10-Q
 
 
UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
 ______________________________________
Form 10-Q
(Mark One)
þ
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
FOR THE QUARTERLY PERIOD ENDED MARCH 31, 2016
or
¨
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
FOR THE TRANSITION PERIOD FROM TO
Commission file number: 001-15787
 ________________________________________
MetLife, Inc.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Delaware
 
13-4075851
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
 
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)
 
 
200 Park Avenue, New York, N.Y.
 
10166-0188
(Address of principal executive offices)
 
(Zip Code)
(212) 578-9500
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
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 þ 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 þ No ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
Large accelerated filer
þ
 
 
Accelerated filer
¨
Non-accelerated filer
¨
(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
 
Smaller reporting company
¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes ¨No þ
At April 29, 2016, 1,098,666,690 shares of the registrant’s common stock, $0.01 par value per share, were outstanding.
 
 



Table of Contents
 
 
Page
 
Item 1.
Financial Statements (at March 31, 2016 (Unaudited) and December 31, 2015 and for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2016 and 2015 (Unaudited))
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Item 2.
Item 3.
Item 4.
 
 
 
 
Item 1.
Item 1A.
Item 2.
Item 6.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 


Table of Contents

As used in this Form 10Q, “MetLife,” the “Company,” “we,” “our” and “us” refer to MetLife, Inc., a Delaware corporation incorporated in 1999, its subsidiaries and affiliates.
Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
This Quarterly Report on Form 10‑Q, including Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, may contain or incorporate by reference information that includes or is based upon forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements give expectations or forecasts of future events. These statements can be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. They use words such as “anticipate,” “estimate,” “expect,” “project,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe” and other words and terms of similar meaning, or are tied to future periods, in connection with a discussion of future operating or financial performance. In particular, these include statements relating to future actions, prospective services or products, future performance or results of current and anticipated services or products, sales efforts, expenses, the outcome of contingencies such as legal proceedings, trends in operations and financial results.
Any or all forward-looking statements may turn out to be wrong. They can be affected by inaccurate assumptions or by known or unknown risks and uncertainties. Many such factors will be important in determining the actual future results of MetLife, Inc., its subsidiaries and affiliates. These statements are based on current expectations and the current economic environment. They involve a number of risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict. These statements are not guarantees of future performance. Actual results could differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. Risks, uncertainties, and other factors that might cause such differences include the risks, uncertainties and other factors identified in MetLife, Inc.’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. These factors include: (1) difficult conditions in the global capital markets; (2) increased volatility and disruption of the global capital and credit markets, which may affect our ability to meet liquidity needs and access capital, including through our credit facilities, generate fee income and market-related revenue and finance statutory reserve requirements and may require us to pledge collateral or make payments related to declines in value of specified assets, including assets supporting risks ceded to certain of our captive reinsurers or hedging arrangements associated with those risks; (3) exposure to global financial and capital market risks, including as a result of the disruption in Europe and possible withdrawal of one or more countries from the Euro zone; (4) impact on us of comprehensive financial services regulation reform, including potential regulation of MetLife, Inc. as a non-bank systemically important financial institution, or otherwise; (5) numerous rulemaking initiatives required or permitted by the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act which may impact how we conduct our business, including those compelling the liquidation of certain financial institutions; (6) regulatory, legislative or tax changes relating to our insurance, international, or other operations that may affect the cost of, or demand for, our products or services, or increase the cost or administrative burdens of providing benefits to employees; (7) adverse results or other consequences from litigation, arbitration or regulatory investigations; (8) our ability to address difficulties, unforeseen liabilities, asset impairments, or rating agency actions arising from (a) business acquisitions and integrating and managing the growth of such acquired businesses, (b) dispositions of businesses via sale, initial public offering, spin-off or otherwise, (c) entry into joint ventures, or (d) legal entity reorganizations; (9) potential liquidity and other risks resulting from our participation in a securities lending program and other transactions; (10) investment losses and defaults, and changes to investment valuations; (11) changes in assumptions related to investment valuations, deferred policy acquisition costs, deferred sales inducements, value of business acquired or goodwill; (12) impairments of goodwill and realized losses or market value impairments to illiquid assets; (13) defaults on our mortgage loans; (14) the defaults or deteriorating credit of other financial institutions that could adversely affect us; (15) economic, political, legal, currency and other risks relating to our international operations, including with respect to fluctuations of exchange rates; (16) downgrades in our claims paying ability, financial strength or credit ratings; (17) a deterioration in the experience of the closed block established in connection with the reorganization of Metropolitan Life Insurance Company; (18) availability and effectiveness of reinsurance or indemnification arrangements, as well as any default or failure of counterparties to perform; (19) differences between actual claims experience and underwriting and reserving assumptions; (20) ineffectiveness of risk management policies and procedures; (21) catastrophe losses; (22) increasing cost and limited market capacity for statutory life insurance reserve financings; (23) heightened competition, including with respect to pricing, entry of new competitors, consolidation of distributors, the development of new products by new and existing competitors, and for personnel; (24) exposure to losses related to variable annuity guarantee benefits, including from significant and sustained downturns or extreme volatility in equity markets, reduced interest rates, unanticipated policyholder behavior, mortality or longevity; (25) regulatory and other restrictions affecting MetLife, Inc.’s ability to pay dividends and repurchase common stock; (26) MetLife, Inc.’s primary reliance, as a holding company, on dividends from its subsidiaries to meet its free cash flow targets and debt payment obligations and the applicable regulatory restrictions on the ability of the subsidiaries to pay such dividends; (27) the possibility that MetLife, Inc.’s Board of Directors may influence the outcome of stockholder votes through the voting provisions of the MetLife Policyholder Trust; (28) changes in accounting standards, practices and/or policies; (29) increased expenses relating to pension and postretirement benefit plans, as well as health care and other employee benefits; (30) inability to protect our intellectual property rights or claims of infringement of the intellectual property rights of others; (31) inability to attract and retain sales representatives; (32) provisions of laws and our incorporation documents may delay, deter or prevent takeovers and corporate combinations involving MetLife; (33) the effects of business disruption or economic contraction due to disasters such as terrorist attacks, cyberattacks, other hostilities, or natural catastrophes, including any related impact on the value of our investment portfolio, our disaster recovery systems, cyber- or other information security systems and management continuity planning; (34) the effectiveness of our programs and practices in avoiding giving our associates incentives to take excessive risks; and (35) other risks and uncertainties described from time to time in MetLife, Inc.’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.
MetLife, Inc. does not undertake any obligation to publicly correct or update any forward-looking statement if MetLife, Inc. later becomes aware that such statement is not likely to be achieved. Please consult any further disclosures MetLife, Inc. makes on related subjects in reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.
Corporate Information
We announce financial and other information about MetLife to our investors through the MetLife Investor Relations web page at www.metlife.com, as well as U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission filings, press releases, public conference calls and webcasts. MetLife encourages investors to visit the Investor Relations web page from time to time, as information is updated and new information is posted. The information found on our website is not incorporated by reference into this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q or in any other report or document we file with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, and any references to our website are intended to be inactive textual references only.
Note Regarding Reliance on Statements in Our Contracts
See “Exhibit Index — Note Regarding Reliance on Statements in Our Contracts” for information regarding agreements included as exhibits to this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.

2

Table of Contents


Part I — Financial Information
Item 1. Financial Statements
MetLife, Inc.
Interim Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited) and December 31, 2015
(In millions, except share and per share data)
 
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
Assets
 
 
 
 
Investments:
 
 
 
 
Fixed maturity securities available-for-sale, at estimated fair value (amortized cost: $343,412 and $332,964, respectively; includes $3,396 and $4,277, respectively, relating to variable interest entities)
 
$
371,981

 
$
351,402

Equity securities available-for-sale, at estimated fair value (cost: $3,010 and $2,997, respectively)
 
3,374

 
3,321

Fair value option and trading securities, at estimated fair value (includes $360 and $404, respectively, of actively traded securities; and $10 and $13, respectively, relating to variable interest entities)
 
14,993

 
15,024

Mortgage loans (net of valuation allowances of $381 and $318, respectively; includes $169 and $172, respectively, at estimated fair value, relating to variable interest entities; includes $392 and $314, respectively, under the fair value option)
 
68,651

 
67,102

Policy loans (includes $0 and $4, respectively, relating to variable interest entities)
 
11,257

 
11,258

Real estate and real estate joint ventures (includes $47 and $47, respectively, of real estate held-for-sale)
 
8,733

 
8,433

Other limited partnership interests (includes $27 and $27, respectively, relating to variable interest entities)
 
7,022

 
7,096

Short-term investments, principally at estimated fair value (includes $0 and $26, respectively, relating to variable interest entities)
 
11,621

 
9,299

Other invested assets, principally at estimated fair value (includes $43 and $43, respectively, relating to variable interest entities)
 
27,095

 
22,524

Total investments
 
524,727

 
495,459

Cash and cash equivalents, principally at estimated fair value (includes $18 and $85, respectively, relating to variable interest entities)
 
13,290

 
12,752

Accrued investment income (includes $1 and $23, respectively, relating to variable interest entities)
 
4,198

 
3,988

Premiums, reinsurance and other receivables (includes $3 and $21, respectively, relating to variable interest entities)
 
27,843

 
22,702

Deferred policy acquisition costs and value of business acquired (includes $0 and $240, respectively, relating to variable interest entities)
 
23,973

 
24,130

Current income tax recoverable
 
125

 
161

Goodwill
 
9,729

 
9,477

Other assets (includes $3 and $148, respectively, relating to variable interest entities)
 
7,496

 
7,666

Separate account assets (includes $0 and $1,022, respectively, relating to variable interest entities)
 
306,047

 
301,598

Total assets
 
$
917,428

 
$
877,933

Liabilities and Equity
 
 
 
 
Liabilities
 
 
 
 
Future policy benefits (includes $0 and $716, respectively, relating to variable interest entities)
 
$
196,967

 
$
191,879

Policyholder account balances (includes $0 and $21, respectively, relating to variable interest entities)
 
207,593

 
202,722

Other policy-related balances (includes $0 and $238, respectively, relating to variable interest entities)
 
14,435

 
14,255

Policyholder dividends payable
 
706

 
720

Policyholder dividend obligation
 
2,586

 
1,783

Payables for collateral under securities loaned and other transactions
 
41,165

 
36,871

Short-term debt
 
100

 
100

Long-term debt (includes $55 and $63, respectively, at estimated fair value, relating to variable interest entities)
 
17,915

 
18,023

Collateral financing arrangements
 
4,127

 
4,139

Junior subordinated debt securities
 
3,168

 
3,194

Deferred income tax liability
 
13,776

 
10,592

Other liabilities (includes $0 and $81, respectively, relating to variable interest entities)
 
32,878

 
23,561

Separate account liabilities (includes $0 and $1,022, respectively, relating to variable interest entities)
 
306,047

 
301,598

Total liabilities
 
841,463

 
809,437

Contingencies, Commitments and Guarantees (Note 13)
 

 

Redeemable noncontrolling interests in partially-owned consolidated subsidiaries
 

 
77

Equity
 
 
 
 
MetLife, Inc.’s stockholders’ equity:
 
 
 
 
Preferred stock, par value $0.01 per share; $2,100 aggregate liquidation preference
 

 

Common stock, par value $0.01 per share; 3,000,000,000 shares authorized; 1,161,534,632 and 1,159,590,766 shares issued, respectively; 1,098,526,527 and 1,098,028,525 shares outstanding, respectively
 
12

 
12

Additional paid-in capital
 
30,769

 
30,749

Retained earnings
 
37,301

 
35,519

Treasury stock, at cost; 63,008,105 and 61,562,241 shares, respectively
 
(3,172
)
 
(3,102
)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
 
10,865

 
4,771

Total MetLife, Inc.’s stockholders’ equity
 
75,775

 
67,949

Noncontrolling interests
 
190

 
470

Total equity
 
75,965

 
68,419

Total liabilities and equity
 
$
917,428

 
$
877,933

See accompanying notes to the interim condensed consolidated financial statements.

3

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Interim Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss)
For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2016 and 2015 (Unaudited)
(In millions, except per share data)

 
 
Three Months 
 Ended 
 March 31,
 
 
2016
 
2015
Revenues
 
 
 
 
Premiums
 
$
9,693

 
$
9,253

Universal life and investment-type product policy fees
 
2,344

 
2,394

Net investment income
 
4,559

 
5,461

Other revenues
 
487

 
495

Net investment gains (losses):
 
 
 
 
Other-than-temporary impairments on fixed maturity securities
 
(78
)
 
(8
)
Other-than-temporary impairments on fixed maturity securities transferred to other comprehensive income (loss)
 

 
(10
)
Other net investment gains (losses)
 
93

 
304

Total net investment gains (losses)
 
15

 
286

Net derivative gains (losses)
 
1,335

 
821

Total revenues
 
18,433

 
18,710

Expenses
 
 
 
 
Policyholder benefits and claims
 
9,678

 
9,257

Interest credited to policyholder account balances
 
1,326

 
1,995

Policyholder dividends
 
315

 
339

Other expenses
 
4,192

 
4,060

Total expenses
 
15,511

 
15,651

Income (loss) before provision for income tax
 
2,922

 
3,059

Provision for income tax expense (benefit)
 
719

 
896

Net income (loss)
 
2,203

 
2,163

Less: Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests
 
2

 
5

Net income (loss) attributable to MetLife, Inc.
 
2,201

 
2,158

Less: Preferred stock dividends
 
6

 
30

Net income (loss) available to MetLife, Inc.’s common shareholders
 
$
2,195

 
$
2,128

Comprehensive income (loss)
 
$
8,388

 
$
3,101

Less: Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests, net of income tax
 
93

 
63

Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to MetLife, Inc.
 
$
8,295

 
$
3,038

Net income (loss) available to MetLife, Inc.’s common shareholders per common share:
 
 
 
 
Basic
 
$
1.99

 
$
1.89

Diluted
 
$
1.98

 
$
1.87

Cash dividends declared per common share
 
$
0.375

 
$
0.350

See accompanying notes to the interim condensed consolidated financial statements.


4

Table of Contents

MetLife, Inc.
Interim Condensed Consolidated Statements of Equity
For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2016 and 2015 (Unaudited)
(In millions)
 
 
Preferred
Stock
 
Common
Stock
 
Additional
Paid-in
Capital
 
Retained
Earnings
 
Treasury
Stock
at Cost
 
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
 
Total
MetLife, Inc.’s
Stockholders’
Equity
 
Noncontrolling
Interests (1)
 
Total
Equity
Balance at December 31, 2015
 
$

 
$
12

 
$
30,749

 
$
35,519

 
$
(3,102
)
 
$
4,771

 
$
67,949

 
$
470

 
$
68,419

Treasury stock acquired in connection with share repurchases
 
 
 

 


 
 
 
(70
)
 
 
 
(70
)
 
 
 
(70
)
Stock-based compensation
 
 
 
 
 
20

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
20

 
 
 
20

Dividends on preferred stock
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(6
)
 
 
 
 
 
(6
)
 
 
 
(6
)
Dividends on common stock
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(413
)
 
 
 
 
 
(413
)
 
 
 
(413
)
Change in equity of noncontrolling interests
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
(373
)
 
(373
)
Net income (loss)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2,201

 
 
 
 
 
2,201

 
2

 
2,203

Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income tax
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
6,094

 
6,094

 
91

 
6,185

Balance at March 31, 2016
 
$

 
$
12

 
$
30,769

 
$
37,301

 
$
(3,172
)
 
$
10,865

 
$
75,775

 
$
190

 
$
75,965

 
 
Preferred
Stock
 
Common
Stock
 
Additional Paid-in Capital
 
Retained
Earnings
 
Treasury
Stock
at Cost
 
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
 
Total
MetLife, Inc.’s
Stockholders’
Equity
 
Noncontrolling
Interests (1)
 
Total
Equity
Balance at December 31, 2014
 
$
1

 
$
12

 
$
30,543

 
$
32,020

 
$
(1,172
)
 
$
10,649

 
$
72,053

 
$
507

 
$
72,560

Treasury stock acquired in connection with share repurchases
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(986
)
 
 
 
(986
)
 
 
 
(986
)
Stock-based compensation
 
 
 
 
 
89

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
89

 
 
 
89

Dividends on preferred stock
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(30
)
 
 
 
 
 
(30
)
 
 
 
(30
)
Dividends on common stock
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(394
)
 
 
 
 
 
(394
)
 
 
 
(394
)
Change in equity of noncontrolling interests
 
 
 
 
 


 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
(26
)
 
(26
)
Net income (loss)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2,158

 
 
 
 
 
2,158

 
5

 
2,163

Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income tax
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
880

 
880

 
58

 
938

Balance at March 31, 2015
 
$
1

 
$
12

 
$
30,632

 
$
33,754

 
$
(2,158
)
 
$
11,529

 
$
73,770

 
$
544

 
$
74,314

__________________
(1)
Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests did not exclude any gains of redeemable noncontrolling interests in partially-owned consolidated subsidiaries at March 31, 2016. Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests excluded gains of redeemable noncontrolling interests in partially-owned consolidated subsidiaries of less than $1 million at March 31, 2015.
See accompanying notes to the interim condensed consolidated financial statements.

5

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Interim Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2016 and 2015 (Unaudited)
(In millions)

 
Three Months 
 Ended 
 March 31,
 
2016
 
2015
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
$
1,964

 
$
2,686

Cash flows from investing activities
 
 
 
Sales, maturities and repayments of:
 
 
 
Fixed maturity securities
35,095

 
35,647

Equity securities
631

 
58

Mortgage loans
2,857

 
2,719

Real estate and real estate joint ventures
56

 
280

Other limited partnership interests
295

 
279

Purchases of:
 
 
 
Fixed maturity securities
(37,247
)
 
(33,305
)
Equity securities
(675
)
 
(107
)
Mortgage loans
(4,413
)
 
(5,559
)
Real estate and real estate joint ventures
(233
)
 
(140
)
Other limited partnership interests
(281
)
 
(275
)
Cash received in connection with freestanding derivatives
1,337

 
947

Cash paid in connection with freestanding derivatives
(1,173
)
 
(1,494
)
Cash received under repurchase agreements (Note 6)

 
199

Cash paid under reverse repurchase agreements (Note 6)

 
(199
)
Net change in policy loans
85

 
(7
)
Net change in short-term investments
(2,302
)
 
(5,690
)
Net change in other invested assets
252

 
(167
)
Other, net
(23
)
 
(86
)
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities
(5,739
)
 
(6,900
)
Cash flows from financing activities
 
 
 
Policyholder account balances:
 
 
 
Deposits
19,925

 
22,463

Withdrawals
(19,310
)
 
(22,736
)
Net change in payables for collateral under securities loaned and other transactions
4,161

 
1,985

Long-term debt issued

 
1,492

Long-term debt repaid
(5
)
 
(7
)
Collateral financing arrangements repaid
(12
)
 

Treasury stock acquired in connection with share repurchases
(70
)
 
(986
)
Dividends on preferred stock
(6
)
 
(30
)
Dividends on common stock
(413
)
 
(394
)
Other, net
(30
)
 
(64
)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
4,240

 
1,723

Effect of change in foreign currency exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents balances
73

 
(190
)
Change in cash and cash equivalents
538

 
(2,681
)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period
12,752

 
10,808

Cash and cash equivalents, end of period
$
13,290

 
$
8,127

Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information
 
 
 
Net cash paid (received) for:
 
 
 
Interest
$
249

 
$
214

Income tax
$
125

 
$
147

Non-cash transactions:

 
 
 
Reduction of fixed maturity securities in connection with a reinsurance transaction
$
224

 
$

Deconsolidation of operating joint venture (Note 6):
 
 
 
Reduction of fixed maturity securities
$
917

 
$

Reduction of noncontrolling interests

$
373

 
$

See accompanying notes to the interim condensed consolidated financial statements.

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Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

1. Business, Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Business
“MetLife” and the “Company” refer to MetLife, Inc., a Delaware corporation incorporated in 1999, its subsidiaries and affiliates. MetLife is a global provider of life insurance, annuities, employee benefits and asset management. MetLife is organized into six segments: Retail; Group, Voluntary & Worksite Benefits; Corporate Benefit Funding; and Latin America (collectively, the “Americas”); Asia; and Europe, the Middle East and Africa (“EMEA”).
Basis of Presentation
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) requires management to adopt accounting policies and make estimates and assumptions that affect amounts reported on the interim condensed consolidated financial statements. In applying these policies and estimates, management makes subjective and complex judgments that frequently require assumptions about matters that are inherently uncertain. Many of these policies, estimates and related judgments are common in the insurance and financial services industries; others are specific to the Company’s business and operations. Actual results could differ from estimates.
Consolidation
The accompanying interim condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of MetLife, Inc. and its subsidiaries, as well as partnerships and joint ventures in which the Company has control, and variable interest entities (“VIEs”) for which the Company is the primary beneficiary. Intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.
Prior to January 1, 2016, certain international subsidiaries had a fiscal year cutoff of November 30th. Accordingly, the Company’s interim condensed consolidated financial statements reflect the assets and liabilities of such subsidiaries as of November 30, 2015 and the operating results of such subsidiaries for the three months ended February 28, 2015. Effective January 1, 2016, the Company converted its Japan operations to calendar year-end reporting. The elimination of a one-month reporting lag of a subsidiary is considered a change in accounting principle and requires retrospective application. While the Company believes that eliminating the lag in the reporting of its Japan operations was preferable in order to consistently reflect events, economic conditions and global trends in the financial statements, the Company determined that it was impracticable to apply the effects of the lag elimination to financial reporting periods prior to January 1, 2015. The effect of not retroactively applying this change in accounting, however, was not material to the 2015 or 2016 consolidated financial statements. Therefore, the Company reported the cumulative effect of the change in accounting principle in net income for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and did not retrospectively apply the effects of this change to prior periods. See Note 2.
The Company uses the equity method of accounting for equity securities when it has significant influence or at least 20% interest and for real estate joint ventures and other limited partnership interests (“investees”) when it has more than a minor ownership interest or more than a minor influence over the investee’s operations, but does not have a controlling financial interest. The Company generally recognizes its share of the investee’s earnings on a three-month lag in instances where the investee’s financial information is not sufficiently timely or when the investee’s reporting period differs from the Company’s reporting period. The Company uses the cost method of accounting for investments in which it has virtually no influence over the investee’s operations.
Reclassifications
Certain amounts in the prior year periods’ interim condensed consolidated financial statements and related footnotes thereto have been reclassified to conform with the 2016 presentation as discussed throughout the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
The accompanying interim condensed consolidated financial statements are unaudited and reflect all adjustments (including normal recurring adjustments) necessary to present fairly the financial position, results of operations and cash flows for the interim periods presented in conformity with GAAP. Interim results are not necessarily indicative of full year performance. The December 31, 2015 consolidated balance sheet data was derived from audited consolidated financial statements included in MetLife, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10‑K for the year ended December 31, 2015 (the “2015 Annual Report”), which include all disclosures required by GAAP. Therefore, these interim condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements of the Company included in the 2015 Annual Report.

7

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
1. Business, Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued)

Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncement
Effective January 1, 2016, the Company retrospectively adopted new guidance relating to the consolidation of certain entities. The objective of the new standard is to improve targeted areas of the consolidation guidance and to reduce the number of consolidation models. The new consolidation standard provides guidance on how a reporting entity (i) evaluates whether the entity should consolidate limited partnerships and similar entities, (ii) assesses whether the fees paid to a decision maker or service provider are variable interests in a VIE, and (iii) assesses the variable interests in a VIE held by related parties of the reporting entity. The new guidance also eliminates the VIE consolidation model based on majority exposure to variability that applied to certain investment companies and similar entities. The adoption of the new guidance did not impact which entities are consolidated by the Company. The consolidated VIE assets and liabilities and unconsolidated VIE carrying amounts and maximum exposure to loss as of March 31, 2016, disclosed in Note 6, reflect the application of the new guidance.
Future Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements
In March 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued new guidance on stock compensation (Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2016-09, Compensation - Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Improvements to Employee Share-based Payment Accounting. The new guidance is effective for the fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within those fiscal years, and requires either a modified retrospective, a retrospective or a prospective transition approach depending upon the type of change. Early adoption is permitted in any interim or annual period. The new guidance changes several aspects of the accounting for share-based payment award transactions, including: (a) income tax consequences when awards vest or are settled; (b) classification of awards as either equity or liabilities due to statutory tax withholding requirements; and (c) classification on the statement of cash flows. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this guidance on its consolidated financial statements.
In February 2016, the FASB issued new guidance on leasing transactions (ASU 2016-02, Leases - Topic 842). The new guidance is effective for the fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years, and requires a modified retrospective transition approach which includes a number of optional practical expedients. Early adoption is permitted. The new guidance requires a lessee to recognize assets and liabilities for leases with lease terms of more than 12 months. Consistent with current guidance, leases would be classified as finance or operating leases. However, unlike current guidance, the new guidance will require both types of leases to be recognized on the balance sheet. Lessor accounting will remain largely unchanged from current guidance except for certain targeted changes. The new guidance will also require new qualitative and quantitative disclosures. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this guidance on its consolidated financial statements.
In January 2016, the FASB issued new guidance (ASU 2016-01, Financial Instruments-Overall: Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities) on the recognition and measurement of financial instruments. The new guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption is permitted for the instrument-specific credit risk provision. The new guidance changes the current accounting guidance related to (i) the classification and measurement of certain equity investments, (ii) the presentation of changes in the fair value of financial liabilities measured under the fair value option (“FVO”) that are due to instrument-specific credit risk, and (iii) certain disclosures associated with the fair value of financial instruments. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this guidance on its consolidated financial statements.
In May 2015, the FASB issued new guidance on short-duration insurance contracts (ASU 2015-09, Financial Services - Insurance (Topic 944): Disclosures about Short-Duration Contracts). The amendments in this new guidance are effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2015, and interim periods within annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016. The new guidance should be applied retrospectively by providing comparative disclosures for each period presented, except for those requirements that apply only to the current period. The new guidance requires insurance entities to provide users of financial statements with more transparent information about initial claim estimates and subsequent adjustments to these estimates, including information on: (i) reconciling from the claim development table to the balance sheet liability, (ii) methodologies and judgments in estimating claims, and (iii) the timing, and frequency of claims. The adoption will not have an impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements other than expanded disclosures in Note 4.

8

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
1. Business, Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued)

In May 2014, the FASB issued a comprehensive new revenue recognition standard (ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606)), effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016 and interim periods within those years and should be applied retrospectively. In August 2015, the FASB amended the guidance to defer the effective date by one year, effective for the fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within that reporting period. Earlier application is permitted only as of annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim reporting periods within that reporting period. The new guidance will supersede nearly all existing revenue recognition guidance under GAAP; however, it will not impact the accounting for insurance contracts, leases, financial instruments and guarantees. For those contracts that are impacted by the new guidance, the guidance will require an entity to recognize revenue upon the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled, in exchange for those goods or services. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this guidance on its consolidated financial statements.
2. Segment Information
MetLife is organized into six segments, reflecting three broad geographic regions: Retail; Group, Voluntary & Worksite Benefits; Corporate Benefit Funding; and Latin America (collectively, the “Americas”); Asia; and EMEA. In addition, the Company reports certain of its results of operations in Corporate & Other.
On January 12, 2016, MetLife, Inc. announced its plan to pursue the separation of a substantial portion of its Retail segment, which is organized into two U.S. businesses, Life & Other and Annuities, as well as certain portions of its Corporate Benefit Funding segment and Corporate & Other (the “Separation”). The Company is currently evaluating structural alternatives for the proposed Separation, including a public offering of shares in an independent, publicly traded company, a spin-off, or a sale. The completion of a public offering would depend on, among other things, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) filing and review process, as well as market conditions. A Separation, depending on the specific form, would be subject to the satisfaction of various conditions and approvals, including, among other things, approval of any transaction by the MetLife, Inc. Board of Directors, satisfaction of any applicable requirements of the SEC, and receipt of insurance and other regulatory approvals and other anticipated conditions.
Americas
The Americas consists of the following segments:
Retail
The Retail segment offers a broad range of protection products and services and a variety of annuities to individuals and employees of corporations and other institutions, and is organized into two U.S. businesses: Life & Other and Annuities. Life & Other insurance products and services include variable life, universal life, term life and whole life products. Additionally, through broker-dealer affiliates, the Company offers a full range of mutual funds and other securities products. Life & Other products and services also include individual disability income products and personal lines property & casualty insurance, including private passenger automobile, homeowners and personal excess liability insurance. Annuities includes a variety of variable, fixed and indexed annuities which provide for both asset accumulation and asset distribution needs.
Group, Voluntary & Worksite Benefits
The Group, Voluntary & Worksite Benefits segment offers a broad range of protection products and services to individuals and corporations, as well as other institutions and their respective employees. Group, Voluntary & Worksite Benefits insurance products and services include life, dental, group short- and long-term disability and accidental death and dismemberment (“AD&D”) coverages. In addition, the Group, Voluntary & Worksite Benefits segment offers property & casualty insurance, including private passenger automobile, homeowners and personal excess liability, which is offered to employees on a voluntary basis, long-term care, critical illness, vision and accident & health coverages, as well as prepaid legal plans.
Corporate Benefit Funding
The Corporate Benefit Funding segment offers a broad range of annuity and investment products, including guaranteed interest contracts and other stable value products, income annuities and separate account contracts for the investment management of defined benefit and defined contribution plan assets. This segment also includes structured settlements and certain products to fund postretirement benefits and company-, bank- or trust-owned life insurance used to finance nonqualified benefit programs for executives.

9

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
2. Segment Information (continued)

Latin America
The Latin America segment offers a broad range of products to both individuals and corporations, as well as other institutions and their respective employees, which include life insurance, accident & health insurance, group medical, dental, credit insurance, endowment and retirement & savings products written in Latin America. The Latin America segment also includes U.S. direct business, comprised of group and individual products sold through sponsoring organizations, affinity groups and direct to consumer. Products included are life, dental, group short- and long-term disability, AD&D coverages, property & casualty and other accident & health coverages, as well as non-insurance products such as identity protection.
Asia
The Asia segment offers a broad range of products to both individuals and corporations, as well as other institutions and their respective employees, which include whole life, term life, variable life, universal life, accident & health insurance, fixed and variable annuities, credit insurance and endowment products.
EMEA
The EMEA segment offers a broad range of products to both individuals and corporations, as well as other institutions and their respective employees, which include life insurance, accident & health insurance, credit insurance, annuities, endowment and retirement & savings products.
Corporate & Other
Corporate & Other contains the excess capital, as well as certain charges and activities, not allocated to the segments, including external integration costs, internal resource costs for associates committed to acquisitions, enterprise-wide strategic initiative restructuring charges, various start-up businesses (including expatriate benefits insurance and the investment management business through which the Company offers fee-based investment management services to institutional clients) and certain run-off businesses. Corporate & Other also includes assumed reinsurance of certain variable annuity products from the Company’s former operating joint venture in Japan. Under this in-force reinsurance agreement, the Company reinsures living and death benefit guarantees issued in connection with variable annuity products. Additionally, Corporate & Other includes interest expense related to the majority of the Company’s outstanding debt and expenses associated with certain legal proceedings and income tax audit issues. Corporate & Other also includes the elimination of intersegment amounts, which generally relate to intersegment loans, which bear interest rates commensurate with related borrowings.
Financial Measures and Segment Accounting Policies
Operating earnings is the measure of segment profit or loss the Company uses to evaluate segment performance and allocate resources. Consistent with GAAP guidance for segment reporting, operating earnings is the Company’s measure of segment performance and is reported below. Operating earnings should not be viewed as a substitute for net income (loss). The Company believes the presentation of operating earnings as the Company measures it for management purposes enhances the understanding of its performance by highlighting the results of operations and the underlying profitability drivers of the business.
Operating earnings is defined as operating revenues less operating expenses, both net of income tax.
Operating revenues and operating expenses exclude results of discontinued operations and other businesses that have been or will be sold or exited by MetLife and are referred to as divested businesses. In addition, for the three months ended March 31, 2016, operating revenues and operating expenses exclude the financial impact of converting the Company’s Japan operations to calendar year-end reporting without retrospective application of this change to prior periods and is referred to as lag elimination. Operating revenues also excludes net investment gains (losses) and net derivative gains (losses). Operating expenses also excludes goodwill impairments.

10

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
2. Segment Information (continued)

The following additional adjustments are made to GAAP revenues, in the line items indicated, in calculating operating revenues:
Universal life and investment-type product policy fees excludes the amortization of unearned revenue related to net investment gains (losses) and net derivative gains (losses) and certain variable annuity guaranteed minimum income benefits (“GMIBs”) fees (“GMIB Fees”);
Net investment income: (i) includes investment hedge adjustments which represent earned income on derivatives and amortization of premium on derivatives that are hedges of investments or that are used to replicate certain investments, but do not qualify for hedge accounting treatment, (ii) includes income from discontinued real estate operations, (iii) excludes post-tax operating earnings adjustments relating to insurance joint ventures accounted for under the equity method, (iv) excludes certain amounts related to contractholder-directed unit-linked investments and (v) excludes certain amounts related to securitization entities that are VIEs consolidated under GAAP; and
Other revenues are adjusted for settlements of foreign currency earnings hedges.
The following additional adjustments are made to GAAP expenses, in the line items indicated, in calculating operating expenses:
Policyholder benefits and claims and policyholder dividends excludes: (i) changes in the policyholder dividend obligation related to net investment gains (losses) and net derivative gains (losses), (ii) inflation-indexed benefit adjustments associated with contracts backed by inflation-indexed investments and amounts associated with periodic crediting rate adjustments based on the total return of a contractually referenced pool of assets and other pass through adjustments, (iii) benefits and hedging costs related to GMIBs (“GMIB Costs”) and (iv) market value adjustments associated with surrenders or terminations of contracts (“Market Value Adjustments”);
Interest credited to policyholder account balances includes adjustments for earned income on derivatives and amortization of premium on derivatives that are hedges of policyholder account balances but do not qualify for hedge accounting treatment and excludes amounts related to net investment income earned on contractholder-directed unit-linked investments;
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs (“DAC”) and value of business acquired (“VOBA”) excludes amounts related to: (i) net investment gains (losses) and net derivative gains (losses), (ii) GMIB Fees and GMIB Costs and (iii) Market Value Adjustments;
Amortization of negative VOBA excludes amounts related to Market Value Adjustments;
Interest expense on debt excludes certain amounts related to securitization entities that are VIEs consolidated under GAAP; and
Other expenses excludes costs related to: (i) noncontrolling interests, (ii) implementation of new insurance regulatory requirements, and (iii) acquisition, integration and other costs.
Operating earnings also excludes the recognition of certain contingent assets and liabilities that could not be recognized at acquisition or adjusted for during the measurement period under GAAP business combination accounting guidance. In addition to the tax impact of the adjustments mentioned above, provision for income tax expense (benefit) also includes the impact related to the timing of certain tax credits, as well as certain tax reforms.
Set forth in the tables below is certain financial information with respect to the Company’s segments, as well as Corporate & Other, for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015. The segment accounting policies are the same as those used to prepare the Company’s consolidated financial statements, except for operating earnings adjustments as defined above. In addition, segment accounting policies include the method of capital allocation described below.
Economic capital is an internally developed risk capital model, the purpose of which is to measure the risk in the business and to provide a basis upon which capital is deployed. The economic capital model accounts for the unique and specific nature of the risks inherent in the Company’s business.

11

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
2. Segment Information (continued)

The Company’s economic capital model, coupled with considerations of local capital requirements, aligns segment allocated equity with emerging standards and consistent risk principles. The model applies statistics-based risk evaluation principles to the material risks to which the Company is exposed. These consistent risk principles include calibrating required economic capital shock factors to a specific confidence level and time horizon while applying an industry standard method for the inclusion of diversification benefits among risk types. The Company’s management is responsible for the ongoing production and enhancement of the economic capital model and reviews its approach periodically to ensure that it remains consistent with emerging industry practice standards.
Segment net investment income is credited or charged based on the level of allocated equity; however, changes in allocated equity do not impact the Company’s consolidated net investment income, operating earnings or net income (loss).
Net investment income is based upon the actual results of each segment’s specifically identifiable investment portfolios adjusted for allocated equity. Other costs are allocated to each of the segments based upon: (i) a review of the nature of such costs; (ii) time studies analyzing the amount of employee compensation costs incurred by each segment; and (iii) cost estimates included in the Company’s product pricing.

12

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
2. Segment Information (continued)



Operating Results






Americas












Three Months Ended March 31, 2016

Retail

Group,
Voluntary
& Worksite
Benefits

Corporate
Benefit
Funding

Latin
America

Total

Asia

EMEA

Corporate
& Other

Total

Adjustments

Total
Consolidated


(In millions)
Revenues






















Premiums

$
1,740


$
4,294


$
358


$
691


$
7,083


$
1,658


$
500


$
26


$
9,267


$
426


$
9,693

Universal life and investment-type product policy fees

1,149


185


80


268


1,682


350


95


24


2,151


193


2,344

Net investment income

1,880


447


1,342


257


3,926


618


80


82


4,706


(147
)

4,559

Other revenues

215


131


70


7


423


17


20


27


487




487

Net investment gains (losses)



















15


15

Net derivative gains (losses)



















1,335


1,335

Total revenues

4,984

 
5,057

 
1,850

 
1,223

 
13,114

 
2,643

 
695

 
159

 
16,611

 
1,822

 
18,433

Expenses









 







 



 
Policyholder benefits and claims and policyholder dividends

2,458


4,034


962


617


8,071


1,236


261


25


9,593


400


9,993

Interest credited to policyholder account balances

522


37


310


80


949


319


29


4


1,301


25


1,326

Capitalization of DAC

(255
)

(36
)



(97
)

(388
)

(385
)

(101
)

(2
)

(876
)

(105
)

(981
)
Amortization of DAC and VOBA

373


40


5


73


491


286


102


2


881


114


995

Amortization of negative VOBA











(64
)

(3
)



(67
)

(32
)

(99
)
Interest expense on debt

2




2




4






308


312




312

Other expenses

1,149


712


120


371


2,352


851


333


174


3,710


255


3,965

Total expenses

4,249

 
4,787

 
1,399

 
1,044

 
11,479

 
2,243

 
621

 
511

 
14,854

 
657

 
15,511

Provision for income tax expense (benefit)

203


96


156


42


497


95


11


(181
)

422


297


719

Operating earnings

$
532

 
$
174

 
$
295

 
$
137

 
$
1,138

 
$
305

 
$
63

 
$
(171
)

1,335





Adjustments to:

















 



 
Total revenues

















1,822




 
Total expenses

















(657
)



 
Provision for income tax (expense) benefit

(297
)



 
Net income (loss)

$
2,203




$
2,203


13

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
2. Segment Information (continued)

 
 
Operating Results
 
 
 
 
 
 
Americas
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Three Months Ended March 31, 2015
 
Retail
 
Group,
Voluntary
& Worksite
Benefits
 
Corporate
Benefit
Funding
 
Latin
America
 
Total
 
Asia
 
EMEA
 
Corporate
& Other
 
Total
 
Adjustments
 
Total
Consolidated
 
 
(In millions)
Revenues
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Premiums
 
$
1,749

 
$
4,117

 
$
418

 
$
699

 
$
6,983

 
$
1,752

 
$
508

 
$
10

 
$
9,253

 
$

 
$
9,253

Universal life and investment-type product policy fees
 
1,236

 
188

 
54

 
294

 
1,772

 
397

 
102

 
23

 
2,294

 
100

 
2,394

Net investment income
 
1,980

 
478

 
1,430

 
218

 
4,106

 
684

 
83

 
109

 
4,982

 
479

 
5,461

Other revenues
 
251

 
113

 
71

 
10

 
445

 
28

 
10

 
20

 
503

 
(8
)
 
495

Net investment gains (losses)
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
286

 
286

Net derivative gains (losses)
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
821

 
821

Total revenues
 
5,216

 
4,896

 
1,973

 
1,221

 
13,306

 
2,861

 
703

 
162

 
17,032

 
1,678

 
18,710

Expenses
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Policyholder benefits and claims and policyholder dividends
 
2,449

 
3,835

 
991

 
581

 
7,856

 
1,340

 
239

 
12

 
9,447

 
149

 
9,596

Interest credited to policyholder account balances
 
542

 
37

 
293

 
86

 
958

 
337

 
30

 
6

 
1,331

 
664

 
1,995

Capitalization of DAC
 
(247
)
 
(36
)
 
(6
)
 
(111
)
 
(400
)
 
(435
)
 
(133
)
 

 
(968
)
 

 
(968
)
Amortization of DAC and VOBA
 
375

 
41

 
5

 
78

 
499

 
326

 
128

 

 
953

 
72

 
1,025

Amortization of negative VOBA
 

 

 

 

 

 
(86
)
 
(4
)
 

 
(90
)
 
(10
)
 
(100
)
Interest expense on debt
 
(1
)
 

 
1

 

 

 

 

 
297

 
297

 
1

 
298

Other expenses
 
1,176

 
664

 
124

 
425

 
2,389

 
904

 
362

 
145

 
3,800

 
5

 
3,805

Total expenses
 
4,294

 
4,541

 
1,408

 
1,059

 
11,302

 
2,386

 
622

 
460

 
14,770

 
881

 
15,651

Provision for income tax expense (benefit)
 
269

 
127

 
196

 
31

 
623

 
148

 
11

 
(188
)
 
594

 
302

 
896

Operating earnings
 
$
653

 
$
228

 
$
369

 
$
131

 
$
1,381

 
$
327

 
$
70

 
$
(110
)
 
1,668

 
 
 
 
Adjustments to:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total revenues
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1,678

 
 
 
 
Total expenses
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(881
)
 
 
 
 
Provision for income tax (expense) benefit
 
(302
)
 
 
 
 
Net income (loss)
 
$
2,163

 
 
 
$
2,163


14

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
2. Segment Information (continued)

The following table presents total assets with respect to the Company’s segments, as well as Corporate & Other, at:
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
 
(In millions)
Retail
$
354,705

 
$
347,257

Group, Voluntary & Worksite Benefits
49,950

 
46,476

Corporate Benefit Funding
231,484

 
225,015

Latin America
68,949

 
65,266

Asia
122,187

 
113,895

EMEA
27,720

 
26,767

Corporate & Other
62,433

 
53,257

Total
$
917,428

 
$
877,933

3. Pending Disposition
On February 28, 2016, MetLife, Inc. entered into a purchase agreement with Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (“MassMutual”) pursuant to which MassMutual will acquire MetLife’s U.S. Retail advisor force and certain assets associated with the MetLife Premier Client Group, including MetLife’s affiliated broker-dealer, MetLife Securities, Inc. (“MSI”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of MetLife, Inc. MassMutual will also assume all of the liabilities that relate to or arise from such assets and that arise or occur at or after the closing of the transactions contemplated by the purchase agreement. In addition, MassMutual will acquire all of the issued and outstanding shares of MSI. The purchase price is approximately $300 million, subject to customary adjustments. The transactions contemplated by the purchase agreement are subject to certain closing conditions, including regulatory approval. The Company recorded certain charges to computer software and employee benefit plans related to the transactions during the three months ended March 31, 2016. See Notes 8 and 11.
4. Insurance
Guarantees
As discussed in Notes 1 and 4 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2015 Annual Report, the Company issues directly and assumes through reinsurance variable annuity products with guaranteed minimum benefits. Guaranteed minimum accumulation benefits (“GMABs”) and the portions of both non-life-contingent guaranteed minimum withdrawal benefits (“GMWBs”) and the GMIBs that do not require annuitization are accounted for as embedded derivatives in policyholder account balances and are further discussed in Note 7.
The Company also issues other annuity contracts that apply a lower rate on funds deposited if the contractholder elects to surrender the contract for cash and a higher rate if the contractholder elects to annuitize. These guarantees include benefits that are payable in the event of death, maturity or at annuitization. Certain other annuity contracts contain guaranteed annuitization benefits that may be above what would be provided by the current account value of the contract. Additionally, the Company issues universal and variable life contracts where the Company contractually guarantees to the contractholder a secondary guarantee or a guaranteed paid-up benefit.

15

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
4. Insurance (continued)

Information regarding the Company’s guarantee exposure, which includes direct and assumed business, but excludes offsets from hedging or ceded reinsurance, if any, was as follows at:
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
 
 
In the
Event of Death
 
At
Annuitization
 
In the
Event of Death
 
At
Annuitization
 
 
(In millions)
 
Annuity Contracts (1)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Variable Annuity Guarantees
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total account value (2), (3)
$
180,216

 
$
90,785

 
$
181,413

 
$
91,240

 
Separate account value
$
150,726

 
$
87,235

 
$
151,901

 
$
87,841

 
Net amount at risk (2)
$
10,475

(4
)
$
3,412

(5
)
$
10,339

(4
)
$
2,762

(5
)
Average attained age of contractholders
67 years

 
66 years

 
66 years

 
66 years

 
Other Annuity Guarantees
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total account value (3)
N/A

 
$
1,583

 
N/A

 
$
1,560

 
Net amount at risk
N/A

 
$
425

(6
)
N/A

 
$
422

(6
)
Average attained age of contractholders
N/A

 
51 years

 
N/A

 
51 years

 
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
 
Secondary
Guarantees
 
Paid-Up
Guarantees
 
Secondary
Guarantees
 
Paid-Up
Guarantees
 
(In millions)
Universal and Variable Life Contracts (1)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total account value (3)
$
16,818

 
$
3,428

 
$
17,211

 
$
3,461

Net amount at risk (7)
$
176,200

 
$
18,718

 
$
175,958

 
$
19,047

Average attained age of policyholders
57 years

 
62 years

 
57 years

 
62 years

__________________
(1)
The Company’s annuity and life contracts with guarantees may offer more than one type of guarantee in each contract. Therefore, the amounts listed above may not be mutually exclusive.
(2)
Includes amounts, which are not reported on the consolidated balance sheets, from assumed reinsurance of certain variable annuity products from the Company’s former operating joint venture in Japan.
(3)
Includes the contractholder’s investments in the general account and separate account, if applicable.
(4)
Defined as the death benefit less the total account value, as of the balance sheet date. It represents the amount of the claim that the Company would incur if death claims were filed on all contracts on the balance sheet date and includes any additional contractual claims associated with riders purchased to assist with covering income taxes payable upon death.
(5)
Defined as the amount (if any) that would be required to be added to the total account value to purchase a lifetime income stream, based on current annuity rates, equal to the minimum amount provided under the guaranteed benefit. This amount represents the Company’s potential economic exposure to such guarantees in the event all contractholders were to annuitize on the balance sheet date, even though the contracts contain terms that allow annuitization of the guaranteed amount only after the 10th anniversary of the contract, which not all contractholders have achieved.
(6)
Defined as either the excess of the upper tier, adjusted for a profit margin, less the lower tier, as of the balance sheet date or the amount (if any) that would be required to be added to the total account value to purchase a lifetime income stream, based on current annuity rates, equal to the minimum amount provided under the guaranteed benefit. These amounts represent the Company’s potential economic exposure to such guarantees in the event all contractholders were to annuitize on the balance sheet date.
(7)
Defined as the guarantee amount less the account value, as of the balance sheet date. It represents the amount of the claim that the Company would incur if death claims were filed on all contracts on the balance sheet date.

16

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)

5. Closed Block
On April 7, 2000 (the “Demutualization Date”), Metropolitan Life Insurance Company (“MLIC”) converted from a mutual life insurance company to a stock life insurance company and became a wholly-owned subsidiary of MetLife, Inc. The conversion was pursuant to an order by the New York Superintendent of Insurance approving MLIC’s plan of reorganization, as amended (the “Plan of Reorganization”). On the Demutualization Date, MLIC established a closed block for the benefit of holders of certain individual life insurance policies of MLIC.
Experience within the closed block, in particular mortality and investment yields, as well as realized and unrealized gains and losses, directly impact the policyholder dividend obligation. Amortization of the closed block DAC, which resides outside of the closed block, is based upon cumulative actual and expected earnings within the closed block. Accordingly, the Company’s net income continues to be sensitive to the actual performance of the closed block.
Closed block assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses are combined on a line-by-line basis with the assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses outside the closed block based on the nature of the particular item.
Information regarding the closed block liabilities and assets designated to the closed block was as follows at:
 
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
 
 
(In millions)
Closed Block Liabilities
 
 
 
 
Future policy benefits
 
$
41,046

 
$
41,278

Other policy-related balances
 
270

 
249

Policyholder dividends payable
 
484

 
468

Policyholder dividend obligation
 
2,586

 
1,783

Other liabilities
 
799

 
380

Total closed block liabilities
 
45,185

 
44,158

Assets Designated to the Closed Block
 
 
 
 
Investments:
 
 
 
 
Fixed maturity securities available-for-sale, at estimated fair value
 
28,739

 
27,556

Equity securities available-for-sale, at estimated fair value
 
108

 
111

Mortgage loans
 
5,910

 
6,022

Policy loans
 
4,561

 
4,642

Real estate and real estate joint ventures
 
458

 
462

Other invested assets
 
978

 
1,066

Total investments
 
40,754

 
39,859

Cash and cash equivalents
 
151

 
236

Accrued investment income
 
477

 
474

Premiums, reinsurance and other receivables
 
321

 
56

Current income tax recoverable
 
7

 
11

Deferred income tax assets
 
215

 
234

Total assets designated to the closed block
 
41,925

 
40,870

Excess of closed block liabilities over assets designated to the closed block
 
3,260

 
3,288

Amounts included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (“AOCI”)
 
 
 
 
Unrealized investment gains (losses), net of income tax
 
1,963

 
1,382

Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives, net of income tax
 
63

 
76

Allocated to policyholder dividend obligation, net of income tax
 
(1,681
)
 
(1,159
)
Total amounts included in AOCI
 
345

 
299

Maximum future earnings to be recognized from closed block assets and liabilities
 
$
3,605

 
$
3,587


17

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
5. Closed Block (continued)

Information regarding the closed block policyholder dividend obligation was as follows:
 
 
Three Months 
 Ended 
 March 31, 2016
 
Year 
 Ended 
 December 31, 2015
 
 
(In millions)
Balance, beginning of period
 
$
1,783

 
$
3,155

Change in unrealized investment and derivative gains (losses)
 
803

 
(1,372
)
Balance, end of period
 
$
2,586

 
$
1,783

Information regarding the closed block revenues and expenses was as follows:
 
 
Three Months 
 Ended 
 March 31,
 
 
2016
 
2015
 
 
(In millions)
Revenues
 
 
 
 
Premiums
 
$
417

 
$
430

Net investment income
 
480

 
515

Net investment gains (losses)
 
(28
)
 
(1
)
Net derivative gains (losses)
 
(11
)
 
25

Total revenues
 
858

 
969

Expenses
 
 
 
 
Policyholder benefits and claims
 
610

 
608

Policyholder dividends
 
245

 
240

Other expenses
 
32

 
37

Total expenses
 
887

 
885

Revenues, net of expenses before provision for income tax expense (benefit)
 
(29
)
 
84

Provision for income tax expense (benefit)
 
(11
)
 
29

Revenues, net of expenses and provision for income tax expense (benefit)
 
$
(18
)
 
$
55

MLIC charges the closed block with federal income taxes, state and local premium taxes and other state or local taxes, as well as investment management expenses relating to the closed block as provided in the Plan of Reorganization. MLIC also charges the closed block for expenses of maintaining the policies included in the closed block.
6. Investments
Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities Available-for-Sale
Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities Available-for-Sale by Sector
The following table presents the fixed maturity and equity securities available-for-sale (“AFS”) by sector. Redeemable preferred stock is reported within U.S. corporate and foreign corporate fixed maturity securities and non-redeemable preferred stock is reported within equity securities. Included within fixed maturity securities are structured securities including residential mortgage-backed securities (“RMBS”), asset-backed securities (“ABS”) and commercial mortgage-backed securities (“CMBS”).

