income for the quarter ended September 30, 2015 was $6.9 million, compared to $6.5 million for the same period in 2014, an increase of 6.6%. Average invested assets, including cash and cash equivalents increased 5.5% to $1.1 billion in the quarter ended September 30, 2015. The pre-tax investment yield on our investment portfolio was 2.4% per annum during the quarters ended September 30, 2015 and 2014. The tax-equivalent yield on our investment portfolio was 3.5% per annum for the quarters ended September 30, 2015 and 2014. The tax-equivalent yield is calculated using the effective interest rate and a 35% marginal tax rate.

Net Realized Gains/(Losses) on Investments. Net realized gains on investments for the three months ended September 30, 2015 were immaterial compared to net realized losses of $0.2 million for the same period in 2014. Net realized losses in the third quarter of 2014 were attributable to an other-than-temporary impairment of a fixed maturity security.

Loss and Loss Adjustment Expenses Incurred. Loss and loss adjustment expenses (“LAE”) incurred totaled $48.9 million for the three months ended September 30, 2015, compared to $61.8 million for the same period in 2014, a decrease of $12.9 million, or 20.8%. The current accident year losses and LAE incurred were $63.2 million, or 69.8% of net premiums earned, compared to $68.6 million, or 71.5% of net premiums earned, for the same period in 2014. We recorded favorable prior accident year development of $14.2 million in the third quarter of 2015, compared to favorable prior accident year development of $6.8 million in the same period of 2014, as further discussed below in “Prior Year Development.” Our net loss ratio was 54.1% in the third quarter of 2015, compared to 64.4% for the same period of 2014.

Underwriting and Certain Other Operating Costs, Commissions and Salaries and Benefits. Underwriting and certain other operating costs, commissions and salaries and benefits for the quarter ended September 30, 2015 were $22.3 million, compared to $21.0 million for the same period in 2014, an increase of 5.9%. This increase was primarily due to a $1.1 million decrease in reinsurance contingent profit commission and a $0.5 million increase in insurance related assessments. Offsetting these increases was a $0.3 million decrease in commission expense. Our expense ratio was 24.6% in the third quarter of 2015 compared to 21.9% in the third quarter of 2014.

Income Tax Expense. Income tax expense for the three months ended September 30, 2015 was $8.0 million, compared to $5.9 million for the same period in 2014. The increase was attributable to an increase in the pre-tax income to $25.9 million in the quarter ended September 30, 2015 from $19.3 million in the same period in 2014. The effective tax rate increased to 30.7% in the quarter ended September 30, 2015 from 30.3% in the same period in 2014.

Consolidated Results of Operations for Nine Months Ended September 30, 2015 Compared to September 30, 2014

Gross Premiums Written. Gross premiums written for the first nine months of 2015 were $297.9 million, compared to $303.5 million for the same period in 2014, a decrease of 1.8%. The decrease was attributable to a $3.4 million decrease in premiums

resulting from payroll audits and related premium adjustments for policies written in previous quarters and a $2.0 million decrease in annual premiums on voluntary policies written during the period. These decreases were partially offset by a $0.3 million increase in assumed premium from mandatory pooling arrangements. The effective LCM for our voluntary business was 1.80 for the nine months ended September 30, 2015 compared to 1.84 for the same period in 2014.

Net Premiums Written. Net premiums written for the nine months ended September 30, 2015 were $288.6 million, compared to $292.8 million for the same period in 2014, a decrease of 1.5%. The decrease was primarily attributable to the decrease in gross premiums written. As a percentage of gross premiums earned, ceded premiums were 3.2% and 3.7% for the first nine months of 2015 and 2014, respectively. The decrease in ceded premiums as a percentage of gross premiums earned reflects improved pricing for our 2015 reinsurance program offset by an increase of $1.8 million of additional ceded premium as a result of ceded losses during the period. For additional information, see Item 1, “Business—Reinsurance” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014.

Net Premiums Earned. Net premiums earned for the first nine months of 2015 were $280.9 million, compared to $278.7 million for the same period in 2014, an increase of 0.8%. The increase was attributable to premium written during 2014.