18

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
6. Investments (continued)

 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
 
Cost or
Amortized
Cost
 
Gross Unrealized
 
Estimated
Fair
Value
 
Cost or
Amortized
Cost
 
Gross Unrealized
 
Estimated
Fair
Value
 

Gains
 
Temporary
Losses
 
OTTI
Losses
 

Gains
 
Temporary
Losses
 
OTTI
Losses
 
 
(In millions)
Fixed maturity securities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
U.S. corporate
$
95,066

 
$
8,350

 
$
1,320

 
$

 
$
102,096

 
$
96,466

 
$
6,583

 
$
2,255

 
$

 
$
100,794

U.S. government and agency
57,060

 
7,969

 
38

 

 
64,991

 
56,499

 
5,373

 
226

 

 
61,646

Foreign corporate
56,756

 
3,612

 
1,273

 
4

 
59,091

 
56,003

 
3,019

 
1,822

 
2

 
57,198

Foreign government
48,940

 
7,848

 
132

 

 
56,656

 
45,451

 
5,269

 
221

 

 
50,499

RMBS
41,940

 
1,577

 
414

 
74

 
43,029

 
37,914

 
1,366

 
424

 
59

 
38,797

State and political subdivision
14,243

 
2,320

 
16

 
8

 
16,539

 
13,723

 
1,795

 
67

 
10

 
15,441

ABS
16,407

 
121

 
320

 
6

 
16,202

 
14,498

 
131

 
229

 
6

 
14,394

CMBS (1)
13,000

 
470

 
94

 
(1
)
 
13,377

 
12,410

 
347

 
125

 
(1
)
 
12,633

Total fixed maturity securities
$
343,412


$
32,267


$
3,607


$
91


$
371,981


$
332,964


$
23,883


$
5,369


$
76


$
351,402

Equity securities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Common stock
$
2,051

 
$
412

 
$
48

 
$

 
$
2,415

 
$
1,962

 
$
397

 
$
107

 
$

 
$
2,252

Non-redeemable preferred stock
959

 
69

 
69

 

 
959

 
1,035

 
85

 
51

 

 
1,069

Total equity securities
$
3,010


$
481


$
117


$


$
3,374


$
2,997


$
482


$
158


$


$
3,321

__________________
(1)
The noncredit loss component of other-than-temporary impairment (“OTTI”) losses for CMBS was in an unrealized gain position of $1 million at both March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, due to increases in estimated fair value subsequent to initial recognition of noncredit losses on such securities. See also “— Net Unrealized Investment Gains (Losses).”
The Company held non-income producing fixed maturity securities with an estimated fair value of $59 million and $54 million with unrealized gains (losses) of $19 million and $12 million at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.
Maturities of Fixed Maturity Securities
The amortized cost and estimated fair value of fixed maturity securities, by contractual maturity date, were as follows at March 31, 2016:
 
Due in One Year or Less
 
Due After One Year Through Five Years
 
Due After Five Years Through Ten Years
 
Due After Ten Years
 
Structured Securities
 
Total Fixed Maturity Securities
 
(In millions)
Amortized cost
$
13,348

 
$
77,283

 
$
69,960

 
$
111,474

 
$
71,347

 
$
343,412

Estimated fair value
$
13,428

 
$
81,212

 
$
74,104

 
$
130,629

 
$
72,608

 
$
371,981

Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities due to the exercise of call or prepayment options. Fixed maturity securities not due at a single maturity date have been presented in the year of final contractual maturity. Structured securities (RMBS, ABS and CMBS) are shown separately, as they are not due at a single maturity.
Continuous Gross Unrealized Losses for Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities AFS by Sector
The following table presents the estimated fair value and gross unrealized losses of fixed maturity and equity securities AFS in an unrealized loss position, aggregated by sector and by length of time that the securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position.

19

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
6. Investments (continued)

 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
 
Less than 12 Months
 
Equal to or Greater
than 12 Months
 
Less than 12 Months
 
Equal to or Greater
than 12 Months
 
Estimated
Fair
Value
 
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
 
Estimated
Fair
Value
 
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
 
Estimated
Fair
Value
 
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
 
Estimated
Fair
Value
 
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
 
(In millions, except number of securities)
Fixed maturity securities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
U.S. corporate
$
14,740

 
$
708

 
$
5,276

 
$
612

 
$
27,526

 
$
1,629

 
$
3,762

 
$
626

U.S. government and agency
1,549

 
13

 
500

 
25

 
19,628

 
222

 
298

 
4

Foreign corporate
8,960

 
479

 
6,210

 
798

 
14,447

 
911

 
5,251

 
913

Foreign government
1,996

 
83

 
535

 
49

 
3,530

 
166

 
429

 
55

RMBS
7,026

 
234

 
2,989

 
254

 
13,467

 
287

 
2,431

 
196

State and political subdivision
322

 
4

 
168

 
20

 
1,618

 
55

 
168

 
22

ABS
8,025

 
188

 
3,569

 
138

 
7,329

 
124

 
2,823

 
111

CMBS
1,697

 
32

 
967

 
61

 
4,876

 
81

 
637

 
43

Total fixed maturity securities
$
44,315

 
$
1,741

 
$
20,214

 
$
1,957

 
$
92,421

 
$
3,475

 
$
15,799

 
$
1,970

Equity securities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Common stock
$
168

 
$
46

 
$
2

 
$
2

 
$
203

 
$
105

 
$
20

 
$
2

Non-redeemable preferred stock
130

 
9

 
176

 
60

 
79

 
2

 
200

 
49

Total equity securities
$
298


$
55


$
178


$
62


$
282

 
$
107


$
220


$
51

Total number of securities in an unrealized loss position
3,904

 
 
 
1,837

 
 
 
6,366

 
 
 
1,489

 
 
Evaluation of AFS Securities for OTTI and Evaluating Temporarily Impaired AFS Securities
As described more fully in Notes 1 and 8 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2015 Annual Report, the Company performs a regular evaluation of all investment classes for impairment, including fixed maturity securities, equity securities and perpetual hybrid securities, in accordance with its impairment policy, in order to evaluate whether such investments are other-than-temporarily impaired.
Current Period Evaluation
Based on the Company’s current evaluation of its AFS securities in an unrealized loss position in accordance with its impairment policy, and the Company’s current intentions and assessments (as applicable to the type of security) about holding, selling and any requirements to sell these securities, the Company concluded that these securities were not other-than-temporarily impaired at March 31, 2016. Future OTTI will depend primarily on economic fundamentals, issuer performance (including changes in the present value of future cash flows expected to be collected), changes in credit ratings, collateral valuation, interest rates and credit spreads. If economic fundamentals deteriorate or if there are adverse changes in the above factors, OTTI may be incurred in upcoming periods.
Gross unrealized losses on fixed maturity securities decreased $1.7 billion during the three months ended March 31, 2016 to $3.7 billion. The decrease in gross unrealized losses for the three months ended March 31, 2016, was primarily attributable to a decrease in interest rates and, to a lesser extent, the impact of strengthening foreign currencies on non-functional currency denominated fixed maturity securities.
At March 31, 2016, $472 million of the total $3.7 billion of gross unrealized losses were from 113 fixed maturity securities with an unrealized loss position of 20% or more of amortized cost for six months or greater.
Investment Grade Fixed Maturity Securities
Of the $472 million of gross unrealized losses on fixed maturity securities with an unrealized loss of 20% or more of amortized cost for six months or greater, $231 million, or 49%, were related to gross unrealized losses on 55 investment grade fixed maturity securities. Unrealized losses on investment grade fixed maturity securities are principally related to widening credit spreads and, with respect to fixed-rate fixed maturity securities, rising interest rates since purchase.

20

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
6. Investments (continued)

Below Investment Grade Fixed Maturity Securities
Of the $472 million of gross unrealized losses on fixed maturity securities with an unrealized loss of 20% or more of amortized cost for six months or greater, $241 million, or 51%, were related to gross unrealized losses on 58 below investment grade fixed maturity securities. Unrealized losses on below investment grade fixed maturity securities are principally related to U.S. and foreign corporate securities (primarily industrial securities) and non-agency RMBS (primarily alternative residential mortgage loans) and are the result of significantly wider credit spreads resulting from higher risk premiums since purchase, largely due to economic and market uncertainties including concerns over lower oil prices in the energy sector and valuations of residential real estate supporting non-agency RMBS. Management evaluates U.S. and foreign corporate securities based on factors such as expected cash flows and the financial condition and near-term and long-term prospects of the issuers; and evaluates non-agency RMBS based on actual and projected cash flows after considering the quality of underlying collateral, expected prepayment speeds, current and forecasted loss severity, consideration of the payment terms of the underlying assets backing a particular security and the payment priority within the tranche structure of the security.
Equity Securities
Gross unrealized losses on equity securities decreased $41 million during the three months ended March 31, 2016 to $117 million. Of the $117 million, $47 million were from nine securities with gross unrealized losses of 20% or more of cost for 12 months or greater. Of the $47 million, 64% were rated A or better, and all were from financial services industry investment grade non-redeemable preferred stock.
Mortgage Loans
Mortgage Loans by Portfolio Segment
Mortgage loans are summarized as follows at:
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
 
Carrying
Value
 
% of
Total
 
Carrying
Value
 
% of
Total
 
(In millions)
 
 
 
(In millions)
 
 
Mortgage loans
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Commercial
$
45,445

 
66.2
 %
 
$
44,012

 
65.6
 %
Agricultural
13,226

 
19.3

 
13,188

 
19.6

Residential
9,800

 
14.3

 
9,734

 
14.5

Subtotal (1)
68,471

 
99.8

 
66,934

 
99.7

Valuation allowances
(381
)
 
(0.6
)
 
(318
)
 
(0.5
)
Subtotal mortgage loans, net
68,090

 
99.2

 
66,616

 
99.2

Residential — FVO
392

 
0.6

 
314

 
0.5

Commercial mortgage loans held by CSEs — FVO
169

 
0.2

 
172

 
0.3

Total mortgage loans, net
$
68,651

 
100.0
 %
 
$
67,102

 
100.0
 %
__________________
(1)
Purchases of mortgage loans were $292 million and $1.4 billion for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.
See “— Variable Interest Entities” for discussion of consolidated securitization entities (“CSEs”).
Information on commercial, agricultural and residential mortgage loans is presented in the tables below. Information on residential — FVO and commercial mortgage loans held by CSEs — FVO is presented in Note 8. The Company elects the FVO for certain mortgage loans and related long-term debt that are managed on a total return basis.

21

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
6. Investments (continued)

Mortgage Loans, Valuation Allowance and Impaired Loans by Portfolio Segment
Mortgage loans by portfolio segment, by method of evaluation of credit loss, impaired mortgage loans including those modified in a troubled debt restructuring, and the related valuation allowances, were as follows at:
 
Evaluated Individually for Credit Losses
 
Evaluated Collectively for Credit Losses
 
Impaired Loans
 
Impaired Loans with a
Valuation Allowance
 
Impaired Loans without a Valuation Allowance
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Unpaid Principal Balance
 
Recorded
Investment
 
Valuation
Allowances
 
Unpaid Principal Balance
 
Recorded
Investment
 
Recorded
Investment
 
Valuation
Allowances
 
Carrying
Value
 
(In millions)
March 31, 2016
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Commercial
$
161

 
$
144

 
$
58

 
$
56

 
$
56

 
$
45,245

 
$
223

 
$
142

Agricultural
16

 
14

 
1

 
39

 
38

 
13,174

 
39

 
51

Residential

 

 

 
176

 
162

 
9,638

 
60

 
162

Total
$
177


$
158


$
59


$
271


$
256


$
68,057


$
322


$
355

December 31, 2015
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Commercial
$

 
$

 
$

 
$
57

 
$
57

 
$
43,955

 
$
217

 
$
57

Agricultural
49

 
47

 
3

 
22

 
21

 
13,120

 
39

 
65

Residential

 

 

 
141

 
131

 
9,603

 
59

 
131

Total
$
49


$
47


$
3


$
220


$
209


$
66,678


$
315


$
253

The average recorded investment for impaired commercial, agricultural and residential mortgage loans was $128 million, $60 million and $147 million, respectively, for the three months ended March 31, 2016; and $171 million, $63 million and $47 million, respectively, for the three months ended March 31, 2015.
Valuation Allowance Rollforward by Portfolio Segment
The changes in the valuation allowance, by portfolio segment, were as follows:
 
Three Months 
 Ended 
 March 31,
 
2016
 
2015
 
Commercial
 
Agricultural
 
Residential
 
Total
 
Commercial
 
Agricultural
 
Residential
 
Total
 
(In millions)
Balance, beginning of period
$
217

 
$
42

 
$
59

 
$
318

 
$
224

 
$
39

 
$
42

 
$
305

Provision (release)
64

 

 
4

 
68

 
1

 

 
14

 
15

Charge-offs, net of recoveries

 
(2
)
 
(3
)
 
(5
)
 

 

 
(5
)
 
(5
)
Balance, end of period
$
281


$
40


$
60


$
381


$
225


$
39


$
51


$
315


22

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
6. Investments (continued)

Credit Quality of Commercial Mortgage Loans
The credit quality of commercial mortgage loans was as follows at:
 
Recorded Investment
 
Estimated
Fair
Value
 
% of
Total
 
Debt Service Coverage Ratios
 
 
 
% of
Total
 
 
> 1.20x 
 
1.00x - 1.20x
 
< 1.00x
 
Total
 
 
(In millions)
 
 
 
(In millions)
 
 
March 31, 2016
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Loan-to-value ratios
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Less than 65%
$
39,658

 
$
888

 
$
594

 
$
41,140

 
90.5
%
 
$
42,534

 
91.0
%
65% to 75%
3,371

 
106

 
206

 
3,683

 
8.1

 
3,673

 
7.8

76% to 80%
89

 

 

 
89

 
0.2

 
93

 
0.2

Greater than 80%
438

 
42

 
53

 
533

 
1.2

 
452

 
1.0

Total
$
43,556


$
1,036


$
853


$
45,445


100
%

$
46,752


100
%
December 31, 2015
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Loan-to-value ratios
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Less than 65%
$
38,163

 
$
1,063

 
$
544

 
$
39,770

 
90.4
%
 
$
40,921

 
90.7
%
65% to 75%
3,270

 
138

 
76

 
3,484

 
7.9

 
3,451

 
7.7

76% to 80%

 

 

 

 

 

 

Greater than 80%
381

 
140

 
237

 
758

 
1.7

 
732

 
1.6

Total
$
41,814


$
1,341


$
857


$
44,012

 
100.0
%
 
$
45,104

 
100.0
%
Credit Quality of Agricultural Mortgage Loans
The credit quality of agricultural mortgage loans was as follows at:
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
 
Recorded
Investment
 
% of
Total
 
Recorded
Investment
 
% of
Total
 
(In millions)
 
 
 
(In millions)
 
 
Loan-to-value ratios
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Less than 65%
$
12,583

 
95.1
%
 
$
12,399

 
94.0
%
65% to 75%
575

 
4.3

 
710

 
5.4

76% to 80%
20

 
0.2

 
21

 
0.2

Greater than 80%
48

 
0.4

 
58

 
0.4

Total
$
13,226

 
100.0
%
 
$
13,188

 
100.0
%
The estimated fair value of agricultural mortgage loans was $13.6 billion and $13.5 billion at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.
Credit Quality of Residential Mortgage Loans
The credit quality of residential mortgage loans was as follows at:
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
 
Recorded
Investment
 
% of
Total
 
Recorded
Investment
 
% of
Total
 
(In millions)
 
 
 
(In millions)
 
 
Performance indicators
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Performing
$
9,483

 
96.8
%
 
$
9,408

 
96.7
%
Nonperforming
317

 
3.2

 
326

 
3.3

Total
$
9,800

 
100.0
%
 
$
9,734

 
100.0
%

23

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
6. Investments (continued)

The estimated fair value of residential mortgage loans was $10.1 billion and $9.9 billion at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.
Past Due and Interest Accrual Status of Mortgage Loans
The Company has a high quality, well performing mortgage loan portfolio, with 99% of all mortgage loans classified as performing at both March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015. The Company defines delinquency consistent with industry practice, when mortgage loans are past due as follows: commercial and residential mortgage loans — 60 days and agricultural mortgage loans — 90 days. The past due and accrual status of mortgage loans at recorded investment, prior to valuation allowances, by portfolio segment, were as follows at:
 
Past Due
 
Nonaccrual Status
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
 
(In millions)
Commercial
$

 
$
2

 
$

 
$

Agricultural
127

 
103

 
40

 
46

Residential
317

 
326

 
305

 
318

Total
$
444


$
431


$
345


$
364

Mortgage Loans Modified in a Troubled Debt Restructuring
During both the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, the Company did not have a significant amount of mortgage loans modified in a troubled debt restructuring.
Cash Equivalents
The carrying value of cash equivalents, which includes securities and other investments with an original or remaining maturity of three months or less at the time of purchase, was $6.0 billion and $7.5 billion at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.
Net Unrealized Investment Gains (Losses)
Unrealized investment gains (losses) on fixed maturity and equity securities AFS and the effect on DAC, VOBA, deferred sales inducements (“DSI”), future policy benefits and the policyholder dividend obligation, that would result from the realization of the unrealized gains (losses), are included in net unrealized investment gains (losses) in AOCI.
The components of net unrealized investment gains (losses), included in AOCI, were as follows:
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
 
(In millions)
Fixed maturity securities
$
28,427

 
$
18,164

Fixed maturity securities with noncredit OTTI losses included in AOCI
(91
)
 
(76
)
Total fixed maturity securities
28,336

 
18,088

Equity securities
447

 
422

Derivatives
2,723

 
2,350

Other
359

 
287

Subtotal
31,865

 
21,147

Amounts allocated from:
 
 
 
Future policy benefits
(1,415
)
 
(163
)
DAC and VOBA related to noncredit OTTI losses recognized in AOCI
2

 

DAC, VOBA and DSI
(1,900
)
 
(1,273
)
Policyholder dividend obligation
(2,586
)
 
(1,783
)
Subtotal
(5,899
)
 
(3,219
)
Deferred income tax benefit (expense) related to noncredit OTTI losses recognized in AOCI
39

 
27

Deferred income tax benefit (expense)
(8,825
)
 
(6,151
)
Net unrealized investment gains (losses)
17,180

 
11,804

Net unrealized investment gains (losses) attributable to noncontrolling interests
(9
)
 
(31
)
Net unrealized investment gains (losses) attributable to MetLife, Inc.
$
17,171

 
$
11,773

The changes in fixed maturity securities with noncredit OTTI losses included in AOCI were as follows:
 
Three Months 
 Ended 
 March 31, 2016
 
Year 
 Ended 
 December 31, 2015
 
(In millions)
Balance, beginning of period
$
(76
)
 
$
(112
)
Noncredit OTTI losses and subsequent changes recognized
(1
)
 
6

Securities sold with previous noncredit OTTI loss
9

 
125

Subsequent changes in estimated fair value
(23
)
 
(95
)
Balance, end of period
$
(91
)
 
$
(76
)

24

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
6. Investments (continued)

The changes in net unrealized investment gains (losses) were as follows:
 
Three Months 
 Ended 
 March 31, 2016
 
(In millions)
Balance, beginning of period
$
11,773

Fixed maturity securities on which noncredit OTTI losses have been recognized
(15
)
Unrealized investment gains (losses) during the period
10,733

Unrealized investment gains (losses) relating to:
 
Future policy benefits
(1,252
)
DAC and VOBA related to noncredit OTTI losses recognized in AOCI
2

DAC, VOBA and DSI
(627
)
Policyholder dividend obligation
(803
)
Deferred income tax benefit (expense) related to noncredit OTTI losses recognized in AOCI
12

Deferred income tax benefit (expense)
(2,674
)
Net unrealized investment gains (losses)
17,149

Net unrealized investment gains (losses) attributable to noncontrolling interests
22

Balance, end of period
$
17,171

Change in net unrealized investment gains (losses)
$
5,376

Change in net unrealized investment gains (losses) attributable to noncontrolling interests
22

Change in net unrealized investment gains (losses) attributable to MetLife, Inc.
$
5,398


Concentrations of Credit Risk
Investments in any counterparty that were greater than 10% of the Company’s equity, other than the U.S. government and its agencies, were in fixed income securities of the Japanese government and its agencies with an estimated fair value of $24.9 billion and $20.9 billion at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. The Company’s investment in fixed maturity and equity securities to counterparties that primarily conduct business in Japan, including Japan government and agency fixed maturity securities, was $29.7 billion and $25.4 billion at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.
Securities Lending
Elements of the securities lending program are presented below at:
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
 
(In millions)
Securities on loan: (1)
 
 
 
Amortized cost
$
26,599

 
$
27,223

Estimated fair value
$
30,474

 
$
29,646

Cash collateral on deposit from counterparties (2)
$
30,986

 
$
30,197

Security collateral on deposit from counterparties (3)
$
88

 
$
50

Reinvestment portfolio — estimated fair value
$
31,173

 
$
30,258

__________________
(1)
Included within fixed maturity securities and short-term investments. At March 31, 2016, both amortized cost and estimated fair value also included $105 million, at estimated fair value, of securities which are not reflected on the consolidated financial statements.
(2)
Included within payables for collateral under securities loaned and other transactions.

25

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
6. Investments (continued)

(3)
Security collateral on deposit from counterparties may not be sold or re-pledged, unless the counterparty is in default, and is not reflected on the consolidated financial statements.
The cash collateral liability by loaned security type and remaining tenor of the agreements were as follows at:
 
March 31, 2016
 
Remaining Tenor of Securities Lending Agreements
 
 
 
 
Open (1)
 
1 Month or Less
 
1 to 6 Months
 
Total
 
% of
Total
 
(In millions)
 
 
Cash collateral liability by loaned security type
U.S. government and agency
$
8,665

 
$
10,353

 
$
9,476

 
$
28,494

 
92.0
%
Agency RMBS
12

 
665

 
600

 
1,277

 
4.1

Foreign government
2

 
803

 

 
805

 
2.6

U.S. corporate
11

 
387

 

 
398

 
1.3

Foreign corporate

 
12

 

 
12

 

Total
$
8,690


$
12,220


$
10,076


$
30,986


100
%
 
December 31, 2015
 
Remaining Tenor of Securities Lending Agreements
 
 
 
 
Open (1)
 
1 Month or Less
 
1 to 6 Months
 
Total
 
% of
Total
 
(In millions)
 
 
Cash collateral liability by loaned security type
U.S. government and agency
$
10,116

 
$
11,157

 
$
5,986

 
$
27,259

 
90.3
%
Agency RMBS

 
951

 
600

 
1,551

 
5.1

Foreign government
2

 
510

 
486

 
998

 
3.3

U.S. corporate
9

 
380

 

 
389

 
1.3

Foreign corporate

 

 

 

 

Total
$
10,127


$
12,998


$
7,072


$
30,197


100
%
__________________
(1)
The related loaned security could be returned to the Company on the next business day which would require the Company to immediately return the cash collateral.
If the Company is required to return significant amounts of cash collateral on short notice and is forced to sell securities to meet the return obligation, it may have difficulty selling such collateral that is invested in securities in a timely manner, be forced to sell securities in a volatile or illiquid market for less than what otherwise would have been realized under normal market conditions, or both. The estimated fair value of the securities on loan related to the cash collateral on open at March 31, 2016 was $8.5 billion, over 99% of which were U.S. government and agency securities which, if put back to the Company, could be immediately sold to satisfy the cash requirement.
The reinvestment portfolio acquired with the cash collateral consisted principally of fixed maturity securities (including U.S. government and agency, agency RMBS, ABS, U.S. and foreign corporate securities and non-agency RMBS) with 64% invested in U.S. government and agency securities, agency RMBS, short-term investments, or held in cash and cash equivalents. If the securities on loan or the reinvestment portfolio become less liquid, the Company has the liquidity resources of most of its general account available to meet any potential cash demands when securities on loan are put back to the Company.

26

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
6. Investments (continued)

Repurchase Agreement Transactions
The Company participates in short-term repurchase agreements and reverse repurchase agreements with unaffiliated financial institutions. Under these agreements, the Company lends fixed maturity securities and contemporaneously borrows other fixed maturity securities (e.g., repurchase and reverse repurchase, respectively). The Company obtains cash collateral in an amount greater than or equal to 95% of the estimated fair value of the securities loaned, and pledges cash collateral in an amount generally equal to 98% of the estimated fair value of the borrowed securities at the inception of the transaction. The Company monitors the estimated fair value of the securities loaned and borrowed on a daily basis with additional collateral obtained as necessary throughout the duration of the transaction.
The Company accounted for these transactions as collateralized borrowing and lending. The amount of fixed maturity securities lent and borrowed, at estimated fair value, was $315 million and $305 million, respectively, at March 31, 2016. There were no such transactions outstanding as of December 31, 2015. Securities loaned under such transactions may be sold or re-pledged by the transferee. Securities borrowed under such transactions may be re-pledged and are not reflected on the consolidated financial statements. The amount of borrowed securities which were re-pledged was $105 million, at estimated fair value, at March 31, 2016.
The Company has elected to offset amounts recognized as receivables and payables resulting from these transactions. The gross amounts of the receivables and payables related to these transactions at March 31, 2016 were both $300 million. After the effect of offsetting of $300 million, the net amount presented on the consolidated balance sheet at March 31, 2016 was a liability of less than $1 million. Amounts owed to and due from counterparties may be settled in cash or offset, in accordance with the agreements. Cash inflows and outflows for cash settlements are reported on the consolidated statements of cash flows. At March 31, 2016, all $300 million of payables from repurchase agreements had a remaining tenor of six months to one year and were loans of U.S. and foreign corporate securities.
See Note 7 for information regarding the estimated fair value of the Company’s net derivative assets and net derivative liabilities after the application of master netting agreements and collateral.
Invested Assets on Deposit, Held in Trust and Pledged as Collateral
Invested assets on deposit, held in trust and pledged as collateral are presented below at estimated fair value for all asset classes, except mortgage loans, which are presented at carrying value at:
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
 
(In millions)
Invested assets on deposit (regulatory deposits)
$
9,696

 
$
9,089

Invested assets held in trust (collateral financing arrangements and reinsurance agreements)
10,770

 
10,443

Invested assets pledged as collateral (1)
25,524

 
23,145

Total invested assets on deposit, held in trust and pledged as collateral
$
45,990


$
42,677

__________________
(1)
The Company has pledged invested assets in connection with various agreements and transactions, including funding agreements (see Notes 4 and 12 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2015 Annual Report), collateral financing arrangements (see Note 13 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2015 Annual Report) and derivative transactions (see Note 7).
See “— Securities Lending” and “— Repurchase Agreement Transactions” for information regarding securities on loan and Note 5 for information regarding investments designated to the closed block.
Variable Interest Entities
The Company is involved with certain legal entities that are VIEs. In certain instances, the Company holds both the power to direct the most significant activities of the entity, as well as an economic interest in the entity and, as such, is deemed to be the primary beneficiary or consolidator of the entity. The determination of the VIE’s primary beneficiary requires an evaluation of the contractual and implied rights and obligations associated with each party’s relationship with or involvement in the entity.

27

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
6. Investments (continued)

Consolidated VIEs
Creditors or beneficial interest holders of VIEs where the Company is the primary beneficiary have no recourse to the general credit of the Company, as the Company’s obligation to the VIEs is limited to the amount of its committed investment.
The following table presents the total assets and total liabilities relating to VIEs for which the Company has concluded that it is the primary beneficiary and which are consolidated at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015.
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
 
Total
Assets
 
Total
Liabilities
 
Total
Assets
 
Total
Liabilities
 
(In millions)
MRSC (collateral financing arrangement (primarily securities)) (1)
$
3,412

 
$

 
$
3,374

 
$

Operating joint venture (2)

 

 
2,465

 
2,079

CSEs (assets (primarily loans) and liabilities (primarily debt)) (3)
182

 
55

 
186

 
62

Other investments (4)
76

 

 
76

 

Total
$
3,670


$
55


$
6,101


$
2,141

__________________
(1)
See Note 13 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2015 Annual Report for a description of the MetLife Reinsurance Company of South Carolina (“MRSC”) collateral financing arrangement.
(2)
Following a change in the foreign investment law in India, the Company no longer consolidated its India operating joint venture, effective January 1, 2016. Assets of the operating joint venture are primarily fixed maturity securities and separate account assets. Liabilities of the operating joint venture are primarily future policy benefits, other policy-related balances and separate account liabilities.
(3)
The Company consolidates entities that are structured as CMBS and as collateralized debt obligations. The assets of these entities can only be used to settle their respective liabilities, and under no circumstances is the Company liable for any principal or interest shortfalls should any arise. The Company’s exposure was limited to that of its remaining investment in these entities of $107 million and $105 million at estimated fair value at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. The long-term debt bears interest primarily at fixed rates ranging from 2.25% to 5.57%, payable primarily on a monthly basis. Interest expense related to these obligations, included in other expenses, was $1 million for both the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015.
(4)
Other investments is primarily comprised of other invested assets and other limited partnership interests.


28

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
6. Investments (continued)

Unconsolidated VIEs
The carrying amount and maximum exposure to loss relating to VIEs in which the Company holds a significant variable interest but is not the primary beneficiary and which have not been consolidated were as follows at:
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
 
Carrying
Amount
 
Maximum
Exposure
to Loss (1)
 
Carrying
Amount
 
Maximum
Exposure
to Loss (1)
 
(In millions)
Fixed maturity securities AFS:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Structured securities (RMBS, ABS and CMBS) (2)
$
72,608

 
$
72,608

 
$
65,824

 
$
65,824

U.S. and foreign corporate
3,075

 
3,075

 
3,261

 
3,261

Other limited partnership interests
6,348

 
10,791

 
5,186

 
7,074

Other invested assets
2,160

 
2,770

 
1,604

 
2,161

FVO and trading securities
541

 
541

 
586

 
586

Real estate joint ventures
251

 
284

 
65

 
82

Equity securities AFS:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Common stock
157

 
157

 

 

Other investments (3)
72

 
72

 
71

 
71

Total
$
85,212


$
90,298


$
76,597


$
79,059

__________________
(1)
The maximum exposure to loss relating to fixed maturity securities AFS, FVO and trading securities and equity securities AFS is equal to their carrying amounts or the carrying amounts of retained interests. The maximum exposure to loss relating to other limited partnership interests, mortgage loans and real estate joint ventures is equal to the carrying amounts plus any unfunded commitments. For certain of its investments in other invested assets, the Company’s return is in the form of income tax credits which are guaranteed by creditworthy third parties. For such investments, the maximum exposure to loss is equal to the carrying amounts plus any unfunded commitments, reduced by income tax credits guaranteed by third parties of $170 million and $179 million at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. Such a maximum loss would be expected to occur only upon bankruptcy of the issuer or investee.
(2)
For these variable interests, the Company’s involvement is limited to that of a passive investor in mortgage-backed or asset-backed securities issued by trusts that do not have substantial equity.
(3)
Other investments is comprised of mortgage loans and non-redeemable preferred stock.
As described in Note 13, the Company makes commitments to fund partnership investments in the normal course of business. Excluding these commitments, the Company did not provide financial or other support to investees designated as VIEs during both the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015.

29

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
6. Investments (continued)

Net Investment Income
The components of net investment income were as follows:
 
 
Three Months 
 Ended 
 March 31,
 
 
2016
 
2015
 
(In millions)
Investment income:
 
 
 
 
Fixed maturity securities
 
$
3,654

 
$
3,541

Equity securities
 
37

 
31

FVO and trading securities — Actively traded and FVO general account securities (1)
 
6

 
37

Mortgage loans
 
807

 
730

Policy loans
 
149

 
152

Real estate and real estate joint ventures
 
157

 
211

Other limited partnership interests
 
46

 
215

Cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments
 
40

 
35

Operating joint ventures
 
12

 
8

Other
 
41

 
122

Subtotal

4,949


5,082

Less: Investment expenses
 
296

 
302

Subtotal, net

4,653


4,780

FVO and trading securities — FVO contractholder-directed unit-linked investments (1)
 
(97
)
 
677

FVO CSEs — interest income:
 
 
 
 
Commercial mortgage loans
 
3

 
4

Subtotal

(94
)

681

Net investment income

$
4,559


$
5,461

__________________
(1)
Changes in estimated fair value subsequent to purchase for securities still held as of the end of the respective periods included in net investment income were as follows:
 
Three Months 
 Ended 
 March 31,
 
2016
 
2015
 
(In millions)
Actively traded and FVO general account securities
$
5

 
$
6

FVO contractholder-directed unit-linked investments
$
(191
)
 
$
536

See “— Variable Interest Entities” for discussion of CSEs.
FVO and trading securities are primarily comprised of securities for which the FVO has been elected (“FVO Securities”). FVO Securities include certain fixed maturity and equity securities held-for-investment by the general account to support asset and liability management strategies for certain insurance products and investments in certain separate accounts. FVO Securities are primarily comprised of contractholder-directed investments supporting unit-linked variable annuity type liabilities which do not qualify for presentation as separate account summary total assets and liabilities. The investment returns on these investments inure to the contractholders and are offset by a corresponding change in policyholder account balances through interest credited to policyholder account balances. FVO Securities also include securities held by CSEs. The Company has a trading securities portfolio, principally invested in fixed maturity securities, to support investment strategies that involve the active and frequent purchase and sale of actively traded securities and the execution of short sale agreements.

30

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
6. Investments (continued)

Net Investment Gains (Losses)
Components of Net Investment Gains (Losses)
The components of net investment gains (losses) were as follows:
 
 
Three Months 
 Ended 
 March 31,
 
 
2016
 
2015
 
(In millions)
Total gains (losses) on fixed maturity securities:
 
 
 
 
Total OTTI losses recognized — by sector and industry:
 
 
 
 
U.S. and foreign corporate securities — by industry:
 
 
 
 
Consumer
 
$

 
$
(3
)
Industrial
 
(71
)
 
(2
)
Communications
 
(3
)
 

Total U.S. and foreign corporate securities

(74
)

(5
)
RMBS
 
(4
)
 
(13
)
OTTI losses on fixed maturity securities recognized in earnings

(78
)

(18
)
Fixed maturity securities — net gains (losses) on sales and disposals
 
98

 
151

Total gains (losses) on fixed maturity securities

20


133

Total gains (losses) on equity securities:
 
 
 
 
Total OTTI losses recognized — by sector:
 
 
 
 
Common stock
 
(51
)
 

OTTI losses on equity securities recognized in earnings

(51
)


Equity securities — net gains (losses) on sales and disposals
 
6

 
8

Total gains (losses) on equity securities

(45
)
 
8

Mortgage loans
 
(64
)
 
(43
)
Real estate and real estate joint ventures
 
2

 
27

Other limited partnership interests
 
(27
)
 
16

Other
 
(18
)
 
23

Subtotal

(132
)

164

FVO CSEs:
 
 
 
 
Commercial mortgage loans
 
1

 
(3
)
Securities
 
1

 

Long-term debt — related to commercial mortgage loans
 

 
1

Non-investment portfolio gains (losses)

145

 
124

Subtotal
 
147

 
122

Total net investment gains (losses)

$
15


$
286

See “— Variable Interest Entities” for discussion of CSEs.
Gains (losses) from foreign currency transactions included within net investment gains (losses) were $79 million and $161 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.
Sales or Disposals and Impairments of Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities
Investment gains and losses on sales of securities are determined on a specific identification basis. Proceeds from sales or disposals of fixed maturity and equity securities and the components of fixed maturity and equity securities net investment gains (losses) were as shown in the table below.

31

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
6. Investments (continued)

 
Three Months 
 Ended 
 March 31,
 
2016
 
2015
 
2016
 
2015
 
Fixed Maturity Securities
 
Equity Securities
 
(In millions)
Proceeds
$
31,994

 
$
30,006

 
$
59

 
$
53

Gross investment gains
$
433

 
$
338

 
$
11

 
$
15

Gross investment losses
(335
)
 
(187
)
 
(5
)
 
(7
)
OTTI losses
(78
)
 
(18
)
 
(51
)
 

Net investment gains (losses)
$
20


$
133


$
(45
)

$
8

Credit Loss Rollforward
The table below presents a rollforward of the cumulative credit loss component of OTTI loss recognized in earnings on fixed maturity securities still held for which a portion of the OTTI loss was recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) (“OCI”):
 
 
Three Months 
 Ended 
 March 31,
 
 
2016
 
2015
 
(In millions)
Balance, beginning of period
 
$
277

 
$
357

Additions:
 
 
 
 
Initial impairments — credit loss OTTI on securities not previously impaired
 

 
2

Additional impairments — credit loss OTTI on securities previously impaired
 
2

 
11

Reductions:
 
 
 
 
Sales (maturities, pay downs or prepayments) of securities previously impaired as credit loss OTTI
 
(9
)
 
(13
)
Balance, end of period

$
270


$
357

7. Derivatives
Accounting for Derivatives
Freestanding Derivatives
Freestanding derivatives are carried on the Company’s balance sheet either as assets within other invested assets or as liabilities within other liabilities at estimated fair value. The Company does not offset the estimated fair value amounts recognized for derivatives executed with the same counterparty under the same master netting agreement.
Accruals on derivatives are generally recorded in accrued investment income or within other liabilities. However, accruals that are not scheduled to settle within one year are included with the derivatives carrying value in other invested assets or other liabilities.

32

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
7. Derivatives (continued)

If a derivative is not designated as an accounting hedge or its use in managing risk does not qualify for hedge accounting, changes in the estimated fair value of the derivative are reported in net derivative gains (losses) except as follows:
Statement of Operations Presentation:
Derivative:
Policyholder benefits and claims
Economic hedges of variable annuity guarantees included in future policy benefits
Net investment income
Economic hedges of equity method investments in joint ventures
 
All derivatives held in relation to trading portfolios
 
Derivatives held within contractholder-directed unit-linked investments
Hedge Accounting
To qualify for hedge accounting, at the inception of the hedging relationship, the Company formally documents its risk management objective and strategy for undertaking the hedging transaction, as well as its designation of the hedge. Hedge designation and financial statement presentation of changes in estimated fair value of the hedging derivatives are as follows:
Fair value hedge (a hedge of the estimated fair value of a recognized asset or liability) - in net derivative gains (losses), consistent with the change in estimated fair value of the hedged item attributable to the designated risk being hedged.
Cash flow hedge (a hedge of a forecasted transaction or of the variability of cash flows to be received or paid related to a recognized asset or liability) - effectiveness in OCI (deferred gains or losses on the derivative are reclassified into the statement of operations when the Company’s earnings are affected by the variability in cash flows of the hedged item); ineffectiveness in net derivative gains (losses).
Net investment in a foreign operation hedge - effectiveness in OCI, consistent with the translation adjustment for the hedged net investment in the foreign operation; ineffectiveness in net derivative gains (losses).
The changes in estimated fair values of the hedging derivatives are exclusive of any accruals that are separately reported on the statement of operations within interest income or interest expense to match the location of the hedged item. Accruals on derivatives in net investment hedges are recognized in OCI.
In its hedge documentation, the Company sets forth how the hedging instrument is expected to hedge the designated risks related to the hedged item and sets forth the method that will be used to retrospectively and prospectively assess the hedging instrument’s effectiveness and the method that will be used to measure ineffectiveness. A derivative designated as a hedging instrument must be assessed as being highly effective in offsetting the designated risk of the hedged item. Hedge effectiveness is formally assessed at inception and at least quarterly throughout the life of the designated hedging relationship. Assessments of hedge effectiveness and measurements of ineffectiveness are also subject to interpretation and estimation and different interpretations or estimates may have a material effect on the amount reported in net income.
The Company discontinues hedge accounting prospectively when: (i) it is determined that the derivative is no longer highly effective in offsetting changes in the estimated fair value or cash flows of a hedged item; (ii) the derivative expires, is sold, terminated, or exercised; (iii) it is no longer probable that the hedged forecasted transaction will occur; or (iv) the derivative is de-designated as a hedging instrument.
When hedge accounting is discontinued because it is determined that the derivative is not highly effective in offsetting changes in the estimated fair value or cash flows of a hedged item, the derivative continues to be carried on the balance sheet at its estimated fair value, with changes in estimated fair value recognized in net derivative gains (losses). The carrying value of the hedged recognized asset or liability under a fair value hedge is no longer adjusted for changes in its estimated fair value due to the hedged risk, and the cumulative adjustment to its carrying value is amortized into income over the remaining life of the hedged item. Provided the hedged forecasted transaction is still probable of occurrence, the changes in estimated fair value of derivatives recorded in OCI related to discontinued cash flow hedges are released into the statement of operations when the Company’s earnings are affected by the variability in cash flows of the hedged item.

33

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
7. Derivatives (continued)

When hedge accounting is discontinued because it is no longer probable that the forecasted transactions will occur on the anticipated date or within two months of that date, the derivative continues to be carried on the balance sheet at its estimated fair value, with changes in estimated fair value recognized currently in net derivative gains (losses). Deferred gains and losses of a derivative recorded in OCI pursuant to the discontinued cash flow hedge of a forecasted transaction that is no longer probable are recognized immediately in net derivative gains (losses).
In all other situations in which hedge accounting is discontinued, the derivative is carried at its estimated fair value on the balance sheet, with changes in its estimated fair value recognized in the current period as net derivative gains (losses).
Embedded Derivatives
The Company sells variable annuities and issues certain insurance products and investment contracts and is a party to certain reinsurance agreements that have embedded derivatives. The Company assesses each identified embedded derivative to determine whether it is required to be bifurcated. The embedded derivative is bifurcated from the host contract and accounted for as a freestanding derivative if:
the combined instrument is not accounted for in its entirety at estimated fair value with changes in estimated fair value recorded in earnings;
the terms of the embedded derivative are not clearly and closely related to the economic characteristics of the host contract; and
a separate instrument with the same terms as the embedded derivative would qualify as a derivative instrument.
Such embedded derivatives are carried on the balance sheet at estimated fair value with the host contract and changes in their estimated fair value are generally reported in net derivative gains (losses), except for those in policyholder benefits and claims related to ceded reinsurance of GMIB. If the Company is unable to properly identify and measure an embedded derivative for separation from its host contract, the entire contract is carried on the balance sheet at estimated fair value, with changes in estimated fair value recognized in the current period in net investment gains (losses) or net investment income. Additionally, the Company may elect to carry an entire contract on the balance sheet at estimated fair value, with changes in estimated fair value recognized in the current period in net investment gains (losses) or net investment income if that contract contains an embedded derivative that requires bifurcation. At inception, the Company attributes to the embedded derivative a portion of the projected future guarantee fees to be collected from the policyholder equal to the present value of projected future guaranteed benefits. Any additional fees represent “excess” fees and are reported in universal life and investment-type product policy fees.
See Note 8 for information about the fair value hierarchy for derivatives.
Derivative Strategies
The Company is exposed to various risks relating to its ongoing business operations, including interest rate, foreign currency exchange rate, credit and equity market. The Company uses a variety of strategies to manage these risks, including the use of derivatives.
Derivatives are financial instruments with values derived from interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates, credit spreads and/or other financial indices. Derivatives may be exchange-traded or contracted in the over-the-counter (“OTC”) market. Certain of the Company’s OTC derivatives are cleared and settled through central clearing counterparties (“OTC-cleared”), while others are bilateral contracts between two counterparties (“OTC-bilateral”). The types of derivatives the Company uses include swaps, forwards, futures and option contracts. To a lesser extent, the Company uses credit default swaps and structured interest rate swaps to synthetically replicate investment risks and returns which are not readily available in the cash market.
Interest Rate Derivatives
The Company uses a variety of interest rate derivatives to reduce its exposure to changes in interest rates, including interest rate swaps, caps, floors, swaptions, futures and forwards.
Interest rate swaps are used by the Company primarily to reduce market risks from changes in interest rates and to alter interest rate exposure arising from mismatches between assets and liabilities (duration mismatches). In an interest rate swap, the Company agrees with another party to exchange, at specified intervals, the difference between fixed rate and floating rate interest amounts as calculated by reference to an agreed notional amount. The Company utilizes interest rate swaps in fair value, cash flow and nonqualifying hedging relationships.

34

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
7. Derivatives (continued)

The Company uses structured interest rate swaps to synthetically create investments that are either more expensive to acquire or otherwise unavailable in the cash markets. These transactions are a combination of a derivative and a cash instrument such as a U.S. government and agency, or other fixed maturity security. Structured interest rate swaps are included in interest rate swaps and are not designated as hedging instruments.
The Company purchases interest rate caps and floors primarily to protect its floating rate liabilities against rises in interest rates above a specified level, and against interest rate exposure arising from mismatches between assets and liabilities, as well as to protect its minimum rate guarantee liabilities against declines in interest rates below a specified level, respectively. In certain instances, the Company locks in the economic impact of existing purchased caps and floors by entering into offsetting written caps and floors. The Company utilizes interest rate caps and floors in nonqualifying hedging relationships.
In exchange-traded interest rate (Treasury and swap) futures transactions, the Company agrees to purchase or sell a specified number of contracts, the value of which is determined by the different classes of interest rate securities, and to post variation margin on a daily basis in an amount equal to the difference in the daily market values of those contracts. The Company enters into exchange-traded futures with regulated futures commission merchants that are members of the exchange. Exchange-traded interest rate (Treasury and swap) futures are used primarily to hedge mismatches between the duration of assets in a portfolio and the duration of liabilities supported by those assets, to hedge against changes in value of securities the Company owns or anticipates acquiring, to hedge against changes in interest rates on anticipated liability issuances by replicating Treasury or swap curve performance, and to hedge minimum guarantees embedded in certain variable annuity products offered by the Company. The Company utilizes exchange-traded interest rate futures in nonqualifying hedging relationships.
Swaptions are used by the Company to hedge interest rate risk associated with the Company’s long-term liabilities and invested assets. A swaption is an option to enter into a swap with a forward starting effective date. In certain instances, the Company locks in the economic impact of existing purchased swaptions by entering into offsetting written swaptions. The Company pays a premium for purchased swaptions and receives a premium for written swaptions. The Company utilizes swaptions in nonqualifying hedging relationships. Swaptions are included in interest rate options.
The Company enters into interest rate forwards to buy and sell securities. The price is agreed upon at the time of the contract and payment for such a contract is made at a specified future date. The Company utilizes interest rate forwards in cash flow and nonqualifying hedging relationships.
Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Derivatives
The Company uses foreign currency exchange rate derivatives, including foreign currency swaps, foreign currency forwards, currency options and exchange-traded currency futures, to reduce the risk from fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates associated with its assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies. The Company also uses foreign currency derivatives to hedge the foreign currency exchange rate risk associated with certain of its net investments in foreign operations.
In a foreign currency swap transaction, the Company agrees with another party to exchange, at specified intervals, the difference between one currency and another at a fixed exchange rate, generally set at inception, calculated by reference to an agreed upon notional amount. The notional amount of each currency is exchanged at the inception and termination of the currency swap by each party. The Company utilizes foreign currency swaps in fair value, cash flow and nonqualifying hedging relationships.
In a foreign currency forward transaction, the Company agrees with another party to deliver a specified amount of an identified currency at a specified future date. The price is agreed upon at the time of the contract and payment for such a contract is made at the specified future date. The Company utilizes foreign currency forwards in fair value, net investment in foreign operations and nonqualifying hedging relationships.
The Company enters into currency options that give it the right, but not the obligation, to sell the foreign currency amount in exchange for a functional currency amount within a limited time at a contracted price. The contracts may also be net settled in cash, based on differentials in the foreign currency exchange rate and the strike price. The Company uses currency options to hedge against the foreign currency exposure inherent in certain of its variable annuity products. The Company also uses currency options as an economic hedge of foreign currency exposure related to the Company’s international subsidiaries. The Company utilizes currency options in net investment in foreign operations and nonqualifying hedging relationships.

35

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
7. Derivatives (continued)

To a lesser extent, the Company uses exchange-traded currency futures to hedge currency mismatches between assets and liabilities, and to hedge minimum guarantees embedded in certain variable annuity products offered by the Company. The Company utilizes exchange-traded currency futures in nonqualifying hedging relationships.
Credit Derivatives
The Company enters into purchased credit default swaps to hedge against credit-related changes in the value of its investments. In a credit default swap transaction, the Company agrees with another party to pay, at specified intervals, a premium to hedge credit risk. If a credit event occurs, as defined by the contract, the contract may be cash settled or it may be settled gross by the delivery of par quantities of the referenced investment equal to the specified swap notional amount in exchange for the payment of cash amounts by the counterparty equal to the par value of the investment surrendered. Credit events vary by type of issuer but typically include bankruptcy, failure to pay debt obligations, repudiation, moratorium, involuntary restructuring or governmental intervention. In each case, payout on a credit default swap is triggered only after the Credit Derivatives Determinations Committee of the International Swaps and Derivatives Association, Inc. (“ISDA”) deems that a credit event has occurred. The Company utilizes credit default swaps in nonqualifying hedging relationships.
The Company enters into written credit default swaps to synthetically create credit investments that are either more expensive to acquire or otherwise unavailable in the cash markets. These transactions are a combination of a derivative and one or more cash instruments, such as U.S. government and agency securities, or other fixed maturity securities. These credit default swaps are not designated as hedging instruments.
The Company also enters into certain purchased and written credit default swaps held in relation to trading portfolios for the purpose of generating profits on short-term differences in price. These credit default swaps are not designated as hedging instruments.
The Company enters into forwards to lock in the price to be paid for forward purchases of certain securities. The price is agreed upon at the time of the contract and payment for the contract is made at a specified future date. When the primary purpose of entering into these transactions is to hedge against the risk of changes in purchase price due to changes in credit spreads, the Company designates these transactions as credit forwards. The Company utilizes credit forwards in cash flow hedging relationships.
Equity Derivatives
The Company uses a variety of equity derivatives to reduce its exposure to equity market risk, including equity index options, equity variance swaps, exchange-traded equity futures and total rate of return swaps (“TRRs”).
Equity index options are used by the Company primarily to hedge minimum guarantees embedded in certain variable annuity products offered by the Company. To hedge against adverse changes in equity indices, the Company enters into contracts to sell the equity index within a limited time at a contracted price. The contracts will be net settled in cash based on differentials in the indices at the time of exercise and the strike price. Certain of these contracts may also contain settlement provisions linked to interest rates. In certain instances, the Company may enter into a combination of transactions to hedge adverse changes in equity indices within a pre-determined range through the purchase and sale of options. The Company utilizes equity index options in nonqualifying hedging relationships.
Equity variance swaps are used by the Company primarily to hedge minimum guarantees embedded in certain variable annuity products offered by the Company. In an equity variance swap, the Company agrees with another party to exchange amounts in the future, based on changes in equity volatility over a defined period. The Company utilizes equity variance swaps in nonqualifying hedging relationships.
In exchange-traded equity futures transactions, the Company agrees to purchase or sell a specified number of contracts, the value of which is determined by the different classes of equity securities, and to post variation margin on a daily basis in an amount equal to the difference in the daily market values of those contracts. The Company enters into exchange-traded futures with regulated futures commission merchants that are members of the exchange. Exchange-traded equity futures are used primarily to hedge minimum guarantees embedded in certain variable annuity products offered by the Company. The Company utilizes exchange-traded equity futures in nonqualifying hedging relationships.

36

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
7. Derivatives (continued)

TRRs are swaps whereby the Company agrees with another party to exchange, at specified intervals, the difference between the economic risk and reward of an asset or a market index and the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”), calculated by reference to an agreed notional amount. No cash is exchanged at the outset of the contract. Cash is paid and received over the life of the contract based on the terms of the swap. The Company uses TRRs to hedge its equity market guarantees in certain of its insurance products. TRRs can be used as hedges or to synthetically create investments. The Company utilizes TRRs in nonqualifying hedging relationships.
Primary Risks Managed by Derivatives
The following table presents the gross notional amount, estimated fair value and primary underlying risk exposure of the Company’s derivatives, excluding embedded derivatives, held at:
 
 
 
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
 
 
Primary Underlying Risk Exposure
 
Gross
Notional
Amount
 
Estimated Fair Value
 
Gross
Notional
Amount
 
Estimated Fair Value
 
 
Assets
 
Liabilities
 
Assets
 
Liabilities
 
 
 
 
(In millions)
Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fair value hedges
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest rate swaps
 
Interest rate
 
$
5,491

 
$
2,596

 
$
17

 
$
5,528

 
$
2,215

 
$
12

Foreign currency swaps
 
Foreign currency exchange rate
 
2,135

 
66

 
142

 
2,154

 
62

 
159

Foreign currency forwards
 
Foreign currency exchange rate
 
1,485

 
62

 

 
1,685

 

 
52

Subtotal
 
 
 
9,111

 
2,724

 
159

 
9,367

 
2,277

 
223

Cash flow hedges
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest rate swaps
 
Interest rate
 
1,945

 
643

 

 
2,190

 
487

 

Interest rate forwards
 
Interest rate
 
35

 
12

 

 
105

 
23

 

Foreign currency swaps
 
Foreign currency exchange rate
 
25,121

 
1,461

 
1,511

 
23,661

 
1,303

 
1,803

Subtotal
 
 
 
27,101

 
2,116

 
1,511

 
25,956

 
1,813

 
1,803

Foreign operations hedges
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign currency forwards
 
Foreign currency exchange rate
 
5,043

 
2

 
179

 
3,916

 
63

 
12

Currency options
 
Foreign currency exchange rate
 
8,144

 
41

 
80

 
7,569

 
205

 
36

Subtotal
 
 
 
13,187

 
43

 
259

 
11,485

 
268

 
48

Total qualifying hedges
 
49,399

 
4,883

 
1,929

 
46,808

 
4,358

 
2,074

Derivatives Not Designated or Not Qualifying as Hedging Instruments
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest rate swaps
 
Interest rate
 
80,829

 
7,277

 
3,215

 
89,336

 
5,111

 
2,247

Interest rate floors
 
Interest rate
 
20,837

 
386

 
53

 
23,837

 
311

 
48

Interest rate caps
 
Interest rate
 
70,928

 
70

 
3

 
68,928

 
105

 
3

Interest rate futures
 
Interest rate
 
6,652

 
21

 
7

 
5,808

 
4

 
7

Interest rate options
 
Interest rate
 
27,590

 
2,316

 
2

 
30,234

 
1,177

 
30

Interest rate forwards
 
Interest rate
 
43

 
5

 

 
43

 
1

 

Synthetic GICs
 
Interest rate
 
3,980

 

 

 
4,216

 

 

Foreign currency swaps
 
Foreign currency exchange rate
 
11,512

 
768

 
459

 
11,081

 
766

 
431

Foreign currency forwards
 
Foreign currency exchange rate
 
14,539

 
388

 
187

 
11,724

 
154

 
220

Currency futures
 
Foreign currency exchange rate
 
985

 
1

 
1

 
930

 

 

Currency options
 
Foreign currency exchange rate
 
8,016

 
337

 
66

 
9,590

 
466

 
189

Credit default swaps — purchased
 
Credit
 
2,079

 
22

 
22

 
1,870

 
28

 
34

Credit default swaps — written
 
Credit
 
10,729

 
105

 
11

 
10,311

 
78

 
13

Equity futures
 
Equity market
 
11,768

 
28

 
15

 
7,206

 
63

 
18

Equity index options
 
Equity market
 
53,981

 
1,924

 
1,241

 
55,682

 
1,542

 
1,041

Equity variance swaps
 
Equity market
 
23,466

 
208

 
682

 
23,437

 
195

 
636

TRRs
 
Equity market
 
3,913

 
8

 
229

 
3,803

 
47

 
58

Total non-designated or nonqualifying derivatives
 
351,847

 
13,864

 
6,193

 
358,036

 
10,048

 
4,975

Total
 
 
 
$
401,246

 
$
18,747

 
$
8,122

 
$
404,844

 
$
14,406

 
$
7,049


37

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
7. Derivatives (continued)

Based on gross notional amounts, a substantial portion of the Company’s derivatives was not designated or did not qualify as part of a hedging relationship at both March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015. The Company’s use of derivatives includes (i) derivatives that serve as macro hedges of the Company’s exposure to various risks and that generally do not qualify for hedge accounting due to the criteria required under the portfolio hedging rules; (ii) derivatives that economically hedge insurance liabilities that contain mortality or morbidity risk and that generally do not qualify for hedge accounting because the lack of these risks in the derivatives cannot support an expectation of a highly effective hedging relationship; (iii) derivatives that economically hedge embedded derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting because the changes in estimated fair value of the embedded derivatives are already recorded in net income; and (iv) written credit default swaps that are used to synthetically create credit investments and that do not qualify for hedge accounting because they do not involve a hedging relationship. For these nonqualified derivatives, changes in market factors can lead to the recognition of fair value changes on the statement of operations without an offsetting gain or loss recognized in earnings for the item being hedged.
Net Derivative Gains (Losses)
The components of net derivative gains (losses) were as follows:
 
Three Months 
 Ended 
 March 31,
 
2016
 
2015
 
(In millions)
Freestanding derivatives and hedging gains (losses) (1)
$
2,504

 
$
848

Embedded derivatives gains (losses)
(1,169
)
 
(27
)
Total net derivative gains (losses)
$
1,335

 
$
821

__________________
(1)
Includes foreign currency transaction gains (losses) on hedged items in cash flow and nonqualifying hedging relationships, which are not presented elsewhere in this note.
The following table presents earned income on derivatives:
 
 
Three Months 
 Ended 
 March 31,
 
 
2016
 
2015
 
 
(In millions)
Qualifying hedges:
 
 
 
 
Net investment income
 
$
57

 
$
58

Interest credited to policyholder account balances
 
6

 
2

Other expenses
 
(2
)
 
(3
)
Nonqualifying hedges:
 
 
 
 
Net investment income
 

 
(1
)
Net derivative gains (losses)
 
283

 
261

Policyholder benefits and claims
 
5

 
4

Total
 
$
349

 
$
321


38

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
7. Derivatives (continued)

Nonqualifying Derivatives and Derivatives for Purposes Other Than Hedging
The following table presents the amount and location of gains (losses) recognized in income for derivatives that were not designated or not qualifying as hedging instruments:
 
Net
Derivative
Gains (Losses)
 
Net
Investment
Income (1)
 
Policyholder
Benefits and
Claims (2)
 
(In millions)
Three Months Ended March 31, 2016
 
 
 
 
 
Interest rate derivatives
$
1,972

 
$

 
$
42

Foreign currency exchange rate derivatives
523

 

 
(1
)
Credit derivatives — purchased
(5
)
 
10

 

Credit derivatives — written
(6
)
 
(9
)
 

Equity derivatives
(47
)
 
(11
)
 
32

Total
$
2,437

 
$
(10
)
 
$
73

Three Months Ended March 31, 2015
 
 
 
 
 
Interest rate derivatives
$
552

 
$

 
$
11

Foreign currency exchange rate derivatives
669

 

 

Credit derivatives — purchased
(11
)
 
(1
)
 

Credit derivatives — written
3

 
1

 

Equity derivatives
(462
)
 
(4
)
 
(99
)
Total
$
751

 
$
(4
)
 
$
(88
)
__________________
(1)
Changes in estimated fair value related to economic hedges of equity method investments in joint ventures, derivatives held in relation to trading portfolios and derivatives held within contractholder-directed unit-linked investments.
(2)
Changes in estimated fair value related to economic hedges of variable annuity guarantees included in future policy benefits.
Fair Value Hedges
The Company designates and accounts for the following as fair value hedges when they have met the requirements of fair value hedging: (i) interest rate swaps to convert fixed rate assets and liabilities to floating rate assets and liabilities; (ii) foreign currency swaps to hedge the foreign currency fair value exposure of foreign currency denominated assets and liabilities; and (iii) foreign currency forwards to hedge the foreign currency fair value exposure of foreign currency denominated investments.

39

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
7. Derivatives (continued)

The Company recognizes gains and losses on derivatives and the related hedged items in fair value hedges within net derivative gains (losses). The following table presents the amount of such net derivative gains (losses):
Derivatives in Fair Value
Hedging Relationships
 
Hedged Items in Fair Value
Hedging Relationships
 
Net Derivative
Gains (Losses)
Recognized
for Derivatives
 
Net Derivative
Gains (Losses)
Recognized for
Hedged Items
 
Ineffectiveness
Recognized in
Net Derivative
Gains (Losses)
 
 
 
 
(In millions)
Three Months Ended March 31, 2016
 
 
Interest rate swaps:
 
Fixed maturity securities
 
$
(8
)
 
$
7

 
$
(1
)
 
 
Policyholder liabilities (1)
 
346

 
(348
)
 
(2
)
Foreign currency swaps:
 
Foreign-denominated fixed maturity securities
 
(1
)
 
2

 
1

 
 
Foreign-denominated policyholder account balances (2)
 
25

 
(25
)
 

Foreign currency forwards:
 
Foreign-denominated fixed maturity securities
 
139

 
(128
)
 
11

Total
 
$
501

 
$
(492
)
 
$
9

Three Months Ended March 31, 2015
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest rate swaps:
 
Fixed maturity securities
 
$
(5
)
 
$
7

 
$
2

 
 
Policyholder liabilities (1)
 
197

 
(198
)
 
(1
)
Foreign currency swaps:
 
Foreign-denominated fixed maturity securities
 
10

 
(8
)
 
2

 
 
Foreign-denominated policyholder account balances (2)
 
(249
)
 
245

 
(4
)
Foreign currency forwards:
 
Foreign-denominated fixed maturity securities
 
(17
)
 
16

 
(1
)
Total
 
$
(64
)
 
$
62

 
$
(2
)
__________________
(1)
Fixed rate liabilities reported in policyholder account balances or future policy benefits.
(2)
Fixed rate or floating rate liabilities.
For the Company’s foreign currency forwards, the change in the estimated fair value of the derivative related to the changes in the difference between the spot price and the forward price is excluded from the assessment of hedge effectiveness. For all other derivatives, all components of each derivative’s gain or loss were included in the assessment of hedge effectiveness. For the three months ended March 31, 2016 and March 31, 2015, the component of the change in estimated fair value of derivatives that was excluded from the assessment of hedge effectiveness was ($6) million and ($2) million, respectively.
Cash Flow Hedges
The Company designates and accounts for the following as cash flow hedges when they have met the requirements of cash flow hedging: (i) interest rate swaps to convert floating rate assets and liabilities to fixed rate assets and liabilities; (ii) foreign currency swaps to hedge the foreign currency cash flow exposure of foreign currency denominated assets and liabilities; (iii) interest rate forwards and credit forwards to lock in the price to be paid for forward purchases of investments; (iv) interest rate swaps and interest rate forwards to hedge the forecasted purchases of fixed-rate investments; and (v) interest rate swaps and interest rate forwards to hedge forecasted fixed-rate borrowings.
In certain instances, the Company discontinued cash flow hedge accounting because the forecasted transactions were no longer probable of occurring. Because certain of the forecasted transactions also were not probable of occurring within two months of the anticipated date, the Company reclassified amounts from AOCI into net derivative gains (losses). These amounts were ($4) million and $3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.
At both March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the maximum length of time over which the Company was hedging its exposure to variability in future cash flows for forecasted transactions did not exceed five years.
At March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the balance in AOCI associated with cash flow hedges was $2.7 billion and $2.4 billion, respectively.

40

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
7. Derivatives (continued)

The following table presents the effects of derivatives in cash flow hedging relationships on the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss) and the consolidated statements of equity:
Derivatives in Cash Flow
Hedging Relationships
 
Amount of Gains
(Losses) Deferred in
AOCI on Derivatives
 
Amount and Location
of Gains (Losses)
Reclassified from
AOCI into Income (Loss)
 
Amount and Location
of Gains (Losses)
Recognized in Income
(Loss) on Derivatives
 
 
(Effective Portion)
 
(Effective Portion)
 
(Ineffective Portion)
 
 
 
 
Net Derivative
Gains (Losses)
 
Net Investment
Income
 
Other
Expenses
 
Net Derivative
Gains (Losses)
 
 
(In millions)
Three Months Ended March 31, 2016
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest rate swaps
 
$
213

 
$
10

 
$
3

 
$

 
$
(1
)
Interest rate forwards
 
9

 
2

 
1

 

 

Foreign currency swaps
 
474

 
306

 

 
1

 
(2
)
Total
 
$
696

 
$
318

 
$
4

 
$
1

 
$
(3
)
Three Months Ended March 31, 2015
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest rate swaps
 
$
174

 
$
5

 
$
3

 
$

 
$
3

Interest rate forwards
 
15

 
3

 
1

 
1

 

Foreign currency swaps
 
(2
)
 
(567
)
 

 

 
4

Total
 
$
187

 
$
(559
)
 
$
4

 
$
1

 
$
7

All components of each derivative’s gain or loss were included in the assessment of hedge effectiveness.
At March 31, 2016, ($15) million of deferred net gains (losses) on derivatives in AOCI was expected to be reclassified to earnings within the next 12 months.
Hedges of Net Investments in Foreign Operations
The Company uses foreign currency exchange rate derivatives, which may include foreign currency forwards and currency options, to hedge portions of its net investments in foreign operations against adverse movements in exchange rates. The Company measures ineffectiveness on these derivatives based upon the change in forward rates.
When net investments in foreign operations are sold or substantially liquidated, the amounts in AOCI are reclassified to the statement of operations.
The following table presents the effects of derivatives in net investment hedging relationships on the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss) and the consolidated statements of equity:
Derivatives in Net Investment Hedging Relationships (1), (2)
 
Amount of Gains (Losses) Deferred in AOCI
(Effective Portion)
 
 
(In millions)
Three Months Ended March 31, 2016
 
 
Foreign currency forwards
 
$
(231
)
Currency options
 
(168
)
Total
 
$
(399
)
Three Months Ended March 31, 2015
 
 
Foreign currency forwards
 
$
111

Currency options
 
(41
)
Total
 
$
70

__________________
(1)
During both the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, there were no sales or substantial liquidations of net investments in foreign operations that would have required the reclassification of gains or losses from AOCI into earnings.

41

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
7. Derivatives (continued)

(2)
There was no ineffectiveness recognized for the Company’s hedges of net investments in foreign operations. All components of each derivative’s gain or loss were included in the assessment of hedge effectiveness.
At March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the cumulative foreign currency translation gain (loss) recorded in AOCI related to hedges of net investments in foreign operations was $657 million and $1.1 billion, respectively.
Credit Derivatives
In connection with synthetically created credit investment transactions and credit default swaps held in relation to the trading portfolio, the Company writes credit default swaps for which it receives a premium to insure credit risk. Such credit derivatives are included within the nonqualifying derivatives and derivatives for purposes other than hedging table. If a credit event occurs, as defined by the contract, the contract may be cash settled or it may be settled gross by the Company paying the counterparty the specified swap notional amount in exchange for the delivery of par quantities of the referenced credit obligation. The Company’s maximum amount at risk, assuming the value of all referenced credit obligations is zero, was $10.7 billion and $10.3 billion at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. The Company can terminate these contracts at any time through cash settlement with the counterparty at an amount equal to the then current estimated fair value of the credit default swaps. At March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the Company would have received $94 million and $65 million, respectively, to terminate all of these contracts.
The following table presents the estimated fair value, maximum amount of future payments and weighted average years to maturity of written credit default swaps at:
 
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
Rating Agency Designation of Referenced
Credit Obligations (1)
 
Estimated
Fair Value
of Credit
Default
Swaps
 
Maximum
Amount of Future
Payments under
Credit Default
Swaps
 
Weighted
Average
Years to
Maturity (2)
 
Estimated
Fair Value
of Credit
Default
Swaps
 
Maximum
Amount of Future
Payments under
Credit Default
Swaps
 
Weighted
Average
Years to
Maturity (2)
 
 
(In millions)
 
 
 
(In millions)
 
 
Aaa/Aa/A
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Single name credit default swaps (corporate)
 
$
6

 
$
630

 
2.8

 
$
6

 
$
661

 
2.5

Credit default swaps referencing indices
 
16

 
2,137

 
3.6

 
6

 
1,635

 
3.4

Subtotal
 
22

 
2,767

 
3.4

 
12

 
2,296

 
3.2

Baa
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Single name credit default swaps (corporate)
 
5

 
1,158

 
2.4

 
8

 
1,349

 
2.5

Credit default swaps referencing indices
 
55

 
6,278

 
5.1

 
37

 
5,863

 
4.8

Subtotal
 
60

 
7,436

 
4.7

 
45

 
7,212

 
4.4

Ba
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Single name credit default swaps (corporate)
 

 
65

 
2.1

 
(2
)
 
64

 
2.3

Credit default swaps referencing indices
 

 
100

 
0.7

 
(1
)
 
100

 
1.0

Subtotal
 

 
165

 
1.3

 
(3
)
 
164

 
1.5

B
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Single name credit default swaps (corporate)
 

 

 

 

 

 

Credit default swaps referencing indices
 
12

 
361

 
4.6

 
11

 
639

 
4.9

Subtotal
 
12

 
361

 
4.6

 
11

 
639

 
4.9

Total
 
$
94

 
$
10,729

 
4.3

 
$
65

 
$
10,311

 
4.1

__________________

42

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
7. Derivatives (continued)

(1)
The rating agency designations are based on availability and the midpoint of the applicable ratings among Moody’s Investors Service (“Moody’s”), Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services (“S&P”) and Fitch Ratings. If no rating is available from a rating agency, then an internally developed rating is used.
(2)
The weighted average years to maturity of the credit default swaps is calculated based on weighted average gross notional amounts.
The Company has also entered into credit default swaps to purchase credit protection on certain of the referenced credit obligations in the table above. As a result, the maximum amounts of potential future recoveries available to offset the $10.7 billion and $10.3 billion from the table above were $139 million and $80 million at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.
Written credit default swaps held in relation to the trading portfolio amounted to $10 million and $20 million in gross notional amount and $1 million and ($2) million in estimated fair value at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.
Credit Risk on Freestanding Derivatives
The Company may be exposed to credit-related losses in the event of nonperformance by its counterparties to derivatives. Generally, the current credit exposure of the Company’s derivatives is limited to the net positive estimated fair value of derivatives at the reporting date after taking into consideration the existence of master netting or similar agreements and any collateral received pursuant to such agreements.
The Company manages its credit risk related to derivatives by entering into transactions with creditworthy counterparties and establishing and monitoring exposure limits. The Company’s OTC-bilateral derivative transactions are generally governed by ISDA Master Agreements which provide for legally enforceable set-off and close-out netting of exposures to specific counterparties in the event of early termination of a transaction, which includes, but is not limited to, events of default and bankruptcy. In the event of an early termination, the Company is permitted to set off receivables from the counterparty against payables to the same counterparty arising out of all included transactions. Substantially all of the Company’s ISDA Master Agreements also include Credit Support Annex provisions which require both the pledging and accepting of collateral in connection with its OTC-bilateral derivatives.
The Company’s OTC-cleared derivatives are effected through central clearing counterparties and its exchange-traded derivatives are effected through regulated exchanges. Such positions are marked to market and margined on a daily basis (both initial margin and variation margin), and the Company has minimal exposure to credit-related losses in the event of nonperformance by counterparties to such derivatives.
See Note 8 for a description of the impact of credit risk on the valuation of derivatives.

43

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
7. Derivatives (continued)

The estimated fair values of the Company’s net derivative assets and net derivative liabilities after the application of master netting agreements and collateral were as follows at:
 
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
Derivatives Subject to a Master Netting Arrangement or a Similar Arrangement (6)
 
Assets
 
Liabilities
 
Assets
 
Liabilities
 
 
(In millions)
Gross estimated fair value of derivatives:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
OTC-bilateral (1)
 
$
16,578

 
$
6,345

 
$
13,017

 
$
5,848

OTC-cleared (1)
 
2,403

 
1,731

 
1,600

 
1,217

Exchange-traded
 
50

 
23

 
67

 
25

Total gross estimated fair value of derivatives (1)
 
19,031

 
8,099

 
14,684

 
7,090

Amounts offset on the consolidated balance sheets
 

 

 

 

Estimated fair value of derivatives presented on the consolidated balance sheets (1)
 
19,031

 
8,099

 
14,684

 
7,090

Gross amounts not offset on the consolidated balance sheets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Gross estimated fair value of derivatives: (2)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
OTC-bilateral
 
(5,113
)
 
(5,113
)
 
(4,368
)
 
(4,368
)
OTC-cleared
 
(1,717
)
 
(1,717
)
 
(1,200
)
 
(1,200
)
Exchange-traded
 

 

 
(1
)
 
(1
)
Cash collateral: (3), (4)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
OTC-bilateral
 
(9,215
)
 

 
(6,140
)
 
(7
)
OTC-cleared
 
(671
)
 
(2
)
 
(378
)
 
(10
)
Exchange-traded
 

 
(19
)
 

 
(20
)
Securities collateral: (5)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
OTC-bilateral
 
(1,880
)
 
(1,119
)
 
(2,078
)
 
(1,395
)
OTC-cleared
 

 

 

 

Exchange-traded
 

 
(1
)
 

 
(3
)
Net amount after application of master netting agreements and collateral
 
$
435

 
$
128

 
$
519

 
$
86

__________________
(1)
At March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, derivative assets included income or expense accruals reported in accrued investment income or in other liabilities of $284 million and $278 million, respectively, and derivative liabilities included income or expense accruals reported in accrued investment income or in other liabilities of ($23) million and $41 million, respectively.
(2)
Estimated fair value of derivatives is limited to the amount that is subject to set-off and includes income or expense accruals.
(3)
Cash collateral received by the Company for OTC-bilateral and OTC-cleared derivatives is included in cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments or in fixed maturity securities, and the obligation to return it is included in payables for collateral under securities loaned and other transactions on the balance sheet.
(4)
The receivable for the return of cash collateral provided by the Company is inclusive of initial margin on exchange-traded and OTC-cleared derivatives and is included in premiums, reinsurance and other receivables on the balance sheet. The amount of cash collateral offset in the table above is limited to the net estimated fair value of derivatives after application of netting agreements. At March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the Company received excess cash collateral of $227 million and $89 million, respectively, and provided excess cash collateral of $478 million and $204 million, respectively, which is not included in the table above due to the foregoing limitation.

44

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
7. Derivatives (continued)

(5)
Securities collateral received by the Company is held in separate custodial accounts and is not recorded on the balance sheet. Subject to certain constraints, the Company is permitted by contract to sell or re-pledge this collateral, but at March 31, 2016, none of the collateral had been sold or re-pledged. Securities collateral pledged by the Company is reported in fixed maturity securities on the balance sheet. Subject to certain constraints, the counterparties are permitted by contract to sell or re-pledge this collateral. The amount of securities collateral offset in the table above is limited to the net estimated fair value of derivatives after application of netting agreements and cash collateral. At March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the Company received excess securities collateral with an estimated fair value of $146 million and $100 million, respectively, for its OTC-bilateral derivatives, which are not included in the table above due to the foregoing limitation. At March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the Company provided excess securities collateral with an estimated fair value of $159 million and $150 million, respectively, for its OTC-bilateral derivatives, and $249 million and $315 million, respectively, for its OTC-cleared derivatives, and $282 million and $224 million, respectively, for its exchange-traded derivatives, which are not included in the table above due to the foregoing limitation.
(6)
See Note 6 for information regarding the Company’s gross and net payables and receivables under repurchase agreement transactions.
The Company’s collateral arrangements for its OTC-bilateral derivatives generally require the party in a net liability position, after considering the effect of netting agreements, to pledge collateral when the estimated fair value of that party’s derivatives reaches a minimum transfer amount. A small number of these arrangements also include credit-contingent provisions that include a threshold above which collateral must be posted. Such agreements provide for a reduction of these thresholds (on a sliding scale that converges toward zero) in the event of downgrades in the credit ratings of MetLife, Inc. and/or the counterparty. In addition, substantially all of the Company’s netting agreements for derivatives contain provisions that require both the Company and the counterparty to maintain a specific investment grade credit rating from each of Moody’s and S&P. If a party’s credit or financial strength rating, as applicable, were to fall below that specific investment grade credit rating, that party would be in violation of these provisions, and the other party to the derivatives could terminate the transactions and demand immediate settlement and payment based on such party’s reasonable valuation of the derivatives.
The following table presents the estimated fair value of the Company’s OTC-bilateral derivatives that are in a net liability position after considering the effect of netting agreements, together with the estimated fair value and balance sheet location of the collateral pledged. The table also presents the incremental collateral that MetLife, Inc. would be required to provide if there was a one-notch downgrade in MetLife, Inc.’s senior unsecured debt rating at the reporting date or if the Company’s credit or financial strength rating, as applicable, sustained a downgrade to a level that triggered full overnight collateralization or termination of the derivative position at the reporting date. OTC-bilateral derivatives that are not subject to collateral agreements are excluded from this table.
 
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
 
 
Derivatives
Subject to
Credit-
Contingent
Provisions
 
Derivatives
Not Subject
to Credit-
Contingent
Provisions
 
Total
 
Derivatives
Subject to
Credit-
Contingent
Provisions
 
Derivatives
Not Subject
to Credit-
Contingent
Provisions
 
Total
 
 
(In millions)
Estimated Fair Value of Derivatives in a Net Liability Position (1)
 
$
1,181

 
$
48

 
$
1,229

 
$
1,270

 
$
207

 
$
1,477

Estimated Fair Value of Collateral Provided
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fixed maturity securities
 
$
1,223

 
$
51

 
$
1,274

 
$
1,365

 
$
174

 
$
1,539

Cash
 
$

 
$

 
$

 
$
4

 
$
4

 
$
8

Estimated Fair Value of Incremental Collateral Provided Upon
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 

One-notch downgrade in the Company’s credit or financial strength rating, as applicable
 
$
5

 
$

 
$
5

 
$
1

 
$

 
$
1

Downgrade in the Company’s credit or financial strength rating, as applicable, to a level that triggers full overnight collateralization or termination of the derivative position
 
$
5

 
$

 
$
5

 
$
1

 
$

 
$
1

__________________

45

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
7. Derivatives (continued)

(1)
After taking into consideration the existence of netting agreements.
Embedded Derivatives
The Company issues certain products or purchases certain investments that contain embedded derivatives that are required to be separated from their host contracts and accounted for as freestanding derivatives. These host contracts principally include: variable annuities with guaranteed minimum benefits, including GMWBs, GMABs and certain GMIBs; ceded reinsurance of guaranteed minimum benefits related to certain GMIBs; assumed reinsurance of guaranteed minimum benefits related to GMWBs and GMABs; funding agreements with equity or bond indexed crediting rates; funds withheld on assumed and ceded reinsurance; fixed annuities with equity-indexed returns; and certain debt and equity securities.
The following table presents the estimated fair value and balance sheet location of the Company’s embedded derivatives that have been separated from their host contracts at:
 
 
Balance Sheet Location
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
 
 
 
 
(In millions)
Net embedded derivatives within asset host contracts
 
 
 
 
 
 
Ceded guaranteed minimum benefits
 
Premiums, reinsurance and other receivables
 
$
439

 
$
356

Funds withheld on assumed reinsurance
 
Other invested assets
 
49

 
35

Options embedded in debt or equity securities
 
Investments
 
(202
)
 
(220
)
Net embedded derivatives within asset host contracts
 
$
286

 
$
171

Net embedded derivatives within liability host contracts
 
 
 
 
 
 
Direct guaranteed minimum benefits
 
Policyholder account balances and Future policy benefits
 
$
992

 
$
(20
)
Assumed guaranteed minimum benefits
 
Policyholder account balances
 
1,392

 
965

Funds withheld on ceded reinsurance
 
Other liabilities
 
42

 
(14
)
Other
 
Policyholder account balances
 
1

 
4

Net embedded derivatives within liability host contracts
 
$
2,427

 
$
935

The following table presents changes in estimated fair value related to embedded derivatives:
 
Three Months 
 Ended 
 March 31,
 
2016
 
2015
 
(In millions)
Net derivative gains (losses) (1)
$
(1,169
)
 
$
(27
)
Policyholder benefits and claims
$
45

 
$
24

__________________
(1)
The valuation of guaranteed minimum benefits includes a nonperformance risk adjustment. The amounts included in net derivative gains (losses) in connection with this adjustment were $359 million and $69 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.
8. Fair Value
Considerable judgment is often required in interpreting market data to develop estimates of fair value, and the use of different assumptions or valuation methodologies may have a material effect on the estimated fair value amounts.
Recurring Fair Value Measurements
The assets and liabilities measured at estimated fair value on a recurring basis and their corresponding placement in the fair value hierarchy, including those items for which the Company has elected the FVO, are presented below.

46

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
8. Fair Value (continued)

 
March 31, 2016
 
Fair Value Hierarchy
 
 
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
 
Total 
Estimated
Fair Value
 
(In millions)
Assets
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fixed maturity securities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
U.S. corporate
$

 
$
95,388

 
$
6,708

 
$
102,096

U.S. government and agency
37,984

 
26,796

 
211

 
64,991

Foreign corporate

 
53,007

 
6,084

 
59,091

Foreign government

 
55,944

 
712

 
56,656

RMBS
3,701

 
34,327

 
5,001

 
43,029

State and political subdivision

 
16,503

 
36

 
16,539

ABS

 
15,263

 
939

 
16,202

CMBS

 
12,665

 
712

 
13,377

Total fixed maturity securities
41,685

 
309,893

 
20,403

 
371,981

Equity securities
1,417

 
1,288

 
669

 
3,374

FVO and trading securities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Actively traded securities
98

 
259

 
3

 
360

FVO general account securities
610

 
33

 
98

 
741

FVO contractholder-directed unit-linked investments
10,936

 
2,806

 
140

 
13,882

FVO securities held by CSEs

 
2

 
8

 
10

Total FVO and trading securities
11,644

 
3,100

 
249

 
14,993

Short-term investments (1)
2,263

 
8,333

 
170

 
10,766

Mortgage loans:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Residential mortgage loans — FVO

 

 
392

 
392

Commercial mortgage loans held by CSEs — FVO

 
169

 

 
169

Total mortgage loans

 
169

 
392

 
561

Other invested assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 

Other investments
96

 
54

 

 
150

Derivative assets: (2)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest rate
21

 
13,288

 
17

 
13,326

Foreign currency exchange rate
1

 
3,087

 
38

 
3,126

Credit

 
110

 
17

 
127

Equity market
28

 
1,769

 
371

 
2,168

Total derivative assets
50

 
18,254

 
443

 
18,747

Total other invested assets
146

 
18,308

 
443

 
18,897

Net embedded derivatives within asset host contracts (3)

 

 
488

 
488

Separate account assets (4)
82,055

 
222,518

 
1,474

 
306,047

Total assets
$
139,210

 
$
563,609

 
$
24,288

 
$
727,107

Liabilities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Derivative liabilities: (2)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest rate
$
7

 
$
3,289

 
$
1

 
$
3,297

Foreign currency exchange rate
1

 
2,548

 
76

 
2,625

Credit

 
33

 

 
33

Equity market
15

 
1,448

 
704

 
2,167

Total derivative liabilities
23

 
7,318

 
781

 
8,122

Net embedded derivatives within liability host contracts (3)

 

 
2,427

 
2,427

Long-term debt of CSEs — FVO

 
43

 
12

 
55

Trading liabilities (5)
111

 
49

 

 
160

Separate account liabilities (4)

 
87

 
8

 
95

Total liabilities
$
134

 
$
7,497

 
$
3,228

 
$
10,859


47

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
8. Fair Value (continued)

 
December 31, 2015
 
Fair Value Hierarchy
 
 
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
 
Total 
Estimated
Fair Value
 
(In millions)
Assets
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fixed maturity securities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
U.S. corporate
$

 
$
93,758

 
$
7,036

 
$
100,794

U.S. government and agency
37,660

 
23,986

 

 
61,646

Foreign corporate

 
51,438

 
5,760

 
57,198

Foreign government

 
49,643

 
856

 
50,499

RMBS

 
34,088

 
4,709

 
38,797

State and political subdivision

 
15,395

 
46

 
15,441

ABS

 
12,731

 
1,663

 
14,394

CMBS

 
11,889

 
744

 
12,633

Total fixed maturity securities
37,660

 
292,928

 
20,814

 
351,402

Equity securities
1,274

 
1,615

 
432

 
3,321

FVO and trading securities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Actively traded securities

 
400

 
4

 
404

FVO general account securities
506

 
32

 
89

 
627

FVO contractholder-directed unit-linked investments
10,829

 
2,985

 
167

 
13,981

FVO securities held by CSEs

 
2

 
10

 
12

Total FVO and trading securities
11,335

 
3,419

 
270

 
15,024

Short-term investments (1)
2,543

 
5,985

 
291

 
8,819

Mortgage loans:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Residential mortgage loans — FVO

 

 
314

 
314

Commercial mortgage loans held by CSEs — FVO

 
172

 

 
172

Total mortgage loans

 
172

 
314

 
486

Other invested assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other investments
109

 
53

 

 
162

Derivative assets: (2)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest rate
4

 
9,405

 
25

 
9,434

Foreign currency exchange rate

 
3,003

 
16

 
3,019

Credit

 
99

 
7

 
106

Equity market
63

 
1,435

 
349

 
1,847

Total derivative assets
67

 
13,942

 
397

 
14,406

Total other invested assets
176

 
13,995

 
397

 
14,568

Net embedded derivatives within asset host contracts (3)

 

 
391

 
391

Separate account assets (4)
77,080

 
222,814

 
1,704

 
301,598

Total assets
$
130,068

 
$
540,928

 
$
24,613

 
$
695,609

Liabilities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Derivative liabilities: (2)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest rate
$
7

 
$
2,340

 
$

 
$
2,347

Foreign currency exchange rate

 
2,754

 
148

 
2,902

Credit

 
45

 
2

 
47

Equity market
18

 
1,077

 
658

 
1,753

Total derivative liabilities
25

 
6,216

 
808

 
7,049

Net embedded derivatives within liability host contracts (3)

 

 
935

 
935

Long-term debt of CSEs — FVO

 
49

 
11

 
60

Trading liabilities (5)
103

 
50

 

 
153

Separate account liabilities (4)

 

 

 

Total liabilities
$
128

 
$
6,315

 
$
1,754

 
$
8,197

__________________
(1)
Short-term investments as presented in the tables above differ from the amounts presented on the consolidated balance sheets because certain short-term investments are not measured at estimated fair value on a recurring basis.

48

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
8. Fair Value (continued)

(2)
Derivative assets are presented within other invested assets on the consolidated balance sheets and derivative liabilities are presented within other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets. The amounts are presented gross in the tables above to reflect the presentation on the consolidated balance sheets, but are presented net for purposes of the rollforward in the Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) tables.
(3)
Net embedded derivatives within asset host contracts are presented within premiums, reinsurance and other receivables and other invested assets on the consolidated balance sheets. Net embedded derivatives within liability host contracts are presented within policyholder account balances, future policy benefits and other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets. At March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, debt and equity securities also included embedded derivatives of ($202) million and ($220) million, respectively.
(4)
Investment performance related to separate account assets is fully offset by corresponding amounts credited to contractholders whose liability is reflected within separate account liabilities. Separate account liabilities are set equal to the estimated fair value of separate account assets. Separate account liabilities presented in the tables above represent derivative liabilities.
(5)
Trading liabilities are presented within other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets.
The following describes the valuation methodologies used to measure assets and liabilities at fair value. The description includes the valuation techniques and key inputs for each category of assets or liabilities that are classified within Level 2 and Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.
Investments
Valuation Controls and Procedures
On behalf of the Company’s Chief Investment Officer and Chief Financial Officer, a pricing and valuation committee that is independent of the trading and investing functions and comprised of senior management, provides oversight of control systems and valuation policies for securities, mortgage loans and derivatives. On a quarterly basis, this committee reviews and approves new transaction types and markets, ensures that observable market prices and market-based parameters are used for valuation, wherever possible, and determines that judgmental valuation adjustments, when applied, are based upon established policies and are applied consistently over time. This committee also provides oversight of the selection of independent third-party pricing providers and the controls and procedures to evaluate third-party pricing. Periodically, the Chief Accounting Officer reports to the Audit Committee of MetLife, Inc.’s Board of Directors regarding compliance with fair value accounting standards.
The Company reviews its valuation methodologies on an ongoing basis and revises those methodologies when necessary based on changing market conditions. Assurance is gained on the overall reasonableness and consistent application of input assumptions, valuation methodologies and compliance with fair value accounting standards through controls designed to ensure valuations represent an exit price. Several controls are utilized, including certain monthly controls, which include, but are not limited to, analysis of portfolio returns to corresponding benchmark returns, comparing a sample of executed prices of securities sold to the fair value estimates, comparing fair value estimates to management’s knowledge of the current market, reviewing the bid/ask spreads to assess activity, comparing prices from multiple independent pricing services and ongoing due diligence to confirm that independent pricing services use market-based parameters. The process includes a determination of the observability of inputs used in estimated fair values received from independent pricing services or brokers by assessing whether these inputs can be corroborated by observable market data. The Company ensures that prices received from independent brokers, also referred to herein as “consensus pricing,” represent a reasonable estimate of fair value by considering such pricing relative to the Company’s knowledge of the current market dynamics and current pricing for similar financial instruments. While independent non-binding broker quotations are utilized, they are not used for a significant portion of the portfolio. For example, fixed maturity securities priced using independent non-binding broker quotations represent less than 1% of the total estimated fair value of fixed maturity securities and 8% of the total estimated fair value of Level 3 fixed maturity securities at March 31, 2016.

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MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
8. Fair Value (continued)

The Company also applies a formal process to challenge any prices received from independent pricing services that are not considered representative of estimated fair value. If prices received from independent pricing services are not considered reflective of market activity or representative of estimated fair value, independent non-binding broker quotations are obtained, or an internally developed valuation is prepared. Internally developed valuations of current estimated fair value, which reflect internal estimates of liquidity and nonperformance risks, compared with pricing received from the independent pricing services, did not produce material differences in the estimated fair values for the majority of the portfolio; accordingly, overrides were not material. This is, in part, because internal estimates of liquidity and nonperformance risks are generally based on available market evidence and estimates used by other market participants. In the absence of such market-based evidence, management’s best estimate is used.
Securities, Short-term Investments, Other Investments, Long-term Debt of CSEs — FVO and Trading Liabilities
When available, the estimated fair value of these financial instruments is based on quoted prices in active markets that are readily and regularly obtainable. Generally, these are the most liquid of the Company’s securities holdings and valuation of these securities does not involve management’s judgment.
When quoted prices in active markets are not available, the determination of estimated fair value is based on market standard valuation methodologies, giving priority to observable inputs. The significant inputs to the market standard valuation methodologies for certain types of securities with reasonable levels of price transparency are inputs that are observable in the market or can be derived principally from, or corroborated by, observable market data. When observable inputs are not available, the market standard valuation methodologies rely on inputs that are significant to the estimated fair value that are not observable in the market or cannot be derived principally from, or corroborated by, observable market data. These unobservable inputs can be based in large part on management’s judgment or estimation and cannot be supported by reference to market activity. Even though these inputs are unobservable, management believes they are consistent with what other market participants would use when pricing such securities and are considered appropriate given the circumstances.
The estimated fair value of investments in certain separate accounts included in FVO contractholder-directed unit-linked investments, FVO securities held by CSEs, other investments, long-term debt of CSEs — FVO and trading liabilities is determined on a basis consistent with the methodologies described herein for securities.
The valuation of most instruments listed below is determined using independent pricing sources, matrix pricing, discounted cash flow methodologies or other similar techniques that use either observable market inputs or unobservable inputs.

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Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
8. Fair Value (continued)

Instrument
Level 2
Observable Inputs
Level 3
Unobservable Inputs
Fixed Maturity Securities
U.S. corporate and Foreign corporate securities
 
Valuation Techniques: Principally the market and income approaches.
Valuation Techniques: Principally the market approach.
 
Key Inputs:
Key Inputs:
 
quoted prices in markets that are not active
illiquidity premium
 
benchmark yields; spreads off benchmark yields; new issuances; issuer rating
delta spread adjustments to reflect specific credit-related issues
 
trades of identical or comparable securities; duration
credit spreads
 
Privately-placed securities are valued using the additional key inputs:
quoted prices in markets that are not active for identical or similar securities that are less liquid and based on lower levels of trading activity than securities classified in Level 2
 
 
market yield curve; call provisions
 
 
 
observable prices and spreads for similar public or private securities that incorporate the credit quality and industry sector of the issuer

independent non-binding broker quotations
 
 
delta spread adjustments to reflect specific credit-related issues
 
 
U.S. government and agency, Foreign government and State and political subdivision securities
 
Valuation Techniques: Principally the market approach.
Valuation Techniques: Principally the market approach.
 
Key Inputs:
Key Inputs:
 
quoted prices in markets that are not active
independent non-binding broker quotations
 
benchmark U.S. Treasury yield or other yields
quoted prices in markets that are not active for identical or similar securities that are less liquid and based on lower levels of trading activity than securities classified in Level 2
 
the spread off the U.S. Treasury yield curve for the identical security
 
 
issuer ratings and issuer spreads; broker-dealer quotes
credit spreads
 
comparable securities that are actively traded
 
 
Structured securities comprised of RMBS, ABS and CMBS
 
Valuation Techniques: Principally the market and income approaches.
Valuation Techniques: Principally the market and income approaches.
 
Key Inputs:
Key Inputs:
 
quoted prices in markets that are not active
credit spreads
 
spreads for actively traded securities; spreads off benchmark yields
quoted prices in markets that are not active for identical or similar securities that are less liquid and based on lower levels of trading activity than securities classified in Level 2
 
expected prepayment speeds and volumes
 
 
current and forecasted loss severity; ratings; geographic region
independent non-binding broker quotations
 
weighted average coupon and weighted average maturity
 
 
 
average delinquency rates; debt-service coverage ratios
 
 
 
issuance-specific information, including, but not limited to:
 
 
 
 
collateral type; structure of the security; vintage of the loans
 
 
 
 
payment terms of the underlying assets
 
 
 
 
payment priority within the tranche; deal performance
 
 

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Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
8. Fair Value (continued)

Instrument
Level 2
Observable Inputs
Level 3
Unobservable Inputs
Equity Securities
 
Valuation Techniques: Principally the market approach.
Valuation Techniques: Principally the market and income approaches.
 
Key Input:
Key Inputs:
 
quoted prices in markets that are not considered active
credit ratings; issuance structures
 
 
 
quoted prices in markets that are not active for identical or similar securities that are less liquid and based on lower levels of trading activity than securities classified in Level 2
 
 
 
independent non-binding broker quotations
FVO and trading securities, Short-term investments, and Other invested assets
 
Contractholder-directed unit-linked investments include mutual fund interests without readily determinable fair values given prices are not published publicly. Valuation of these mutual funds is based upon quoted prices or reported NAV provided by the fund managers, which were based on observable inputs.
FVO and trading securities and short-term investments are of a similar nature and class to the fixed maturity and equity securities described above; accordingly, the valuation techniques and unobservable inputs used in their valuation are also similar to those described above.
 
All other investments are of a similar nature and class to the fixed maturity and equity securities described above; accordingly, the valuation techniques and observable inputs used in their valuation are also similar to those described above.
 
 
Mortgage Loans — FVO
Commercial mortgage loans held by CSEs — FVO
 
Valuation Techniques: Principally the market approach.
N/A
 
Key Input:
 
 
 
quoted securitization market price determined principally by independent pricing services using observable inputs
 
 
Residential mortgage loans — FVO
 
N/A
Valuation Techniques: Principally the market approach, including matrix pricing or other similar techniques.
 
 
 
 
Key Inputs: Inputs that are unobservable or cannot be derived principally from, or corroborated by, observable market data
Separate Account Assets and Separate Account Liabilities (1)
Mutual funds and hedge funds without readily determinable fair values as prices are not published publicly
 
Key Input:
N/A
 
quoted prices or reported NAV provided by the fund managers
 
 
Other limited partnership interests
 

N/A
Valuation Techniques: Valued giving consideration to the underlying holdings of the partnerships and by applying a premium or discount, if appropriate.
 
 
 
Key Inputs:
 
 
 
liquidity; bid/ask spreads; performance record of the fund manager
 
 
 
other relevant variables that may impact the exit value of the particular partnership interest
______________
(1)
Estimated fair value equals carrying value, based on the value of the underlying assets, including: mutual fund interests, fixed maturity securities, equity securities, derivatives, hedge funds, other limited partnership interests, short-term investments and cash and cash equivalents. Fixed maturity securities, equity securities, derivatives, short-term investments and cash and cash equivalents are similar in nature to the instruments described under “— Securities, Short-term Investments, Other Investments, Long-term Debt of CSEs — FVO and Trading Liabilities” and “— Derivatives — Freestanding Derivatives Valuation Techniques and Key Inputs.”
Derivatives
The estimated fair value of derivatives is determined through the use of quoted market prices for exchange-traded derivatives, or through the use of pricing models for OTC-bilateral and OTC-cleared derivatives. The determination of estimated fair value, when quoted market values are not available, is based on market standard valuation methodologies and inputs that management believes are consistent with what other market participants would use when pricing such instruments. Derivative valuations can be affected by changes in interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates, financial indices, credit spreads, default risk, nonperformance risk, volatility, liquidity and changes in estimates and assumptions used in the pricing models. The valuation controls and procedures for derivatives are described in “— Investments.”