Net Investment Income. Net investment income for the first nine months of 2015 was $20.6 million, compared to $20.0 million for the same period in 2014, an increase of 3.0%. Average invested assets, including cash and cash equivalents, were $1.1 billion in the nine months ended September 30, 2015, compared to $1.0 billion for the same period in 2014, an increase of 8.5%. The pre-tax investment yield on our investment portfolio was 2.4% per annum during the nine months ended September 30, 2015, compared to 2.6% per annum during the same period in 2014. The tax-equivalent yield on our investment portfolio was 3.5% per annum for the first nine months of 2015 and 2014. The tax-equivalent yield is calculated using the effective interest rate and a 35% marginal tax rate.

Net Realized Gains/(Losses) on Investments. Net realized losses on investments for the nine months ended September 30, 2015 totaled $2.5 million, compared to net realized gains of $0.2 million for the same period in 2014. Net realized losses in the first nine months of 2015 were attributable to other-than-temporary impairments of four fixed maturity securities of $2.7 million. Net realized gains in the first nine months of 2014 were attributable to realized gains from the redemption of corporate bonds of $0.4 million offset by an other-than-temporary impairment of a fixed maturity security of $0.2 million.

Loss and Loss Adjustment Expenses Incurred. Loss and LAE incurred totaled $166.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2015, compared to $185.6 million for the same period in 2014, a decrease of $19.3 million, or 10.4%. The current accident year losses and LAE incurred were $196.0 million, or 69.8% of net premiums earned, compared to $199.3 million, or 71.5% of net premiums earned, for the same period in 2014. We recorded favorable prior accident year development of $29.8 million in the first nine months of 2015, compared to favorable prior accident year development of $13.7 million in the same period of 2014, as further discussed below in “Prior Year Development.” Our net loss ratio was 59.2% in the first nine months of 2015, compared to 66.6% for the same period of 2014.

Underwriting and Certain Other Operating Costs, Commissions and Salaries and Benefits. Underwriting and certain other operating costs, commissions and salaries and benefits for the nine months ended September 30, 2015 were $64.7 million, compared to $63.4 million for the same period in 2014, an increase of 2.1%. This increase was primarily due to a $3.1 million decrease in reinsurance contingent profit commission offset by a $1.4 million decrease in insurance related assessments and a $0.7 million decrease in accounts receivable write-offs. Our expense ratio was 23.0% in the first nine months of 2015 compared to 22.8% in the same period of 2014.

Income Tax Expense. Income tax expense for the nine months ended September 30, 2015 was $19.8 million, compared to $13.0 million for the same period in 2014. The increase was attributable to an increase in pre-tax income to $67.2 million in the first nine months of 2015 from $49.8 million in the first nine months of 2014. The effective tax rate increased to 29.5% for the nine months ended September 30, 2015 from 26.1% for the nine months ended September 30, 2014.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Our principal sources of operating funds are premiums, investment income and proceeds from sales and maturities of investments. Our primary uses of operating funds include payments of claims and operating expenses. Currently, we pay claims using cash flow from operations and invest the remaining funds.

Net cash provided by operating activities was $62.7 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2015, which represented a $40.1 million decrease from $102.8 million in net cash provided by operating activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2014. This decrease in operating cash flow was attributable to a $26.8 million increase in amounts held by others, an $8.1 million increase in underwriting expenses paid, a $4.4 million increase in federal income taxes paid and a $3.2 million increase in loss and loss adjustment expenses paid. Offsetting these decreases were a $2.0 million increase in premium collections, a $1.0 million increase in investment income, a $0.6 million increase in paid losses payable and a $0.5 million decrease in dividends paid.

Net cash used in investing activities was $48.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2015, compared to net cash used in investment activities of $95.1 million for the same period in 2014. Cash provided by sales and maturities of investments totaled $219.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2015, compared to $234.3 million for the same period in 2014. A total of $267.2 million in cash was used to purchase investments in the nine months ended September 30, 2015, compared to $328.7 million in purchases for the same period in 2014.