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MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
8. Fair Value (continued)

The significant inputs to the pricing models for most OTC-bilateral and OTC-cleared derivatives are inputs that are observable in the market or can be derived principally from, or corroborated by, observable market data. Certain OTC-bilateral and OTC-cleared derivatives may rely on inputs that are significant to the estimated fair value that are not observable in the market or cannot be derived principally from, or corroborated by, observable market data. These unobservable inputs may involve significant management judgment or estimation. Even though unobservable, these inputs are based on assumptions deemed appropriate given the circumstances and management believes they are consistent with what other market participants would use when pricing such instruments.
Most inputs for OTC-bilateral and OTC-cleared derivatives are mid-market inputs but, in certain cases, liquidity adjustments are made when they are deemed more representative of exit value. Market liquidity, as well as the use of different methodologies, assumptions and inputs, may have a material effect on the estimated fair values of the Company’s derivatives and could materially affect net income.
The credit risk of both the counterparty and the Company are considered in determining the estimated fair value for all OTC-bilateral and OTC-cleared derivatives, and any potential credit adjustment is based on the net exposure by counterparty after taking into account the effects of netting agreements and collateral arrangements. The Company values its OTC-bilateral and OTC-cleared derivatives using standard swap curves which may include a spread to the risk-free rate, depending upon specific collateral arrangements. This credit spread is appropriate for those parties that execute trades at pricing levels consistent with similar collateral arrangements. As the Company and its significant derivative counterparties generally execute trades at such pricing levels and hold sufficient collateral, additional credit risk adjustments are not currently required in the valuation process. The Company’s ability to consistently execute at such pricing levels is in part due to the netting agreements and collateral arrangements that are in place with all of its significant derivative counterparties. An evaluation of the requirement to make additional credit risk adjustments is performed by the Company each reporting period.
Freestanding Derivatives Valuation Techniques and Key Inputs
Level 2
This level includes all types of derivatives utilized by the Company with the exception of exchange-traded derivatives included within Level 1 and those derivatives with unobservable inputs as described in Level 3.
Level 3
These valuation methodologies generally use the same inputs as described in the corresponding sections for Level 2 measurements of derivatives. However, these derivatives result in Level 3 classification because one or more of the significant inputs are not observable in the market or cannot be derived principally from, or corroborated by, observable market data.
Freestanding derivatives are principally valued using the income approach. Valuations of non-option-based derivatives utilize present value techniques, whereas valuations of option-based derivatives utilize option pricing models. Key inputs are as follows:
Instrument
 
Interest Rate
 
Foreign Currency
Exchange Rate
 
Credit
 
Equity Market
Inputs common to Level 2 and Level 3 by instrument type
swap yield curve
swap yield curve
swap yield curve
swap yield curve
basis curves
basis curves
credit curves
spot equity index levels
interest rate volatility (1)
currency spot rates
recovery rates
dividend yield curves
 
 
 
cross currency basis curves
 
 
equity volatility (1)
 
 
 
currency volatility (1)
 
 
 
 
Level 3
swap yield curve (2)
swap yield curve (2)
swap yield curve (2)
dividend yield curves (2)
 
basis curves (2)
basis curves (2)
credit curves (2)
equity volatility (1), (2)
 
interest rate volatility (1), (2)
cross currency basis curves (2)

credit spreads
correlation between model inputs (1)
 
 
 
currency correlation
repurchase rates
 
 
 
 
 
currency volatility (1)

independent non-binding broker quotations
 
 
______________

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Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
8. Fair Value (continued)

(1)
Option-based only.
(2)
Extrapolation beyond the observable limits of the curve(s).
Embedded Derivatives
Embedded derivatives principally include certain direct, assumed and ceded variable annuity guarantees, equity or bond indexed crediting rates within certain funding agreements and annuity contracts, and those related to funds withheld on ceded reinsurance agreements. Embedded derivatives are recorded at estimated fair value with changes in estimated fair value reported in net income.
The Company issues certain variable annuity products with guaranteed minimum benefits. GMWBs, GMABs and certain GMIBs contain embedded derivatives, which are measured at estimated fair value separately from the host variable annuity contract, with changes in estimated fair value reported in net derivative gains (losses). These embedded derivatives are classified within policyholder account balances and future policy benefits on the consolidated balance sheets.
The Company’s actuarial department calculates the fair value of these embedded derivatives, which are estimated as the present value of projected future benefits minus the present value of projected future fees using actuarial and capital market assumptions including expectations concerning policyholder behavior. The calculation is based on in-force business, and is performed using standard actuarial valuation software which projects future cash flows from the embedded derivative over multiple risk neutral stochastic scenarios using observable risk-free rates.
Capital market assumptions, such as risk-free rates and implied volatilities, are based on market prices for publicly traded instruments to the extent that prices for such instruments are observable. Implied volatilities beyond the observable period are extrapolated based on observable implied volatilities and historical volatilities. Actuarial assumptions, including mortality, lapse, withdrawal and utilization, are unobservable and are reviewed at least annually based on actuarial studies of historical experience.
The valuation of these guarantee liabilities includes nonperformance risk adjustments and adjustments for a risk margin related to non-capital market inputs. The nonperformance adjustment is determined by taking into consideration publicly available information relating to spreads in the secondary market for MetLife, Inc.’s debt, including related credit default swaps. These observable spreads are then adjusted, as necessary, to reflect the priority of these liabilities and the claims paying ability of the issuing insurance subsidiaries compared to MetLife, Inc.
Risk margins are established to capture the non-capital market risks of the instrument which represent the additional compensation a market participant would require to assume the risks related to the uncertainties of such actuarial assumptions as annuitization, premium persistency, partial withdrawal and surrenders. The establishment of risk margins requires the use of significant management judgment, including assumptions of the amount and cost of capital needed to cover the guarantees. These guarantees may be more costly than expected in volatile or declining equity markets. Market conditions including, but not limited to, changes in interest rates, equity indices, market volatility and foreign currency exchange rates; changes in nonperformance risk; and variations in actuarial assumptions regarding policyholder behavior, mortality and risk margins related to non-capital market inputs, may result in significant fluctuations in the estimated fair value of the guarantees that could materially affect net income.
The Company ceded the risk associated with certain of the GMIBs previously described. These reinsurance agreements contain embedded derivatives which are included within premiums, reinsurance and other receivables on the consolidated balance sheets with changes in estimated fair value reported in net derivative gains (losses) or policyholder benefits and claims depending on the statement of operations classification of the direct risk. The value of the embedded derivatives on the ceded risk is determined using a methodology consistent with that described previously for the guarantees directly written by the Company with the exception of the input for nonperformance risk that reflects the credit of the reinsurer.
The estimated fair value of the embedded derivatives within funds withheld related to certain ceded reinsurance is determined based on the change in estimated fair value of the underlying assets held by the Company in a reference portfolio backing the funds withheld liability. The estimated fair value of the underlying assets is determined as previously described in “— Investments — Securities, Short-term Investments, Other Investments, Long-term Debt of CSEs — FVO and Trading Liabilities.” The estimated fair value of these embedded derivatives is included, along with their funds withheld hosts, in other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets with changes in estimated fair value recorded in net derivative gains (losses). Changes in the credit spreads on the underlying assets, interest rates and market volatility may result in significant fluctuations in the estimated fair value of these embedded derivatives that could materially affect net income.

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MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
8. Fair Value (continued)

The estimated fair value of the embedded equity and bond indexed derivatives contained in certain funding agreements is determined using market standard swap valuation models and observable market inputs, including a nonperformance risk adjustment. The estimated fair value of these embedded derivatives are included, along with their funding agreements host, within policyholder account balances with changes in estimated fair value recorded in net derivative gains (losses). Changes in equity and bond indices, interest rates and the Company’s credit standing may result in significant fluctuations in the estimated fair value of these embedded derivatives that could materially affect net income.
The Company issues certain annuity contracts which allow the policyholder to participate in returns from equity indices. These equity indexed features are embedded derivatives which are measured at estimated fair value separately from the host fixed annuity contract, with changes in estimated fair value reported in net derivative gains (losses). These embedded derivatives are classified within policyholder account balances on the consolidated balance sheets.
The estimated fair value of the embedded equity indexed derivatives, based on the present value of future equity returns to the policyholder using actuarial and present value assumptions including expectations concerning policyholder behavior, is calculated by the Company’s actuarial department. The calculation is based on in-force business and uses standard capital market techniques, such as Black-Scholes, to calculate the value of the portion of the embedded derivative for which the terms are set. The portion of the embedded derivative covering the period beyond where terms are set is calculated as the present value of amounts expected to be spent to provide equity indexed returns in those periods. The valuation of these embedded derivatives also includes the establishment of a risk margin, as well as changes in nonperformance risk.
Embedded Derivatives Within Asset and Liability Host Contracts
Level 3 Valuation Techniques and Key Inputs:
Direct and assumed guaranteed minimum benefits
These embedded derivatives are principally valued using the income approach. Valuations are based on option pricing techniques, which utilize significant inputs that may include swap yield curve, currency exchange rates and implied volatilities. These embedded derivatives result in Level 3 classification because one or more of the significant inputs are not observable in the market or cannot be derived principally from, or corroborated by, observable market data. Significant unobservable inputs generally include: the extrapolation beyond observable limits of the swap yield curve and implied volatilities, actuarial assumptions for policyholder behavior and mortality and the potential variability in policyholder behavior and mortality, nonperformance risk and cost of capital for purposes of calculating the risk margin.
Reinsurance ceded on certain guaranteed minimum benefits
These embedded derivatives are principally valued using the income approach. The valuation techniques and significant market standard unobservable inputs used in their valuation are similar to those described above in “— Direct and assumed guaranteed minimum benefits” and also include counterparty credit spreads.
Transfers between Levels
Overall, transfers between levels occur when there are changes in the observability of inputs and market activity. Transfers into or out of any level are assumed to occur at the beginning of the period.
Transfers between Levels 1 and 2:
For assets and liabilities measured at estimated fair value and still held at March 31, 2016, transfers between Levels 1 and 2 were not significant. For assets and liabilities measured at estimated fair value and still held at December 31, 2015, transfers between Levels 1 and 2 were $203 million.
Transfers into or out of Level 3:
Assets and liabilities are transferred into Level 3 when a significant input cannot be corroborated with market observable data. This occurs when market activity decreases significantly and underlying inputs cannot be observed, current prices are not available, and/or when there are significant variances in quoted prices, thereby affecting transparency. Assets and liabilities are transferred out of Level 3 when circumstances change such that a significant input can be corroborated with market observable data. This may be due to a significant increase in market activity, a specific event, or one or more significant input(s) becoming observable.

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MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
8. Fair Value (continued)

Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
The following table presents certain quantitative information about the significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement, and the sensitivity of the estimated fair value to changes in those inputs, for the more significant asset and liability classes measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) at:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
 
Impact of
Increase in Input
on Estimated
Fair Value (2)
 
Valuation
Techniques
 
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
 
Range
 
Weighted
Average (1)
 
Range
 
Weighted
Average (1)
 
Fixed maturity securities (3)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
U.S. corporate and foreign corporate
Matrix pricing
 
Delta spread adjustments (4)
 
(313)
-
470
 
(29)
 
(65)
-
240
 
39
 
Decrease
 
Market pricing
 
Quoted prices (5)
 
-
780
 
157
 
-
780
 
156
 
Increase
 
Consensus pricing
 
Offered quotes (5)
 
68
-
121
 
98
 
68
-
121
 
98
 
Increase
Foreign government
Market pricing
 
Quoted prices (5)
 
94
-
135
 
105
 
96
-
135
 
113
 
Increase
RMBS
Market pricing
 
Quoted prices (5)
 
5
-
604
 
93
 
19
-
292
 
92
 
Increase (6)
ABS
Market pricing
 
Quoted prices (5)
 
5
-
112
 
101
 
16
-
109
 
100
 
Increase (6)
 
Consensus pricing
 
Offered quotes (5)
 
92
-
107
 
100
 
66
-
105
 
99
 
Increase (6)
Derivatives
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest rate
Present value techniques
 
Swap yield (7)
 
272
-
397
 
 
 
307
-
317
 
 
 
Increase (8)
Foreign currency exchange rate
Present value techniques
 
Swap yield (7)
 
85
-
342
 
 
 
28
-
381
 
 
 
Increase (8)
 
 
 
 
Correlation (9)
 
-
 
 
 
-
 
 
 
 
Credit
Present value techniques
 
Credit spreads (10)
 
97
-
100
 
 
 
98
-
100
 
 
 
Decrease (10)
 
Consensus pricing
 
Offered quotes (11)
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Equity market
Present value techniques or option pricing models
 
Volatility (12)
 
12%
-
35%
 
 
 
15%
-
36%
 
 
 
Increase (8)
 
 
 
 
Correlation (9)
 
70%
-
70%
 
 
 
70%
-
70%
 
 
 
 
Embedded derivatives
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Direct, assumed and ceded guaranteed minimum benefits
Option pricing techniques
 
Mortality rates:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Ages 0 - 40
 
0%
-
0.21%
 
 
 
0%
-
0.21%
 
 
 
Decrease (13)
 
 
 
 
 
Ages 41 - 60
 
0.01%
-
0.73%
 
 
 
0.01%
-
0.78%
 
 
 
Decrease (13)
 
 
 
 
 
Ages 61 - 115
 
0.04%
-
100%
 
 
 
0.04%
-
100%
 
 
 
Decrease (13)
 
 
 
 
Lapse rates:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Durations 1 - 10
 
0.25%
-
100%
 
 
 
0.25%
-
100%
 
 
 
Decrease (14)
 
 
 
 
 
Durations 11 - 20
 
2%
-
100%
 
 
 
2%
-
100%
 
 
 
Decrease (14)
 
 
 
 
 
Durations 21 - 116
 
2.5%
-
100%
 
 
 
1%
-
100%
 
 
 
Decrease (14)
 
 
 
 
Utilization rates
 
0%
-
25%
 
 
 
0%
-
25%
 
 
 
Increase (15)
 
 
 
 
Withdrawal rates
 
0%
-
20%
 
 
 
0%
-
20%
 
 
 
(16)
 
 
 
 
Long-term equity volatilities
 
8.85%
-
33%
 
 
 
8.79%
-
33%
 
 
 
Increase (17)
 
 
 
 
Nonperformance risk spread
 
(0.14)%
-
1.42%
 
 
 
(0.47)%
-
1.31%
 
 
 
Decrease (18)
______________
(1)
The weighted average for fixed maturity securities is determined based on the estimated fair value of the securities.
(2)
The impact of a decrease in input would have the opposite impact on estimated fair value. For embedded derivatives, changes to direct and assumed guaranteed minimum benefits are based on liability positions; changes to ceded guaranteed minimum benefits are based on asset positions.
(3)
Significant increases (decreases) in expected default rates in isolation would result in substantially lower (higher) valuations.
(4)
Range and weighted average are presented in basis points.
(5)
Range and weighted average are presented in accordance with the market convention for fixed maturity securities of dollars per hundred dollars of par.

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MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
8. Fair Value (continued)

(6)
Changes in the assumptions used for the probability of default is accompanied by a directionally similar change in the assumption used for the loss severity and a directionally opposite change in the assumptions used for prepayment rates.
(7)
Ranges represent the rates across different yield curves and are presented in basis points. The swap yield curve is utilized among different types of derivatives to project cash flows, as well as to discount future cash flows to present value. Since this valuation methodology uses a range of inputs across a yield curve to value the derivative, presenting a range is more representative of the unobservable input used in the valuation.
(8)
Changes in estimated fair value are based on long U.S. dollar net asset positions and will be inversely impacted for short U.S. dollar net asset positions.
(9)
Ranges represent the different correlation factors utilized as components within the valuation methodology. Presenting a range of correlation factors is more representative of the unobservable input used in the valuation. Increases (decreases) in correlation in isolation will increase (decrease) the significance of the change in valuations.
(10)
Represents the risk quoted in basis points of a credit default event on the underlying instrument. Credit derivatives with significant unobservable inputs are primarily comprised of written credit default swaps.
(11)
At both March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, independent non-binding broker quotations were used in the determination of less than 1% of the total net derivative estimated fair value.
(12)
Ranges represent the underlying equity volatility quoted in percentage points. Since this valuation methodology uses a range of inputs across multiple volatility surfaces to value the derivative, presenting a range is more representative of the unobservable input used in the valuation.
(13)
Mortality rates vary by age and by demographic characteristics such as gender. Mortality rate assumptions are based on company experience. A mortality improvement assumption is also applied. For any given contract, mortality rates vary throughout the period over which cash flows are projected for purposes of valuing the embedded derivative.
(14)
Base lapse rates are adjusted at the contract level based on a comparison of the actuarially calculated guaranteed values and the current policyholder account value, as well as other factors, such as the applicability of any surrender charges. A dynamic lapse function reduces the base lapse rate when the guaranteed amount is greater than the account value as in the money contracts are less likely to lapse. Lapse rates are also generally assumed to be lower in periods when a surrender charge applies. For any given contract, lapse rates vary throughout the period over which cash flows are projected for purposes of valuing the embedded derivative.
(15)
The utilization rate assumption estimates the percentage of contract holders with a GMIB or lifetime withdrawal benefit who will elect to utilize the benefit upon becoming eligible. The rates may vary by the type of guarantee, the amount by which the guaranteed amount is greater than the account value, the contract’s withdrawal history and by the age of the policyholder. For any given contract, utilization rates vary throughout the period over which cash flows are projected for purposes of valuing the embedded derivative.
(16)
The withdrawal rate represents the percentage of account balance that any given policyholder will elect to withdraw from the contract each year. The withdrawal rate assumption varies by age and duration of the contract, and also by other factors such as benefit type. For any given contract, withdrawal rates vary throughout the period over which cash flows are projected for purposes of valuing the embedded derivative. For GMWBs, any increase (decrease) in withdrawal rates results in an increase (decrease) in the estimated fair value of the guarantees. For GMABs and GMIBs, any increase (decrease) in withdrawal rates results in a decrease (increase) in the estimated fair value.
(17)
Long-term equity volatilities represent equity volatility beyond the period for which observable equity volatilities are available. For any given contract, long-term equity volatility rates vary throughout the period over which cash flows are projected for purposes of valuing the embedded derivative.
(18)
Nonperformance risk spread varies by duration and by currency. For any given contract, multiple nonperformance risk spreads will apply, depending on the duration of the cash flow being discounted for purposes of valuing the embedded derivative.

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MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
8. Fair Value (continued)

The following is a summary of the valuation techniques and significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement of assets and liabilities classified within Level 3 that are not included in the preceding table. Generally, all other classes of securities classified within Level 3, including those within separate account assets and embedded derivatives within funds withheld related to certain ceded and assumed reinsurance, use the same valuation techniques and significant unobservable inputs as previously described for Level 3 securities. This includes matrix pricing and discounted cash flow methodologies, inputs such as quoted prices for identical or similar securities that are less liquid and based on lower levels of trading activity than securities classified in Level 2, as well as independent non-binding broker quotations. The residential mortgage loans — FVO and long-term debt of CSEs — FVO are valued using independent non-binding broker quotations and internal models including matrix pricing and discounted cash flow methodologies using current interest rates. The sensitivity of the estimated fair value to changes in the significant unobservable inputs for these other assets and liabilities is similar in nature to that described in the preceding table. The valuation techniques and significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement for the more significant assets measured at estimated fair value on a nonrecurring basis and determined using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) are summarized in “— Nonrecurring Fair Value Measurements.”
The following tables summarize the change of all assets and (liabilities) measured at estimated fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3):
 
 
Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
 
 
Fixed Maturity Securities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Corporate (1)
 
U.S. Government and Agency
 
Foreign
Government
 
Structured (2)
 
State and
Political
Subdivision
 
Equity Securities
 
FVO and Trading Securities (3)
 
 
(In millions)
Balance, January 1, 2016
 
$
12,796

 
$

 
$
856

 
$
7,116

 
$
46

 
$
432

 
$
270

Total realized/unrealized gains (losses) included in net income (loss) (4) (5)
 
(33
)
 

 
8

 
31

 

 
(26
)
 
8

Total realized/unrealized gains (losses) included in AOCI
 
510

 
11

 
(22
)
 
(46
)
 

 
43

 

Purchases (6)
 
668

 

 
19

 
937

 

 
5

 
19

Sales (6)
 
(272
)
 

 
(17
)
 
(373
)
 

 
(1
)
 
(11
)
Issuances (6)
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Settlements (6)
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Transfers into Level 3 (7)
 
461

 
200

 
47

 
11

 

 
464

 
25

Transfers out of Level 3 (7)
 
(1,338
)
 

 
(179
)
 
(1,024
)
 
(10
)
 
(248
)
 
(62
)
Balance, March 31, 2016
 
$
12,792

 
$
211

 
$
712

 
$
6,652

 
$
36

 
$
669

 
$
249

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance, January 1, 2015
 
$
13,432

 
$

 
$
1,311

 
$
7,392

 
$

 
$
345

 
$
567

Total realized/unrealized gains (losses) included in net income (loss) (4) (5)
 
(2
)
 

 
(18
)
 
8

 

 
(1
)
 
(18
)
Total realized/unrealized gains (losses) included in AOCI
 
(75
)
 

 
23

 
(30
)
 

 
(2
)
 

Purchases (6)
 
609

 

 
43

 
1,450

 

 
9

 
113

Sales (6)
 
(242
)
 

 
(53
)
 
(571
)
 

 
(5
)
 
(152
)
Issuances (6)
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Settlements (6)
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Transfers into Level 3 (7)
 
221

 

 
215

 
8

 
2

 
1

 
39

Transfers out of Level 3 (7)
 
(214
)
 

 
(137
)
 
(615
)
 

 
(9
)
 
(28
)
Balance, March 31, 2015
 
$
13,729

 
$

 
$
1,384

 
$
7,642

 
$
2

 
$
338

 
$
521

Changes in unrealized gains (losses) included in net income (loss) for the instruments still held at March 31, 2016 (8)
 
$
(31
)
 
$

 
$
8

 
$
30

 
$

 
$
(26
)
 
$
8

Changes in unrealized gains (losses) included in net income (loss) for the instruments still held at March 31, 2015 (8)
 
$
6

 
$

 
$
3

 
$
13

 
$

 
$

 
$
(16
)

58

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
8. Fair Value (continued)

 
 
Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
 
 
Short-term
Investments
 
Mortgage
Loans (9)
 
Net
Derivatives (10)
 
Net Embedded
Derivatives (11)
 
Separate
Accounts (12)
 
Long-term
Debt of
CSEs — FVO
 
 
(In millions)
Balance, January 1, 2016
 
$
291

 
$
314

 
$
(411
)
 
$
(544
)
 
$
1,704

 
$
(11
)
Total realized/unrealized gains (losses) included in net income (loss) (4) (5)
 
1

 
10

 
67

 
(1,111
)
 
32

 
(1
)
Total realized/unrealized gains (losses) included in AOCI
 
2

 

 
9

 
(75
)
 

 

Purchases (6)
 
108

 
80

 
8

 

 
55

 

Sales (6)
 
(248
)
 
(5
)
 

 

 
(201
)
 

Issuances (6)
 

 

 
(1
)
 

 

 

Settlements (6)
 

 
(7
)
 
(10
)
 
(209
)
 

 

Transfers into Level 3 (7)
 
18

 

 

 

 

 

Transfers out of Level 3 (7)
 
(2
)
 

 

 

 
(124
)
 

Balance, March 31, 2016
 
$
170

 
$
392

 
$
(338
)
 
$
(1,939
)
 
$
1,466

 
$
(12
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance, January 1, 2015
 
$
336

 
$
308

 
$
(300
)
 
$
430

 
$
1,922

 
$
(13
)
Total realized/unrealized gains (losses) included in net income (loss) (4) (5)
 
1

 
22

 
(68
)
 
51

 
36

 

Total realized/unrealized gains (losses) included in AOCI
 
(1
)
 

 
15

 
(2
)
 

 

Purchases (6)
 
1,332

 
60

 

 

 
231

 

Sales (6)
 
(25
)
 
(49
)
 

 

 
(127
)
 

Issuances (6)
 

 

 

 

 

 

Settlements (6)
 

 
(12
)
 
8

 
(201
)
 
(1
)
 
1

Transfers into Level 3 (7)
 

 

 

 

 
1

 

Transfers out of Level 3 (7)
 
(285
)
 

 

 

 
(6
)
 

Balance, March 31, 2015
 
$
1,358

 
$
329

 
$
(345
)
 
$
278

 
$
2,056

 
$
(12
)
Changes in unrealized gains (losses) included in net income (loss) for the instruments still held at March 31, 2016 (8)
 
$
1

 
$
10

 
$
50

 
$
(1,114
)
 
$

 
$
(1
)
Changes in unrealized gains (losses) included in net income (loss) for the instruments still held at March 31, 2015 (8)
 
$
1

 
$
22

 
$
(64
)
 
$
47

 
$

 
$

__________________
(1)
Comprised of U.S. and foreign corporate securities.
(2)
Comprised of RMBS, ABS, and CMBS.
(3)
Comprised of actively traded securities, FVO general account securities, FVO contractholder-directed unit-linked investments and FVO securities held by CSEs.
(4)
Amortization of premium/accretion of discount is included within net investment income. Impairments charged to net income (loss) on securities are included in net investment gains (losses), while changes in estimated fair value of residential mortgage loans — FVO are included in net investment income. Lapses associated with net embedded derivatives are included in net derivative gains (losses). Substantially all realized/unrealized gains (losses) included in net income for net derivatives and net embedded derivatives are reported in net derivatives gains (losses).
(5)
Interest and dividend accruals, as well as cash interest coupons and dividends received, are excluded from the rollforward.
(6)
Items purchased/issued and then sold/settled in the same period are excluded from the rollforward. Fees attributed to embedded derivatives are included in settlements.

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MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
8. Fair Value (continued)

(7)
Gains and losses, in net income (loss) and OCI, are calculated assuming transfers into and/or out of Level 3 occurred at the beginning of the period. Items transferred into and then out of Level 3 in the same period are excluded from the rollforward.
(8)
Changes in unrealized gains (losses) included in net income (loss) relate to assets and liabilities still held at the end of the respective periods. Substantially all changes in unrealized gains (losses) included in net income (loss) for net derivatives and net embedded derivatives are reported in net derivative gains (losses).
(9)
Comprised of residential mortgage loans — FVO.
(10)
Freestanding derivative assets and liabilities are presented net for purposes of the rollforward.
(11)
Embedded derivative assets and liabilities are presented net for purposes of the rollforward.
(12)
Investment performance related to separate account assets is fully offset by corresponding amounts credited to contractholders within separate account liabilities. Therefore, such changes in estimated fair value are not recorded in net income. For the purpose of this disclosure, these changes are presented within net investment gains (losses). Separate account assets and liabilities are presented net for the purposes of the rollforward.
Fair Value Option
The following table presents information for certain assets and liabilities accounted for under the FVO. These assets and liabilities were initially measured at fair value.
 
 
Residential Mortgage
Loans — FVO
 
Certain Assets
and Liabilities
of CSEs — FVO (1)
 
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
 
 
(In millions)
Assets
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Unpaid principal balance
 
$
563

 
$
436

 
$
117

 
$
121

Difference between estimated fair value and unpaid principal balance
 
(171
)
 
(122
)
 
52

 
51

Carrying value at estimated fair value
 
$
392

 
$
314

 
$
169

 
$
172

Loans in non-accrual status
 
$
191

 
$
122

 
$

 
$

Liabilities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Contractual principal balance
 
 
 
 
 
$
66

 
$
71

Difference between estimated fair value and contractual principal balance
 
 
 
 
 
(11
)
 
(11
)
Carrying value at estimated fair value
 
 
 
 
 
$
55

 
$
60

__________________
(1)
These assets and liabilities are comprised of commercial mortgage loans and long-term debt. Changes in estimated fair value on these assets and liabilities and gains or losses on sales of these assets are recognized in net investment gains (losses). Interest income on commercial mortgage loans held by CSEs — FVO is recognized in net investment income. Interest expense from long-term debt of CSEs — FVO is recognized in other expenses.
Nonrecurring Fair Value Measurements
The following table presents information for assets measured at estimated fair value on a nonrecurring basis during the periods and still held at the reporting dates (for example, when there is evidence of impairment). The estimated fair values for these assets were determined using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3).

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MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
8. Fair Value (continued)

 
At March 31,
 
Three Months 
 Ended 
 March 31,
 
2016
 
2015
 
2016
 
2015
 
Carrying Value After Measurement
 
Gains (Losses)
 
(In millions)
Mortgage loans (1)
$
99

 
$
95

 
$
(58
)
 
$
4

Other limited partnership interests (2)
$
39

 
$
22

 
$
(20
)
 
$
(11
)
Other assets (3)
$

 
$

 
$
(14
)
 
$

__________________
(1)
Estimated fair values for impaired mortgage loans are based on independent broker quotations or valuation models using unobservable inputs or, if the loans are in foreclosure or are otherwise determined to be collateral dependent, are based on the estimated fair value of the underlying collateral or the present value of the expected future cash flows.
(2)
For these cost method investments, estimated fair value is determined from information provided on the financial statements of the underlying entities including net asset value (“NAV”) data. These investments include private equity and debt funds that typically invest primarily in various strategies including domestic and international leveraged buyout funds; power, energy, timber and infrastructure development funds; venture capital funds; and below investment grade debt and mezzanine debt funds. Distributions will be generated from investment gains, from operating income from the underlying investments of the funds and from liquidation of the underlying assets of the funds. It is estimated that the underlying assets of the funds will be liquidated over the next two to 10 years. Unfunded commitments for these investments at both March 31, 2016 and 2015 were not significant.
(3)
During the three months ended March 31, 2016, the Company recognized an impairment of computer software in connection with the purchase agreement with MassMutual. See Note 3.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments Carried at Other Than Fair Value
The following tables provide fair value information for financial instruments that are carried on the balance sheet at amounts other than fair value. These tables exclude the following financial instruments: cash and cash equivalents, accrued investment income, payables for collateral under securities loaned and other transactions, short-term debt and those short-term investments that are not securities, such as time deposits, and therefore are not included in the three level hierarchy table disclosed in the “— Recurring Fair Value Measurements” section. The estimated fair value of the excluded financial instruments, which are primarily classified in Level 2, approximates carrying value as they are short-term in nature such that the Company believes there is minimal risk of material changes in interest rates or credit quality. All remaining balance sheet amounts excluded from the tables below are not considered financial instruments subject to this disclosure.

61

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
8. Fair Value (continued)

The carrying values and estimated fair values for such financial instruments, and their corresponding placement in the fair value hierarchy, are summarized as follows at:
 
March 31, 2016
 
 
 
Fair Value Hierarchy
 
 
 
Carrying
Value
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
 
Total
Estimated
Fair Value
 
(In millions)
Assets
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Mortgage loans
$
68,090

 
$

 
$

 
$
70,490

 
$
70,490

Policy loans
$
11,257

 
$

 
$
1,277

 
$
12,405

 
$
13,682

Real estate joint ventures
$
33

 
$

 
$

 
$
102

 
$
102

Other limited partnership interests
$
495

 
$

 
$

 
$
584

 
$
584

Other invested assets
$
507

 
$
163

 
$
2

 
$
342

 
$
507

Premiums, reinsurance and other receivables
$
5,789

 
$

 
$
2,615

 
$
3,274

 
$
5,889

Other assets
$
242

 
$

 
$
206

 
$
69

 
$
275

Liabilities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Policyholder account balances
$
125,894

 
$

 
$

 
$
133,714

 
$
133,714

Long-term debt
$
17,855

 
$

 
$
19,478

 
$

 
$
19,478

Collateral financing arrangements
$
4,127

 
$

 
$

 
$
3,794

 
$
3,794

Junior subordinated debt securities
$
3,168

 
$

 
$
3,872

 
$

 
$
3,872

Other liabilities
$
7,725

 
$

 
$
7,239

 
$
489

 
$
7,728

Separate account liabilities
$
118,520

 
$

 
$
118,520

 
$

 
$
118,520

 
December 31, 2015
 
 
 
Fair Value Hierarchy
 
 
 
Carrying
Value
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
 
Total
Estimated
Fair Value
 
(In millions)
Assets
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Mortgage loans
$
66,616

 
$

 
$

 
$
68,539

 
$
68,539

Policy loans
$
11,258

 
$

 
$
1,279

 
$
12,072

 
$
13,351

Real estate joint ventures
$
35

 
$

 
$

 
$
104

 
$
104

Other limited partnership interests
$
524

 
$

 
$

 
$
615

 
$
615

Other invested assets
$
537

 
$
155

 
$
2

 
$
380

 
$
537

Premiums, reinsurance and other receivables
$
2,822

 
$

 
$
484

 
$
2,421

 
$
2,905

Other assets
$
235

 
$

 
$
207

 
$
60

 
$
267

Liabilities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Policyholder account balances
$
125,040

 
$

 
$

 
$
130,125

 
$
130,125

Long-term debt
$
17,954

 
$

 
$
19,360

 
$

 
$
19,360

Collateral financing arrangements
$
4,139

 
$

 
$

 
$
3,899

 
$
3,899

Junior subordinated debt securities
$
3,194

 
$

 
$
4,029

 
$

 
$
4,029

Other liabilities
$
2,249

 
$

 
$
865

 
$
1,385

 
$
2,250

Separate account liabilities
$
112,119

 
$

 
$
112,119

 
$

 
$
112,119

The methods, assumptions and significant valuation techniques and inputs used to estimate the fair value of financial instruments are summarized as follows:
Mortgage Loans
The estimated fair value of mortgage loans is primarily determined by estimating expected future cash flows and discounting them using current interest rates for similar mortgage loans with similar credit risk, or is determined from pricing for similar loans.

62

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MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
8. Fair Value (continued)

Policy Loans
Policy loans with fixed interest rates are classified within Level 3. The estimated fair values for these loans are determined using a discounted cash flow model applied to groups of similar policy loans determined by the nature of the underlying insurance liabilities. Cash flow estimates are developed by applying a weighted-average interest rate to the outstanding principal balance of the respective group of policy loans and an estimated average maturity determined through experience studies of the past performance of policyholder repayment behavior for similar loans. These cash flows are discounted using current risk-free interest rates with no adjustment for borrower credit risk, as these loans are fully collateralized by the cash surrender value of the underlying insurance policy. Policy loans with variable interest rates are classified within Level 2 and the estimated fair value approximates carrying value due to the absence of borrower credit risk and the short time period between interest rate resets, which presents minimal risk of a material change in estimated fair value due to changes in market interest rates.
Real Estate Joint Ventures and Other Limited Partnership Interests
The estimated fair values of these cost method investments are generally based on the Company’s share of the NAV as provided on the financial statements of the investees. In certain circumstances, management may adjust the NAV by a premium or discount when it has sufficient evidence to support applying such adjustments.
Other Invested Assets
These other invested assets are principally comprised of various interest-bearing assets held in foreign subsidiaries and certain amounts due under contractual indemnifications. For the various interest-bearing assets held in foreign subsidiaries, the Company evaluates the specific facts and circumstances of each instrument to determine the appropriate estimated fair values. These estimated fair values were not materially different from the recognized carrying values.
Premiums, Reinsurance and Other Receivables
Premiums, reinsurance and other receivables are principally comprised of certain amounts recoverable under reinsurance agreements, amounts on deposit with financial institutions to facilitate daily settlements related to certain derivatives and amounts receivable for securities sold but not yet settled.
Amounts recoverable under ceded reinsurance agreements, which the Company has determined do not transfer significant risk such that they are accounted for using the deposit method of accounting, have been classified as Level 3. The valuation is based on discounted cash flow methodologies using significant unobservable inputs. The estimated fair value is determined using interest rates determined to reflect the appropriate credit standing of the assuming counterparty.
The amounts on deposit for derivative settlements, classified within Level 2, essentially represent the equivalent of demand deposit balances and amounts due for securities sold are generally received over short periods such that the estimated fair value approximates carrying value.
Other Assets
These other assets are principally comprised of a receivable for cash paid to an unaffiliated financial institution under the MetLife Reinsurance Company of Charleston (“MRC”) collateral financing arrangement described in Note 13 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2015 Annual Report. The estimated fair value of the receivable for the cash paid to the unaffiliated financial institution under the MRC collateral financing arrangement is determined by discounting the expected future cash flows using a discount rate that reflects the credit rating of the unaffiliated financial institution.
Policyholder Account Balances
These policyholder account balances include investment contracts which primarily include certain funding agreements, fixed deferred annuities, modified guaranteed annuities, fixed term payout annuities and total control accounts (“TCA”). The valuation of these investment contracts is based on discounted cash flow methodologies using significant unobservable inputs. The estimated fair value is determined using current market risk-free interest rates adding a spread to reflect the nonperformance risk in the liability.
Long-term Debt, Collateral Financing Arrangements and Junior Subordinated Debt Securities
The estimated fair values of long-term debt, collateral financing arrangements and junior subordinated debt securities are principally determined using market standard valuation methodologies.

63

Table of Contents
MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
8. Fair Value (continued)

Valuations of instruments classified as Level 2 are based primarily on quoted prices in markets that are not active or using matrix pricing that use standard market observable inputs such as quoted prices in markets that are not active and observable yields and spreads in the market. Instruments valued using discounted cash flow methodologies use standard market observable inputs including market yield curve, duration, call provisions, observable prices and spreads for similar publicly traded or privately traded issues.
Valuations of instruments classified as Level 3 are based primarily on discounted cash flow methodologies that utilize unobservable discount rates that can vary significantly based upon the specific terms of each individual arrangement. The determination of estimated fair values of collateral financing arrangements incorporates valuations obtained from the counterparties to the arrangements, as part of the collateral management process.
Other Liabilities
Other liabilities consist primarily of interest payable, amounts due for securities purchased but not yet settled, and funds withheld amounts payable, which are contractually withheld by the Company in accordance with the terms of the reinsurance agreements. The Company evaluates the specific terms, facts and circumstances of each instrument to determine the appropriate estimated fair values, which are not materially different from the carrying values, with the exception of certain deposit type reinsurance payables. For such payables, the estimated fair value is determined as the present value of expected future cash flows, which are discounted using an interest rate determined to reflect the appropriate credit standing of the assuming counterparty.
Separate Account Liabilities
Separate account liabilities represent those balances due to policyholders under contracts that are classified as investment contracts.
Separate account liabilities classified as investment contracts primarily represent variable annuities with no significant mortality risk to the Company such that the death benefit is equal to the account balance, funding agreements related to group life contracts and certain contracts that provide for benefit funding.
Since separate account liabilities are fully funded by cash flows from the separate account assets which are recognized at estimated fair value as described in the section “— Recurring Fair Value Measurements,” the value of those assets approximates the estimated fair value of the related separate account liabilities. The valuation techniques and inputs for separate account liabilities are similar to those described for separate account assets.
9. Equity
Preferred Stock
Preferred stock authorized, issued and outstanding was as follows at both March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015:
Series
 
Shares
Authorized
 
Shares
Issued
 
Shares
Outstanding
Floating Rate Non-Cumulative Preferred Stock, Series A
 
27,600,000

 
24,000,000

 
24,000,000

5.25% Fixed-to-Floating Rate Non-Cumulative Preferred Stock, Series C
 
1,500,000

 
1,500,000

 
1,500,000

Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock
 
10,000,000

 

 

Not designated
 
160,900,000

 

 

Total
 
200,000,000

 
25,500,000

 
25,500,000

Common Stock
During the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, MetLife, Inc. repurchased 1,445,864 and 19,893,284 shares through open market purchases for $70 million and $986 million, respectively.
At March 31, 2016, MetLife, Inc. had no remaining common stock repurchase authorizations. Common stock repurchases are dependent upon several factors, including the Company’s capital position, liquidity, financial strength and credit ratings, general market conditions, the market price of MetLife, Inc.’s common stock compared to management’s assessment of the stock’s underlying value and applicable regulatory approvals, as well as other legal and accounting factors.

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MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
9. Equity (continued)

Stock-Based Compensation Plans
Performance Shares and Performance Units
Awards under the MetLife, Inc. 2005 Stock and Incentive Compensation Plan and the MetLife, Inc. 2015 Stock and Incentive Compensation Plan (the “2015 Stock Plan”) were outstanding at March 31, 2016. All awards granted in 2015 or later were granted under the 2015 Stock Plan. There were no outstanding awards to MetLife, Inc. directors, for their service as directors, as of March 31, 2016.
For Performance Share and Performance Unit awards outstanding as of March 31, 2016, any vested Performance Shares and Performance Units will be multiplied by a performance factor of 0% to 175%. Assuming that MetLife, Inc. has met threshold performance goals related to its adjusted income or total shareholder return, the MetLife, Inc. Compensation Committee will determine the performance factor in its discretion. In doing so, the Compensation Committee may consider MetLife, Inc.’s total shareholder return relative to the performance of its competitors and MetLife, Inc.’s operating return on equity relative to its business plan. The estimated fair value of Performance Shares and Performance Units will be remeasured each quarter until they become payable.
Payout of 2013 – 2015 Performance Shares and Performance Units
Final Performance Shares are paid in shares of MetLife, Inc. common stock. Final Performance Units are payable in cash equal to the closing price of MetLife, Inc. common stock on a date following the last day of the three-year performance period. The performance factor for the January 1, 2013 – December 31, 2015 performance period was 86.2%. This factor has been applied to the 1,592,650 Performance Shares and 234,787 Performance Units associated with that performance period that vested on December 31, 2015. As a result, in the first quarter of 2016, MetLife, Inc. issued 1,372,864 shares of its common stock (less withholding for taxes and other items, as applicable), excluding shares that payees choose to defer, and MetLife, Inc. or its affiliates paid the cash value of 202,386 units (less withholding for taxes and other items, as applicable).
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Information regarding changes in the balances of each component of AOCI attributable to MetLife, Inc., was as follows:
 
Three Months 
 Ended 
 March 31, 2016
 
Unrealized
Investment Gains
(Losses), Net of
Related Offsets (1)
 
Unrealized
Gains (Losses)
on Derivatives
 
Foreign
Currency
Translation
Adjustments
 
Defined
Benefit
Plans
Adjustment
 
Total
 
(In millions)
Balance, beginning of period
$
10,315

 
$
1,458

 
$
(4,950
)
 
$
(2,052
)
 
$
4,771

OCI before reclassifications
7,670

 
696

 
551

 

 
8,917

Deferred income tax benefit (expense)
(2,549
)
 
(199
)
 
117

 

 
(2,631
)
AOCI before reclassifications, net of income tax
15,436

 
1,955

 
(4,282
)
 
(2,052
)
 
11,057

Amounts reclassified from AOCI
17

 
(323
)
 

 
48

 
(258
)
Deferred income tax benefit (expense)
(7
)
 
93

 

 
(20
)
 
66

Amounts reclassified from AOCI, net of income tax
10

 
(230
)
 

 
28

 
(192
)
Balance, end of period
$
15,446

 
$
1,725

 
$
(4,282
)
 
$
(2,024
)
 
$
10,865


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MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
9. Equity (continued)

 
Three Months 
 Ended 
 March 31, 2015
 
Unrealized
Investment Gains
(Losses), Net of
Related Offsets (1)
 
Unrealized
Gains (Losses)
on Derivatives
 
Foreign
Currency
Translation
Adjustments
 
Defined
Benefit
Plans
Adjustment
 
Total
 
(In millions)
Balance, beginning of period
$
15,159

 
$
1,076

 
$
(3,303
)
 
$
(2,283
)
 
$
10,649

OCI before reclassifications
1,626

 
187

 
(670
)
 

 
1,143

Deferred income tax benefit (expense)
(501
)
 
(66
)
 
(13
)
 

 
(580
)
AOCI before reclassifications, net of income tax
16,284

 
1,197

 
(3,986
)
 
(2,283
)
 
11,212

Amounts reclassified from AOCI
(113
)
 
554

 

 
57

 
498

Deferred income tax benefit (expense)
35

 
(196
)
 

 
(20
)
 
(181
)
Amounts reclassified from AOCI, net of income tax
(78
)
 
358

 

 
37

 
317

Balance, end of period
$
16,206

 
$
1,555

 
$
(3,986
)
 
$
(2,246
)
 
$
11,529

__________________
(1)
See Note 6 for information on offsets to investments related to future policy benefits, DAC, VOBA and DSI, and the policyholder dividend obligation.

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MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
9. Equity (continued)

Information regarding amounts reclassified out of each component of AOCI was as follows:
AOCI Components
Amounts Reclassified from AOCI
 
Consolidated Statement of Operations and
Comprehensive Income (Loss) Locations
 
 
Three Months 
 Ended 
 March 31,
 
 
 
 
2016
 
2015
 
 
 
(In millions)
 
 
Net unrealized investment gains (losses):
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net unrealized investment gains (losses)
 
$
(33
)
 
$
139

 
Net investment gains (losses)
Net unrealized investment gains (losses)
 
3

 
40

 
Net investment income
Net unrealized investment gains (losses)
 
13

 
(66
)
 
Net derivative gains (losses)
Net unrealized investment gains (losses), before income tax
 
(17
)
 
113

 
 
Income tax (expense) benefit
 
7

 
(35
)
 
 
Net unrealized investment gains (losses), net of income tax
 
$
(10
)
 
$
78

 
 
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives - cash flow hedges:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest rate swaps
 
$
10

 
$
5

 
Net derivative gains (losses)
Interest rate swaps
 
3

 
3

 
Net investment income
Interest rate forwards
 
2

 
3

 
Net derivative gains (losses)
Interest rate forwards
 
1

 
1

 
Net investment income
Interest rate forwards
 

 
1

 
Other expenses
Foreign currency swaps
 
306

 
(567
)
 
Net derivative gains (losses)
Foreign currency swaps
 
1

 

 
Other expenses
Gains (losses) on cash flow hedges, before income tax
 
323

 
(554
)
 
 
Income tax (expense) benefit
 
(93
)
 
196

 
 
Gains (losses) on cash flow hedges, net of income tax
 
$
230

 
$
(358
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Defined benefit plans adjustment: (1)
 
 
 
 
 
 
Amortization of net actuarial gains (losses)
 
$
(51
)
 
$
(58
)
 
 
Amortization of prior service (costs) credit
 
3

 
1

 
 
Amortization of defined benefit plan items, before
 income tax
 
(48
)
 
(57
)
 
 
Income tax (expense) benefit
 
20

 
20

 
 
Amortization of defined benefit plan items, net of income tax
 
$
(28
)
 
$
(37
)
 
 
Total reclassifications, net of income tax
 
$
192

 
$
(317
)
 
 
__________________
(1)
These AOCI components are included in the computation of net periodic benefit costs. See Note 11.

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MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)

10. Other Expenses
Information on other expenses was as follows:
 
Three Months 
 Ended 
 March 31,
 
2016
 
2015
 
(In millions)
Compensation
$
1,310

 
$
1,291

Pension, postretirement and postemployment benefit costs
140

 
92

Commissions
1,134

 
1,157

Volume-related costs
266

 
242

Capitalization of DAC
(981
)
 
(968
)
Amortization of DAC and VOBA
995

 
1,025

Amortization of negative VOBA
(99
)
 
(100
)
Interest expense on debt
312

 
298

Premium taxes, licenses and fees
215

 
173

Professional services
330

 
330

Rent and related expenses, net of sublease income
97

 
83

Other
473

 
437

Total other expenses
$
4,192

 
$
4,060

11. Employee Benefit Plans
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans
Certain subsidiaries of MetLife, Inc. sponsor and/or administer various U.S. qualified and nonqualified defined benefit pension plans and other postretirement employee benefit plans covering employees and sales representatives who meet specified eligibility requirements. These subsidiaries also provide certain postemployment benefits and certain postretirement medical and life insurance benefits for U.S. retired employees.
The components of net periodic benefit costs were as follows:
 
Three Months 
 Ended 
 March 31,
 
2016
 
2015
 
Pension
Benefits
 
Other Postretirement Benefits
 
Pension
Benefits
 
Other Postretirement Benefits
 
(In millions)
Service costs
$
72

 
$
2

 
$
69

 
$
4

Interest costs
111

 
21

 
105

 
23

Curtailment costs (1)

 
30

 

 

Expected return on plan assets
(127
)
 
(18
)
 
(136
)
 
(20
)
Amortization of net actuarial (gains) losses
49

 
2

 
48

 
10

Amortization of prior service costs (credit)

 
(3
)
 

 
(1
)
Net periodic benefit costs (credit)
$
105

 
$
34

 
$
86

 
$
16

__________________
(1)
During the three months ended March 31, 2016, the Company recognized curtailment charges on certain postretirement benefit plans in connection with the purchase agreement with MassMutual. See Note 3.

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MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)

12. Earnings Per Common Share
The following table presents the weighted average shares used in calculating basic earnings per common share and those used in calculating diluted earnings per common share for each income category presented below:
 
 
Three Months 
 Ended 
 March 31,
 
 
2016
 
2015
 
 
(In millions, except share and per share data)
Weighted Average Shares
 
 
 
 
Weighted average common stock outstanding for basic earnings per common share
 
1,100,836,608

 
1,125,703,588

Incremental common shares from assumed:
 
 
 
 
Exercise or issuance of stock-based awards
 
7,785,089

 
10,057,530

Weighted average common stock outstanding for diluted earnings per common share
 
1,108,621,697

 
1,135,761,118

Net Income (Loss)
 
 
 
 
Net income (loss)
 
$
2,203

 
$
2,163

Less: Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests
 
2

 
5

Less: Preferred stock dividends
 
6

 
30

Net income (loss) available to MetLife, Inc.’s common shareholders
 
$
2,195

 
$
2,128

Basic
 
$
1.99

 
$
1.89

Diluted
 
$
1.98

 
$
1.87

13. Contingencies, Commitments and Guarantees
Contingencies
Litigation
The Company is a defendant in a large number of litigation matters. In some of the matters, very large and/or indeterminate amounts, including punitive and treble damages, are sought. Modern pleading practice in the U.S. permits considerable variation in the assertion of monetary damages or other relief. Jurisdictions may permit claimants not to specify the monetary damages sought or may permit claimants to state only that the amount sought is sufficient to invoke the jurisdiction of the trial court. In addition, jurisdictions may permit plaintiffs to allege monetary damages in amounts well exceeding reasonably possible verdicts in the jurisdiction for similar matters. This variability in pleadings, together with the actual experience of the Company in litigating or resolving through settlement numerous claims over an extended period of time, demonstrates to management that the monetary relief which may be specified in a lawsuit or claim bears little relevance to its merits or disposition value.
Due to the vagaries of litigation, the outcome of a litigation matter and the amount or range of potential loss at particular points in time may normally be difficult to ascertain. Uncertainties can include how fact finders will evaluate documentary evidence and the credibility and effectiveness of witness testimony, and how trial and appellate courts will apply the law in the context of the pleadings or evidence presented, whether by motion practice, or at trial or on appeal. Disposition valuations are also subject to the uncertainty of how opposing parties and their counsel will themselves view the relevant evidence and applicable law.
The Company establishes liabilities for litigation and regulatory loss contingencies when it is probable that a loss has been incurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. Liabilities have been established for a number of the matters noted below. It is possible that some of the matters could require the Company to pay damages or make other expenditures or establish accruals in amounts that could not be reasonably estimated at March 31, 2016. While the potential future charges could be material in the particular quarterly or annual periods in which they are recorded, based on information currently known to management, management does not believe any such charges are likely to have a material effect on the Company’s financial position.

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MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
13. Contingencies, Commitments and Guarantees (continued)

Matters as to Which an Estimate Can Be Made
For some of the matters disclosed below, the Company is able to estimate a reasonably possible range of loss. For such matters where a loss is believed to be reasonably possible, but not probable, no accrual has been made. As of March 31, 2016, the Company estimates the aggregate range of reasonably possible losses in excess of amounts accrued for these matters to be $0 to $475 million.
Matters as to Which an Estimate Cannot Be Made
For other matters disclosed below, the Company is not currently able to estimate the reasonably possible loss or range of loss. The Company is often unable to estimate the possible loss or range of loss until developments in such matters have provided sufficient information to support an assessment of the range of possible loss, such as quantification of a damage demand from plaintiffs, discovery from other parties and investigation of factual allegations, rulings by the court on motions or appeals, analysis by experts, and the progress of settlement negotiations. On a quarterly and annual basis, the Company reviews relevant information with respect to litigation contingencies and updates its accruals, disclosures and estimates of reasonably possible losses or ranges of loss based on such reviews.
Asbestos-Related Claims
MLIC is and has been a defendant in a large number of asbestos-related suits filed primarily in state courts. These suits principally allege that the plaintiff or plaintiffs suffered personal injury resulting from exposure to asbestos and seek both actual and punitive damages. MLIC has never engaged in the business of manufacturing, producing, distributing or selling asbestos or asbestos-containing products nor has MLIC issued liability or workers’ compensation insurance to companies in the business of manufacturing, producing, distributing or selling asbestos or asbestos-containing products. The lawsuits principally have focused on allegations with respect to certain research, publication and other activities of one or more of MLIC’s employees during the period from the 1920’s through approximately the 1950’s and allege that MLIC learned or should have learned of certain health risks posed by asbestos and, among other things, improperly publicized or failed to disclose those health risks. MLIC believes that it should not have legal liability in these cases. The outcome of most asbestos litigation matters, however, is uncertain and can be impacted by numerous variables, including differences in legal rulings in various jurisdictions, the nature of the alleged injury and factors unrelated to the ultimate legal merit of the claims asserted against MLIC. MLIC employs a number of resolution strategies to manage its asbestos loss exposure, including seeking resolution of pending litigation by judicial rulings and settling individual or groups of claims or lawsuits under appropriate circumstances.
Claims asserted against MLIC have included negligence, intentional tort and conspiracy concerning the health risks associated with asbestos. MLIC’s defenses (beyond denial of certain factual allegations) include that: (i) MLIC owed no duty to the plaintiffs— it had no special relationship with the plaintiffs and did not manufacture, produce, distribute or sell the asbestos products that allegedly injured plaintiffs; (ii) plaintiffs did not rely on any actions of MLIC; (iii) MLIC’s conduct was not the cause of the plaintiffs’ injuries; (iv) plaintiffs’ exposure occurred after the dangers of asbestos were known; and (v) the applicable time with respect to filing suit has expired. During the course of the litigation, certain trial courts have granted motions dismissing claims against MLIC, while other trial courts have denied MLIC’s motions. There can be no assurance that MLIC will receive favorable decisions on motions in the future. While most cases brought to date have settled, MLIC intends to continue to defend aggressively against claims based on asbestos exposure, including defending claims at trials.
As reported in the 2015 Annual Report, MLIC received approximately 3,856 asbestos-related claims in 2015. During the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, MLIC received approximately 1,386 and 1,046 new asbestos-related claims, respectively. See Note 21 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2015 Annual Report for historical information concerning asbestos claims and MLIC’s increase in its recorded liability at December 31, 2014. The number of asbestos cases that may be brought, the aggregate amount of any liability that MLIC may incur, and the total amount paid in settlements in any given year are uncertain and may vary significantly from year to year.

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MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
13. Contingencies, Commitments and Guarantees (continued)

The ability of MLIC to estimate its ultimate asbestos exposure is subject to considerable uncertainty, and the conditions impacting its liability can be dynamic and subject to change. The availability of reliable data is limited and it is difficult to predict the numerous variables that can affect liability estimates, including the number of future claims, the cost to resolve claims, the disease mix and severity of disease in pending and future claims, the impact of the number of new claims filed in a particular jurisdiction and variations in the law in the jurisdictions in which claims are filed, the possible impact of tort reform efforts, the willingness of courts to allow plaintiffs to pursue claims against MLIC when exposure to asbestos took place after the dangers of asbestos exposure were well known, and the impact of any possible future adverse verdicts and their amounts.
The ability to make estimates regarding ultimate asbestos exposure declines significantly as the estimates relate to years further in the future. In the Company’s judgment, there is a future point after which losses cease to be probable and reasonably estimable. It is reasonably possible that the Company’s total exposure to asbestos claims may be materially greater than the asbestos liability currently accrued and that future charges to income may be necessary. While the potential future charges could be material in the particular quarterly or annual periods in which they are recorded, based on information currently known by management, management does not believe any such charges are likely to have a material effect on the Company’s financial position.
The Company believes adequate provision has been made in its consolidated financial statements for all probable and reasonably estimable losses for asbestos-related claims. MLIC’s recorded asbestos liability is based on its estimation of the following elements, as informed by the facts presently known to it, its understanding of current law and its past experiences: (i) the probable and reasonably estimable liability for asbestos claims already asserted against MLIC, including claims settled but not yet paid; (ii) the probable and reasonably estimable liability for asbestos claims not yet asserted against MLIC, but which MLIC believes are reasonably probable of assertion; and (iii) the legal defense costs associated with the foregoing claims. Significant assumptions underlying MLIC’s analysis of the adequacy of its recorded liability with respect to asbestos litigation include: (i) the number of future claims; (ii) the cost to resolve claims; and (iii) the cost to defend claims.
MLIC reevaluates on a quarterly and annual basis its exposure from asbestos litigation, including studying its claims experience, reviewing external literature regarding asbestos claims experience in the United States, assessing relevant trends impacting asbestos liability and considering numerous variables that can affect its asbestos liability exposure on an overall or per claim basis. These variables include bankruptcies of other companies involved in asbestos litigation, legislative and judicial developments, the number of pending claims involving serious disease, the number of new claims filed against it and other defendants and the jurisdictions in which claims are pending. Based upon its regular reevaluation of its exposure from asbestos litigation, MLIC has updated its liability analysis for asbestos-related claims through March 31, 2016.
Regulatory Matters
The Company receives and responds to subpoenas or other inquiries seeking a broad range of information from state regulators, including state insurance commissioners; state attorneys general or other state governmental authorities; federal regulators, including the SEC; federal governmental authorities, including congressional committees; and the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (“FINRA”), as well as from local and national regulators and government authorities in countries outside the United States where MetLife conducts business. The issues involved in information requests and regulatory matters vary widely. The Company cooperates in these inquiries.
Law Enforcement Inquiry Regarding Mortgage Servicing
MetLife, through its affiliate MetLife Bank, was engaged in the origination, sale and servicing of forward and reverse residential mortgage loans from 2008 to 2013. In 2012, MetLife Bank exited the business of originating residential mortgage loans. In 2012 and 2013, MetLife Bank sold its residential mortgage servicing portfolios, and in 2013 wound down its mortgage servicing business. In August 2013, MetLife Bank merged with MetLife Home Loans LLC (“MLHL”), with MLHL as the surviving non-bank entity.
In May 2013, MetLife Bank received a subpoena from the U.S. Department of Justice requiring production of documents relating to MetLife Bank’s payment of certain foreclosure-related expenses to law firms and business entities affiliated with law firms and relating to MetLife Bank’s supervision of such payments, including expenses submitted to the Federal National Mortgage Association, the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (“HUD”) for reimbursement.

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MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
13. Contingencies, Commitments and Guarantees (continued)

This inquiry could adversely affect MetLife’s reputation or result in significant fines, penalties, equitable remedies or other enforcement actions. Management believes that the Company’s consolidated financial statements as a whole will not be materially affected by this matter.
In the Matter of Chemform, Inc. Site, Pompano Beach, Broward County, Florida
In July 2010, the Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”) advised MLIC that it believed payments were due under two settlement agreements, known as “Administrative Orders on Consent,” that New England Mutual Life Insurance Company (“New England Mutual”) signed in 1989 and 1992 with respect to the cleanup of a Superfund site in Florida (the “Chemform Site”). The EPA originally contacted MLIC (as successor to New England Mutual) and a third party in 2001, and advised that they owed additional clean-up costs for the Chemform Site. The matter was not resolved at that time. The EPA is requesting payment of an amount under $1 million from MLIC and such third party for past costs and an additional amount for future environmental testing costs at the Chemform Site. In September 2012, the EPA, MLIC and the third party executed an Administrative Order on Consent under which MLIC and the third party have agreed to be responsible for certain environmental testing at the Chemform Site. The Company estimates that its costs for the environmental testing will not exceed $100,000. The September 2012 Administrative Order on Consent does not resolve the EPA’s claim for past clean-up costs. The EPA may seek additional costs if the environmental testing identifies issues. The Company estimates that the aggregate cost to resolve this matter will not exceed $1 million.
Sales Practices Regulatory Matters
Regulatory authorities in a number of states and FINRA, and occasionally the SEC, have had investigations or inquiries relating to sales of individual life insurance policies or annuities or other products by MLIC, MetLife Insurance Company USA, New England Life Insurance Company (“NELICO”), General American Life Insurance Company (“GALIC”), and MSI. These investigations often focus on the conduct of particular financial services representatives and the sale of unregistered or unsuitable products or the misuse of client assets. Over the past several years, these and a number of investigations by other regulatory authorities were resolved for monetary payments and certain other relief, including restitution payments. The Company may continue to resolve investigations in a similar manner. The Company believes adequate provision has been made in its consolidated financial statements for all probable and reasonably estimable losses for these sales practices-related investigations or inquiries.
Sale and Replacement of Variable Annuities and FINRA Letter of Acceptance, Waiver and Consent
MSI has entered into a Letter of Acceptance, Waiver and Consent with FINRA (hereinafter, the “Letter”). In the Letter, FINRA stated that, from 2009 through 2014, MSI violated certain National Association of Securities Dealers and FINRA rules in connection with sales and replacements of variable annuities and certain riders on such annuities. MSI was censured and will pay a $20 million fine and an additional $5 million to reimburse customers. MSI has accrued this amount.
Unclaimed Property Litigation
West Virginia Lawsuits
On September 20, 2012, the West Virginia Treasurer filed an action against MLIC in West Virginia state court (West Virginia ex rel. John D. Perdue v. Metropolitan Life Insurance Company, Circuit Court of Putnam County, Civil Action No. 12-C-295) alleging that MLIC violated the West Virginia Uniform Unclaimed Property Act (the “Act”), seeking to compel compliance with the Act, and seeking payment of unclaimed property, interest, and penalties. On November 14, 2012, November 21, 2012, December 28, 2012, and January 9, 2013, the Treasurer filed substantially identical suits against MetLife Investors USA, NELICO, MetLife Insurance Company of Connecticut and GALIC, respectively. On June 16, 2015, the West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals reversed the Circuit Court’s order that had granted defendants’ motions to dismiss the actions and remanded them to the Circuit Court for further proceedings. The defendants intend to defend these actions vigorously.

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MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
13. Contingencies, Commitments and Guarantees (continued)

City of Westland Police and Fire Retirement System v. MetLife, Inc., et. al. (S.D.N.Y., filed January 12, 2012)
Seeking to represent a class of persons who purchased MetLife, Inc. common shares between February 2, 2010, and October 6, 2011, the plaintiff filed a second amended complaint alleging that MetLife, Inc. and several current and former directors and executive officers of MetLife, Inc. violated the Securities Act of 1933 (“Securities Act”), as well as the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (“Exchange Act”) and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder by issuing, or causing MetLife, Inc. to issue, materially false and misleading statements concerning MetLife, Inc.’s potential liability for millions of dollars in insurance benefits that should have been paid to beneficiaries or escheated to the states. Plaintiff seeks unspecified compensatory damages and other relief. On September 11, 2015, the court issued an order dismissing all claims under the Exchange Act and Rule 10b-5, and dismissing all claims under the Securities Act except for those based on alleged misrepresentations of mortality ratios. Following the court’s September 11, 2015 order, the plaintiff filed a third amended complaint that supplemented the factual allegations of the second amended complaint. The defendants intend to continue to defend this action vigorously.
City of Birmingham Retirement and Relief System v. MetLife, Inc., et al. (Circuit Court of Jefferson County, Alabama, filed July 5, 2012)
Seeking to represent a class of persons who purchased MetLife, Inc. common equity units in or traceable to a public offering in March 2011, the plaintiff filed an action alleging that MetLife, Inc., certain current and former directors and executive officers of MetLife, Inc., and various underwriters violated several provisions of the Securities Act related to the filing of the registration statement by issuing, or causing MetLife, Inc. to issue, materially false and misleading statements and/or omissions concerning MetLife, Inc.’s potential liability for millions of dollars in insurance benefits that should have been paid to beneficiaries or escheated to the states. Plaintiff seeks unspecified compensatory damages and other relief. On March 31, 2015, a federal court granted plaintiff’s motion to remand this action to state court. On October 14, 2015, the state court denied the defendants’ motion to dismiss the complaint. The defendants intend to defend this action vigorously.
Total Control Accounts Litigation
Owens v. Metropolitan Life Insurance Company (N.D. Ga., filed April 17, 2014)
Plaintiff filed this putative class action lawsuit on behalf of all persons for whom MLIC established a retained asset account, known as a TCA, to pay death benefits under an Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (“ERISA”) plan. The action alleges that MLIC’s use of the TCA as the settlement option for life insurance benefits under some group life insurance policies violates MLIC’s fiduciary duties under ERISA. As damages, plaintiff seeks disgorgement of profits that MLIC realized on accounts owned by members of the putative class. The court denied MLIC’s motion to dismiss the complaint. The Company intends to defend this action vigorously.
Reinsurance Litigation
Robainas, et al. v. Metropolitan Life Insurance Company (S.D.N.Y., December 16, 2014)
Plaintiffs filed this putative class action lawsuit on behalf of themselves and all persons and entities who, directly or indirectly, purchased, renewed or paid premiums on life insurance policies issued by MLIC from 2009 through 2014 (the “Policies”). Two similar actions were subsequently filed, Yale v. Metropolitan Life Ins. Co. (S.D.N.Y., January 12, 2015) and International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers District Lodge 15 v. Metropolitan Life Ins. Co. (E.D.N.Y., February 2, 2015). Both of these actions were consolidated with the Robainas action. The consolidated complaint alleges that MLIC inadequately disclosed in its statutory annual statements that certain reinsurance transactions with affiliated reinsurance companies were collateralized using “contractual parental guarantees,” and thereby allegedly misrepresented its financial condition and the adequacy of its reserves. The lawsuit sought recovery under Section 4226 of the New York Insurance Law of a statutory penalty in the amount of the premiums paid for the Policies. On October 9, 2015, the court granted MLIC’s motion to dismiss the consolidated complaint, finding that plaintiffs lacked Article III standing because they did not allege any concrete injury as a result of the alleged conduct. Plaintiffs appealed this decision to the Second Circuit Court of Appeals.

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MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
13. Contingencies, Commitments and Guarantees (continued)

Intoccia v. Metropolitan Life Insurance Company (S.D.N.Y., April 20, 2015)
Plaintiffs filed this putative class action on behalf of themselves and all persons and entities who, directly or indirectly, purchased, renewed or paid premiums for Guaranteed Benefits Insurance Riders attached to variable annuity contracts with MLIC from 2009 through 2015 (the “Annuities”). The court consolidated Weilert v. Metropolitan Life Ins. Co. (S.D.N.Y., April 30, 2015) with the Intoccia case, and the consolidated, amended complaint alleges that MLIC inadequately disclosed in its statutory annual statements that certain reinsurance transactions with affiliated reinsurance companies were collateralized using “contractual parental guarantees,” and thereby allegedly misrepresented its financial condition and the adequacy of its reserves. The lawsuits seek recovery under Section 4226 of the New York Insurance Law of a statutory penalty in the amount of the premiums paid for Guaranteed Benefits Insurance Riders attached to the Annuities. The Court granted MLIC’s motion to dismiss, adopting the reasoning of the Robainas decision. Plaintiffs appealed this decision to the Second Circuit Court of Appeals.
Other Litigation
McGuire v. Metropolitan Life Insurance Company (E.D. Mich., filed February 22, 2012)
This lawsuit was filed by the fiduciary for the Union Carbide Employees’ Pension Plan and alleges that MLIC, which issued annuity contracts to fund some of the benefits the Plan provides, engaged in transactions that ERISA prohibits and violated duties under ERISA and federal common law by determining that no dividends were payable with respect to the contracts from and after 1999. On August 8, 2014, the court denied the parties’ motions for summary judgment. The court has set a June 6, 2016 trial date.
Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada Indemnity Claim
In 2006, Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada (“Sun Life”), as successor to the purchaser of MLIC’s Canadian operations, filed a lawsuit in Toronto, seeking a declaration that MLIC remains liable for “market conduct claims” related to certain individual life insurance policies sold by MLIC and that were transferred to Sun Life. Sun Life had asked that the court require MLIC to indemnify Sun Life for these claims pursuant to indemnity provisions in the sale agreement for the sale of MLIC’s Canadian operations entered into in June of 1998. In January 2010, the court found that Sun Life had given timely notice of its claim for indemnification but, because it found that Sun Life had not yet incurred an indemnifiable loss, granted MLIC’s motion for summary judgment. Both parties appealed but subsequently agreed to withdraw the appeal and consider the indemnity claim through arbitration. In September 2010, Sun Life notified MLIC that a purported class action lawsuit was filed against Sun Life in Toronto, Fehr v. Sun Life Assurance Co. (Super. Ct., Ontario, September 2010), alleging sales practices claims regarding the same individual policies sold by MLIC and transferred to Sun Life. An amended class action complaint in that case was served on Sun Life in May 2013, again without naming MLIC as a party. On August 30, 2011, Sun Life notified MLIC that a purported class action lawsuit was filed against Sun Life in Vancouver, Alamwala v. Sun Life Assurance Co. (Sup. Ct., British Columbia, August 2011), alleging sales practices claims regarding certain of the same policies sold by MLIC and transferred to Sun Life. Sun Life contends that MLIC is obligated to indemnify Sun Life for some or all of the claims in these lawsuits. These sales practices cases against Sun Life are ongoing, and the Company is unable to estimate the reasonably possible loss or range of loss arising from this litigation.
Fauley v. Metropolitan Life Insurance Company, et al. (Circuit Court of the 19th Judicial Circuit, Lake County, Ill., July 3, 2014)
Plaintiffs filed this lawsuit against defendants, including MLIC and a former MetLife financial services representative, alleging that the defendants sent unsolicited fax advertisements to plaintiff and others in violation of the Telephone Consumer Protection Act, as amended by the Junk Fax Prevention Act, 47 U.S.C. § 227. The court issued a final order certifying a nationwide settlement class and approving a settlement under which MLIC has agreed to pay up to $23 million to resolve claims as to fax ads sent between August 23, 2008 and August 7, 2014. On March 23, 2016, the intermediate appellate court affirmed the trial court’s order.

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MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
13. Contingencies, Commitments and Guarantees (continued)

MetLife, Inc. v. Financial Stability Oversight Council (D. D.C., January 13, 2015)
MetLife, Inc. filed this action in U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia (“D.C. District Court”) seeking to overturn the Financial Stability Oversight Council’s (“FSOC”) designation of MetLife, Inc. as a non-bank systemically important financial institution (“non-bank SIFI”). The suit is brought under the section of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act providing that a company designated as a non-bank SIFI may petition the federal courts for review, and seeks an order requiring that the final determination be rescinded. The D.C. District Court issued a decision on March 30, 2016 granting, in part, MetLife, Inc.’s cross motion for summary judgment and rescinding the FSOC’s designation of MetLife, Inc. as a non-bank SIFI. On April 8, 2016, the FSOC filed a notice of appeal of the D.C. District Court’s order.
Voshall v. Metropolitan Life Insurance Company (Superior Court of the State of California, County of Los Angeles, April 8, 2015)
Plaintiff filed this putative class action lawsuit on behalf of himself and all persons covered under a long-term group disability income insurance policy issued by MLIC to public entities in California between April 8, 2011 and April 8, 2015. Plaintiff alleges that MLIC improperly reduced benefits by including cost of living adjustments and employee paid contributions in the employer retirement benefits and other income that reduces the benefit payable under such policies. Plaintiff asserts causes of action for declaratory relief, violation of the California Business & Professions Code, breach of contract and breach of the implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing. The Company intends to defend this action vigorously.
Martin v. Metropolitan Life Insurance Company, (Superior Court of the State of California, County of Contra Costa, filed December 17, 2015)
Plaintiffs filed this putative class action lawsuit on behalf of themselves and all California persons who have been charged compound interest by MLIC in life insurance policy and/or premium loan balances within the last four years. Plaintiffs allege that MLIC has engaged in a pattern and practice of charging compound interest on life insurance policy and premium loans without the borrower authorizing such compounding, and that this constitutes an unlawful business practice under California law. Plaintiff asserts causes of action for declaratory relief, violation of California’s Unfair Competition Law and Usury Law, and unjust enrichment. Plaintiff seeks declaratory and injunctive relief, restitution of interest, and damages in an unspecified amount. On April 12, 2016, the court granted MLIC’s motion to dismiss.
Lau v. Metropolitan Life Insurance Company (S.D.N.Y. filed, December 3, 2015)
This putative class action lawsuit was filed by a single defined contribution plan participant on behalf of all ERISA plans whose assets were invested in MetLife’s “Group Annuity Contract Stable Value Funds” within the past six years. The suit alleges breaches of fiduciary duty under ERISA and challenges the “spread” with respect to the stable value fund group annuity products sold to retirement plans. The allegations focus on the methodology MetLife uses to establish and reset the crediting rate, the terms under which plan participants are permitted to transfer funds from a stable value option to another investment option, the procedures followed if an employer terminates a contract, and the level of disclosure provided. Plaintiff seeks declaratory and injunctive relief, as well as damages in an unspecified amount. The Company intends to defend this action vigorously.
Newman v. Metropolitan Life Insurance Company (N.D. Ill., filed March 23, 2016)
Plaintiff filed this putative class action alleging causes of action for breach of contract, fraud, and violations of the Illinois Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act, based on MLIC’s class-wide increase in premiums charged for long-term care insurance policies with one of two policy features. Plaintiff alleges a class consisting of: (i) herself and all persons over age 65 who selected a Reduced Pay at Age 65 feature and whose premium rates were increased after age 65; and/or (ii) all persons who purchased a 5% Automatic Compound Inflation Protection Rider and whose premiums paid for the rider were increased. Plaintiff asserts that premiums could not be increased for these class members and/or that marketing material with respect to these two features was misleading as to MLIC’s right to increase premiums. Plaintiff seeks unspecified compensatory, statutory and punitive damages as well as recessionary and injunctive relief. The Company intends to defend this action vigorously.

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MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
13. Contingencies, Commitments and Guarantees (continued)

Sales Practices Claims
Over the past several years, the Company has faced numerous claims, including class action lawsuits, alleging improper marketing or sales of individual life insurance policies, annuities, mutual funds, other products or the misuse of client assets. Some of the current cases seek substantial damages, including punitive and treble damages and attorneys’ fees. The Company continues to defend vigorously against the claims in these matters. The Company believes adequate provision has been made in its consolidated financial statements for all probable and reasonably estimable losses for sales practices matters.
Summary
Putative or certified class action litigation and other litigation and claims and assessments against the Company, in addition to those discussed previously and those otherwise provided for in the Company’s consolidated financial statements, have arisen in the course of the Company’s business, including, but not limited to, in connection with its activities as an insurer, mortgage lending bank, employer, investor, investment advisor and taxpayer. Further, state insurance regulatory authorities and other federal and state authorities regularly make inquiries and conduct investigations concerning the Company’s compliance with applicable insurance and other laws and regulations.
It is not possible to predict the ultimate outcome of all pending investigations and legal proceedings. In some of the matters referred to previously, very large and/or indeterminate amounts, including punitive and treble damages, are sought. Although in light of these considerations it is possible that an adverse outcome in certain cases could have a material effect upon the Company’s financial position, based on information currently known by the Company’s management, in its opinion, the outcomes of such pending investigations and legal proceedings are not likely to have such an effect. However, given the large and/or indeterminate amounts sought in certain of these matters and the inherent unpredictability of litigation, it is possible that an adverse outcome in certain matters could, from time to time, have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated net income or cash flows in particular quarterly or annual periods.
Commitments
Mortgage Loan Commitments
The Company commits to lend funds under mortgage loan commitments. The amounts of these mortgage loan commitments were $4.0 billion and $4.4 billion at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.
Commitments to Fund Partnership Investments, Bank Credit Facilities, Bridge Loans and Private Corporate Bond Investments
The Company commits to fund partnership investments and to lend funds under bank credit facilities, bridge loans and private corporate bond investments. The amounts of these unfunded commitments were $6.8 billion and $7.1 billion at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.
Guarantees
In the normal course of its business, the Company has provided certain indemnities, guarantees and commitments to third parties such that it may be required to make payments now or in the future. In the context of acquisition, disposition, investment and other transactions, the Company has provided indemnities and guarantees, including those related to tax, environmental and other specific liabilities and other indemnities and guarantees that are triggered by, among other things, breaches of representations, warranties or covenants provided by the Company. In addition, in the normal course of business, the Company provides indemnifications to counterparties in contracts with triggers similar to the foregoing, as well as for certain other liabilities, such as third-party lawsuits. These obligations are often subject to time limitations that vary in duration, including contractual limitations and those that arise by operation of law, such as applicable statutes of limitation. In some cases, the maximum potential obligation under the indemnities and guarantees is subject to a contractual limitation ranging from less than $1 million to $223 million, with a cumulative maximum of $721 million, while in other cases such limitations are not specified or applicable. Since certain of these obligations are not subject to limitations, the Company does not believe that it is possible to determine the maximum potential amount that could become due under these guarantees in the future. Management believes that it is unlikely the Company will have to make any material payments under these indemnities, guarantees, or commitments.

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MetLife, Inc.
Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) — (continued)
13. Contingencies, Commitments and Guarantees (continued)

In addition, the Company indemnifies its directors and officers as provided in its charters and by-laws. Also, the Company indemnifies its agents for liabilities incurred as a result of their representation of the Company’s interests. Since these indemnities are generally not subject to limitation with respect to duration or amount, the Company does not believe that it is possible to determine the maximum potential amount that could become due under these indemnities in the future.
The Company has also minimum fund yield requirements on certain international pension funds in accordance with local laws. Since these guarantees are not subject to limitation with respect to duration or amount, the Company does not believe that it is possible to determine the maximum potential amount that could become due under these guarantees in the future.
The Company’s recorded liabilities were $8 million at both March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, for indemnities, guarantees and commitments.
14. Subsequent Event
Common Stock Dividend
On April 26, 2016, the MetLife, Inc. Board of Directors declared a second quarter 2016 common stock dividend of $0.400 per share payable on June 13, 2016 to shareholders of record as of May 9, 2016. The Company estimates that the aggregate dividend payment will be $441 million.

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Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
Index to Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
 
Page

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Forward-Looking Statements and Other Financial Information
For purposes of this discussion, “MetLife,” the “Company,” “we,” “our” and “us” refer to MetLife, Inc., a Delaware corporation incorporated in 1999, its subsidiaries and affiliates. Following this summary is a discussion addressing the consolidated results of operations and financial condition of the Company for the periods indicated. This discussion should be read in conjunction with MetLife, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015 (the “2015 Annual Report”), the cautionary language regarding forward-looking statements included below, the “Risk Factors” set forth in Part II, Item 1A, and the additional risk factors referred to therein, “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk” and the Company’s interim condensed consolidated financial statements included elsewhere herein.
This Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations may contain or incorporate by reference information that includes or is based upon forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements give expectations or forecasts of future events. These statements can be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. They use words such as “anticipate,” “estimate,” “expect,” “project,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe” and other words and terms of similar meaning, or are tied to future periods, in connection with a discussion of future operating or financial performance. In particular, these include statements relating to future actions, prospective services or products, future performance or results of current and anticipated services or products, sales efforts, expenses, the outcome of contingencies such as legal proceedings, trends in operations and financial results. Any or all forward-looking statements may turn out to be wrong. Actual results could differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. See “Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements.”
This Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations includes references to our performance measures, operating earnings and operating earnings available to common shareholders, that are not based on accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”). Operating earnings is the measure of segment profit or loss we use to evaluate segment performance and allocate resources. Consistent with GAAP guidance for segment reporting, operating earnings is our measure of segment performance. Operating earnings is also a measure by which senior management’s and many other employees’ performance is evaluated for the purposes of determining their compensation under applicable compensation plans. See “— Non-GAAP and Other Financial Disclosures” for definitions of these and other measures.
Executive Summary
Overview
MetLife is a global provider of life insurance, annuities, employee benefits and asset management. MetLife is organized into six segments, reflecting three broad geographic regions: Retail; Group, Voluntary & Worksite Benefits; Corporate Benefit Funding; and Latin America (collectively, the “Americas”); Asia; and Europe, the Middle East and Africa (“EMEA”). In addition, the Company reports certain of its results of operations in Corporate & Other. See Note 2 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further information on the Company’s segments and Corporate & Other. See also “— Other Key Information — Significant Events” for information on MetLife, Inc.’s announcement of its plan to pursue the separation of a substantial portion of its Retail segment, which is organized into two U.S. businesses, Life & Other and Annuities, as well as certain portions of its Corporate Benefit Funding segment and Corporate & Other (the “Separation”). Management continues to evaluate the Company’s segment performance and allocated resources and may adjust related measurements in the future to better reflect segment profitability.
Current Period Highlights
During the three months ended March 31, 2016, overall sales growth declined as compared to the three months ended March 31, 2015; however, we experienced sales growth across various products within our segments. In particular, we had higher sales of retail annuity, dental and group life products. A decline in investment yields as a result of volatile equity markets and the sustained low interest rate environment more than offset the benefits of such sales growth.

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The following represents the segments’ contributions to total net income (loss) and total operating earnings for the three months ended March 31, 2016:
__________________    
(1)
Excludes Corporate & Other.
(2)
See “— Results of Operations — Consolidated Results” and “— Non-GAAP and Other Financial Disclosures” for reconciliations and definitions of non-GAAP financial measures.

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Three Months Ended March 31, 2016 Compared with the Three Months Ended March 31, 2015
            
Consolidated Results - Highlights
Net income (loss) up $40 million:
 
 
Net derivative gains (losses) favorable by $514 million ($334 million, net of income tax) driven by changes in interest rates and a favorable change on the nonperformance risk adjustment in embedded derivatives
 
 
Operating earnings available to common shareholders down $309 million
 
 
Net investment gains (losses) unfavorable by $271 million ($176 million, net of income tax) primarily driven by higher impairments and lower gains
 
 
Current period includes the financial impact of converting the Company’s Japan operations to calendar year-end reporting without retrospective application of this change to prior periods
 
 
(1) See “— Results of Operations — Consolidated Results” and “— Non-GAAP and Other Financial Disclosures” for reconciliations and definitions of non-GAAP financial measures.
Consolidated Results - Operating Highlights
Operating earnings available to common shareholders down $309 million:
Results of operations impacted by lower investment yields, partially offset by higher net investment income from portfolio growth.
Our results for the three months ended March 31, 2016 also included the following:
 
tax benefit in Japan of $25 million related to a change in tax rates, which includes a one-time benefit of $20 million that pertains to prior periods
 
tax charge in Chile of $12 million as a result of tax reform legislation, which includes a one-time charge of $10 million that pertains to prior periods
For a more in-depth discussion of our consolidated results, see “— Results of Operations — Consolidated Results” and “— Results of Operations — Consolidated Results — Operating.”

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Consolidated Company Outlook
As part of an enterprise-wide strategic initiative, we announced that, by 2016, we expected to increase our operating return on common stockholders’ equity (“operating ROE”), excluding accumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”) other than foreign currency translation adjustments (“FCTA”), driven by higher operating earnings. In 2016, we expect our operating ROE, excluding AOCI other than FCTA, to be approximately 11%.
When making projections, we must rely on the accuracy of our assumptions about future economic and business conditions, which can be affected by known and unknown risks and other uncertainties. Our assumptions have been and will continue to be impacted by (i) MetLife, Inc.’s plan to pursue the Separation, (ii) regulatory uncertainty regarding capital requirements that would have been applicable to us as a result of the Financial Stability Oversight Council’s (“FSOC”) former designation of MetLife, Inc. as a non-bank systemically important financial institution (“non-bank SIFI”), which, among other things, impacted the level of our share repurchases, (iii) lower investment margins (primarily in the U.S.) as a result of the sustained low interest rate environment, (iv) lower than anticipated merger and acquisition activity, and (v) the impact on our foreign operations of the strengthening of the U.S. dollar. See “ Other Key Information Significant Events” for information regarding the determination by the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia (“D.C. District Court”) on March 30, 2016 to rescind the FSOC’s designation of MetLife, Inc. as a non-bank SIFI.
We will need to take the above-referenced factors into account when formulating further assumptions. Due to the fact that the proposed Separation is a significant restructuring of our business, we will not be able to further expand our outlook until we have further clarity on the nature of the Separation. The proposed Separation is consistent with our “Accelerating Value” strategic initiative, giving greater weight to our commitments to maximize shareholder value and, subject to Board approval, regulatory constraints and acquisition opportunities, pay out our free cash flow to shareholders.
Other Key Information
Basis of Presentation
Prior to January 1, 2016, certain international subsidiaries had a fiscal year cutoff of November 30th. Accordingly, the Company’s interim condensed consolidated financial statements reflect the assets and liabilities of such subsidiaries as of November 30, 2015 and the operating results of such subsidiaries for the three months ended February 28, 2015. Effective January 1, 2016, the Company converted its Japan operations to calendar year-end reporting. The elimination of a one-month reporting lag of a subsidiary is considered a change in accounting principle and requires retrospective application. While the Company believes that eliminating the lag in the reporting of its Japan operations was preferable in order to consistently reflect events, economic conditions and global trends in the financial statements, the Company determined that it was impracticable to apply the effects of the lag elimination to financial reporting periods prior to January 1, 2015. The effect of not retroactively applying this change in accounting, however, was not material to the 2015 or 2016 consolidated financial statements. Therefore, the Company reported the cumulative effect of the change in accounting principle in net income for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and did not retrospectively apply the effects of this change to prior periods. See Note 2 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
Significant Events
On March 30, 2016, the D.C. District Court ordered that the designation of MetLife, Inc. as a non-bank SIFI by the FSOC be rescinded. On April 8, 2016, the FSOC filed a notice of appeal of the D.C. District Court’s order. On December 18, 2014, the FSOC had designated MetLife, Inc. as a non-bank SIFI subject to regulation by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (the “Federal Reserve Board”) and the Federal Reserve Bank of New York (collectively with the Federal Reserve Board, the “Federal Reserve”) and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (the “FDIC”), as well as to enhanced supervision and prudential standards. On January 13, 2015, MetLife, Inc. had filed an action in the D.C. District Court asking the Court to review and rescind the FSOC’s designation. If the FSOC prevails on appeal or designates MetLife, Inc. as systemically important as part of its ongoing review of non-bank financial companies, MetLife, Inc. could once again be subject to regulation as a non-bank SIFI. See “— Industry Trends — Regulatory Developments — U.S. Regulation — Potential Regulation as a Non-Bank SIFI” and Note 13 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

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On February 28, 2016, MetLife, Inc. entered into a purchase agreement with Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (“MassMutual”) pursuant to which MassMutual will acquire MetLife’s U.S. Retail advisor force and certain assets associated with the MetLife Premier Client Group, including MetLife’s affiliated broker-dealer, MetLife Securities, Inc. (“MSI”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of MetLife, Inc. MassMutual will also assume all of the liabilities that relate to or arise from such assets and that arise or occur at or after the closing of the transactions contemplated by the purchase agreement. In addition, MassMutual will acquire all of the issued and outstanding shares of MSI. As part of the transactions, MetLife, Inc. and MassMutual have also agreed to enter into a product development agreement under which MetLife’s U.S. Retail business will be the exclusive developer of certain annuity products to be issued by MassMutual. The transactions contemplated by the purchase agreement are subject to certain closing conditions, including regulatory approval. See Note 3 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further information.
On January 12, 2016, MetLife, Inc. announced its plan to pursue the Separation. The Company is currently evaluating structural alternatives for the proposed Separation, including a public offering of shares in an independent, publicly traded company, a spin-off, or a sale. The completion of a public offering would depend on, among other things, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) filing and review process, as well as market conditions. A Separation, depending on the specific form, would be subject to the satisfaction of various conditions and approvals, including, among other things, approval of any transaction by the MetLife, Inc. Board of Directors, satisfaction of any applicable requirements of the SEC, and receipt of insurance and other regulatory approvals and other anticipated conditions.
Industry Trends
The following information on industry trends should be read in conjunction with “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Industry Trends” in Part II, Item 7, of the 2015 Annual Report.
We continue to be impacted by the unstable global financial and economic environment that has been affecting the industry.
Financial and Economic Environment
Our business and results of operations are materially affected by conditions in the global capital markets and the economy generally. Stressed conditions, volatility and disruptions in global capital markets, particular markets, or financial asset classes can have an adverse effect on us, in part because we have a large investment portfolio and our insurance liabilities are sensitive to changing market factors.
Weakness in the energy and metals and mining sectors and concerns about the political and/or economic stability of countries in regions outside the European Union (“EU”), including China, Ukraine, Russia, Argentina, Brazil, Japan, Jordan and Lebanon, as well as Puerto Rico, have contributed to global market volatility. See “ Investments Current Environment Selected Country and Sector Investments.” Concerns about global economic conditions, capital markets and the solvency of certain EU member states, including Portugal, Ireland, Italy, Greece and Spain (“Europe’s perimeter region”), their banking systems and the financial institutions that have significant direct or indirect exposure to debt issued by these countries or their respective banking systems, have also been a cause of elevated levels of market volatility. See “ Investments Current Environment” for information regarding our exposure to obligations of European governments, European private obligors and Europe’s perimeter region. Contributing to such volatility are concerns that such countries could default on their obligations, have to restructure their outstanding debt, or that financial institutions with significant holdings of sovereign or private debt of such countries, including Europe’s perimeter region, could experience financial stress, any of which could have significant adverse effects on the European and global economies and on financial markets, generally. While economic conditions in certain of these countries, including Europe’s perimeter region seem to be stabilizing or improving, there is still concern that any support measures, including those made by the European Central Bank (“ECB”) to lessen the risk of deflation, lower borrowing costs in the Euro zone and encourage corporations to issue more asset-backed securities, could affect the Euro exchange rate and have uncertain impacts on interest rates and risk markets. See “Risk Factors Economic Environment and Capital Markets-Related Risks We Are Exposed to Significant Global Financial and Capital Markets Risks Which May Adversely Affect Our Results of Operations, Financial Condition and Liquidity, and May Cause Our Net Investment Income to Vary from Period to Period,” and “Risk Factors Economic Environment and Capital Markets-Related Risks If Difficult Conditions in the Global Capital Markets and the Economy Generally Persist, They May Materially Adversely Affect Our Business and Results of Operations” in the 2015 Annual Report.

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We face substantial exposure to the Japanese economy given our operations there. Structural weaknesses and debt sustainability have yet to be addressed effectively. Going forward, Japan’s structural and demographic challenges may continue to limit its potential growth unless reforms that boost productivity are put into place. Japan’s high public sector debt levels are mitigated by low refinancing risks and its nominal yields on government debt have remained at a lower level than that of any other developed country. However, frequent changes in government have prevented policy makers from implementing fiscal reform measures to put public finances on a sustainable path. To avert deflation and to achieve sustainable economic growth, the government and the Bank of Japan have implemented a coordinated strategy which includes the imposition of a negative rate on commercial bank deposits, increased government bond purchases at longer maturities and tax reform, including the lowering of the Japanese corporate tax rate by approximately 2% and the delay until 2017 of an increase in the consumption tax to 10%. As a result of the decrease in the corporate tax rate, the Company recorded a one-time benefit of $174 million in the second quarter of 2015, which included an increase in Asia’s operating earnings of $61 million.
Impact of a Sustained Low Interest Rate Environment
As a global insurance company, we are affected by the monetary policy of central banks around the world, as well as the monetary policy of the Federal Reserve Board in the United States. The Federal Reserve Board has taken a number of actions in recent years to spur economic activity, including asset purchases and keeping interest rates low. However, in December 2015, the Federal Reserve Board’s Federal Open Market Committee (“FOMC”) increased the federal funds rate for the first time in 10 years and has held it steady since then. Further increases in the federal funds rate in the future may affect interest rates and risk markets in the U.S. and other developed and emerging economies. See “ Financial and Economic Environment” for information regarding accommodative and other policy measures pursued by the ECB and the Bank of Japan. However, we cannot predict with certainty the effect of these programs and policies on interest rates or the impact on the pricing levels of risk-bearing investments at this time. See “ Investments Current Environment.”
In periods of declining interest rates, we may have to invest insurance cash flows and reinvest the cash flows we received as interest or return of principal on our investments in lower yielding instruments. Moreover, borrowers may prepay or redeem the fixed income securities, commercial, agricultural or residential mortgage loans and mortgage-backed securities in our investment portfolio with greater frequency in order to borrow at lower market rates. Therefore, some of our products expose us to the risk that a reduction in interest rates will reduce the difference between the amounts that we are required to credit on contracts in our general account and the rate of return we are able to earn on investments intended to support obligations under these contracts. This difference between interest earned and interest credited, or margin, is a key metric for the management of, and reporting for, many of our businesses.
Our expectations regarding future margins are an important component impacting the amortization of certain intangible assets such as deferred policy acquisition costs (“DAC”) and value of business acquired (“VOBA”). Significantly lower margins may cause us to accelerate the amortization, thereby reducing net income in the affected reporting period. Additionally, lower margins may also impact the recoverability of intangible assets such as goodwill, require the establishment of additional liabilities or trigger loss recognition events on certain policyholder liabilities. We review this long-term margin assumption, along with other assumptions, as part of our annual assumption review.
Competitive Pressures
The life insurance industry remains highly competitive. The product development and product life cycles have shortened in many product segments, leading to more intense competition with respect to product features. Larger companies have the ability to invest in brand equity, product development, technology and risk management, which are among the fundamentals for sustained profitable growth in the life insurance industry. In addition, several of the industry’s products can be quite homogeneous and subject to intense price competition. Sufficient scale, financial strength and financial flexibility are becoming prerequisites for sustainable growth in the life insurance industry. Larger market participants tend to have the capacity to invest in additional distribution capability and the information technology needed to offer the superior customer service demanded by an increasingly sophisticated industry client base. We believe that the continued volatility of the financial markets, its impact on the capital position of many competitors, and subsequent actions by regulators and rating agencies have altered the competitive environment. In particular, we believe that these factors have highlighted financial strength as the most significant differentiator from the perspective of some customers and certain distributors. We believe the Company is well positioned to compete in this environment.

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Regulatory Developments
In the U.S., our life insurance companies are regulated primarily at the state level, with some products and services also subject to federal regulation. In addition, MetLife, Inc. and its U.S. insurance subsidiaries are subject to regulation under the insurance holding company laws of various U.S. jurisdictions. Furthermore, some of MetLife’s operations, products and services are subject to consumer protection laws, securities, broker-dealer and investment adviser regulations, environmental and unclaimed property laws and regulations, and to the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (“ERISA”). If MetLife, Inc. were re-designated as a non-bank SIFI, it could also be subject to regulation by the Federal Reserve and the FDIC. See “ U.S. Regulation” below, as well as “Business Regulation U.S. Regulation,” “Risk Factors Regulatory and Legal Risks Our Insurance and Brokerage Businesses Are Highly Regulated, and Changes in Regulation and in Supervisory and Enforcement Policies May Reduce Our Profitability and Limit Our Growth,” “Risk Factors Risks Related to Our Business Our Statutory Life Insurance Reserve Financings May Be Subject to Cost Increases and New Financings May Be Subject to Limited Market Capacity,” and “Risk Factors Regulatory and Legal Risks Changes in U.S. Federal, State Securities and State Insurance Laws and Regulations May Affect Our Operations and Our Profitability” included in the 2015 Annual Report, as amended or supplemented in our subsequently filed Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q under the caption “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations Industry Trends Regulatory Developments” and similarly named sections under the caption “Risk Factors.”
Our international insurance operations are principally regulated by insurance regulatory authorities in the jurisdictions in which they are located or operate. In addition, our investment and pension companies outside of the U.S. are subject to oversight by the relevant securities, pension and other authorities of the countries in which the companies operate. Our non-U.S. insurance businesses are also subject to current and developing solvency regimes which impose various capital and other requirements. As a global systemically important insurer (“G-SII”), MetLife, Inc. may also become subject to additional capital requirements. See “— International Regulation” below, as well as “Business — Regulation — International Regulation” included in the 2015 Annual Report, as amended or supplemented in our subsequently filed Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q under the caption “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Industry Trends — Regulatory Developments.”

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U.S. Regulation
Insurance Regulation
Insurance Regulatory Examinations and Other Activities
Regulatory authorities in a small number of states, Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (“FINRA”) and, occasionally, the SEC, have had investigations or inquiries relating to sales of individual life insurance policies or annuities or other products by Metropolitan Life Insurance Company (“MLIC”), MetLife Insurance Company USA (“MetLife USA”), New England Life Insurance Company, General American Life Insurance Company , and broker-dealer, MSI. These investigations have focused on the conduct of particular financial services representatives, the sale of unregistered or unsuitable products, the misuse of client assets, and sales and replacements of variable annuities and certain riders on such annuities. Over the past several years, these and a number of investigations by other regulatory authorities were resolved for monetary payments and certain other relief, including restitution payments. We may continue to receive, and may resolve, further investigations and actions on these matters in a similar manner. See Note 13 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
The International Association of Insurance Supervisors (“IAIS”) has encouraged U.S. insurance supervisors, such as the New York State Department of Financial Services (“Department of Financial Services”), to establish Supervisory Colleges for U.S.-based insurance groups with international operations, including MetLife, to facilitate cooperation and coordination among the insurance groups’ supervisors and to enhance the member regulators’ understanding of an insurance group’s risk profile. MetLife, Inc. was the subject of Supervisory College meetings in prior years chaired by the Department of Financial Services and attended by MetLife’s key U.S. and international insurance regulators. Because MetLife, Inc. was supervised as a non-bank SIFI, an April 2015 Supervisory College was co-chaired by the Department of Financial Services and the Federal Reserve Bank of New York and attended by MetLife’s key U.S. and international regulators, including the FDIC, which has joint authority with the Federal Reserve Board over any resolution plan that MetLife, Inc. may be required to submit. See “— Potential Regulation as a Non-Bank SIFI — Enhanced Prudential Standards for Non-Bank SIFIs” below. The next meeting is scheduled for September 2016 and will be chaired by the Department of Financial Services. We have not received any reports or recommendations from the Supervisory College meetings, and we do not expect any outcome of the meetings to have a material adverse effect on our business.
NAIC
In December 2012, the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (“NAIC”) approved a new valuation manual containing a principle-based approach to life insurance company reserves. Principle-based reserving is designed to better address reserving for products, including the current generation of products for which the current formulaic basis for reserve determination does not work effectively. We anticipate that the principle-based approach will become effective on January 1, 2017 since it has been enacted into law by the required number of state legislatures. Insurance commissioners of certain states (e.g., New York) oppose or do not actively support the principle-based reserve approach.
ERISA Considerations
We provide products and services to certain employee benefit plans that are subject to ERISA or the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”). As such, our activities are subject to the restrictions imposed by ERISA and the Code, including the requirement under ERISA that fiduciaries must perform their duties solely in the interests of ERISA plan participants and beneficiaries, and that fiduciaries may not cause a covered plan to engage in certain prohibited transactions. The applicable provisions of ERISA and the Code are subject to enforcement by the Department of Labor (“DOL”), the Internal Revenue Service and the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation.
The prohibited transaction rules of ERISA and the Code generally restrict the provision of investment advice to ERISA plans and participants and Individual Retirement Accounts (“IRAs”) if the investment recommendation results in fees paid to the individual advisor, his or her firm or their affiliates that vary according to the investment recommendation chosen.