Net cash used in financing activities in the nine months ended September 30, 2015 was $5.5 million compared to net cash used in financing activities of $12.2 million for the same period in 2014. In the nine months ended September 30, 2015, $8.6 million of cash was used for dividends paid to shareholders compared to $16.0 million in the same period of 2014. Offsetting the payment of dividends were proceeds of $1.3 million and $1.8 million from stock option exercises in the nine months ended September 30, 2015 and 2014, respectively. During the nine months ended September 30, 2015, the tax benefit from share based compensation was $1.8 million compared to $2.0 million for the same period in 2014.

Investment Portfolio

Our investment portfolio, including cash and cash equivalents, totaled $1.1 billion on September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2014. Effective April 1, 2010, purchases of fixed maturity securities are classified as available-for-sale or held-to-maturity based on the individual security. Such classification is made at the time of purchase. The reported value of our fixed maturity securities classified as held-to-maturity, as defined by FASB ASC Topic 320, “Investments-Debt and Equity Securities,” was equal to their amortized cost, and thus was not impacted by changing interest rates. Our equity securities and fixed maturity securities classified as available-for-sale were reported at fair value.

The composition of our investment portfolio, including cash and cash equivalents, as of September 30, 2015, is shown in the following table:


	Carrying Value		Percentage of Portfolio
	(in thousands)
Fixed maturity securities—held-to-maturity:
States and political subdivisions	$	417,804		36.5	%
U.S. agency-based mortgage-backed securities		14,094		1.2	%
Commercial mortgage-backed securities		43,396		3.8	%
U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. Government agencies		12,365		1.1	%
Corporate bonds		170,176		14.9	%
Asset-backed securities		2,415		0.2	%

Total fixed maturity securities—held-to-maturity		660,250		57.7	%

Fixed maturity securities—available-for-sale:
States and political subdivisions		172,758		15.1	%
U.S. agency-based mortgage-backed securities		7,595		0.7	%
Corporate bonds		189,480		16.5	%

Total fixed maturity securities—available-for-sale		369,833		32.3	%

Equity securities		31		0.0	%
Short-term investments		7,057		0.5	%
Cash and cash equivalents		99,899		8.6	%
Other investments		11,759		0.9	%

Total investments, including cash and cash equivalents	$	1,148,829		100.0	%

Our securities classified as available-for-sale are “marked to market” as of the end of each calendar quarter. As of that date, unrealized gains and losses are recorded to Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, except when such securities are deemed to be other-than-temporarily impaired. For our securities classified as held-to-maturity, unrealized gains and losses are not recorded in the financial statements until realized or until a decline in fair value, below amortized cost, is deemed to be other-than-temporary.

During the nine months ended September 30, 2015, the Company recorded charges for four fixed maturity securities whose fair values were determined to be other-than-temporarily impaired. These charges are included in “Net realized gains/(losses) on investments”, and totaled $2.7 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2015.

During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, the Company recorded charges for a fixed maturity security whose fair value was determined to be other-than-temporarily impaired. These charges are included in “Net realized gains/(losses) on investments”, and totaled $0.2 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014.

Prior Year Development

The Company recorded favorable prior accident year development of $14.2 million in the three months ended September 30, 2015. The table below sets forth the favorable development for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2015 and 2014 for accident years 2010 through 2014 and, collectively, for all accident years prior to 2010.


	Favorable Development
	Three Months Ended September 30, 2015		Three Months Ended September 30, 2014		Nine Months Ended September 30, 2015		Nine Months Ended September 30, 2014
	(in millions)
Accident Year
2014	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	—
2013		3.3		—		4.3		—
2012		6.1		3.5		14.3		4.0
2011		—		—		1.1		—
2010		2.6		1.9		3.6		3.7
Prior to 2010		2.2		1.4		6.5		6.0

Total net development	$	14.2	$	6.8	$	29.8	$	13.7

The table below sets forth the number of open claims as of September 30, 2015 and 2014, and the number of claims reported and closed during the three and nine months then ended.


	Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2015			2014			2015			2014
Open claims at beginning of period		5,236			5,342			5,515			5,297
Claims reported		1,593			1,668			4,196			4,387
Claims closed		(1,386	)		(1,438	)		(4,268	)		(4,112	)

Open claims at end of period		5,443			5,572			5,443			5,572

The number of open claims at September 30, 2015 decreased by 129 claims as compared to the number of open claims at September 30, 2014. Efforts continue to close prior year claims, especially in those circumstances where the claim could be settled for less than the corresponding case reserve amount (which amount represents the estimated ultimate cost to settle the claim, undiscounted). Management believes that these efforts have contributed, in part, to the favorable prior accident year development recorded for the three months ended September 30, 2015.

Our reserves for loss and loss adjustment expenses are inherently uncertain and our focus on providing workers’ compensation insurance to employers engaged in hazardous industries results in our receiving relatively fewer but more severe claims than many other workers’ compensation insurance companies. As a result of this focus on higher severity, lower frequency business, our reserve for loss and loss adjustment expenses may have greater volatility than other workers’ compensation insurance companies. For additional information, see Item 1, “Business—Loss Reserves” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014.

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.

Market risk is the risk of potential economic loss principally arising from adverse changes in the fair value of financial instruments. The major components of market risk affecting us are credit risk, interest rate risk and equity price risk. We currently have no exposure to foreign currency risk.

Since December 31, 2014, there have been no material changes in the quantitative or qualitative aspect of our market risk profile. For additional information regarding the Company’s exposure to certain market risks, see Item 7A, “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014.

Item 4.

Controls and Procedures.

Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our chief executive officer and chief financial officer, we have evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”)) as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on that evaluation, our chief executive officer and chief financial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the end of the period covered by this report to provide reasonable assurance that information we are required to disclose in reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the rules and forms. We note that the design of any system of controls is based in part upon assumptions about the likelihood of future events, and there can be no assurance that any design will succeed in achieving the stated goals under all potential future conditions.

Because of its inherent limitations, management does not expect that our disclosure controls and procedures and our internal controls over financial reporting will prevent or detect all 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 and procedures may deteriorate. Any control system, no matter how well designed and operated, is based upon certain assumptions and can only provide reasonable, not absolute assurance that its objectives will be met. Further, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that misstatements due to errors or fraud will not occur or that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any within the Company, have been detected.

There have not been any changes in our internal control over financial reporting during the period covered by this report that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

PART II—OTHER INFORMATION

Item 2.

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds.

The Board of Directors initially authorized the Company’s share repurchase program in February 2010. In October 2015, the Board reauthorized this program. As of September 30, 2015, we had repurchased a total of 1,258,250 shares of our outstanding common stock for $22.4 million. There were no shares purchased during the nine months ended September 30, 2015 and 2014. We intend to purchase shares of our common stock from time to time depending upon market conditions and subject to applicable regulatory considerations. It is anticipated that future purchases will be funded from available capital. At September 30, 2015, the dollar value of shares that may yet be purchased under the program is $25.0 million.

Item 6.

Exhibits.


Exhibit No.		Description

10.1		Employment Agreement effective as of September 15, 2015 by and between the Company and Neal A. Fuller incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed August 31, 2015

31.1		Certification of G. Janelle Frost filed pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

31.2		Certification of Neal A. Fuller filed pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

32.1		Certification of G. Janelle Frost and Neal A. Fuller filed pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

101.INS		XBRL Instance Document

101.SCH		XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document

101.CAL		XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document

101.LAB		XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document

101.PRE		XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document

101.DEF		XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.


				AMERISAFE, INC.

October 30, 2015				/s/ G. Janelle Frost
				G. Janelle Frost
				President and Chief Executive Officer
				(Principal Executive Officer)

October 30, 2015				/s/ Neal A. Fuller
				Neal A. Fuller Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
				(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)

EXHIBIT INDEX


Exhibit No.		Description

10.1		Employment Agreement effective as of September 15, 2015 by and between the Company and Neal A. Fuller incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed August 31, 2015

31.1		Certification of G. Janelle Frost filed pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

31.2		Certification of Neal A. Fuller filed pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

32.1		Certification of G. Janelle Frost and Neal A. Fuller filed pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

101.INS		XBRL Instance Document

101.SCH		XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document

101.CAL		XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document

101.LAB		XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document

101.PRE		XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document

101.DEF		XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document

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