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The DOL issued new regulations on April 6, 2016 with an effective date for most provisions of April 10, 2017. These rules substantially expand the definition of “investment advice” and thereby broaden the circumstances under which MetLife or its representatives, in providing investment advice with respect to ERISA plans, plan participants or IRAs, will be deemed a fiduciary under ERISA or the Code. Pursuant to the final rule, certain communications with plans, plan participants and IRA holders, including the marketing of products, and marketing of investment management or advisory services, could be deemed fiduciary investment advice, thus, causing increased exposure to fiduciary liability. The DOL also issued amendments to certain of its prohibited transaction exemptions, and issued a new exemption, that applies more onerous disclosure and contract requirements to, and increase fiduciary requirements and fiduciary liability exposure in respect of, transactions involving ERISA plans, plan participants and IRAs. We are currently studying the impact of these developments on MetLife’s business.
Potential Regulation as a Non-Bank SIFI
On March 30, 2016, the D.C. District Court ordered that the designation of MetLife, Inc. as a non-bank SIFI by the FSOC be rescinded. On April 8, 2016, the FSOC filed a notice of appeal of the D.C. District Court’s order. On December 18, 2014, the FSOC had designated MetLife, Inc. as a non-bank SIFI subject to regulation by the Federal Reserve and the FDIC, as well as to enhanced supervision and prudential standards. On January 13, 2015, MetLife, Inc. had filed an action in the D.C. District Court asking the Court to review and rescind the FSOC’s designation.
If the FSOC prevails on appeal or designates MetLife, Inc. as systemically important as part of its ongoing review of non-bank financial companies, MetLife, Inc. could once again be subject to regulation as a non-bank SIFI. See Note 13 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
Regulation of MetLife, Inc. as a non-bank SIFI could materially and adversely affect our business. For example, although the Federal Reserve Board has not yet determined the enhanced capital requirements that may apply to MetLife, those capital requirements may adversely affect our ability to compete with other insurers that are not subject to those requirements, and our ability to issue guarantees could be constrained. In addition, as a non-bank SIFI, MetLife, Inc. would need to obtain Federal Reserve approval before directly or indirectly acquiring, merging or consolidating with a financial company having more than $10 billion of assets or acquiring 5% or more of any voting class of securities of a bank or bank holding company and, depending on the extent of the combined company’s liabilities, would be subject to additional restrictions regarding its ability to merge. The Federal Reserve would also have the right to require any of our insurance companies, or insurance company affiliates, to take prompt action to correct any financial weaknesses.
Together with other non-bank SIFIs, MetLife, Inc. would be subject to a number of Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (“Dodd-Frank”) requirements including responsibility to pay certain assessments and other charges (i) equal to the total expenses the Federal Reserve Board thinks is necessary for its supervision of bank holding companies and savings and loan holding companies with assets of $50 billion or more, and non-bank SIFIs, and (ii) in connection with the Financial Research Fund within the U.S. Department of Treasury that funds the Office of Financial Research, an agency established by Dodd-Frank to improve the quality of financial data available to policymakers and facilitate more robust and sophisticated analysis of the financial system.
Enhanced Prudential Standards for Non-Bank SIFIs
In December 2011, in accordance with Dodd-Frank, the Federal Reserve Board proposed a rule that would have applied a set of prudential standards to non-bank SIFIs, including enhanced risk-based capital (“RBC”) requirements, leverage limits, liquidity requirements, single counterparty exposure limits, governance requirements for risk management, stress test requirements, special debt-to-equity limits for certain companies, and early remediation procedures. While the final rule did not apply to non-bank SIFIs, the Federal Reserve Board has indicated that it plans to apply enhanced prudential standards to non-bank SIFIs by rule or order, enabling it to more appropriately tailor the standards to non-bank SIFIs and will provide affected non-bank SIFIs with notice and the opportunity to comment prior to determination of their enhanced prudential standards. Accordingly, the manner in which these proposed standards might apply to MetLife, Inc., were it to be re-designated as a non-bank SIFI, remains unclear.
In particular, the Federal Reserve Board has not determined the requirements that will govern the amount and composition of capital that MetLife, Inc., were it to be re-designated as a non-bank SIFI, would be required to hold. Legislation was signed into law on December 18, 2014 relieving the Federal Reserve Board from certain provisions in Dodd-Frank that it believed constrained its ability to tailor capital rules for insurers that are non-bank SIFIs. See “Risk Factors — Regulatory and Legal Risks — Our Insurance and Brokerage Businesses Are Highly Regulated, and Changes in Regulation and in Supervisory and Enforcement Policies May Reduce Our Profitability and Limit Our Growth — U.S. Regulation — Potential Regulation of MetLife, Inc. as a Non-Bank SIFI.”

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Stress testing requirements have been implemented, which will, once capital requirements for non-bank SIFIs are determined, require non-bank SIFIs to undergo three stress tests each year: an annual supervisory stress test conducted by the Federal Reserve and two company-run stress tests (an annual test which coincides with the timing of the supervisory stress test, and a mid-cycle test). Companies will be required to take the results of the stress tests into consideration in their annual capital planning and resolution and recovery planning. If re-designated as a non-bank SIFI, MetLife, Inc.’s competitive position and its ability to pay dividends, repurchase common stock or other securities or engage in other transactions that could affect its capital or need for capital could be adversely affected by any additional capital requirements that might be imposed as a result of the stress testing requirements, as well as enhanced prudential standards, other measures imposed as a result of the enactment of Dodd-Frank and other regulatory initiatives.
Non-bank SIFIs are required to submit a resolution plan setting forth how the company could be resolved under the Bankruptcy Code in the event of material financial distress. Resolution plans have to be resubmitted annually and promptly following any event, occurrence, change in conditions or circumstances, or other change that results in, or could reasonably be foreseen to have, a material effect on the resolution plan. A failure to submit a “credible” resolution plan could result in the imposition of a variety of measures, including additional capital, leverage, or liquidity requirements, and forced divestiture of assets or operations. If re-designated as a non-bank SIFI, MetLife, Inc. would be required to comply with the requirements applicable to non-bank SIFIs, including the submission of a resolution plan.
In addition, if MetLife, Inc. were re-designated as a non-bank SIFI and if it were determined that MetLife, Inc. posed a substantial threat to U.S. financial stability, the applicable federal regulators would have the right to require it to take one or more other mitigating actions to reduce that risk, including limiting its ability to merge with or acquire another company, terminating activities, restricting its ability to offer financial products or requiring it to sell assets or off-balance sheet items to unaffiliated entities. Enhanced standards would also permit, but not require, regulators to establish requirements with respect to contingent capital, enhanced public disclosures and short-term debt limits. These standards are described as being more stringent than those otherwise imposed on bank holding companies; however, the Federal Reserve is permitted to apply them on an institution-by-institution basis, depending on its determination of the institution’s level of risk.
International Regulation
Solvency Regimes
Other Solvency Regimes
In Chile, the law implementing Solvency II-like regulation is currently in the studies stage. However, the Chilean insurance regulator has already issued two resolutions, one for governance, and the other for risk management and control framework requirements. MetLife Chile has already implemented governance changes and risk policies to comply with these resolutions. In January 2015, the regulator requested an impact study considering the third draft of the regulation for RBC requirements which was submitted in May 2015. A fourth impact study will be performed during 2016. On March 31, 2016, the local regulator issued a final regulation which requires insurance companies to implement a risk appetite framework and produce an “Own Risk and Solvency Assessment.” The first such report must be submitted to the local regulator no later than September 30, 2017. The new solvency and supervisory regime is expected to be in force in 2017.
In July 2015, the Superintendence of Private Insurance, the Brazilian insurance regulator (“SUSEP”), issued a regulation establishing (i) a framework for minimum capital requirements based on risk and (ii) criteria for investment activities in insurance companies. In November 2015, SUSEP issued an additional regulation requiring insurance companies operating in Brazil to adopt a formal risk management function by the end of 2016 and to implement a formal enterprise risk management framework in 2017.
Global Systemically Important Insurers
The IAIS, an association of insurance supervisors and regulators and a member of the Financial Stability Board (“FSB”), an international entity established to coordinate, develop and promote regulatory, supervisory and other financial sector policies in the interest of financial stability, is participating in the FSB’s initiative to identify and manage global systemically important financial institutions. To this end, the IAIS published a methodology to assess the systemic relevance of global insurers and a framework of policy measures to be applied to G-SIIs and, on this basis, the FSB again so designated MetLife, Inc. in 2015. The IAIS/FSB process is separate from the U.S. FSOC designation process and MetLife, Inc. remains a G-SII in spite of the rescission of its U.S. non-bank SIFI designation on March 30, 2016. The FSB will continue to update its list annually. Every three years, the IAIS evaluates whether updates to its assessment methodology are necessary.

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Current standards call for G-SIIs to be subject to higher loss absorbency requirements (“HLA”). Given the absence of a common global base on which to calculate HLA for insurers, the FSB directed the IAIS to develop basic capital requirements (“BCR”). The first version of the IAIS HLA framework was endorsed by the FSB and the G20 in September and November 2015, respectively. This first version applies specified factors to exposures of BCR components with an emphasis on non-traditional and non-insurance activities. G-SIIs will begin reporting BCR and HLA results to their group-wide supervisors as of June 2016 on a confidential basis to allow for refinement of the BCR and HLA until fully adopted and implemented in 2019. The FSB endorsed the first version of HLA, noting that further revision will be necessary before implementation to reflect ongoing work on the G-SII assessment methodology and the definition of non-traditional and non-insurance activity. In November 2015, the IAIS published consultations for stakeholder comment on both topics. MetLife submitted comments in January 2016. The IAIS plans to incorporate any changes to the assessment methodology in the 2016 G-SII assessment update. We received a request for the data necessary for the IAIS to perform its assessment on April 19, 2016. Responses are due by June 1, 2016.
In addition, on December 17, 2014, the IAIS released a first exposure draft of a risk-based global insurance capital standard (“ICS”) which will apply to all internationally active insurance groups, including G-SIIs. A second exposure draft is scheduled to be published for comment in July 2016. The IAIS expects to publish a draft of an interim version of the ICS in 2017 for further consultation and refinement by the end of 2019, the target for implementation by individual jurisdictions. The date by which the ICS will be finalized has not yet been specified. The IAIS intends to request confidential reporting to supervisors as of the release of the interim draft of the ICS.
The FSB and IAIS propose that national authorities consider additional requirements for G-SIIs, which include preparation of a systemic risk management plan, preparation of a recovery and resolution plan, enhanced liquidity planning and management, more intensive supervision, closer coordination among regulators through global supervisory colleges led by a regulator with group-wide supervisory authority, and a policy bias that targets non-traditional insurance and non-insurance activities as transmitters of systemic risk to the financial system. The IAIS proposals would need to be implemented at the consolidated group level by legislation or regulation in each applicable jurisdiction. As MetLife, Inc. is no longer a U.S. non-bank SIFI and, therefore, has no consolidated group regulator, the impact on MetLife, Inc. of such proposals is uncertain.
Mortgage and Foreclosure-Related Exposures
MetLife no longer engages in the origination, sale and servicing of forward and reverse residential mortgage loans. See Note 21 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2015 Annual Report for further information regarding our mortgage and foreclosure-related exposures.
Notwithstanding MetLife Bank, National Association’s (“MetLife Bank”) exit from the origination and servicing businesses, MetLife Home Loans LLC remains obligated to repurchase loans or compensate for losses upon demand due to alleged defects by MetLife Bank or its predecessor servicers in past servicing of the loans and material representations made in connection with MetLife Bank’s sale of the loans. Reserves for representation and warranty repurchases and indemnifications were $71 million and $72 million at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. Reserves for estimated future losses due to alleged deficiencies on loans originated and sold, as well as servicing of the loans including servicing acquired, are estimated based on unresolved claims and projected losses under investor servicing contracts where MetLife Bank’s past actions or inactions are likely to result in missing certain stipulated investor timelines. Reserves for servicing defects were $31 million at both March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015. Management is satisfied that adequate provision has been made in the Company’s interim condensed consolidated financial statements for those representation and warranty obligations that are currently probable and reasonably estimable.

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Summary of Critical Accounting Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to adopt accounting policies and make estimates and assumptions that affect amounts reported on the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. The most critical estimates include those used in determining:
(i)
liabilities for future policy benefits and the accounting for reinsurance;
(ii)
capitalization and amortization of DAC and the establishment and amortization of VOBA;
(iii)
estimated fair values of investments in the absence of quoted market values;
(iv)
investment impairments;
(v)
estimated fair values of freestanding derivatives and the recognition and estimated fair value of embedded derivatives requiring bifurcation;
(vi)
measurement of goodwill and related impairment;
(vii)
measurement of employee benefit plan liabilities;
(viii)
measurement of income taxes and the valuation of deferred tax assets; and
(ix)
liabilities for litigation and regulatory matters.
In addition, the application of acquisition accounting requires the use of estimation techniques in determining the estimated fair values of assets acquired and liabilities assumed — the most significant of which relate to aforementioned critical accounting estimates. In applying our accounting policies, we make subjective and complex judgments that frequently require estimates about matters that are inherently uncertain. Many of these policies, estimates and related judgments are common in the insurance and financial services industries; others are specific to our business and operations. Actual results could differ from these estimates.
The above critical accounting estimates are described in “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Summary of Critical Accounting Estimates” and Note 1 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2015 Annual Report.
Goodwill
Goodwill is tested for impairment at least annually or more frequently if events or circumstances, such as adverse changes in the business climate, indicate that there may be justification for conducting an interim test.
For purposes of goodwill impairment testing, if the carrying value of a reporting unit exceeds its estimated fair value, the implied fair value of the reporting unit goodwill is compared to the carrying value of that goodwill to measure the amount of impairment loss, if any. In such instances, the implied fair value of the goodwill is determined in the same manner as the amount of goodwill that would be determined in a business acquisition.
As a result of the proposed Separation, during the first quarter of 2016, the Company re-tested goodwill for impairment using estimated revised carrying amounts of Retail Life & Other and Corporate Benefit Funding reporting units. The Company concluded that the fair values of these reporting units were in excess of their carrying value and, therefore, goodwill was not impaired. See “— Executive Summary — Other Key Information — Significant Events” for additional information on the proposed Separation.
Economic Capital
Economic capital is an internally developed risk capital model, the purpose of which is to measure the risk in the business and to provide a basis upon which capital is deployed. The economic capital model accounts for the unique and specific nature of the risks inherent in our business.

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Our economic capital model, coupled with considerations of local capital requirements, aligns segment allocated equity with emerging standards and consistent risk principles. The model applies statistics-based risk evaluation principles to the material risks to which the Company is exposed. These consistent risk principles include calibrating required economic capital shock factors to a specific confidence level and time horizon while applying an industry standard method for the inclusion of diversification benefits among risk types. Economic capital-based risk estimation is an evolving science and industry best practices have emerged and continue to evolve. Areas of evolving industry best practices include stochastic liability valuation techniques, alternative methodologies for the calculation of diversification benefits, and the quantification of appropriate shock levels. MetLife’s management is responsible for the ongoing production and enhancement of the economic capital model and reviews its approach periodically to ensure that it remains consistent with emerging industry practice standards.
Segment net investment income is credited or charged based on the level of allocated equity; however, changes in allocated equity do not impact our consolidated net investment income, operating earnings or net income (loss).
Net investment income is based upon the actual results of each segment’s specifically identifiable investment portfolios adjusted for allocated equity. Other costs are allocated to each of the segments based upon: (i) a review of the nature of such costs; (ii) time studies analyzing the amount of employee compensation costs incurred by each segment; and (iii) cost estimates included in the Company’s product pricing.
Acquisitions and Dispositions
See “— Executive Summary — Other Key Information — Significant Events” and Note 3 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information on the proposed Separation and the purchase agreement with MassMutual.

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Results of Operations
Consolidated Results
Business Overview. Overall sales declined from prior period levels; however, sales experience was positive across various products within our segments for the three months ended March 31, 2016, as compared to the three months ended March 31, 2015. In our Retail segment, higher sales were driven by indexed annuity products. For our Group, Voluntary & Worksite Benefits segment, sales for the current period were higher as a result of improved sales of both voluntary and core group products. With the continued decline in funding ratios for defined benefit pension plans of S&P 500 companies, we experienced a decrease in sales of pension risk transfers, and more competitive pricing in the market drove a decrease in structured settlement annuity sales in our Corporate Benefit Funding segment. Total sales for our Latin America segment were flat. For our EMEA segment, sales in the Middle East improved, while sales in our Asia segment declined, primarily due to management actions taken to improve value creation.
 
Three Months 
 Ended 
 March 31,
 
2016
 
2015
 
(In millions)
Revenues
 
 
 
Premiums
$
9,693

 
$
9,253

Universal life and investment-type product policy fees
2,344

 
2,394

Net investment income
4,559

 
5,461

Other revenues
487

 
495

Net investment gains (losses)
15

 
286

Net derivative gains (losses)
1,335

 
821

Total revenues
18,433

 
18,710

Expenses
 
 
 
Policyholder benefits and claims and policyholder dividends
9,993

 
9,596

Interest credited to policyholder account balances
1,326

 
1,995

Capitalization of DAC
(981
)
 
(968
)
Amortization of DAC and VOBA
995

 
1,025

Amortization of negative VOBA
(99
)
 
(100
)
Interest expense on debt
312

 
298

Other expenses
3,965

 
3,805

Total expenses
15,511

 
15,651

Income (loss) before provision for income tax
2,922

 
3,059

Provision for income tax expense (benefit)
719

 
896

Net income (loss)
2,203

 
2,163

Less: Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests
2

 
5

Net income (loss) attributable to MetLife, Inc.
2,201

 
2,158

Less: Preferred stock dividends
6

 
30

Net income (loss) available to MetLife, Inc.’s common shareholders
$
2,195

 
$
2,128

Three Months Ended March 31, 2016 Compared with the Three Months Ended March 31, 2015
During the three months ended March 31, 2016, income (loss) before provision for income tax decreased $137 million (increased $40 million, net of income tax) from the prior period primarily driven by unfavorable changes in operating earnings and net investment gains (losses), partially offset by a favorable change in net derivative gains (losses). In addition, in the current period, income (loss) before provision for income tax includes the financial impact of converting the Company’s Japan operations to calendar year-end reporting without retrospective application of this change to prior periods.

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Management of Investment Portfolio and Hedging Market Risks with Derivatives. We manage our investment portfolio using disciplined ALM principles, focusing on cash flow and duration to support our current and future liabilities. Our intent is to match the timing and amount of liability cash outflows with invested assets that have cash inflows of comparable timing and amount, while optimizing risk-adjusted net investment income and risk-adjusted total return. Our investment portfolio is heavily weighted toward fixed income investments, with over 80% of our portfolio invested in fixed maturity securities and mortgage loans. These securities and loans have varying maturities and other characteristics which cause them to be generally well suited for matching the cash flow and duration of insurance liabilities. We also use derivatives as an integral part of our management of the investment portfolio to hedge certain risks, including changes in interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates, credit spreads and equity market levels. In addition, our general account investment portfolio includes, within FVO and trading securities, contractholder-directed unit-linked investments supporting unit-linked variable annuity type liabilities, which do not qualify as separate account assets. The returns on these contractholder-directed unit-linked investments, which can vary significantly from period to period, include changes in estimated fair value subsequent to purchase, inure to contractholders and are offset in earnings by a corresponding change in policyholder account balances through interest credited to policyholder account balances.
We purchase investments to support our insurance liabilities and not to generate net investment gains and losses. However, net investment gains and losses are incurred and can change significantly from period to period due to changes in external influences, including changes in market factors such as interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates, credit spreads and equity markets; counterparty specific factors such as financial performance, credit rating and collateral valuation; and internal factors such as portfolio rebalancing. Changes in these factors from period to period can significantly impact the levels of both impairments and realized gains and losses on investments sold.
We use freestanding interest rate, equity, credit and currency derivatives to hedge certain invested assets and insurance liabilities. Certain of these hedges are designated and qualify as accounting hedges, which reduce volatility in earnings. For those hedges not designated as accounting hedges, changes in market factors lead to the recognition of fair value changes in net derivative gains (losses) generally without an offsetting gain or loss recognized in earnings for the item being hedged, which creates volatility in earnings.
Certain variable annuity products with guaranteed minimum benefits contain embedded derivatives that are measured at estimated fair value separately from the host variable annuity contract, with changes in estimated fair value recorded in net derivative gains (losses). We use freestanding derivatives to hedge the market risks inherent in these variable annuity guarantees. The valuation of these embedded derivatives includes a nonperformance risk adjustment, which is unhedged, and can be a significant driver of net derivative gains (losses) and volatility in earnings, but does not have an economic impact on us.

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Net Derivative Gains (Losses). The variable annuity embedded derivatives and associated freestanding derivative hedges are collectively referred to as “VA program derivatives” in the following table. All other derivatives that are economic hedges of certain invested assets and insurance liabilities are referred to as “non-VA program derivatives” in the following table. The table below presents the impact on net derivative gains (losses) from non-VA program derivatives and VA program derivatives:
 
Three Months 
 Ended 
 March 31,
 
2016
 
2015
 
(In millions)
Non-VA program derivatives
 
 
 
Interest rate
$
1,078

 
$
446

Foreign currency exchange rate
202

 
376

Credit
15

 
14

Equity
(50
)
 
(50
)
Non-VA embedded derivatives
(53
)
 
(45
)
Total non-VA program derivatives
1,192

 
741

VA program derivatives
 
 
 
Market risks in embedded derivatives
(1,336
)
 
(12
)
Nonperformance risk adjustment on embedded derivatives
359

 
69

Other risks in embedded derivatives
(139
)
 
(39
)
Total embedded derivatives
(1,116
)
 
18

Freestanding derivatives hedging embedded derivatives
1,259

 
62

Total VA program derivatives
143

 
80

Net derivative gains (losses)
$
1,335

 
$
821

The favorable change in net derivative gains (losses) on non-VA program derivatives was $451 million ($293 million, net of income tax). This was primarily due to long-term interest rates decreasing more in the current period than in the prior period, favorably impacting receive-fixed interest rate swaps and interest rate swaptions primarily hedging long duration liability portfolios.
This favorable change was partially offset by the weakening of the U.S. dollar relative to other key currencies unfavorably impacting foreign currency swaps that primarily hedge foreign denominated fixed maturity securities. Because certain of these hedging strategies are not designated or do not qualify as accounting hedges, the changes in the estimated fair value of these freestanding derivatives are recognized in net derivative gains (losses) without an offsetting gain or loss recognized in earnings for the item being hedged.
The favorable change in net derivative gains (losses) on VA program derivatives was $63 million ($41 million, net of income tax). This was due to a favorable change of $290 million ($189 million, net of income tax) related to the change in the nonperformance risk adjustment on embedded derivatives, partially offset by an unfavorable change of $127 million ($83 million, net of income tax) in market risks in embedded derivatives, net of the impact of freestanding derivatives hedging those risks and an unfavorable change of $100 million ($65 million, net of income tax) in other risks in embedded derivatives. Other risks relate primarily to the impact of policyholder behavior and other non-market risks that generally cannot be hedged.
The aforementioned $290 million ($189 million, net of income tax) favorable change in the nonperformance risk adjustment on embedded derivatives was due to a favorable change of $184 million, before income tax, as a result of changes in capital market inputs, such as long-term interest rates and key equity index levels, on the variable annuity guarantees and a favorable change of $106 million, before income tax, related to changes in our own credit spread.
The foregoing $127 million ($83 million, net of income tax) unfavorable change was comprised of a $1.3 billion ($861 million, net of income tax) unfavorable change in market risks in embedded derivatives, which was partially offset by a $1.2 billion ($778 million, net of income tax) favorable change in freestanding derivatives hedging market risks in embedded derivatives.

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The primary changes in market factors are summarized as follows:
Long-term interest rates decreased more in the current period than in the prior period, contributing to a favorable change in our freestanding derivatives and an unfavorable change in our embedded derivatives. For example, the 30-year U.S. swap rate decreased by 18% in the current period and 12% in the prior period.
Key equity index levels decreased in the current period and increased in the prior period, contributing to a favorable change in our freestanding derivatives and an unfavorable change in our embedded derivatives. For example, the Russell 2000 Index decreased by 2% in the current period and increased by 4% in the prior period.
Changes in foreign currency exchange rates contributed to a favorable change in our freestanding derivatives and an unfavorable change in our embedded derivatives related to the assumed reinsurance of certain variable annuity products from the Company’s former operating joint venture in Japan. For example, the Japanese yen strengthened against the British pound by 9% in the current period and 5% in the prior period.
The foregoing $100 million ($65 million, net of income tax) unfavorable change in other risks in embedded derivatives reflected:
An increase in the risk margin adjustment, measuring policyholder behavior risks, which was also affected by market and interest rate changes,
In-force changes and the mismatch of fund performance between actual and modeled funds, and
A combination of other factors, including reserve changes influenced by benefit features and policyholder behavior, as well as FCTA.
When equity index levels decrease in isolation, the variable annuity guarantees become more valuable to policyholders, which results in an increase in the undiscounted embedded derivative liability. Discounting this unfavorable change by the risk adjusted rate yields a smaller loss than by discounting at the risk-free rate, thus creating a gain from including an adjustment for nonperformance risk.
When the risk-free interest rate decreases in isolation, discounting the embedded derivative liability produces a higher valuation of the liability than if the risk-free interest rate had remained constant. Discounting this unfavorable change by the risk adjusted rate yields a smaller loss than by discounting at the risk-free interest rate, thus creating a gain from including an adjustment for nonperformance risk.
When our own credit spread increases in isolation, discounting the embedded derivative liability produces a lower valuation of the liability than if our own credit spread had remained constant. As a result, a gain is created from including an adjustment for nonperformance risk. For each of these primary market drivers, the opposite effect occurs when they move in the opposite direction.
Net Investment Gains (Losses). The unfavorable change in net investment gains (losses) of $271 million ($176 million, net of income tax) primarily reflects higher impairments on fixed maturity securities, equity securities and mortgage loans combined with lower net gains on sales and disposals of fixed maturity securities in the current period.
Divested Businesses and Lag Elimination. Income (loss) before provision for income tax related to the divested businesses and lag elimination, excluding net investment gains (losses) and net derivative gains (losses), improved $56 million ($37 million, net of income tax) to $57 million ($42 million, net of income tax) in the current period from $1 million ($5 million, net of income tax) in the prior period. Included in this improvement was an increase in total revenues of $661 million, before income tax, and an increase in total expenses of $605 million, before income tax. The current period includes the financial impact of converting the Company’s Japan operations to calendar year- end reporting without retrospective application of this change to prior periods, as well as expenses and charges associated with the purchase agreement with MassMututal and the proposed Separation.
Taxes. Income tax expense for the three months ended March 31, 2016 was $719 million, or 25% of income (loss) before provision for income tax, compared with $896 million, or 29% of income (loss) before provision for income tax, for the three months ended March 31, 2015. The Company’s current period effective tax rate differs from the U.S. statutory rate of 35% primarily due to non-taxable investment income, tax credits for low income housing, and foreign earnings taxed at lower rates than the U.S. statutory rate. Our current period results include a one-time tax benefit of $110 million in Japan and one-time tax charge of $19 million in Chile, both related to changes in tax rates. The Company’s prior period effective tax rate differs from the U.S. statutory rate of 35% primarily due to non-taxable investment income, tax credits for low income housing, and foreign earnings taxed at lower rates than the U.S. statutory rate.

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Operating Earnings. As more fully described in “— Non-GAAP and Other Financial Disclosures,” we use operating earnings, which does not equate to net income (loss) as determined in accordance with GAAP, to analyze our performance, evaluate segment performance, and allocate resources. We believe that the presentation of operating earnings and operating earnings available to common shareholders, as we measure it for management purposes, enhances the understanding of our performance by highlighting the results of operations and the underlying profitability drivers of the business. Operating earnings and operating earnings available to common shareholders should not be viewed as substitutes for net income (loss) and net income (loss) available to MetLife, Inc.’s common shareholders, respectively. Operating earnings available to common shareholders decreased $309 million, net of income tax, to $1.3 billion, net of income tax, for the three months ended March 31, 2016 from $1.6 billion, net of income tax, for the three months ended March 31, 2015.

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Reconciliation of net income (loss) to operating earnings available to common shareholders
Three Months Ended March 31, 2016
 
Retail
 
Group,
Voluntary
& Worksite
Benefits
 
Corporate
Benefit
Funding
 
Latin
America
 
Asia
 
EMEA
 
Corporate
& Other
 
Total
 
(In millions)
Net income (loss)
$
428

 
$
309

 
$
241

 
$
128

 
$
863

 
$
74

 
$
160

 
$
2,203

Less: Net investment gains (losses)
(117
)
 
(39
)
 
(93
)
 
(22
)
 
223

 
8

 
55

 
15

Less: Net derivative gains (losses)
(11
)
 
291

 
85

 
84

 
411

 
(1
)
 
476

 
1,335

Less: Other adjustments to net income (1)
(32
)
 
(45
)
 
(75
)
 
(50
)
 
67

 
18

 
(68
)
 
(185
)
Less: Provision for income tax (expense) benefit
56

 
(72
)
 
29

 
(21
)
 
(143
)
 
(14
)
 
(132
)
 
(297
)
Operating earnings
$
532

 
$
174

 
$
295

 
$
137

 
$
305

 
$
63

 
(171
)
 
1,335

Less: Preferred stock dividends
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
6

 
6

Operating earnings available to common shareholders
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$
(177
)
 
$
1,329

Three Months Ended March 31, 2015
 
Retail
 
Group,
Voluntary
& Worksite
Benefits
 
Corporate
Benefit
Funding
 
Latin
America
 
Asia
 
EMEA
 
Corporate
& Other
 
Total
 
(In millions)
Net income (loss)
$
776

 
$
336

 
$
529

 
$
118

 
$
348

 
$
67

 
$
(11
)
 
$
2,163

Less: Net investment gains (losses)
68

 
3

 
205

 
(2
)
 
68

 
3

 
(59
)
 
286

Less: Net derivative gains (losses)
313

 
205

 
80

 
(21
)
 
18

 
1

 
225

 
821

Less: Other adjustments to net income (1)
(192
)
 
(42
)
 
(39
)
 
5

 
(55
)
 
19

 
(6
)
 
(310
)
Less: Provision for income tax (expense) benefit
(66
)
 
(58
)
 
(86
)
 
5

 
(10
)
 
(26
)
 
(61
)
 
(302
)
Operating earnings
$
653

 
$
228

 
$
369

 
$
131

 
$
327

 
$
70

 
(110
)
 
1,668

Less: Preferred stock dividends
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
30

 
30

Operating earnings available to common shareholders
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$
(140
)
 
$
1,638

__________________
(1)
See definitions of operating revenues and operating expenses under “— Non-GAAP and Other Financial Disclosures” for the components of such adjustments.

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Reconciliation of GAAP revenues to operating revenues and GAAP expenses to operating expenses
Three Months Ended March 31, 2016
 
Retail
 
Group,
Voluntary
& Worksite
Benefits
 
Corporate
Benefit
Funding
 
Latin
America
 
Asia
 
EMEA
 
Corporate
& Other
 
Total
 
(In millions)
Total revenues
$
4,842

 
$
5,264

 
$
1,796

 
$
1,301

 
$
3,756

 
$
790

 
$
684

 
$
18,433

Less: Net investment gains (losses)
(117
)
 
(39
)
 
(93
)
 
(22
)
 
223

 
8

 
55

 
15

Less: Net derivative gains (losses)
(11
)
 
291

 
85

 
84

 
411

 
(1
)
 
476

 
1,335

Less: Adjustments related to net investment gains (losses) and net derivative gains (losses)

 

 

 

 
25

 

 

 
25

Less: Other adjustments to revenues (1)
(14
)
 
(45
)
 
(46
)
 
16

 
454

 
88

 
(6
)
 
447

Total operating revenues
$
4,984

 
$
5,057

 
$
1,850

 
$
1,223

 
$
2,643

 
$
695

 
$
159

 
$
16,611

Total expenses
$
4,267

 
$
4,787

 
$
1,428

 
$
1,110

 
$
2,655

 
$
691

 
$
573

 
$
15,511

Less: Adjustments related to net investment gains (losses) and net derivative gains (losses)
(34
)
 

 

 

 
40

 

 

 
6

Less: Other adjustments to expenses (1)
52

 

 
29

 
66

 
372

 
70

 
62

 
651

Total operating expenses
$
4,249

 
$
4,787

 
$
1,399

 
$
1,044

 
$
2,243

 
$
621

 
$
511

 
$
14,854

Three Months Ended March 31, 2015
 
Retail
 
Group,
Voluntary
& Worksite
Benefits
 
Corporate
Benefit
Funding
 
Latin
America
 
Asia
 
EMEA
 
Corporate
& Other
 
Total
 
(In millions)
Total revenues
$
5,563

 
$
5,062

 
$
2,231

 
$
1,212

 
$
3,074

 
$
1,236

 
$
332

 
$
18,710

Less: Net investment gains (losses)
68

 
3

 
205

 
(2
)
 
68

 
3

 
(59
)
 
286

Less: Net derivative gains (losses)
313

 
205

 
80

 
(21
)
 
18

 
1

 
225

 
821

Less: Adjustments related to net investment gains (losses) and net derivative gains (losses)

 

 

 

 
6

 
(2
)
 

 
4

Less: Other adjustments to revenues (1)
(34
)
 
(42
)
 
(27
)
 
14

 
121

 
531

 
4

 
567

Total operating revenues
$
5,216

 
$
4,896

 
$
1,973

 
$
1,221

 
$
2,861

 
$
703

 
$
162

 
$
17,032

Total expenses
$
4,452

 
$
4,541

 
$
1,420

 
$
1,068

 
$
2,568

 
$
1,132

 
$
470

 
$
15,651

Less: Adjustments related to net investment gains (losses) and net derivative gains (losses)
85

 

 

 

 
12

 
(2
)
 

 
95

Less: Other adjustments to expenses (1)
73

 

 
12

 
9

 
170

 
512

 
10

 
786

Total operating expenses
$
4,294

 
$
4,541

 
$
1,408

 
$
1,059

 
$
2,386

 
$
622

 
$
460

 
$
14,770

__________________
(1)
See definitions of operating revenues and operating expenses under “— Non-GAAP and Other Financial Disclosures” for the components of such adjustments.

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Table of Contents

Consolidated Results — Operating
 
Three Months 
 Ended 
 March 31,
 
2016
 
2015
 
(In millions)
Operating revenues
 
 
 
Premiums
$
9,267

 
$
9,253

Universal life and investment-type product policy fees
2,151

 
2,294

Net investment income
4,706

 
4,982

Other revenues
487

 
503

Total operating revenues
16,611

 
17,032

Operating expenses
 
 
 
Policyholder benefits and claims and policyholder dividends
9,593

 
9,447

Interest credited to policyholder account balances
1,301

 
1,331

Capitalization of DAC
(876
)
 
(968
)
Amortization of DAC and VOBA
881

 
953

Amortization of negative VOBA
(67
)
 
(90
)
Interest expense on debt
312

 
297

Other expenses
3,710

 
3,800

Total operating expenses
14,854

 
14,770

Provision for income tax expense (benefit)
422

 
594

Operating earnings
1,335

 
1,668

Less: Preferred stock dividends
6

 
30

Operating earnings available to common shareholders
$
1,329

 
$
1,638

Three Months Ended March 31, 2016 Compared with the Three Months Ended March 31, 2015
Unless otherwise stated, all amounts discussed below are net of income tax.
Overview. The primary drivers of the decrease in operating earnings were lower investment yields, partially offset by higher net investment income from portfolio growth.
Foreign Currency. Changes in foreign currency exchange rates had a $37 million negative impact on operating earnings for the first quarter of 2016 compared to the prior period.
Business Growth. We benefited from higher sales and business growth across many of our products. Growth in the investment portfolios of our Retail, Asia and Latin America segments generated higher net investment income. The changes in business growth discussed above resulted in a $168 million increase in operating earnings.
Market Factors. Market factors, including volatile equity markets and sustained low interest rates, continued to impact our investment yields. Excluding the impact of inflation-indexed investments in the Latin America segment, investment yields decreased. Investment yields were negatively impacted by the adverse impact of the sustained low interest rate environment on fixed maturity securities and by lower returns on other limited partnership interests and alternative investments. Additionally, lower investment earnings on our securities lending program resulted from the impact of the sustained low interest rate environment on fixed maturity securities and a flatter yield curve, as margins correlate more to the slope of the yield curve rather than the absolute level of interest rates. These decreases were partially offset by higher income on interest rate and currency derivatives. In our Retail segment, declines in our average separate account balances resulted in decreases in asset-based fee income and higher DAC amortization. The changes in market factors discussed above resulted in a $410 million decrease in operating earnings.

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Table of Contents

Underwriting and Other Insurance Adjustments. Underwriting experience was mixed and resulted in a $9 million increase in operating earnings as favorable mortality, primarily in our Retail and Group, Voluntary & Worksite Benefits segments, was almost entirely offset by unfavorable morbidity in our Group, Voluntary & Worksite Benefits segment, higher non-catastrophe claim costs, less favorable development of prior year non-catastrophe losses and higher catastrophe losses, all in our property & casualty businesses. Refinements to certain insurance and other liabilities, which were recorded in both periods, resulted in a $17 million decrease in operating earnings, primarily in our Group, Voluntary & Worksite Benefits segment.
Expenses and Taxes. The current period included a $21 million decrease in operating earnings resulting from net adjustments to certain reinsurance assets and liabilities. In addition, a $13 million increase in expenses was primarily driven by project costs in Japan and costs associated with corporate initiatives and projects. The Company’s current and prior period effective tax rates differed from the U.S. statutory rate of 35%, primarily due to non-taxable investment income, tax credits for low income housing, and foreign earnings taxed at lower rates than the U.S. statutory rate. The current period includes a one-time tax benefit of $25 million in Japan and one-time tax charge of $12 million in Chile, both related to changes in tax rates. The $25 million benefit includes a one-time benefit of $20 million that pertains to prior periods; the $12 million tax charge includes a one-time charge of $10 million that pertains to prior periods. In addition, the current period includes a charge of $18 million related primarily to lower utilization of tax preferenced items.

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Table of Contents

Segment Results and Corporate & Other
Retail
Business Overview. Retail annuity sales increased 14% mainly as a result of higher indexed annuity sales. Life sales decreased 5% driven by declines in whole life, due to several large cases in the prior period, and term, partially offset by universal life, due to large cases in the current period. A significant portion of our operating earnings is driven by separate account balances. Most directly, these balances determine asset-based fee income but they also impact DAC amortization and asset-based commissions. Separate account balances are driven by sales, movements in the market, surrenders, withdrawals, benefit payments, transfers and policy charges. Separate account balances have declined due to market performance along with the impact of negative net flows, as benefits, surrenders and withdrawals exceeded sales. While net flows are still negative, we are seeing improvements in surrenders and withdrawals, as well as increases in sales.
 
Three Months 
 Ended 
 March 31,
 
2016
 
2015
 
(In millions)
Operating revenues
 
 
 
Premiums
$
1,740

 
$
1,749

Universal life and investment-type product policy fees
1,149

 
1,236

Net investment income
1,880

 
1,980

Other revenues
215

 
251

Total operating revenues
4,984

 
5,216

Operating expenses
 
 
 
Policyholder benefits and claims and policyholder dividends
2,458

 
2,449

Interest credited to policyholder account balances
522

 
542

Capitalization of DAC
(255
)
 
(247
)
Amortization of DAC and VOBA
373

 
375

Interest expense on debt
2

 
(1
)
Other expenses
1,149

 
1,176

Total operating expenses
4,249

 
4,294

Provision for income tax expense (benefit)
203

 
269

Operating earnings
$
532

 
$
653

Three Months Ended March 31, 2016 Compared with the Three Months Ended March 31, 2015
Unless otherwise stated, all amounts discussed below are net of income tax.
Business Growth. A $60 million increase in operating earnings was attributable to business growth. Our life businesses had positive net flows which resulted in higher net investment income. Operating earnings also increased due to slightly higher fees, as average account balances grew. These increases were partially offset by increases in interest credited expenses. In our deferred annuities business, DAC amortization declined due to decreases in our in-force business.
Market Factors. A $191 million decrease in operating earnings was attributable to market factors, including volatile equity markets and sustained low interest rates. The sustained low interest rate environment resulted in a decline in net investment income on our fixed maturity securities and mortgage loans as proceeds from maturing investments were reinvested at lower yields. This reduction in income from lower yields was partially offset by lower interest credited expense in our deferred annuities business as a result of declines in average interest credited rates. Lower returns on other limited partnership interests and alternative investments, in addition to lower income on interest rate derivatives, also decreased operating earnings. Declines in our average separate account balances resulted in decreases in asset-based fee income and higher DAC amortization. In addition, costs associated with our variable annuity guaranteed minimum death benefits (“GMDBs”) were higher in the current period.

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Table of Contents

Underwriting. Favorable mortality in our traditional life business, partially offset by unfavorable mortality in our universal life and income annuities businesses resulted in a net increase of $45 million in operating earnings. In our property & casualty business, catastrophe-related losses increased $11 million, mainly due to severe storm activity. Non-catastrophe claim costs increased by $8 million as a result of higher severities in our auto and homeowners businesses and higher frequencies in our homeowners business, partially offset by lower frequencies in our auto business. Further, less favorable development of prior year non-catastrophe losses resulted in a $13 million decrease in operating earnings. Favorable morbidity experience in our individual disability income business resulted in a $6 million increase in operating earnings.
Group, Voluntary & Worksite Benefits 
Business Overview. Premiums increased for many of our businesses as a result of a steadily improving and stabilizing U.S. labor market. Our dental and vision businesses generated premium growth due to sales and rate actions. In addition, we had strong persistency levels. New sales and increased enrollment in our voluntary businesses also furthered premium growth. However, current period premium growth in our life businesses was almost entirely offset by the impact of a large single premium buyout transaction in the prior period. In addition, the impact of experience adjustments on our term life participating contracts increased premiums; however, changes in premiums for these contracts were almost entirely offset by the related changes in policyholder benefits. Current period sales were up in both our voluntary and core group products. Although we have discontinued selling our long-term care product, we continue to collect premiums and administer the existing block of business, which contributed to asset growth in the segment.
 
Three Months 
 Ended 
 March 31,
 
2016
 
2015
 
(In millions)
Operating revenues
 
 
 
Premiums
$
4,294

 
$
4,117

Universal life and investment-type product policy fees
185

 
188

Net investment income
447

 
478

Other revenues
131

 
113

Total operating revenues
5,057

 
4,896

Operating expenses
 
 
 
Policyholder benefits and claims and policyholder dividends
4,034

 
3,835

Interest credited to policyholder account balances
37

 
37

Capitalization of DAC
(36
)
 
(36
)
Amortization of DAC and VOBA
40

 
41

Other expenses
712

 
664

Total operating expenses
4,787

 
4,541

Provision for income tax expense (benefit)
96

 
127

Operating earnings
$
174

 
$
228

Three Months Ended March 31, 2016 Compared with the Three Months Ended March 31, 2015
Unless otherwise stated, all amounts discussed below are net of income tax.
Business Growth. An increase in average premium per policy in both our auto and homeowners businesses improved operating earnings. Growth in premiums, partially offset by a decrease in allocated equity, resulted in higher average invested assets, improving operating earnings. However, consistent with the growth in average invested assets from increased premiums, primarily in our long-term care business, interest credited on long-duration contracts increased. In addition, an increase in other operating expenses, mainly the result of growth across the segment, was only partially offset by the remaining increase in premiums, fees and other revenues. The combined impact of the items discussed above decreased operating earnings by $7 million.
Market Factors. Investment yields decreased as a result of lower returns on alternative investments and hedge funds. In addition, the sustained low interest rate environment drove lower investment yields on our fixed maturity securities, which were partially offset by higher income on interest rate derivatives. The decrease in investment yields was slightly offset by the impact of lower crediting rates in the current period, which resulted in a net decrease in operating earnings of $22 million.

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Table of Contents

Underwriting and Other Insurance Adjustments. Less favorable reserve development and higher utilization in our dental business, coupled with unfavorable claims experience in our long-term care business, resulted in a $44 million decrease in operating earnings. Our life and accidental death and dismemberment businesses experienced favorable mortality in the current period, mainly due to favorable claims experience, which resulted in a $48 million increase in operating earnings. Refinements to certain insurance and other liabilities, which were recorded in both periods, resulted in a $20 million decrease in operating earnings. In our property & casualty business, non-catastrophe claim costs increased by $9 million, resulting from higher severities in our auto business and higher frequencies in our homeowners business, which were partially offset by lower severities in our homeowners business and lower frequencies in our auto business. A slight decline in catastrophe-related losses was offset by less favorable development of prior year non-catastrophe losses.
Corporate Benefit Funding
Business Overview. Funding ratios for defined benefit pension plans of Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services (“S&P”) 500 companies continued to fall in 2016, limiting their ability to engage in full pension plan buyouts. However, we expect that customers may choose to close out portions of pension plans over time, with the largest volume of business generally occurring near the end of any year. Lower pension risk transfers resulted in a decrease in premiums from the prior period. In addition, more competitive pricing in the market drove a decrease in structured settlement annuity sales. Changes in premiums for these businesses were almost entirely offset by the related changes in policyholder benefits and claims.
 
Three Months 
 Ended 
 March 31,
 
2016
 
2015
 
(In millions)
Operating revenues
 
 
 
Premiums
$
358

 
$
418

Universal life and investment-type product policy fees
80

 
54

Net investment income
1,342

 
1,430

Other revenues
70

 
71

Total operating revenues
1,850

 
1,973

Operating expenses
 
 
 
Policyholder benefits and claims and policyholder dividends
962

 
991

Interest credited to policyholder account balances
310

 
293

Capitalization of DAC

 
(6
)
Amortization of DAC and VOBA
5

 
5

Interest expense on debt
2

 
1

Other expenses
120

 
124

Total operating expenses
1,399

 
1,408

Provision for income tax expense (benefit)
156

 
196

Operating earnings
$
295

 
$
369

Three Months Ended March 31, 2016 Compared with the Three Months Ended March 31, 2015
Unless otherwise stated, all amounts discussed below are net of income tax.
Business Growth. The impact of lower deposits and funding agreement repayments in the current period were more than offset by increases in allocated equity and resulted in higher invested assets, which drove an increase in net investment income. This was mostly offset by the related increase in interest credited expense and resulted in a slight increase in operating earnings. Net funding agreement issuances were lower in the current period due to temporary restrictions associated with the proposed Separation.

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Table of Contents

Market Factors. A $73 million decrease in operating earnings was attributable to market factors, including volatile equity markets and sustained low interest rates. Investment yields decreased as a result of lower returns on other limited partnership interests and alternative investments. Additionally, lower investment earnings on our securities lending program resulted from the impact of the sustained low interest rate environment on fixed maturity securities and a flatter yield curve, as margins correlate more to the slope of the yield curve rather than the absolute level of interest rates. These unfavorable changes were partially offset by higher income on interest rate derivatives. Certain of our funding agreements and guaranteed interest contract liabilities have interest credited rates that are contractually tied to current market rates, specifically the 3-month London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) and, as a result, a higher average interest credited rate drove an increase in interest credited expense.
Underwriting. Less favorable mortality from our pension risk transfer business and specialized life insurance products was partially offset by more favorable mortality from our income annuity and structured settlement businesses, and resulted in a $4 million decrease in operating earnings.
Latin America
Business Overview. Total sales for the region were flat in the current period as compared to the prior period. Organic growth drove increased sales of life and accident and health products in several countries; however, this was offset by decreased life sales in U.S. direct business and lower retirement product sales in Mexico and Brazil.
 
Three Months 
 Ended 
 March 31,
 
2016
 
2015
 
(In millions)
Operating revenues
 
 
 
Premiums
$
691

 
$
699

Universal life and investment-type product policy fees
268

 
294

Net investment income
257

 
218

Other revenues
7

 
10

Total operating revenues
1,223

 
1,221

Operating expenses
 
 
 
Policyholder benefits and claims and policyholder dividends
617

 
581

Interest credited to policyholder account balances
80

 
86

Capitalization of DAC
(97
)
 
(111
)
Amortization of DAC and VOBA
73

 
78

Other expenses
371

 
425

Total operating expenses
1,044

 
1,059

Provision for income tax expense (benefit)
42

 
31

Operating earnings
$
137

 
$
131

Three Months Ended March 31, 2016 Compared with the Three Months Ended March 31, 2015
Unless otherwise stated, all amounts discussed below are net of income tax.
Foreign Currency. The impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates decreased operating earnings by $27 million for the first quarter of 2016 compared to the prior period mainly due to the weakening of the Mexican and Chilean pesos against the U.S. dollar.
Business Growth. Latin America experienced business growth across several lines of business within Mexico and Argentina, as well as growth in the ProVida pension business. This business growth resulted in increased premiums and policy fee income which was partially offset by related changes in policyholder benefits. Positive net flows, primarily from Chile and Mexico, resulted in an increase in average invested assets and generated higher net investment income. This was partially offset by a corresponding increase in interest credited expense on certain insurance liabilities. Business growth also drove an increase in operating expenses and DAC amortization. The sum of the items discussed above resulted in a $31 million increase in operating earnings.
Market Factors. Changes in market factors had offsetting impacts to operating earnings. Higher interest credited expense was offset by a lower crediting rate on allocated equity in the current period. Improved investment yields on fixed income securities in Mexico and Argentina were offset by lower returns on alternative investments in Chile.

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Underwriting and Other Insurance Adjustments. Favorable underwriting experience and refinements to certain insurance liabilities in both the current and prior periods each resulted in increases to operating earnings which totaled $5 million.
Taxes. In the first quarter of 2016, our Chilean businesses, including ProVida, incurred a tax charge of $12 million as a result of tax reform legislation in Chile; this amount includes a one-time charge of $10 million that pertains to prior periods. This was partially offset by other tax-related adjustments which resulted in a net increase in operating earnings of $9 million and were mainly driven by a 2016 tax benefit related to the devaluation of the peso in Argentina.
Asia
Business Overview. Sales decreased compared to the prior period primarily due to management actions taken to improve value creation in the region. In addition, group sales in Australia were higher in the prior period. In Japan, an increase in annuity sales was almost entirely offset by a decrease in accident and health sales. We have also seen a successful shift in sales to foreign currency life products from yen life products in Japan.
 
Three Months 
 Ended 
 March 31,
 
2016
 
2015
 
(In millions)
Operating revenues
 
 
 
Premiums
$
1,658

 
$
1,752

Universal life and investment-type product policy fees
350

 
397

Net investment income
618

 
684

Other revenues
17

 
28

Total operating revenues
2,643

 
2,861

Operating expenses
 
 
 
Policyholder benefits and claims and policyholder dividends
1,236

 
1,340

Interest credited to policyholder account balances
319

 
337

Capitalization of DAC
(385
)
 
(435
)
Amortization of DAC and VOBA
286

 
326

Amortization of negative VOBA
(64
)
 
(86
)
Other expenses
851

 
904

Total operating expenses
2,243

 
2,386

Provision for income tax expense (benefit)
95

 
148

Operating earnings
$
305

 
$
327

Three Months Ended March 31, 2016 Compared with the Three Months Ended March 31, 2015
Unless otherwise stated, all amounts discussed below are net of income tax.
Following a change in the foreign investment law in India, the Company no longer consolidated its India operating joint venture, effective January 1, 2016. While this change in accounting does affect the comparability of the financial statement line items, it did not have a significant impact on operating earnings and, therefore, is not discussed below.
Foreign Currency. The impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates reduced operating earnings by $5 million for the first quarter of 2016 compared to the prior period as a result of the weakening of the Korean won against the U.S. dollar.
Business Growth. Asia’s premiums, fees and other revenues decreased from the prior period mainly driven by lower fixed annuity surrenders in the current period and the discontinuation of single premium products in our accident and health business in Japan in the third quarter of 2015. Positive net flows in Japan and Korea resulted in higher average invested assets and an increase in net investment income. Changes in premiums for these businesses were partially offset by related changes in policyholder benefits. The combined impact of the items discussed above improved operating earnings by $22 million.

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Market Factors. Investment returns were unfavorably impacted by lower interest rates on fixed maturity securities in Japan, lower returns on other limited partnership interests in Japan and the impact of continued growth of lower yielding Japanese government securities. The decreases in investment returns were partially offset by the favorable impact of increased foreign currency-denominated fixed annuities in Japan driving an increase in higher yielding foreign currency-denominated fixed maturity securities. Lower investment yields, combined with the impact of foreign currency hedges, decreased operating earnings by $57 million.
Underwriting. Favorable claims experience in Australia, which was partially offset by lower fixed annuity surrender gains in Japan, increased operating earnings by $6 million.
Expenses and Taxes. Higher expenses, primarily driven by project costs in Japan and costs associated with corporate initiatives and projects, reduced operating earnings by $23 million. Current period results include a $25 million tax benefit related to a change in the corporate tax rate in Japan which includes a one-time benefit of $20 million that pertains to prior periods.
EMEA
Business Overview. Sales have increased due to growth in Turkey, Egypt and the Gulf, partially offset by strong prior period sales in Poland.
 
Three Months 
 Ended 
 March 31,
 
2016
 
2015
 
(In millions)
Operating revenues
 
 
 
Premiums
$
500

 
$
508

Universal life and investment-type product policy fees
95

 
102

Net investment income
80

 
83

Other revenues
20

 
10

Total operating revenues
695

 
703

Operating expenses
 
 
 
Policyholder benefits and claims and policyholder dividends
261

 
239

Interest credited to policyholder account balances
29

 
30

Capitalization of DAC
(101
)
 
(133
)
Amortization of DAC and VOBA
102

 
128

Amortization of negative VOBA
(3
)
 
(4
)
Other expenses
333

 
362

Total operating expenses
621

 
622

Provision for income tax expense (benefit)
11

 
11

Operating earnings
$
63

 
$
70

Three Months Ended March 31, 2016 Compared with the Three Months Ended March 31, 2015
Unless otherwise stated, all amounts discussed below are net of income tax.
Foreign Currency. The impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates reduced operating earnings by $5 million for the first quarter of 2016 compared to the prior period, primarily driven by the strengthening of the U.S. dollar against the Turkish lira, British pound, Russian ruble and Polish zloty.
Business Growth. Operating earnings benefited from business growth in the Middle East, primarily in Turkey, as well as in the United Kingdom (“U.K.”), increasing operating earnings by $10 million.
Underwriting. Unfavorable underwriting experience, primarily in our employee benefits business, resulted in an operating earnings decrease of $10 million.
Taxes and Other. Our prior period results benefited from a $3 million tax benefit in Poland, as well as a $2 million increase to operating earnings as a result of the conversion to calendar year reporting for certain of our subsidiaries. Our current period operating earnings included a $3 million benefit following the cancellation of a distribution agreement with one of our bancassurance partners.

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Corporate & Other
 
Three Months 
 Ended 
 March 31,
 
2016
 
2015
 
(In millions)
Operating revenues
 
 
 
Premiums
$
26

 
$
10

Universal life and investment-type product policy fees
24

 
23

Net investment income
82

 
109

Other revenues
27

 
20

Total operating revenues
159

 
162

Operating expenses
 
 
 
Policyholder benefits and claims and policyholder dividends
25

 
12

Interest credited to policyholder account balances
4

 
6

Capitalization of DAC
(2
)
 

Amortization of DAC and VOBA
2

 

Interest expense on debt
308

 
297

Other expenses
174

 
145

Total operating expenses
511

 
460

Provision for income tax expense (benefit)
(181
)
 
(188
)
Operating earnings
(171
)
 
(110
)
Less: Preferred stock dividends
6

 
30

Operating earnings available to common shareholders
$
(177
)
 
$
(140
)
The table below presents operating earnings available to common shareholders by source, net of income tax:
 
Three Months 
 Ended 
 March 31,
 
2016
 
2015
 
(In millions)
Other business activities
$
8

 
$
12

Other net investment income
53

 
71

Interest expense on debt
(200
)
 
(193
)
Preferred stock dividends
(6
)
 
(30
)
Corporate initiatives and projects
(28
)
 
(39
)
Incremental tax benefit
58

 
84

Other
(62
)
 
(45
)
Operating earnings available to common shareholders
$
(177
)
 
$
(140
)
Three Months Ended March 31, 2016 Compared with the Three Months Ended March 31, 2015
Unless otherwise stated, all amounts discussed below are net of income tax.
Other Net Investment Income. An $18 million decrease in other net investment income was driven by the sustained low interest rate environment, which drove lower investment yields on fixed maturity securities, as well as lower returns on alternative investments. This was partially offset by increased income from higher invested assets and higher income from currency and interest rate derivatives.
Interest Expense on Debt. Interest expense on debt increased by $7 million, mainly due to the issuance of $1.5 billion of senior notes in March 2015 and $1.25 billion of senior notes in November 2015.

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Preferred Stock Dividends. Preferred stock dividends decreased by $24 million due to the repurchase of MetLife, Inc.’s 6.50% Non-Cumulative Preferred Stock, Series B (the “Series B preferred stock”), which dividends were paid quarterly. In June 2015, MetLife, Inc. issued 1,500,000 shares of 5.25% Fixed-to-Floating Rate Non-Cumulative Preferred Stock, Series C (the “Series C preferred stock”), which dividends were paid semi-annually commencing December 15, 2015 and ending on June 15, 2020, and paid quarterly thereafter.
Corporate Initiatives and Projects. Expenses associated with corporate initiatives and projects decreased by $11 million, primarily due to decreased costs associated with enterprise-wide initiatives taken by the Company.
Incremental Tax Benefit. Corporate & Other benefits from the impact of certain permanent tax preferenced items, including non-taxable investment income and tax credits for investments in low income housing. As a result, our effective tax rate differs from the U.S. statutory rate of 35%. The $26 million decrease in tax benefit is mainly due to lower utilization of tax preferenced items.
Other. The current period included a $21 million decrease in operating earnings resulting from net adjustments to certain reinsurance assets and liabilities, which was partially offset by a $5 million decrease in employee-related costs.

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Investments
Investment Risks
Our primary investment objective is to optimize, net of income tax, risk-adjusted investment income and risk-adjusted total return while ensuring that assets and liabilities are managed on a cash flow and duration basis. The Investments Department, led by the Chief Investment Officer, manages investment risks using a risk control framework comprised of policies, procedures and limits, as discussed further below. The Investments Risk Committee, chaired by Global Risk Management Department, reviews and monitors investment risk limits and tolerances. We are exposed to the following primary sources of investment risks:
credit risk, relating to the uncertainty associated with the continued ability of a given obligor to make timely payments of principal and interest;
interest rate risk, relating to the market price and cash flow variability associated with changes in market interest rates. Changes in market interest rates will impact the net unrealized gain or loss position of our fixed income investment portfolio and the rates of return we receive on both new funds invested and reinvestment of existing funds;
liquidity risk, relating to the diminished ability to sell certain investments, in times of strained market conditions;
market valuation risk, relating to the variability in the estimated fair value of investments associated with changes in market factors such as credit spreads. A widening of credit spreads will adversely impact the net unrealized gain (loss) position of the fixed income investment portfolio, will increase losses associated with credit-based non-qualifying derivatives where we assume credit exposure, and, if credit spreads widen significantly or for an extended period of time, will likely result in higher other-than-temporary impairment (“OTTI”). Credit spread tightening will reduce net investment income associated with purchases of fixed maturity securities and will favorably impact the net unrealized gain (loss) position of the fixed income investment portfolio;
currency risk, relating to the variability in currency exchange rates for foreign denominated investments. This risk relates to potential decreases in estimated fair value and net investment income resulting from changes in currency exchange rates versus the U.S. dollar. In general, the weakening of foreign currencies versus the U.S. dollar will adversely affect the estimated fair value of our foreign denominated investments; and
real estate risk, relating to commercial, agricultural and residential real estate, and stemming from factors, which include, but are not limited to, market conditions, including the demand and supply of leasable commercial space, creditworthiness of commercial tenants and partners, capital markets volatility and the inherent interest rate movement.
We manage investment risk through in-house fundamental credit analysis of the underlying obligors, issuers, transaction structures and real estate properties. We also manage credit risk, market valuation risk and liquidity risk through industry and issuer diversification and asset allocation. Risk limits to promote diversification by asset sector, avoid concentrations in any single issuer and limit overall aggregate credit exposure as measured by our economic capital framework are approved annually by a committee of directors that oversees our investment portfolio. For real estate assets, we manage credit risk and market valuation risk through geographic, property type and product type diversification and asset allocation. We manage interest rate risk as part of our Asset/Liability Management (“ALM”) strategies. These strategies include maintaining an investment portfolio with diversified maturities that has a weighted average duration that is approximately equal to the duration of our estimated liability cash flow profile, and utilizing product design, such as the use of market value adjustment features and surrender charges, to manage interest rate risk. We also manage interest rate risk through proactive monitoring and management of certain non-guaranteed elements of our products, such as the resetting of credited interest and dividend rates for policies that permit such adjustments. In addition to hedging with foreign currency derivatives, we manage currency risk by matching much of our foreign currency liabilities in our foreign subsidiaries with their respective foreign currency assets, thereby reducing our risk to foreign currency exchange rate fluctuation. We also use certain derivatives in the management of credit, interest rate, and equity market risks.
We use purchased credit default swaps to mitigate credit risk in our investment portfolio. Generally, we purchase credit protection by entering into credit default swaps referencing the issuers of specific assets we own. In certain cases, basis risk exists between these credit default swaps and the specific assets we own. For example, we may purchase credit protection on a macro basis to reduce exposure to specific industries or other portfolio concentrations. In such instances, the referenced entities and obligations under the credit default swaps may not be identical to the individual obligors or securities in our investment portfolio. In addition, our purchased credit default swaps may have shorter tenors than the underlying investments they are hedging. However, we dynamically hedge this risk through the rebalancing and rollover of our credit default swaps at their most liquid tenors. We believe that our purchased credit default swaps serve as effective economic hedges of our credit exposure.

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We generally enter into market standard purchased and written credit default swap contracts. Payout under such contracts is triggered by certain credit events experienced by the referenced entities. For credit default swaps covering North American corporate issuers, credit events typically include bankruptcy and failure to pay on borrowed money. For European corporate issuers, credit events typically also include involuntary restructuring. With respect to credit default contracts on Western European sovereign debt, credit events typically include failure to pay debt obligations, repudiation, moratorium, or involuntary restructuring. In each case, payout on a credit default swap is triggered only after the Credit Derivatives Determinations Committee of the International Swaps and Derivatives Association deems that a credit event has occurred.
Current Environment
The global economy and markets continue to be affected by stress and volatility, which has adversely affected the financial services sector, in particular, and global capital markets. Recently, weakness in the energy and metals and mining sectors and political and/or economic instability of countries and regions outside the EU, including China, Ukraine, Russia, Argentina, Brazil, Japan, Jordan, Lebanon and Puerto Rico, as well as Europe’s perimeter region and Cyprus, have contributed to global market volatility. As a global insurance company, we are affected by the monetary policy of central banks around the world. The ECB has adopted an array of stimulus measures, including an expanded asset purchase program and a negative rate on bank deposits, which are intended to lessen the risk of a prolonged period of deflation and support economic recovery in the Euro zone. See “— Industry Trends — Financial and Economic Environment” for further information on such measures, as well as for information regarding actions taken by Japan’s central government and the Bank of Japan to boost inflation expectations and achieve sustainable economic growth in Japan. See also “— Industry Trends — Impact of a Sustained Low Interest Rate Environment” for information regarding the December 2015 action taken by the FOMC to raise the federal funds rate and its subsequent determinations to maintain it. The Federal Reserve may take further actions to influence interest rates in the future, which may have an impact on the pricing levels of risk-bearing investments and may adversely impact the level of product sales.
European Region Investments
Excluding Europe’s perimeter region and Cyprus which are discussed below, our holdings of sovereign debt, corporate debt and perpetual hybrid securities in certain EU member states and other countries in the region that are not members of the EU (collectively, the “European Region”) were concentrated in the U.K., Germany, France, the Netherlands, Poland, Norway and Sweden. The sovereign debt of these countries continues to maintain investment grade credit ratings from all major rating agencies. We maintain general account investments in the European Region to support our insurance operations and related policyholder liabilities in these countries and certain of our non-European Region operations invest in the region for diversification. In the European Region, we have proactively mitigated risk in both direct and indirect exposures by investing in a diversified portfolio of high quality investments with a focus on the higher-rated countries. The European Region corporate securities (fixed maturity and perpetual hybrid securities classified as non-redeemable preferred stock) are invested in a diversified portfolio of primarily non-financial services securities. At March 31, 2016, our exposure to fixed maturity securities and perpetual hybrid securities classified as non-redeemable preferred stock in the European Region totaled $38.9 billion, at estimated fair value, of which $8.8 billion was in sovereign fixed maturity securities. See Also “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Investments — Current Environment — European Region Investments” included in the 2015 Annual Report for further information.
Selected Country and Sector Investments
Recent country specific volatility due to local economic and/or political concerns, as well as recent weakness in certain sectors, has affected the performance of certain of our investments.
We have exposure to such volatility, as we maintain general account investments in Europe’s perimeter region and Cyprus, and also in Brazil, Argentina, Russia, Puerto Rico, Jordan, Lebanon and Ukraine, to support our insurance operations and related policyholder liabilities in these countries; we also have exposure through our global portfolio diversification. Our exposure to sovereign fixed maturity securities and total fixed maturity securities of Europe’s perimeter region and Cyprus totaled $220 million and $1.7 billion, at estimated fair value, respectively, at March 31, 2016. Our exposure to both sovereign fixed maturity securities and total fixed maturity securities of Greece was less than $1 million and $1 million, respectively, at estimated fair value, at March 31, 2016. Our exposure to sovereign fixed maturity securities and total fixed maturity securities of Brazil, Argentina, Russia, Puerto Rico, Jordan, Lebanon and Ukraine totaled $1.2 billion and $2.0 billion, at estimated fair value, respectively, at March 31, 2016. Our exposure to Puerto Rico political subdivision fixed maturities is in the form of revenue securities and we have no general obligation securities See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Investments — Current Environment — Selected Country and Sector Investments” included in the 2015 Annual Report for further information by country.

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There has been an increased focus on energy sector and metals and mining sector investments as a result of lower energy, oil and commodity prices. Our net exposure to energy sector fixed maturity securities was $9.9 billion (comprised of fixed maturity securities of $9.8 billion at estimated fair value and related net written credit default swaps of $35 million at notional value), of which 85% were investment grade, with unrealized losses of $39 million at March 31, 2016. Our net exposure to metals and mining sector fixed maturity securities was $2.0 billion (comprised of fixed maturity securities of $2.0 billion at estimated fair value and related net written credit default swaps of $26 million at notional value), of which 73% were investment grade, with unrealized losses of $25 million at March 31, 2016.
We manage direct and indirect investment exposure in the selected countries, the energy sector and the metals and mining sector through fundamental credit analysis and we continually monitor and adjust our level of investment exposure. We do not expect that our general account investments in these countries, the energy sector or the metals and mining sector will have a material adverse effect on our results of operations or financial condition.
Current Environment — Summary
All of these factors have had and could continue to have an adverse effect on the financial results of companies in the financial services industry, including MetLife. Such global economic conditions, as well as the global financial markets, continue to impact our net investment income, net investment gains (losses), net derivative gains (losses), level of unrealized gains (losses) within the various asset classes in our investment portfolio, and our level of investment in lower yielding cash equivalents, short-term investments and government securities. See “— Industry Trends,” as well as “Risk Factors — Economic Environment and Capital Markets-Related Risks — We Are Exposed to Significant Global Financial and Capital Markets Risks Which May Adversely Affect Our Results of Operations, Financial Condition and Liquidity, and May Cause Our Net Investment Income to Vary from Period to Period” included in the 2015 Annual Report.

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Investment Portfolio Results
The following yield table presents the yield and investment income (loss) for our investment portfolio for the periods indicated. As described in the footnotes below, this table reflects certain differences from the presentation of net investment income presented in the GAAP consolidated statements of operations. This yield table presentation is consistent with how we measure our investment performance for management purposes, and we believe it enhances understanding of our investment portfolio results.
 
For the Three Months Ended March 31,
 
2016
 
2015
 
Yield % (1)    
 
Amount        
 
Yield % (1)    
 
Amount        
 
 
 
(In millions)
 
 
 
(In millions)
Fixed maturity securities (2),(3)
4.43

%
$
3,628

 
4.64

%
$
3,569

Mortgage loans (3)
4.68

%
807

 
4.80

%
730

Real estate and real estate joint ventures
3.39

%
76

 
3.10

%
81

Policy loans
5.19

%
149

 
5.24

%
152

Equity securities
5.02

%
37

 
4.01

%
31

Other limited partnerships
2.71

%
46

 
10.62

%
215

Cash and short-term investments
0.99

%
25

 
1.00

%
33

Other invested assets


 
271

 


 
327

Total before investment fees and expenses
4.55

%
5,039

 
4.89

%
5,138

Investment fees and expenses
(0.16
)
 
(167
)
 
(0.15
)
 
(156
)
Net investment income including divested businesses and lag elimination (4), (5)
4.39

%
4,872

 
4.74

%
4,982

Less: net investment income from divested businesses and lag elimination (4), (5)
 
 
(166
)
 
 
 

Net investment income (5)
 
 
$
4,706

 
 
 
$
4,982

__________________
(1)
Yields are calculated as investment income as a percent of average quarterly asset carrying values. Investment income excludes recognized gains and losses and reflects GAAP adjustments presented in footnote (5) below. Asset carrying values exclude unrealized gains (losses), collateral received in connection with our securities lending program, freestanding derivative assets, collateral received from derivative counterparties, the effects of consolidating certain variable interest entities (“VIEs”) under GAAP that are treated as consolidated securitization entities (“CSEs”) and contractholder-directed unit-linked investments. A yield is not presented for other invested assets, as it is not considered a meaningful measure of performance for this asset class.
(2)
Investment income (loss) includes amounts for fair value option (‘FVO”) and trading securities of $6 million and $37 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.
(3)
Investment income from fixed maturity securities and mortgage loans includes prepayment fees.
(4)
Net investment income included in yield calculations include earned income on derivatives and amortization of premium on derivatives that are hedges of investments or that are used to replicate certain investments, but do not qualify for hedge accounting (“investment hedge adjustments”). Investment hedge adjustments are a reclassification adjustment to net investment income presented in the yield table to the most directly comparable GAAP measure as presented below.

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(5)
Net investment income presented in the yield table varies from the most directly comparable GAAP measure due to certain reclassifications and excludes the effects of consolidating certain VIEs under GAAP that are treated as CSEs and contractholder-directed unit-linked investments. Such reclassifications are presented in the table below.
 
Three Months 
 Ended 
 March 31,
 
2016
 
2015
 
(In millions)
Net investment income — in the above yield table
$
4,706

 
$
4,982

Investment hedge adjustments
(221
)
 
(200
)
Operating joint venture adjustments
5

 
677

Divested businesses and lag elimination (1)
166

 

Contractholder-directed unit-linked investments
(97
)
 
1

Incremental net investment income from CSEs

 
1

Net investment income — GAAP consolidated statements of operations
$
4,559


$
5,461

__________________
(1)
The amount of $166 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016, relates to the impact of converting the Company’s Japan operations to calendar year-end reporting. See Note 2 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further information.
See “— Results of Operations — Consolidated Results — Three Months Ended March 31, 2016 Compared with the Three Months Ended March 31, 2015” for an analysis of the period over period changes in net investment income.
Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities AFS
The following table presents fixed maturity and equity securities available-for-sale (“AFS”) by type (public or private) and information about perpetual and redeemable securities held at:
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
 
 
Estimated Fair Value
 
% of Total
 
Estimated Fair Value
 
% of Total
 
 
(In millions)
 
 
 
(In millions)
 
 
 
Fixed maturity securities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  Publicly-traded
$
321,268

 
86.4
%
$
302,400

 
86.1
%
  Privately-placed
50,713

 
13.6
 
49,002

 
13.9
 
    Total fixed maturity securities
$
371,981

 
100.0
%
$
351,402

 
100.0
%
    Percentage of cash and invested assets
69.1
%
 
 
 
69.1
%
 
 
 
Equity securities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  Publicly-traded
$
2,218

 
65.7
%
$
2,184

 
65.8
%
  Privately-held
1,156

 
34.3
 
1,137

 
34.2
 
    Total equity securities
$
3,374

 
100.0
%
$
3,321

 
100.0
%
    Percentage of cash and invested assets
0.6
%
 
 
 
0.7
%
 
 
 
Perpetual securities included within fixed maturity and equity securities AFS
$
662

 
 
 
$
819

 
 
 
Redeemable preferred stock with a stated maturity included within fixed maturity securities AFS
$
900

 
 
 
$
1,216

 
 
 
Perpetual securities are included within fixed maturity and equity securities. Upon acquisition, we classify perpetual securities that have attributes of both debt and equity as fixed maturity securities if the securities have an interest rate step-up feature which, when combined with other qualitative factors, indicates that the securities have more debt-like characteristics; while those with more equity-like characteristics are classified as equity securities. Many of such securities, commonly referred to as “perpetual hybrid securities,” have been issued by non-U.S. financial institutions that are accorded the highest two capital treatment categories by their respective regulatory bodies (i.e. core capital, or “Tier 1 capital” and perpetual deferrable securities, or “Upper Tier 2 capital”).

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Redeemable preferred stock with a stated maturity is included within fixed maturity securities. These securities, which are commonly referred to as “capital securities,” primarily have cumulative interest deferral features and are primarily issued by U.S. financial institutions.
In connection with our investment management business, we manage privately-placed and infrastructure fixed maturity securities on behalf of institutional clients, which are unaffiliated investors. These privately-placed and infrastructure fixed maturity securities had an estimated fair value of $6.6 billion and $6.1 billion at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. These assets are not included in our interim condensed consolidated financial statements.
Also in connection with our investment management business, we manage index investment portfolios that track the return of standard industry fixed income and equity market indices such as the Barclay’s U.S. Aggregate Bond Index and S&P 500® Index. These assets had an estimated fair value of $26.5 billion and $26.0 billion at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively, and are included within separate account assets in our interim condensed consolidated financial statements.
See also “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Investments — Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities AFS — Valuation of Securities” included in the 2015 Annual Report for further information on the processes used to value securities and the related controls.
Fair Value of Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities – AFS
Fixed maturity and equity securities AFS measured at estimated fair value on a recurring basis and their corresponding fair value pricing sources are as follows:
 
March 31, 2016
 
Fixed Maturity
Securities
 
 
Equity
Securities
 
(In millions)
 
 
 
 
(In millions)
 
 
 
Level 1
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets
$
41,685

 
11.2
%
 
$
1,417

 
42.0
%
Level 2
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Independent pricing sources
273,847

 
73.6
 
 
1,143

 
33.9
 
Internal matrix pricing or discounted cash flow techniques
36,046

 
9.7
 
 
145

 
4.3
 
Significant other observable inputs
309,893

 
83.3
 
 
1,288

 
38.2
 
Level 3
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Independent pricing sources
6,849

 
1.9
 
 
527

 
15.6
 
Internal matrix pricing or discounted cash flow techniques
11,931

 
3.2
 
 
123

 
3.6
 
Independent broker quotations
1,623

 
0.4
 
 
19

 
0.6
 
Significant unobservable inputs
20,403

 
5.5
 
 
669

 
19.8
 
Total estimated fair value
$
371,981

 
100.0
%
 
$
3,374

 
100.0
%
See Note 8 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for the fixed maturity securities and equity securities AFS fair value hierarchy.

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The composition of fair value pricing sources for and significant changes in Level 3 securities at March 31, 2016 are as follows:
The majority of the Level 3 fixed maturity and equity securities AFS were concentrated in three sectors: U.S. and foreign corporate securities and residential mortgage-backed securities (“RMBS”).
Level 3 fixed maturity securities are priced principally through market standard valuation methodologies, independent pricing services and, to a much lesser extent, independent non-binding broker quotations using inputs that are not market observable or cannot be derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data. Level 3 fixed maturity securities consist of less liquid securities with very limited trading activity or where less price transparency exists around the inputs to the valuation methodologies. Level 3 fixed maturity securities include: sub-prime RMBS; certain below investment grade private securities and less liquid investment grade corporate securities (included in U.S. and foreign corporate securities); less liquid collateralized obligation asset-backed securities (“ABS”); and foreign government securities.
During the three months ended March 31, 2016, Level 3 fixed maturity securities decreased by $411 million, or 2%. The decrease was driven by net transfers out of Level 3, partially offset by purchases in excess of sales and an increase in estimated fair value recognized in other comprehensive income (loss).
See Note 8 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for a rollforward of the fair value measurements for fixed maturity securities and equity securities AFS measured at estimated fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable (Level 3) inputs; transfers into and/or out of Level 3; and further information about the valuation techniques and inputs by level by major classes of invested assets that affect the amounts reported above. See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Summary of Critical Accounting Estimates — Estimated Fair Value of Investments” included in the 2015 Annual Report for further information on the estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported above.
Fixed Maturity Securities AFS
See Note 6 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information about fixed maturity securities AFS by sector, contractual maturities and continuous gross unrealized losses.
Fixed Maturity Securities Credit Quality — Ratings
See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Investments — Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities AFS — Fixed Maturity Securities Credit Quality — Ratings” included in the 2015 Annual Report for a discussion of the credit quality ratings assigned by rating agencies and credit quality designations assigned by and methodologies used by the Securities Valuation Office of the NAIC for fixed maturity securities.
The NAIC has adopted revised methodologies for certain structured securities comprised of non-agency RMBS, commercial mortgage-backed securities (“CMBS”) and ABS. The NAIC’s objective with the revised methodologies for these structured securities was to increase the accuracy in assessing expected losses, and to use the improved assessment to determine a more appropriate capital requirement for such structured securities. The revised methodologies reduce regulatory reliance on rating agencies and allow for greater regulatory input into the assumptions used to estimate expected losses from structured securities. We apply the revised NAIC methodologies to structured securities held by MetLife, Inc.’s insurance subsidiaries that maintain the NAIC statutory basis of accounting. The NAIC’s present methodology is to evaluate structured securities held by insurers using the revised NAIC methodologies on an annual basis. If MetLife, Inc.’s insurance subsidiaries acquire structured securities that have not been previously evaluated by the NAIC, but are expected to be evaluated by the NAIC in the upcoming annual review, an internally developed designation is used until a final designation becomes available.

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The following table presents total fixed maturity securities by Nationally Recognized Statistical Rating Organizations (“NRSRO”) rating and the equivalent designations of the NAIC, except for certain structured securities, which are presented using the revised NAIC methodologies as described above, as well as the percentage, based on estimated fair value that each designation is comprised of at:
 
 
 
 
March 31, 2016
 
 
December 31, 2015
 
NAIC
Designation
 
NRSRO Rating
 
Amortized
Cost
 
Unrealized
Gain (Loss)
 
Estimated
Fair
Value
 
% of
Total
 
 
Amortized
Cost
 
Unrealized
Gain (Loss)
 
Estimated
Fair
Value
 
% of
Total
 
 
 
 
 
(In millions)
 
 
 
 
(In millions)
 
 
 
1
 
Aaa/Aa/A
 
$
245,787

 
$
24,508

 
$
270,295

 
72.7
%
 
$
234,176

 
$
16,627

 
$
250,803

 
71.4
%
2
 
Baa
 
75,931

 
4,151

 
80,082

 
21.5
 
 
77,313

 
2,210

 
79,523

 
22.6
 
 
 
Subtotal investment grade
 
321,718


28,659


350,377

 
94.2
 
 
311,489

 
18,837

 
330,326

 
94.0
 
3
 
Ba
 
15,091

 
197

 
15,288

 
4.1
 
 
15,314

 
(172
)
 
15,142

 
4.3
 
4
 
B
 
5,338

 
(217
)
 
5,121

 
1.4
 
 
5,083

 
(244
)
 
4,839

 
1.4
 
5
 
Caa and lower
 
1,225

 
(89
)
 
1,136

 
0.3
 
 
1,036

 
5

 
1,041

 
0.3
 
6
 
In or near default
 
40

 
19

 
59

 
 
 
42

 
12

 
54

 
 
 
 
Subtotal below investment  grade
 
21,694


(90
)

21,604

 
5.8
 
 
21,475

 
(399
)
 
21,076

 
6.0
 
 
 
Total fixed maturity securities
 
$
343,412


$
28,569


$
371,981

 
100.0
%
 
$
332,964

 
$
18,438

 
$
351,402

 
100.0
%
The following tables present total fixed maturity securities, based on estimated fair value, by sector classification and by NRSRO rating and the equivalent designations of the NAIC, except for certain structured securities, which are presented using the NAIC methodologies as described above:
 
Fixed Maturity Securities — by Sector & Credit Quality Rating
NAIC Designation
1
 
2
 
3
 
4
 
5
 
6
 
Total
Estimated
Fair Value
NRSRO Rating
Aaa/Aa/A
 
Baa
 
Ba
 
B
 
Caa and Lower
 
In or Near
Default
 
 
(In millions)
March 31, 2016
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
U.S. corporate
$
44,911

 
$
43,965

 
$
8,980

 
$
3,623

 
$
616

 
$
1

 
$
102,096

U.S. government and agency
64,504

 
487

 

 

 

 

 
64,991

Foreign corporate
24,649

 
29,871

 
3,648

 
807

 
115

 
1

 
59,091

Foreign government
50,155

 
3,763

 
2,005

 
452

 
230

 
51

 
56,656

RMBS
41,471

 
633

 
529

 
236

 
155

 
5

 
43,029

State and political subdivision
15,826

 
636

 
60

 

 
17

 

 
16,539

ABS
15,429

 
716

 
51

 
3

 
2

 
1

 
16,202

CMBS
13,350

 
11

 
15

 

 
1

 

 
13,377

Total fixed maturity securities
$
270,295


$
80,082


$
15,288


$
5,121


$
1,136


$
59


$
371,981

Percentage of total
72.7
%
 
21.5
%
 
4.1
%
 
1.4
%
 
0.3
%
 
%
 
100.0
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
December 31, 2015
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
U.S. corporate
$
43,448

 
$
44,158

 
$
9,163

 
$
3,532

 
$
493

 
$

 
$
100,794

U.S. government and agency
61,646

 

 

 

 

 

 
61,646

Foreign corporate
23,368

 
29,362

 
3,621

 
732

 
114

 
1

 
57,198

Foreign government
43,911

 
4,098

 
1,730

 
395

 
326

 
39

 
50,499

RMBS
37,394

 
560

 
579

 
177

 
78

 
9

 
38,797

State and political subdivision
14,818

 
599

 
10

 

 
14

 

 
15,441

ABS
13,646

 
702

 
24

 
3

 
14

 
5

 
14,394

CMBS
12,572

 
44

 
15

 

 
2

 

 
12,633

Total fixed maturity securities
$
250,803


$
79,523


$
15,142


$
4,839


$
1,041


$
54


$
351,402

Percentage of total
71.4
%
 
22.6
%
 
4.3
%
 
1.4
%
 
0.3
%
 
%
 
100.0
%

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Table of Contents

U.S. and Foreign Corporate Fixed Maturity Securities
We maintain a diversified portfolio of corporate fixed maturity securities across industries and issuers. This portfolio does not have any exposure to any single issuer in excess of 1% of total investments and the top ten holdings comprise 2% of total investments at both March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015. The tables below present our U.S. and foreign corporate securities holdings at:
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
 
Estimated
Fair
Value
 
% of
Total
 
Estimated
Fair
Value
 
% of
Total
 
(In millions)
 
 
 
(In millions)
 
 
U.S. and foreign (1) corporate fixed maturity securities — by industry:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Industrial
$
48,505

 
30.1
%
 
$
44,710

 
28.3
%
Consumer
36,775

 
22.8

 
37,317

 
23.6

Finance
34,235

 
21.2

 
33,050

 
20.9

Utility
25,057

 
15.6

 
27,770

 
17.6

Communications
13,826

 
8.6

 
11,559

 
7.3

Other
2,789

 
1.7

 
3,586

 
2.3

Total
$
161,187

 
100.0
%
 
$
157,992

 
100.0
%
__________________
(1)
Includes both U.S. dollar and foreign denominated securities.
Structured Securities 
We held $72.6 billion and $65.8 billion of structured securities, at estimated fair value, at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively, as presented in the RMBS, ABS and CMBS sections below.
RMBS
The table below presents our RMBS holdings at:
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
 
Estimated
Fair
Value
 
% of
Total
 
Net
Unrealized
Gains (Losses)
 
Estimated
Fair
Value
 
% of
Total
 
Net
Unrealized
Gains (Losses)
 
(In millions)
 
 
 
(In millions)
 
(In millions)
 
 
 
(In millions)
By security type:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Collateralized mortgage obligations
$
21,654

 
50.3
%
 
$
577

 
$
20,604

 
53.1
%
 
$
578

Pass-through securities
21,375

 
49.7

 
512

 
18,193

 
46.9

 
305

Total RMBS
$
43,029

 
100.0
%
 
$
1,089

 
$
38,797

 
100.0
%
 
$
883

By risk profile:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Agency
$
30,246

 
70.3
%
 
$
1,110

 
$
26,214

 
67.6
%
 
$
763

Prime
1,986

 
4.6

 
32

 
1,960

 
5.1

 
41

Alt-A
5,812

 
13.5

 
(94
)
 
5,990

 
15.4

 
(18
)
Sub-prime
4,985

 
11.6

 
41

 
4,633

 
11.9

 
97

Total RMBS
$
43,029

 
100.0
%
 
$
1,089

 
$
38,797

 
100.0
%
 
$
883

Ratings profile:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Rated Aaa/AAA
$
30,741

 
71.4
%
 
 
 
$
26,809

 
69.1
%
 
 
Designated NAIC 1
$
41,471

 
96.4
%
 
 
 
$
37,394

 
96.4
%
 
 
See also “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Investments — Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities AFS — Structured Securities — RMBS” included in the 2015 Annual Report for further information about collateralized mortgage obligations and pass-through mortgage-backed securities, as well as agency, prime, alternative residential mortgage loan and sub-prime RMBS.

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Historically, we have managed our exposure to sub-prime RMBS holdings by: acquiring older vintage year securities that benefit from better underwriting, improved credit enhancement and higher levels of residential property price appreciation; reducing our overall exposure; stress testing the portfolio with severe loss assumptions; and closely monitoring the performance of the portfolio. Since 2012, we have increased our exposure by purchasing sub-prime RMBS at significant discounts to the expected principal recovery value of these securities. The estimated fair value of our sub-prime RMBS holdings purchased since 2012 was $4.4 billion and $4.0 billion with unrealized gains (losses) of $25 million and $74 million at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.
ABS
Our ABS are diversified both by collateral type and by issuer. The following table presents our ABS holdings at:
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
 
Estimated
Fair
Value
 
% of
Total
 
Net
Unrealized
Gains (Losses)
 
Estimated
Fair
Value
 
% of
Total
 
Net
Unrealized
Gains (Losses)
 
(In millions)
 
 
 
(In millions)
 
(In millions)
 
 
 
(In millions)
By collateral type:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Collateralized obligations
$
8,130

 
50.2
%
 
$
(216
)
 
$
7,698

 
53.5
%
 
$
(144
)
Foreign residential loans
1,531

 
9.4

 
42

 
1,365

 
9.5

 
32

Student loans
1,241

 
7.7

 
(43
)
 
1,284

 
8.9

 
(30
)
Automobile loans
1,606

 
9.9

 
(2
)
 
1,153

 
8.0

 

Credit card loans
1,679

 
10.4

 
17

 
831

 
5.8

 
27

Other loans
2,015

 
12.4

 
(3
)
 
2,063

 
14.3

 
11

Total
$
16,202

 
100.0
%
 
$
(205
)
 
$
14,394

 
100.0
%
 
$
(104
)
Ratings profile:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Rated Aaa/AAA
$
9,337

 
57.6
%
 
 
 
$
7,510

 
52.2
%
 
 
Designated NAIC 1
$
15,429

 
95.2
%
 
 
 
$
13,646

 
94.8
%
 
 

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Table of Contents

CMBS
Our CMBS holdings are diversified by vintage year. The following tables present our CMBS holdings by rating agency rating and by vintage year at:
 
March 31, 2016
 
Aaa
 
Aa
 
A
 
Baa
 
Below
Investment
Grade
 
Total
 
Amortized
Cost
 
Estimated
Fair
Value
 
Amortized
Cost
 
Estimated
Fair
Value
 
Amortized
Cost
 
Estimated
Fair
Value
 
Amortized
Cost
 
Estimated
Fair
Value
 
Amortized
Cost
 
Estimated
Fair
Value
 
Amortized
Cost
 
Estimated
Fair
Value
 
(In millions)
2003 - 2005
$
166

 
$
180

 
$
33

 
$
34

 
$
29

 
$
31

 
$
43

 
$
43

 
$
14

 
$
14

 
$
285

 
$
302

2006
581

 
588

 
81

 
80

 
53

 
54

 
39

 
41

 

 

 
754

 
763

2007
473

 
482

 
131

 
132

 
84

 
86

 

 

 
123

 
124

 
811

 
824

2008 - 2010
5

 
5

 

 

 
13

 
13

 

 

 

 

 
18

 
18

2011
496

 
533

 
23

 
24

 
63

 
65

 

 

 

 

 
582

 
622

2012
487

 
523

 
372

 
386

 
487

 
502

 
8

 
9

 
1

 
1

 
1,355

 
1,421

2013
1,108

 
1,175

 
814

 
870

 
660

 
638

 
12

 
10

 

 

 
2,594

 
2,693

2014
986

 
1,010

 
993

 
1,013

 
295

 
288

 

 

 

 

 
2,274

 
2,311

2015
2,652

 
2,720

 
464

 
469

 
317

 
320

 
9

 
9

 

 

 
3,442

 
3,518

2016
848

 
867

 
20

 
21

 
15

 
15

 
2

 
2

 

 

 
885

 
905

Total
$
7,802


$
8,083


$
2,931


$
3,029


$
2,016


$
2,012


$
113


$
114


$
138


$
139


$
13,000


$
13,377

Ratings Distribution
 
 
60.4
%
 
 
 
22.7
%
 
 
 
15.0
%
 
 
 
0.9
%
 
 
 
1.0
%
 
 
 
100.0
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
December 31, 2015
 
Aaa
 
Aa
 
A
 
Baa
 
Below
Investment
Grade
 
Total
 
Amortized
Cost
 
Estimated
Fair
Value
 
Amortized
Cost
 
Estimated
Fair
Value
 
Amortized
Cost
 
Estimated
Fair
Value
 
Amortized
Cost
 
Estimated
Fair
Value
 
Amortized
Cost
 
Estimated
Fair
Value
 
Amortized
Cost
 
Estimated
Fair
Value
 
(In millions)
2003 - 2005
$
187

 
$
198

 
$
95

 
$
101

 
$
33

 
$
35

 
$
47

 
$
48

 
$
10

 
$
10

 
$
372

 
$
392

2006
1,061

 
1,070

 
79

 
79

 
76

 
77

 
50

 
56

 

 

 
1,266

 
1,282

2007
477

 
486

 
144

 
145

 
84

 
87

 

 

 
123

 
125

 
828

 
843

2008 - 2010
5

 
5

 

 

 
13

 
13

 

 

 

 

 
18

 
18

2011
560

 
593

 
23

 
24

 
63

 
64

 

 

 

 

 
646

 
681

2012
506

 
534

 
368

 
376

 
500

 
513

 
8

 
9

 
1

 
1

 
1,383

 
1,433

2013
989

 
1,036

 
696

 
735

 
893

 
925

 
12

 
10

 

 

 
2,590

 
2,706

2014
854

 
859

 
939

 
937

 
453

 
459

 
1

 
1

 

 

 
2,247

 
2,256

2015
2,258

 
2,227

 
445

 
436

 
325

 
327

 
32

 
32

 

 

 
3,060

 
3,022

Total
$
6,897


$
7,008


$
2,789


$
2,833


$
2,440


$
2,500


$
150


$
156


$
134


$
136


$
12,410


$
12,633

Ratings Distribution
 
 
55.5
%
 
 
 
22.4
%
 
 
 
19.8
%
 
 
 
1.2
%
 
 
 
1.1
%
 
 
 
100.0
%
The tables above reflect rating agency ratings assigned by NRSROs including Moody’s Investors Service, S&P, Fitch Ratings and Morningstar, Inc. CMBS designated NAIC 1 were 99.8% and 99.5% of total CMBS at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.
Evaluation of AFS Securities for OTTI and Evaluating Temporarily Impaired AFS Securities
See Note 6 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information about the evaluation of fixed maturity securities and equity securities AFS for OTTI and evaluation of temporarily impaired AFS securities.
OTTI Losses on Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities AFS Recognized in Earnings
See Note 6 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information about OTTI losses and gross gains and gross losses on AFS securities sold.

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Table of Contents

Overview of Fixed Maturity and Equity Security OTTI Losses Recognized in Earnings
Impairments of fixed maturity and equity securities were $129 million and $18 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Impairments of fixed maturity securities were $78 million and $18 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Impairments of equity securities were $51 million and less than $1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.
Credit-related impairments of fixed maturity securities were $71 million and $18 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.
Explanations of changes in fixed maturity and equity securities impairments are as follows:
Three Months Ended March 31, 2016 Compared with the Three Months Ended March 31, 2015
Overall OTTI losses recognized in earnings on fixed maturity and equity securities were $129 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016, as compared to $18 million for the three months ended March 31, 2015. The most significant increases in OTTI losses were in U.S. and foreign corporate securities and common stock, which comprised $125 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016, as compared to $5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2015. An increase of $69 million in OTTI losses on U.S. and foreign corporate securities was concentrated in the industrial services industry and reflected the impact of lower oil prices on the energy sector and weakening foreign currencies on non-functional currency denominated fixed maturity securities. The increase in OTTI losses on common stock was $51 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016, as compared to the three months ended March 31, 2015, and was also concentrated in the industrial services industry and reflected the impact of lower oil prices on the energy sector.
Future Impairments
Future OTTI will depend primarily on economic fundamentals, issuer performance (including changes in the present value of future cash flows expected to be collected), and changes in credit ratings, collateral valuation, interest rates and credit spreads. If economic fundamentals deteriorate or if there are adverse changes in the above factors, OTTI may be incurred in upcoming periods.
FVO and Trading Securities
FVO and trading securities are primarily comprised of securities for which the FVO has been elected (“FVO Securities”). FVO Securities include certain fixed maturity and equity securities held-for-investment by the general account to support ALM strategies for certain insurance products and investments in certain separate accounts. FVO Securities are primarily comprised of contractholder-directed investments supporting unit-linked variable annuity type liabilities which do not qualify for presentation as separate account summary total assets and liabilities. These investments are primarily mutual funds and, to a lesser extent, fixed maturity and equity securities, short-term investments and cash and cash equivalents. The investment returns on these investments inure to the contractholder and are offset by a corresponding change in policyholder account balances through interest credited to policyholder account balances. FVO Securities also include securities held by CSEs. We have a trading securities portfolio, principally invested in fixed maturity securities, to support investment strategies that involve the active and frequent purchase and sale of actively traded securities and the execution of short sale agreements. FVO and trading securities were $15.0 billion and $15.0 billion at estimated fair value, or 2.8% and 3.0% of total cash and invested assets, at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. See Note 8 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for the FVO and trading securities fair value hierarchy and a rollforward of the fair value measurements for FVO and trading securities measured at estimated fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable (Level 3) inputs.
Securities Lending
We participate in a securities lending program whereby securities are loaned to third parties, primarily brokerage firms and commercial banks. We obtain collateral, usually cash, in an amount generally equal to 102% of the estimated fair value of the securities loaned, which is obtained at the inception of a loan and maintained at a level greater than or equal to 100% for the duration of the loan. We monitor the estimated fair value of the securities loaned on a daily basis with additional collateral obtained as necessary throughout the duration of the loan. Securities loaned under such transactions may be sold or re-pledged by the transferee. We are liable to return to our counterparties the cash collateral under our control. Security collateral on deposit from counterparties may not be sold or re-pledged, unless the counterparty is in default, and is not reflected in the consolidated financial statements. These transactions are treated as financing arrangements and the associated cash collateral liability is recorded at the amount of the cash received.
See “— Liquidity and Capital Resources — The Company — Liquidity and Capital Uses — Securities Lending” and Note 6 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information regarding our securities lending program.

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Table of Contents

Repurchase Agreement Transactions
We participate in short-term repurchase and reverse repurchase agreement transactions whereby fixed maturity securities are loaned to, and contemporaneously other fixed maturity securities are borrowed from, unaffiliated financial institutions. We obtain cash collateral in an amount greater than or equal to 95% of the estimated fair value of the securities loaned, and pledge cash collateral in an amount generally equal to 98% of the estimated fair value of the borrowed securities at the inception of the transaction. We monitor the estimated fair value of the securities loaned and borrowed on a daily basis with additional collateral obtained as necessary throughout the duration of the transaction. Securities loaned under such transactions may be sold or re-pledged by the transferee. Securities borrowed under such transactions may be re-pledged, and are not reflected in the consolidated financial statements. These transactions are treated as collateralized borrowing and lending and the Company has elected to offset amounts recognized as receivables and payables resulting from these transactions.
See Note 6 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding our repurchase and reverse repurchase agreement transactions.
Mortgage Loans
Our mortgage loans are principally collateralized by commercial, agricultural and residential properties. Mortgage loans and the related valuation allowances are summarized as follows at:
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
 
 
Recorded
Investment
 
% of
Total
 
Valuation
Allowance
 
% of
Recorded Investment
 
Recorded
Investment
 
% of
Total
 
Valuation
Allowance
 
% of
Recorded Investment
 
 
(Dollars in millions)
(Dollars in millions)
Commercial
 
$
45,445

 
66.4
%
 
$
281

 
0.6
%
 
$
44,012

 
65.8
%
 
$
217

 
0.5
%
Agricultural
 
13,226

 
19.3

 
40

 
0.3
%
 
13,188

 
19.7

 
42

 
0.3
%
Residential
 
9,800

 
14.3

 
60

 
0.6
%
 
9,734

 
14.5

 
59

 
0.6
%
Total
 
$
68,471

 
100.0
%
 
$
381

 
0.6
%
 
$
66,934

 
100.0
%
 
$
318

 
0.5
%
The information presented in the tables herein exclude mortgage loans where we elected the FVO. Such amounts are presented in Note 6 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
We diversify our mortgage loan portfolio by both geographic region and property type to reduce the risk of concentration. Of our commercial and agricultural mortgage loan portfolios, 85% are collateralized by properties located in the U.S., with the remaining 15% collateralized by properties located outside the U.S., at March 31, 2016. The carrying value of our commercial and agricultural mortgage loans located in California, New York and Texas were 19%, 12% and 8%, respectively, of total mortgage loans at March 31, 2016. Additionally, we manage risk when originating commercial and agricultural mortgage loans by generally lending up to 75% of the estimated fair value of the underlying real estate collateral.
We manage our residential mortgage loan portfolio in a similar manner to reduce risk of concentration, with 91% collateralized by properties located in the U.S., and the remaining 9% collateralized by properties located outside the U.S., as of March 31, 2016. The carrying value of our residential mortgage loans located in California, Florida, and New York were 35%, 7%, and 6%, respectively, of total mortgage loans at March 31, 2016.
In connection with our investment management business, we manage commercial mortgage loans on behalf of institutional clients, which are unaffiliated investors. These commercial mortgage loans had an estimated fair value of $2.3 billion and $2.0 billion at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. These assets are not included in our interim condensed consolidated financial statements.

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Commercial Mortgage Loans by Geographic Region and Property Type. Commercial mortgage loans are the largest component of the mortgage loan invested asset class, as such loans represented over 65% of total mortgage loans at both March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015. The tables below present the diversification across geographic regions and property types of commercial mortgage loans:
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
 
Amount
 
% of
Total
 
Amount
 
% of
Total
 
(In millions)
 
 
 
(In millions)
 
 
Region
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Pacific
$
10,360
 
 
22.8
%

$
9,583
 
 
21.8
%
Middle Atlantic
8,072
 
 
17.8

 
8,154
 
 
18.5

International
8,264
 
 
18.2

 
7,889
 
 
17.9

South Atlantic
6,167
 
 
13.6

 
6,127
 
 
13.9

West South Central
4,190
 
 
9.2

 
4,311
 
 
9.8

East North Central
2,217
 
 
4.9

 
2,346
 
 
5.3

New England
1,581
 
 
3.5

 
1,367
 
 
3.1

Mountain
1,297
 
 
2.8

 
1,117
 
 
2.5

West North Central
511
 
 
1.1

 
520
 
 
1.2

East South Central
630
 
 
1.4

 
512
 
 
1.2

Multi-Region and Other
2,156
 
 
4.7

 
2,086
 
 
4.8

Total recorded investment
45,445
 
 
100.0
%
 
44,012
 
 
100.0
%
  Less: valuation allowances
281
 
 
 
 
217
 
 
 
  Carrying value, net of valuation allowances
$
45,164
 
 
 
 
$
43,795
 
 
 
Property Type
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Office
$
22,037
 
 
48.5
%
 
$
21,525
 
 
48.9
%
Retail
10,793
 
 
23.7

 
10,466
 
 
23.8

Apartment
5,651
 
 
12.4

 
5,171
 
 
11.7

Hotel
4,633
 
 
10.2

 
4,396
 
 
10.0

Industrial
2,214
 
 
4.9

 
2,334
 
 
5.3

Other
117
 
 
0.3

 
120
 
 
0.3

Total recorded investment
45,445
 
 
100.0
%
 
44,012
 
 
100.0
%
  Less: valuation allowances
281
 
 
 
 
217
 
 
 
  Carrying value, net of valuation allowances
$
45,164
 
 
 
 
$
43,795
 
 
 
Mortgage Loan Credit Quality - Monitoring Process. We monitor our mortgage loan investments on an ongoing basis, including a review of loans that are current, past due, restructured and under foreclosure. See Note 6 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for tables that present mortgage loans by credit quality indicator, past due and nonaccrual mortgage loans, as well as impaired mortgage loans. See “— Real Estate and Real Estate Joint Ventures” for real estate acquired through foreclosure.
We review our commercial mortgage loans on an ongoing basis. These reviews may include an analysis of the property financial statements and rent roll, lease rollover analysis, property inspections, market analysis, estimated valuations of the underlying collateral, loan-to-value ratios, debt service coverage ratios, and tenant creditworthiness. The monitoring process focuses on higher risk loans, which include those that are classified as restructured, delinquent or in foreclosure, as well as loans with higher loan-to-value ratios and lower debt service coverage ratios. The monitoring process for agricultural mortgage loans is generally similar, with a focus on higher risk loans, such as loans with higher loan-to-value ratios, including reviews on a geographic and sector basis. We also review our residential mortgage loans on an ongoing basis. See Note 8 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2015 Annual Report for information on our evaluation of residential mortgage loans and related valuation allowance methodology.

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Loan-to-value ratios and debt service coverage ratios are common measures in the assessment of the quality of commercial mortgage loans. Loan-to-value ratios are a common measure in the assessment of the quality of agricultural mortgage loans. Loan-to-value ratios compare the amount of the loan to the estimated fair value of the underlying collateral. A loan-to-value ratio greater than 100% indicates that the loan amount is greater than the collateral value. A loan-to-value ratio of less than 100% indicates an excess of collateral value over the loan amount. Generally, the higher the loan-to-value ratio, the higher the risk of experiencing a credit loss. The debt service coverage ratio compares a property’s net operating income to amounts needed to service the principal and interest due under the loan. Generally, the lower the debt service coverage ratio, the higher the risk of experiencing a credit loss. For our commercial mortgage loans, our average loan-to-value ratio was 52% at both March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, and our average debt service coverage ratio was 2.7x and 2.6x at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. Our debt service coverage ratio and the values utilized in calculating the ratio are updated annually, on a rolling basis, with a portion of the portfolio updated each quarter. Our loan-to-value ratio is routinely updated for all but the lowest risk loans as part of our ongoing review of our commercial mortgage loan portfolio. For our agricultural mortgage loans, our average loan-to-value ratio was 43% at both March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015. The values utilized in calculating the agricultural mortgage loan loan-to-value ratio are developed in connection with the ongoing review of the agricultural loan portfolio and are routinely updated.
Mortgage Loan Valuation Allowances. Our valuation allowances are established both on a loan specific basis for those loans considered impaired where a property specific or market specific risk has been identified that could likely result in a future loss, as well as for pools of loans with similar risk characteristics where a property specific or market specific risk has not been identified, but for which we expect to incur a loss. Accordingly, a valuation allowance is provided to absorb these estimated probable credit losses.
The determination of the amount of valuation allowances is based upon our periodic evaluation and assessment of known and inherent risks associated with our loan portfolios. Such evaluations and assessments are based upon several factors, including our experience with loan losses, defaults and loss severity, and loss expectations for loans with similar risk characteristics. These evaluations and assessments are revised as conditions change and new information becomes available, which can cause the valuation allowances to increase or decrease over time as such evaluations are revised. Negative credit migration, including an actual or expected increase in the level of problem loans, will result in an increase in the valuation allowance. Positive credit migration, including an actual or expected decrease in the level of problem loans, will result in a decrease in the valuation allowance.
See Notes 6 and 8 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information about how valuation allowances are established and monitored, activity in and balances of the valuation allowance, and the estimated fair value of impaired mortgage loans and related impairments included within net investment gains (losses) as of and for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015.
Real Estate and Real Estate Joint Ventures
We diversify our real estate investments by both geographic region and property type to reduce risk of concentration. Of our real estate investments, 76% were located in the U.S., with the remaining 24% located outside the U.S., at March 31, 2016. The carrying value of our real estate investments located in Japan, California and District of Columbia were 21%, 16% and 8%, respectively, of total real estate investments at March 31, 2016.
Real estate investments by type consisted of the following at: 
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
 
Carrying
Value
 
% of
Total
 
Carrying
Value
 
% of
Total
 
(In millions)
 
 
 
(In millions)
 
 
Traditional
$
8,220

 
94.1
%
 
$
7,859

 
93.2
%
Real estate joint ventures and funds
418

 
4.8

 
482

 
5.7

Subtotal
8,638

 
98.9

 
8,341

 
98.9

Foreclosed (commercial, agricultural and residential)
48

 
0.6

 
45

 
0.5

Real estate held-for-investment
8,686

 
99.5

 
8,386

 
99.4

Real estate held-for-sale
47

 
0.5

 
47

 
0.6

Total real estate and real estate joint ventures
$
8,733

 
100.0
%
 
$
8,433

 
100.0
%

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See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Investments — Real Estate and Real Estate Joint Ventures” included in the 2015 Annual Report for a discussion of the types of investments reported within traditional real estate and real estate joint ventures and funds. The estimated fair value of the traditional and held-for-sale real estate investment portfolios was $12.8 billion and $12.4 billion at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.
In connection with our investment management business, we manage real estate investments on behalf of institutional clients, which are unaffiliated investors. These real estate investments had an estimated fair value of $3.9 billion and $3.8 billion at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. These assets are not included in our interim condensed consolidated financial statements.
Other Limited Partnership Interests
Other limited partnership interests are comprised of private equity funds and hedge funds. The carrying value of other limited partnership interests was $7.0 billion and $7.1 billion at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively, which included $1.8 billion and $1.9 billion of hedge funds, at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.
Other Invested Assets
The following table presents the carrying value of our other invested assets by type:
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
 
Carrying
Value
 
% of
Total
 
Carrying
Value
 
% of
Total
 
(In millions)
 
 
 
(In millions)
 
 
Freestanding derivatives with positive estimated fair values
$
18,747

 
69.2
%
 
$
14,406

 
64.0
%
Tax credit and renewable energy partnerships
3,116

 
11.5

 
3,145

 
13.9

Leveraged leases, net of non-recourse debt
1,702

 
6.3

 
1,712

 
7.6

Direct financing leases
1,131

 
4.2

 
1,076

 
4.8

Funds withheld
786

 
2.9

 
771

 
3.4

Operating joint ventures
774

 
2.8

 
605

 
2.7

Other
839

 
3.1

 
809

 
3.6

Total
$
27,095

 
100.0
%
 
$
22,524

 
100.0
%
Short-term Investments and Cash Equivalents
The carrying value of short-term investments, which approximates estimated fair value, was $11.6 billion and $9.3 billion, or 2.2% and 1.8% of total cash and invested assets, at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. The carrying value of cash equivalents, which approximates estimated fair value, was $6.0 billion and $7.5 billion, or 1.1% and 1.5% of total cash and invested assets, at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.
Derivatives
Derivative Risks
We are exposed to various risks relating to our ongoing business operations, including interest rate, foreign currency exchange rate, credit and equity market. We use a variety of strategies to manage these risks, including the use of derivatives. See Note 7 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for: 
A comprehensive description of the nature of our derivatives, including the strategies for which derivatives are used in managing various risks.
Information about the gross notional amount, estimated fair value, and primary underlying risk exposure of our derivatives by type of hedge designation, excluding embedded derivatives held at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015.
The statement of operations effects of derivatives in net investments in foreign operations, cash flow, fair value, or nonqualifying hedge relationships for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015.
See “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk — Management of Market Risk Exposures — Hedging Activities” included in the 2015 Annual Report for more information about our use of derivatives by major hedge program.

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Fair Value Hierarchy
See Note 8 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for derivatives measured at estimated fair value on a recurring basis and their corresponding fair value hierarchy.
The valuation of Level 3 derivatives involves the use of significant unobservable inputs and generally requires a higher degree of management judgment or estimation than the valuations of Level 1 and Level 2 derivatives. Although Level 3 inputs are unobservable, management believes they are consistent with what other market participants would use when pricing such instruments and are considered appropriate given the circumstances. The use of different inputs or methodologies could have a material effect on the estimated fair value of Level 3 derivatives and could materially affect net income.
Derivatives categorized as Level 3 at March 31, 2016 include: interest rate forwards with maturities which extend beyond the observable portion of the yield curve; interest rate options with certain unobservable inputs including the unobservable portion of the yield curve; foreign currency swaps and forwards with certain unobservable inputs, including the unobservable portion of the yield curve; credit default swaps priced using unobservable credit spreads, or that are priced through independent broker quotations; equity variance swaps with unobservable volatility inputs; and equity index options with unobservable correlation inputs. At March 31, 2016, less than 1% of the estimated fair value of our derivatives was priced through independent broker quotations.
See Note 8 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for a rollforward of the fair value measurements for derivatives measured at estimated fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable (Level 3) inputs.
The gain (loss) on Level 3 derivatives primarily relates to certain purchased equity index options that are valued using models dependent on an unobservable market correlation input, equity variance swaps that are valued using observable equity volatility data plus an unobservable equity variance spread and foreign currency swaps and forwards that are valued using an unobservable portion of the swap yield curve. Other significant inputs, which are observable, include equity index levels, equity volatility and the swap yield curve. We validate the reasonableness of these inputs by valuing the positions using internal models and comparing the results to broker quotations.
The gain (loss) on Level 3 derivatives, percentage of gain (loss) attributable to observable and unobservable inputs, and the primary drivers of observable gain (loss) are summarized as follows:
 
 
Three Months 
 Ended 
 March 31, 2016
Gain (loss) recognized in net income (loss)
 
$67 million
Percentage of gain (loss) attributable to observable inputs
 
(33)%
Primary drivers of observable gain (loss)
 
Weakening of the U.S. dollar versus foreign currencies on receive inflation-linked foreign currency, pay U.S. dollar forwards and swaps; decreases in certain equity volatility levels; and decreases in certain equity index levels.
Percentage of gain (loss) attributable to unobservable inputs
 
133%
See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Summary of Critical Accounting Estimates — Derivatives” included in the 2015 Annual Report for further information on the estimates and assumptions that affect derivatives.
Credit Risk
See Note 7 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information about how we manage credit risk related to derivatives and for the estimated fair value of our net derivative assets and net derivative liabilities after the application of master netting agreements and collateral.
Our policy is not to offset the fair value amounts recognized for derivatives executed with the same counterparty under the same master netting agreement. This policy applies to the recognition of derivatives in the consolidated balance sheets, and does not affect our legal right of offset.

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Credit Derivatives
The following table presents the gross notional amount and estimated fair value of credit default swaps at:
 
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
Credit Default Swaps
 
Gross
Notional
Amount
 
Estimated
Fair Value
 
Gross
Notional
Amount
 
Estimated
Fair Value
 
 
(In millions)
Purchased (1)
 
$
2,079

 
$

 
$
1,870

 
$
(6
)
Written (2)
 
10,729

 
94

 
10,311

 
65

Total
 
$
12,808

 
$
94

 
$
12,181

 
$
59

__________________
(1)
The gross notional amount and estimated fair value for purchased credit default swaps in the trading portfolio were $195 million and ($2) million, respectively, at March 31, 2016 and $175 million and ($2) million, respectively, at December 31, 2015.
(2)
The gross notional amount and estimated fair value for written credit default swaps in the trading portfolio were $10 million and $1 million, respectively, at March 31, 2016 and $20 million and ($2) million, respectively, at December 31, 2015.
The following table presents the gross gains, gross losses and net gain (losses) recognized in income for credit default swaps as follows:
 
 
Three Months 
 Ended 
 March 31,
 
 
2016
 
2015
Credit Default Swaps
 
Gross
Gains 
(1)
 
Gross
Losses 
(1)
 
Net
Gains
(Losses)
 
Gross
Gains 
(1)
 
Gross
Losses 
(1)
 
Net
Gains
(Losses)
 
 
(In millions)
Purchased (2), (4)
 
$
27

 
$
(22
)
 
$
5

 
$
9

 
$
(21
)
 
$
(12
)
Written (3), (4)
 
25

 
(40
)
 
(15
)
 
19

 
(15
)
 
4

Total
 
$
52

 
$
(62
)
 
$
(10
)
 
$
28

 
$
(36
)
 
$
(8
)
__________________
(1)
Gains (losses) are reported in net derivative gains (losses), except for gains (losses) on the trading portfolio, which are reported in net investment income.
(2)
The gross gains and gross (losses) for purchased credit default swaps in the trading portfolio were $12 million and ($2) million, respectively, for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and $1 million and ($2) million, respectively, for the three months ended March 31, 2015.
(3)
The gross gains and gross (losses) for written credit default swaps in the trading portfolio were $2 million and ($11) million, respectively, for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and $1 million and $0, respectively, for the three months ended March 31, 2015.
(4)
Gains (losses) do not include earned income (expense) on credit default swaps.
The maximum amount at risk related to our written credit default swaps is equal to the corresponding gross notional amount. In a replication transaction, we pair an asset on our balance sheet with a written credit default swap to synthetically replicate a corporate bond, a core asset holding of life insurance companies. Replications are entered into in accordance with the guidelines approved by insurance regulators and are an important tool in managing the overall corporate credit risk within the Company. In order to match our long-dated insurance liabilities, we will seek to buy long-dated corporate bonds. In some instances, these may not be readily available in the market, or they may be issued by corporations to which we already have significant corporate credit exposure. For example, by purchasing Treasury bonds (or other high-quality assets) and associating them with written credit default swaps on the desired corporate credit name, we, at times, can replicate the desired bond exposures and meet our ALM needs. In addition, given the shorter tenor of the credit default swaps (generally five-year tenors) versus a long-dated corporate bond, we have more flexibility in managing our credit exposures.

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Embedded Derivatives
See Note 8 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information about embedded derivatives measured at estimated fair value on a recurring basis and their corresponding fair value hierarchy.
See Note 8 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for a rollforward of the fair value measurements for net embedded derivatives measured at estimated fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable (Level 3) inputs.
See Note 7 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information about the nonperformance risk adjustment included in the valuation of guaranteed minimum benefits accounted for as embedded derivatives.
See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Summary of Critical Accounting Estimates — Derivatives” included in the 2015 Annual Report for further information on the estimates and assumptions that affect embedded derivatives.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
Credit and Committed Facilities
We maintain an unsecured credit facility and certain committed facilities with various financial institutions. See “— Liquidity and Capital Resources — The Company — Liquidity and Capital Sources — Global Funding Sources — Credit and Committed Facilities” for further descriptions of such arrangements. For the classification of expenses on such credit and committed facilities and the nature of the associated liability for letters of credit issued and drawdowns on these credit and committed facilities, see Note 12 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2015 Annual Report.
Collateral for Securities Lending, Repurchase Agreement Transactions, Third-Party Custodian Administered Repurchase Program and Derivatives
We participate in a securities lending program in the normal course of business for the purpose of enhancing the total return on our investment portfolio. Periodically, we receive non-cash collateral for securities lending from counterparties, which cannot be sold or re-pledged, and which has not been recorded on our consolidated balance sheets. The amount of this collateral was $88 million and $50 million at estimated fair value at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. See Note 6 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and “— Investments — Securities Lending,” as well as “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies — Investments — Securities Lending Program” in Note 1 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2015 Annual Report for discussion of our securities lending program, the classification of revenues and expenses, and the nature of the secured financing arrangement and associated liability.
We participate in repurchase and reverse repurchase agreement transactions. In connection with these transactions, we obtain fixed maturity securities as collateral from unaffiliated financial institutions, which can be re-pledged, and which have not been recorded on our consolidated balance sheets. The amount of these securities and the amount which were re-pledged was $305 million and $105 million, respectively, at estimated fair value at March 31, 2016. We had no such securities as of December 31, 2015. See “— Investments — Repurchase Agreement Transactions” and Note 6 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for discussion of our repurchase and reverse repurchase agreements, and the classification of the associated net receivable/payable and expense.
We also participate in third-party custodian administered repurchase programs for the purpose of enhancing the total return on our investment portfolio. We loan certain of our fixed maturity securities to financial institutions and, in exchange, non-cash collateral is put on deposit by the financial institutions on our behalf with third-party custodians. The estimated fair value of securities loaned in connection with these transactions was $548 million and $738 million at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. Non-cash collateral on deposit with third-party custodians on our behalf was $579 million and $781 million at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively, which cannot be sold or re-pledged, and which has not been recorded on our consolidated balance sheets.
We enter into derivatives to manage various risks relating to our ongoing business operations. We have non-cash collateral from counterparties for derivatives, which can be sold or re-pledged subject to certain constraints, and which has not been recorded on our consolidated balance sheets. The amount of this non-cash collateral was $2.0 billion and $2.2 billion at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. See “— Liquidity and Capital Resources — The Company — Liquidity and Capital Uses — Pledged Collateral” and Note 7 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information regarding the earned income on and the gross notional amount, estimated fair value of assets and liabilities and primary underlying risk exposure of our derivatives.

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Lease Commitments
As lessee, we have entered into various lease and sublease agreements for office space, information technology and other equipment. Our commitments under such lease agreements are included within the contractual obligations table. See “— Liquidity and Capital Resources — The Company — Contractual Obligations” and Note 21 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2015 Annual Report.
Guarantees
See “Guarantees” in Note 13 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
Other
Additionally, we make mortgage loan commitments and commitments to fund partnerships, bank credit facilities, bridge loans and private corporate bond investments in the normal course of business for the purpose of enhancing the total return on our investment portfolio. Other than these investment-related commitments which are disclosed in Note 13 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements, there are no other material obligations or liabilities arising from these investment- related commitments. For further information on these investment-related commitments see “— Liquidity and Capital Resources — The Company — Contractual Obligations.” See “Net Investment Income” and “Net Investment Gains (Losses)” in Note 6 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information on the investment income, investment expense, gains and losses from such investments. See also “— Investments — Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities AFS,” “— Investments — Mortgage Loans,” “— Investments — Real Estate and Real Estate Joint Ventures” and “— Investments — Other Limited Partnership Interests” for information on our investments in fixed maturity and equity securities, mortgage loans and partnerships.
Policyholder Liabilities
We establish, and carry as liabilities, actuarially determined amounts that are calculated to meet policy obligations or to provide for future annuity payments. Amounts for actuarial liabilities are computed and reported in the interim condensed consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP. For more details on Policyholder Liabilities, see “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Summary of Critical Accounting Estimates” included in the 2015 Annual Report.
Due to the nature of the underlying risks and the uncertainty associated with the determination of actuarial liabilities, we cannot precisely determine the amounts that will ultimately be paid with respect to these actuarial liabilities, and the ultimate amounts may vary from the estimated amounts, particularly when payments may not occur until well into the future.
We periodically review our estimates of actuarial liabilities for future benefits and compare them with our actual experience. We revise estimates, to the extent permitted or required under GAAP, if we determine that future expected experience differs from assumptions used in the development of actuarial liabilities. We charge or credit changes in our liabilities to expenses in the period the liabilities are established or re-estimated. If the liabilities originally established for future benefit payments prove inadequate, we must increase them. Such an increase could adversely affect our earnings and have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.
We have experienced, and will likely in the future experience, catastrophe losses and possibly acts of terrorism, as well as turbulent financial markets that may have an adverse impact on our business, results of operations, and financial condition. Due to their nature, we cannot predict the incidence, timing, severity or amount of losses from catastrophes and acts of terrorism, but we make broad use of catastrophic and non-catastrophic reinsurance to manage risk from these perils.
Insurance regulators in many of the non-U.S. countries in which we operate require certain MetLife entities to prepare a sufficiency analysis of the reserves presented in the locally required regulatory financial statements, and to submit that analysis to the regulatory authorities. See “Business — Regulation — U.S. Regulation — Insurance Regulation — Policy and Contract Reserve Adequacy Analysis” and “Business — Regulation — International Regulation” included in the 2015 Annual Report.
Future Policy Benefits
We establish liabilities for amounts payable under insurance policies. See Notes 1 and 4 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2015 Annual Report for additional information. See also “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Industry Trends — Impact of a Sustained Low Interest Rate Environment — Low Interest Rate Scenario” included in the 2015 Annual Report and “— Variable Annuity Guarantees.” A discussion of future policy benefits by segment (as well as Corporate & Other) follows.

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Table of Contents

Retail
Future policy benefits for the life business are comprised mainly of liabilities for traditional life and for universal and variable life insurance contracts. In order to manage risk, we have often reinsured a portion of the mortality risk on life insurance policies. The reinsurance programs are routinely evaluated and this may result in increases or decreases to existing coverage. We have entered into various derivative positions, primarily interest rate swaps and swaptions, to mitigate the risk that investment of premiums received and reinvestment of maturing assets over the life of the policy will be at rates below those assumed in the original pricing of these contracts. For our property & casualty business, future policy benefits include unearned premium reserves and liabilities for unpaid claims and claim expenses and represent the amount estimated for claims that have been reported but not settled and claims incurred but not reported. For the annuities business, future policy benefits are comprised mainly of liabilities for life-contingent income annuities, and liabilities for the variable annuity guaranteed minimum benefits accounted for as insurance.
Group, Voluntary & Worksite Benefits
With the exception of our property & casualty business, future policy benefits for our Group and Voluntary & Worksite businesses are comprised mainly of liabilities for disabled lives under disability waiver of premium policy provisions, liabilities for survivor income benefit insurance, long-term care policies, active life policies and premium stabilization and other contingency liabilities held under life insurance contracts. The components of future policy benefits for the property & casualty products offered by the Voluntary & Worksite and Retail property & casualty businesses are the same. Liabilities for unpaid claims are estimated based upon assumptions such as rates of claim frequencies, levels of severities, inflation, judicial trends, legislative changes or regulatory decisions. Assumptions are based upon our historical experience and analyses of historical development patterns of the relationship of loss adjustment expenses to losses for each line of business, and we consider the effects of current developments, anticipated trends and risk management programs, reduced for anticipated salvage and subrogation.
Corporate Benefit Funding
Liabilities for this segment are primarily related to payout annuities, including pension risk transfers, structured settlement annuities and institutional income annuities. There is no interest rate crediting flexibility on these liabilities. As a result, a sustained low interest rate environment could negatively impact earnings; however, we mitigate our risks by applying various ALM strategies, including the use of various derivative positions, primarily interest rate floors and interest rate swaps, to mitigate the risks associated with such a scenario.
Latin America
Future policy benefits for this segment are held primarily for immediate annuities in Chile, Argentina and Mexico and traditional life contracts mainly in Brazil and Mexico. There are also liabilities held for total return pass-through provisions included in certain universal life and savings products in Mexico. Factors impacting these liabilities include sustained periods of lower yields than rates established at policy issuance, lower than expected asset reinvestment rates, and mortality and lapses different than expected. We mitigate our risks by applying various ALM strategies.
Asia
Future policy benefits for this segment are held primarily for traditional life, endowment, annuity and accident & health contracts. They are also held for total return pass-through provisions included in certain universal life and savings products. They include certain liabilities for variable annuity and variable life guarantees of minimum death benefits, and longevity guarantees. Factors impacting these liabilities include sustained periods of lower yields than rates established at policy issuance, lower than expected asset reinvestment rates, market volatility, actual lapses resulting in lower than expected income, and actual mortality or morbidity resulting in higher than expected benefit payments. We mitigate our risks by applying various ALM strategies.
EMEA
Future policy benefits for this segment include unearned premium reserves for group life and credit insurance contracts. Future policy benefits are also held for traditional life, endowment and annuity contracts with significant mortality risk and accident & health contracts. Factors impacting these liabilities include lower than expected asset reinvestment rates, market volatility, actual lapses resulting in lower than expected income, and actual mortality or morbidity resulting in higher than expected benefit payments. We mitigate our risks by having premiums which are adjustable or cancellable in some cases, and by applying various ALM strategies.

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Corporate & Other
Future policy benefits primarily include liabilities for certain run-off long-term care and workers’ compensation business written by MetLife Insurance Company USA. Additionally, future policy benefits include liabilities for variable annuity guaranteed minimum benefits assumed from a former operating joint venture in Japan that are accounted for as insurance.
Policyholder Account Balances
Policyholder account balances are generally equal to the account value, which includes accrued interest credited, but excludes the impact of any applicable charge that may be incurred upon surrender. See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Industry Trends — Impact of a Sustained Low Interest Rate Environment — Low Interest Rate Scenario” included in the 2015 Annual Report and “— Variable Annuity Guarantees.” See also Notes 1 and 4 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2015 Annual Report for additional information. A discussion of policyholder account balances by segment (as well as Corporate & Other) follows.
Retail
Life & Other policyholder account balances are held for retained asset accounts, universal life policies and the fixed account of variable life insurance policies. For Annuities, policyholder account balances are held for fixed deferred annuities, the fixed account portion of variable annuities, and non-life contingent income annuities. Interest is credited to the policyholder’s account at interest rates we determine which are influenced by current market rates, subject to specified minimums. A sustained low interest rate environment could negatively impact earnings as a result of the minimum credited rate guarantees present in most of these policyholder account balances. We have various derivative positions, primarily interest rate floors, to partially mitigate the risks associated with such a scenario. Additionally, policyholder account balances are held for variable annuity guaranteed minimum living benefits that are accounted for as embedded derivatives.
The table below presents the breakdown of account value subject to minimum guaranteed crediting rates for Retail:
 
March 31, 2016
Guaranteed Minimum Crediting Rate
Account
Value (1)
 
Account
Value at
Guarantee (1)
 
(In millions)
Life & Other
 
 
 
Greater than 0% but less than 2%
$
94

 
$
94

Equal to 2% but less than 4%
$
12,657

 
$
5,423

Equal to or greater than 4%
$
10,529

 
$
6,425

Annuities
 
 
 
Greater than 0% but less than 2%
$
3,534

 
$
2,997

Equal to 2% but less than 4%
$
30,612

 
$
27,325

Equal to or greater than 4%
$
2,299

 
$
2,260

__________________
(1)These amounts are not adjusted for policy loans.
As a result of acquisitions, we establish additional liabilities known as excess interest reserves for policies with credited rates in excess of market rates as of the applicable acquisition dates. At March 31, 2016, excess interest reserves were $108 million and $326 million for Life & Other and Annuities, respectively.
Group, Voluntary & Worksite Benefits
Policyholder account balances in this segment are held for retained asset accounts, universal life policies, the fixed account of variable life insurance policies and specialized life insurance products for benefit programs. Policyholder account balances are credited interest at a rate we determine, which are influenced by current market rates. A sustained low interest rate environment could negatively impact earnings as a result of the minimum credited rate guarantees present in most of these policyholder account balances. We have various derivative positions, primarily interest rate floors, to partially mitigate the risks associated with such a scenario.

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The table below presents the breakdown of account value subject to minimum guaranteed crediting rates for Group, Voluntary & Worksite Benefits:
 
March 31, 2016
Guaranteed Minimum Crediting Rate
Account
Value (1)
 
Account
Value at
Guarantee (1)
 
(In millions)
Greater than 0% but less than 2%
$
4,889

 
$
4,881

Equal to 2% but less than 4%
$
1,976

 
$
1,976

Equal to or greater than 4%
$
689

 
$
662

__________________
(1)
These amounts are not adjusted for policy loans.
Corporate Benefit Funding
Policyholder account balances in this segment are comprised of funding agreements. Interest crediting rates vary by type of contract, and can be fixed or variable. Variable interest crediting rates are generally tied to an external index, most commonly (1-month or 3-month) LIBOR. We are exposed to interest rate risks, as well as foreign currency exchange rate risk, when guaranteeing payment of interest and return of principal at the contractual maturity date. We may invest in floating rate assets or enter into receive-floating interest rate swaps, also tied to external indices, as well as caps, to mitigate the impact of changes in market interest rates. We also mitigate our risks by applying various ALM strategies and seek to hedge all foreign currency exchange rate risk through the use of foreign currency hedges, including cross currency swaps.
Latin America
Policyholder account balances in this segment are held largely for investment-type products and universal life products in Mexico and Chile, and deferred annuities in Brazil. Some of the deferred annuities in Brazil are unit-linked-type funds that do not meet the GAAP definition of separate accounts. The rest of the deferred annuities have minimum credited rate guarantees, and these liabilities and the universal life liabilities are generally impacted by sustained periods of low interest rates. Liabilities for unit-linked-type funds are impacted by changes in the fair value of the associated investments, as the return on assets is generally passed directly to the policyholder.
Asia
Policyholder account balances in this segment are held largely for fixed income retirement and savings plans, fixed deferred annuities, interest sensitive whole life products, universal life and, to a lesser degree, liability amounts for unit-linked-type funds that do not meet the GAAP definition of separate accounts. Also included are certain liabilities for retirement and savings products sold in certain countries in Asia that generally are sold with minimum credited rate guarantees. Liabilities for guarantees on certain variable annuities in Asia are accounted for as embedded derivatives and recorded at estimated fair value and are also included within policyholder account balances. These liabilities are generally impacted by sustained periods of low interest rates, where there are interest rate guarantees. We mitigate our risks by applying various ALM strategies and with reinsurance. Liabilities for unit-linked-type funds are impacted by changes in the fair value of the associated underlying investments, as the return on assets is generally passed directly to the policyholder.

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The table below presents the breakdown of account value subject to minimum guaranteed crediting rates for Asia:
 
March 31, 2016
Guaranteed Minimum Crediting Rate (1)
Account
Value (2)
 
Account
Value at
Guarantee (2)
 
(In millions)
Annuities
 
 
 
Greater than 0% but less than 2%
$
20,406

 
$
3,083

Equal to 2% but less than 4%
$
1,079

 
$
450

Equal to or greater than 4%
$
1

 
$
1

Life & Other
 
 
 
Greater than 0% but less than 2%
$
7,297

 
$
6,321

Equal to 2% but less than 4%
$
18,832

 
$
8,429

Equal to or greater than 4%
$
268

 
$

__________________
(1)
Excludes negative VOBA liabilities of $1.1 billion at March 31, 2016, primarily held in Japan. These liabilities were established in instances where the estimated fair value of contract obligations exceeded the book value of assumed insurance policy liabilities associated with the acquisition of American Life and Delaware American Life Insurance Company (collectively, “ALICO”). These negative liabilities were established primarily for decreased market interest rates subsequent to the issuance of the policy contracts.
(2)
These amounts are not adjusted for policy loans.
EMEA
Policyholder account balances in this segment are held mostly for universal life, deferred annuity, pension products, and unit-linked-type funds that do not meet the GAAP definition of separate accounts. They are also held for endowment products without significant mortality risk. Where there are interest rate guarantees, these liabilities are generally impacted by sustained periods of low interest rates. We mitigate our risks by applying various ALM strategies. Liabilities for unit-linked-type funds are impacted by changes in the fair value of the associated investments, as the return on assets is generally passed directly to the policyholder.
Corporate & Other
Policyholder account balances in Corporate & Other are held for variable annuity guaranteed minimum benefits assumed from a former operating joint venture in Japan that are accounted for as embedded derivatives.
Variable Annuity Guarantees
We issue, directly and through assumed business, certain variable annuity products with guaranteed minimum benefits that provide the policyholder a minimum return based on their initial deposit (i.e., the benefit base) less withdrawals. In some cases, the benefit base may be increased by additional deposits, bonus amounts, accruals or optional market value resets. See Notes 1 and 4 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2015 Annual Report, as well as Note 4 of the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements, for additional information.
Certain guarantees, including portions thereof, have insurance liabilities established that are included in future policy benefits. Guarantees accounted for in this manner include GMDBs, the life-contingent portion of certain guaranteed minimum withdrawal benefit (“GMWBs”), and the non-life contingent portions of both GMWBs and guaranteed minimum income benefit (“GMIBs”) that require annuitization. These liabilities are accrued over the life of the contract in proportion to actual and future expected policy assessments based on the level of guaranteed minimum benefits generated using multiple scenarios of separate account returns. The scenarios are based on best estimate assumptions consistent with those used to amortize DAC. When current estimates of future benefits exceed those previously projected or when current estimates of future assessments are lower than those previously projected, liabilities will increase, resulting in a current period charge to net income. The opposite result occurs when the current estimates of future benefits are lower than those previously projected or when current estimates of future assessments exceed those previously projected. At each reporting period, we update the actual amount of business remaining in-force, which impacts expected future assessments and the projection of estimated future benefits resulting in a current period charge or increase to earnings.

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Certain guarantees, including portions thereof, accounted for as embedded derivatives, are recorded at estimated fair value and included in policyholder account balances. Guarantees accounted for as embedded derivatives include guaranteed minimum accumulation benefits (“GMABs”), and the non-life contingent portions of both GMWBs and GMIBs that do not require annuitization. The estimated fair values of guarantees accounted for as embedded derivatives are determined based on the present value of projected future benefits minus the present value of projected future fees. The projections of future benefits and future fees require capital market and actuarial assumptions including expectations concerning policyholder behavior. A risk neutral valuation methodology is used to project the cash flows from the guarantees under multiple capital market scenarios to determine an economic liability. The reported estimated fair value is then determined by taking the present value of these risk-free generated cash flows using a discount rate that incorporates a spread over the risk-free rate to reflect our nonperformance risk and adding a risk margin. For more information on the determination of estimated fair value, see Note 8 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
The table below contains the carrying value for guarantees at: 
 
Future Policy
Benefits
 
Policyholder
Account Balances
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
 
(In millions)
Americas
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GMDB
$
967

 
$
937

 
$

 
$

GMIB
2,544

 
2,410

 
39

 
(507
)
GMAB

 

 
21

 
9

GMWB
132

 
127

 
669

 
338

Asia
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GMDB
26

 
25

 

 

GMAB

 

 
44

 
37

GMWB
92

 
89

 
214

 
151

EMEA
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GMDB
2

 
2

 

 

GMAB

 

 
21

 
16

GMWB
8

 
8

 
(17
)
 
(63
)
Corporate & Other
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GMDB
10

 
13

 

 

GMAB

 

 
28

 
13

GMWB
129

 
104

 
1,365

 
951

Total
$
3,910

 
$
3,715

 
$
2,384

 
$
945

The carrying amounts for guarantees included in policyholder account balances above include nonperformance risk adjustments of $821 million and $462 million at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. These nonperformance risk adjustments represent the impact of including a credit spread when discounting the underlying risk neutral cash flows to determine the estimated fair values. The nonperformance risk adjustment does not have an economic impact on us as it cannot be monetized given the nature of these policyholder liabilities. The change in valuation arising from the nonperformance risk adjustment is not hedged.
The carrying values of these guarantees can change significantly during periods of sizable and sustained shifts in equity market performance, equity volatility, interest rates or foreign currency exchange rates. Carrying values are also impacted by our assumptions around mortality, separate account returns and policyholder behavior, including lapse rates.
As discussed below, we use a combination of product design, hedging strategies, reinsurance, and other risk management actions to mitigate the risks related to these benefits. Within each type of guarantee, there is a range of product offerings reflecting the changing nature of these products over time. Changes in product features and terms are in part driven by customer demand but, more importantly, reflect our risk management practices of continuously evaluating the guaranteed benefits and their associated asset-liability matching. Recently, we have been diversifying the concentration of income benefits in the portfolio of the Company’s Retail Annuities business by focusing on withdrawal benefits, variable annuities without living benefits and index-linked annuities. To this end, the GMIBs were no longer available for new purchases after February 19, 2016.

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The sections below provide further detail by total account value for certain of our most popular guarantees. Total account values include amounts not reported in the consolidated balance sheets from assumed business, contractholder-directed investments which do not qualify for presentation as separate account assets, and amounts included in our general account. The total account values and the net amounts at risk include direct and assumed business, but exclude offsets from hedging or ceded reinsurance, if any.
GMDBs
We offer a range of GMDBs to our contractholders. The table below presents GMDBs, by benefit type, at March 31, 2016:
 
Total Account Value (1)
 
Americas
 
Asia & EMEA
 
Corporate &
Other
 
(In millions)
Return of premium or five to seven year step-up
$
100,092

 
$
9,525

 
$
10,708

Annual step-up
27,264

 

 

Roll-up and step-up combination
36,516

 

 

Total
$
163,872

 
$
9,525

 
$
10,708

__________________
(1)
Total account value excludes $2.1 billion for contracts with no GMDBs. Further, many of our annuity contracts offer more than one type of guarantee such that GMDB amounts listed above are not mutually exclusive to the amounts in the living benefit guarantees table below.
Based on total account value, less than 39% of our GMDBs included enhanced death benefits such as the annual step-up or roll-up and step-up combination products. We expect the above GMDB risk profile to be relatively consistent for the foreseeable future.
Living Benefit Guarantees
The table below presents our living benefit guarantees based on total account values at March 31, 2016:
 
Total Account Value (1)
 
Americas
 
Asia & EMEA
 
Corporate &
Other
 
(In millions)
GMIB
$
89,753

 
$

 
$

GMWB - non-life contingent (2)
5,537

 
2,627

 
2,270

GMWB - life-contingent
22,475

 
4,383

 
7,480

GMAB
713

 
1,380

 
958

 
$
118,478

 
$
8,390

 
$
10,708

__________________
(1)
Total account value excludes $47.5 billion for contracts with no living benefit guarantees. Further, many of our annuity contracts offer more than one type of guarantee such that living benefit guarantee amounts listed above are not mutually exclusive of the amounts in the GMDBs table above.
(2)
The Asia and EMEA segments include the non-life contingent portion of the GMWB total account value of $1,032 million with a guarantee at annuitization.
In terms of total account value, GMIBs are our most significant living benefit guarantee. Our primary risk management strategy for our GMIB products is our derivatives hedging program as discussed below. Additionally, we have engaged in certain reinsurance agreements covering some of our GMIB business. As part of our overall risk management approach for living benefit guarantees, we continually monitor the reinsurance markets for the right opportunity to purchase additional coverage for our GMIB business.

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The table below presents our GMIB associated total account values, by their guaranteed payout basis, at March 31, 2016:
 
Total Account Value
 
(In millions)
7-year setback, 2.5% interest rate
$
32,024

7-year setback, 1.5% interest rate
5,317

10-year setback, 1.5% interest rate
17,957

10-year mortality projection, 10-year setback, 1.0% interest rate
30,268

10-year mortality projection, 10-year setback, 0.5% interest rate
4,187

 
$
89,753

The annuitization interest rates on GMIBs have been decreased from 2.5% to 0.5% over time, partially in response to the low interest rate environment, accompanied by an increase in the setback period from seven years to 10 years and the introduction of a 10-year mortality projection.
Additionally, 33% of the $89.8 billion of GMIB total account value has been invested in managed volatility funds as of March 31, 2016. These funds seek to manage volatility by adjusting the fund holdings within certain guidelines based on capital market movements. Such activity reduces the overall risk of the underlying funds while maintaining their growth opportunities. These risk mitigation techniques translate to a reduction or elimination of the need for us to manage the funds’ volatility through hedging or reinsurance.
Our GMIB products typically have a waiting period of 10 years to be eligible for annuitization. As of March 31, 2016, only 16% of our contracts with GMIBs were eligible for annuitization. The remaining contracts are not eligible for annuitization for an average of six years.
Once eligible for annuitization, contractholders would only be expected to annuitize if their contracts were in-the-money. We calculate in-the-moneyness with respect to GMIBs consistent with net amount at risk as discussed in Note 4 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements, by comparing the contractholders’ income benefits based on total account values and current annuity rates versus the guaranteed income benefits. The net amount at risk was $3,412 million at March 31, 2016, of which $3,237 million was related to GMIB guarantees. For those contracts with GMIB, the table below presents details of contracts that are in-the-money and out-of-the-money at March 31, 2016:
 
In-the-
Moneyness
 
Total
Account Value
 
% of Total

 
 
 
(In millions)
 
 
In-the-money
30% +
 
$
3,165

 
3
%
 
20% to 30%
 
2,460

 
3
%
 
10% to 20%
 
4,276

 
5
%
 
0% to 10%
 
6,940

 
8
%
 
 
 
16,841

 
 
Out-of-the-money
-10% to 0%
 
14,348

 
16
%
 
-20% to -10%
 
7,573

 
8
%
 
-20% +
 
50,991

 
57
%
 
 
 
72,912

 
 
Total GMIBs
 
 
$
89,753

 
 
Derivatives Hedging Variable Annuity Guarantees
Our risk mitigating hedging strategy uses various over-the-counter and exchange traded derivatives. The table below presents the gross notional amount, estimated fair value and primary underlying risk exposure of the derivatives hedging our variable annuity guarantees:

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Instrument Type
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
Primary Underlying
Risk Exposure
 
Gross Notional
Amount
 
Estimated Fair Value
 
Gross Notional
Amount
 
Estimated Fair Value
Assets
 
Liabilities
 
Assets
 
Liabilities
 
 
 
 
(In millions)
Interest rate
 
Interest rate swaps
 
$
24,363

 
$
2,962

 
$
1,372

 
$
23,430

 
$
2,056

 
$
966

 
 
Interest rate futures
 
6,027

 
21

 
6

 
3,915

 
4

 
5

 
 
Interest rate options
 
24,923

 
2,026

 

 
24,923

 
994

 
7

Foreign currency exchange rate
 
Foreign currency forwards
 
2,694

 
63

 
14

 
2,305

 
29

 
7

 
 
Foreign currency futures
 
143

 
1

 

 
135

 

 

Equity market
 
Equity futures
 
11,639

 
27

 
15

 
7,104

 
61

 
18

 
 
Equity options
 
51,388

 
1,903

 
1,235

 
54,113

 
1,541

 
1,041

 
 
Variance swaps
 
23,466

 
208

 
682

 
23,437

 
195

 
636

 
 
Total rate of return swaps
 
3,913

 
8

 
229

 
3,803

 
47

 
58

 
 
Total
 
$
148,556

 
$
7,219

 
$
3,553

 
$
143,165

 
$
4,927

 
$
2,738

The change in estimated fair values of our derivatives is recorded in policyholder benefits and claims if such derivatives are hedging guarantees included in future policy benefits, and in net derivative gains (losses) if such derivatives are hedging guarantees included in policyholder account balances.
Our hedging strategy involves the significant use of static longer-term derivative instruments to avoid the need to execute transactions during periods of market disruption or higher volatility. We continually monitor the capital markets for opportunities to adjust our liability coverage, as appropriate. Futures are also used to dynamically adjust the daily coverage levels as markets and liability exposures fluctuate.
We remain liable for the guaranteed benefits in the event that reinsurers or derivative counterparties are unable or unwilling to pay. Certain of our reinsurance agreements and most derivative positions are collateralized and derivatives positions are subject to master netting agreements, both of which significantly reduce the exposure to counterparty risk. In addition, we are subject to the risk that hedging and other risk management actions prove ineffective or that unanticipated policyholder behavior or mortality, combined with adverse market events, produces economic losses beyond the scope of the risk management techniques employed.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Overview
Our business and results of operations are materially affected by conditions in the global capital markets and the economy generally. Stressed conditions, volatility and disruptions in global capital markets, particular markets, or financial asset classes can have an adverse effect on us, in part because we have a large investment portfolio and our insurance liabilities are sensitive to changing market factors. The global markets and economy continue to experience volatility that may affect our financing costs and market interest for our debt or equity securities. For further information regarding market factors that could affect our ability to meet liquidity and capital needs, see “— Industry Trends” and “— Investments — Current Environment.”
Liquidity Management
Based upon the strength of our franchise, diversification of our businesses, strong financial fundamentals and the substantial funding sources available to us as described herein, we continue to believe we have access to ample liquidity to meet business requirements under current market conditions and reasonably possible stress scenarios. We continuously monitor and adjust our liquidity and capital plans for MetLife, Inc. and its subsidiaries in light of market conditions, as well as changing needs and opportunities.
Short-term Liquidity
We maintain a substantial short-term liquidity position, which was $11.7 billion and $11.1 billion at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. Short-term liquidity includes cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments, excluding assets that are pledged or otherwise committed including: (i) amounts related to cash collateral received under our securities lending program; (ii) amounts related to cash collateral received from counterparties in connection with derivatives; and (iii) cash held in the closed block.

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Liquid Assets
An integral part of our liquidity management includes managing our level of liquid assets, which was $239.1 billion and $229.4 billion at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. Liquid assets include cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments and publicly-traded securities, excluding assets that are pledged or otherwise committed. Assets pledged or otherwise committed include: (i) amounts related to cash collateral received under our securities lending program; (ii) amounts related to cash collateral received from counterparties in connection with derivatives; (iii) cash and investments held in the closed block, in regulatory custodial accounts or on deposit with regulatory agencies; (iv) investments held in trust in support of collateral financing arrangements; and (v) investments pledged in support of funding agreements, derivatives and short sale agreements.
Capital Management
We have established several senior management committees as part of our capital management process. These committees, including the Capital Management Committee and the Enterprise Risk Committee (“ERC”), regularly review actual and projected capital levels (under a variety of scenarios including stress scenarios) and our annual capital plan in accordance with our capital policy. The Capital Management Committee is comprised of members of senior management, including MetLife, Inc.’s Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chief Risk Officer (“CRO”). The ERC is also comprised of members of senior management, including MetLife, Inc.’s Chief Financial Officer, CRO and Chief Investment Officer.
Our Board and senior management are directly involved in the development and maintenance of our capital policy. The capital policy sets forth, among other things, minimum and target capital levels and the governance of the capital management process. All capital actions, including proposed changes to the annual capital plan, capital targets or capital policy, are reviewed by the Finance and Risk Committee of the Board prior to obtaining full Board approval. The Board approves the capital policy and the annual capital plan and authorizes capital actions, as required.
See “Risk Factors — Capital-Related Risks — Regulatory Restrictions and Uncertainty and Restrictions Under the Terms of Certain of Our Securities May Prevent Us from Repurchasing Our Stock and Paying Dividends at the Level We Wish” and Note 16 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2015 Annual Report for information regarding restrictions on payment of dividends and stock repurchases. See also “— The Company — Liquidity and Capital Uses — Common Stock Repurchases” for information regarding MetLife, Inc.’s common stock repurchase authorizations.
The Company
Liquidity
Liquidity refers to a company’s ability to generate adequate amounts of cash to meet its needs. In the event of significant cash requirements beyond anticipated liquidity needs, we have various alternatives available depending on market conditions and the amount and timing of the liquidity need. These available alternatives include cash flows from operations, sales of liquid assets, global funding sources and various credit facilities.
Capital
We manage our capital position to maintain our financial strength and credit ratings. Our capital position is supported by our ability to generate strong cash flows within our operating companies and borrow funds at competitive rates, as well as by our demonstrated ability to raise additional capital to meet operating and growth needs despite adverse market and economic conditions.

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Summary of the Company’s Primary Sources and Uses of Liquidity and Capital
Our primary sources and uses of liquidity and capital are summarized as follows:
 
Three Months 
 Ended 
 March 31,
 
2016
 
2015
 
(In millions)
Sources:
 
 
 
Operating activities, net
$
1,964

 
$
2,686

Changes in policyholder account balances, net
615

 

Changes in payables for collateral under securities loaned and other transactions, net
4,161

 
1,985

Long-term debt issued

 
1,492

Effect of change in foreign currency exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents
73

 

Total sources
6,813

 
6,163

Uses:
 
 
 
Investing activities, net
5,739

 
6,900

Changes in policyholder account balances, net

 
273

Long-term debt repaid
5

 
7

Collateral financing arrangements repaid
12

 

Treasury stock acquired in connection with share repurchases
70

 
986

Dividends on preferred stock
6

 
30

Dividends on common stock
413

 
394

Other, net
30

 
64

Effect of change in foreign currency exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents

 
190

Total uses
6,275

 
8,844

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
$
538

 
$
(2,681
)
Cash Flows from Operations
The principal cash inflows from our insurance activities come from insurance premiums, net investment income, annuity considerations and deposit funds. The principal cash outflows relate to various life insurance, property & casualty, annuity and pension products, operating expenses and income tax, as well as interest expense. A primary liquidity concern with respect to these cash flows is the risk of early contractholder and policyholder withdrawal.
Cash Flows from Investments
The principal cash inflows from our investment activities come from repayments of principal, proceeds from maturities and sales of investments and settlements of freestanding derivatives. The principal cash outflows relate to purchases of investments, issuances of policy loans and settlements of freestanding derivatives. Additional cash outflows relate to purchases of businesses. We typically have a net cash outflow from investing activities because cash inflows from insurance operations are reinvested in accordance with our ALM discipline to fund insurance liabilities. We closely monitor and manage these risks through our comprehensive investment risk management process. The primary liquidity concerns with respect to these cash flows are the risk of default by debtors and market disruption.
Cash Flows from Financing
The principal cash inflows from our financing activities come from issuances of debt and other securities, deposits of funds associated with policyholder account balances and lending of securities. The principal cash outflows come from repayments of debt, payments of dividends on and repurchases of MetLife, Inc.’s securities, withdrawals associated with policyholder account balances and the return of securities on loan. The primary liquidity concerns with respect to these cash flows are market disruption and the risk of early contractholder and policyholder withdrawal.

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Liquidity and Capital Sources
In addition to the general description of liquidity and capital sources in “— Summary of the Company’s Primary Sources and Uses of Liquidity and Capital,” the following additional information is provided regarding our primary sources of liquidity and capital:
Global Funding Sources
Liquidity is provided by a variety of global funding sources, including funding agreements, credit facilities and commercial paper. Capital is provided by a variety of global funding sources, including short-term and long-term debt, collateral financing arrangements, junior subordinated debt securities, preferred securities, equity securities and equity-linked securities. The diversity of our global funding sources enhances our funding flexibility, limits dependence on any one market or source of funds and generally lowers the cost of funds. Our primary global funding sources include:
Common Stock
During the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, MetLife, Inc. issued 1,943,866 and 2,313,275 new shares of its common stock for $78 million and $77 million, respectively, to satisfy various stock option exercises and other stock-based awards.
Commercial Paper, Reported in Short-term Debt
MetLife, Inc. and MetLife Funding, Inc. (“MetLife Funding”) each have a commercial paper program that is supported by the $4.0 billion general corporate credit facility (see “— Credit and Committed Facilities”). MetLife Funding raises cash from its commercial paper program and uses the proceeds to extend loans through MetLife Credit Corp., another subsidiary of MLIC, to affiliates in order to enhance the financial flexibility and liquidity of these companies.
Federal Home Loan Bank Funding Agreements, Reported in Policyholder Account Balances
Certain of our domestic insurance subsidiaries are members of a regional Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”). During the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, we issued $2.5 billion and $4.0 billion, respectively, and repaid $2.5 billion and $3.5 billion, respectively, under funding agreements with certain regional FHLBs. At both March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, total obligations outstanding under these funding agreements were $15.5 billion. See Note 4 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2015 Annual Report.
Special Purpose Entity Funding Agreements, Reported in Policyholder Account Balances
We issue fixed and floating rate funding agreements, which are denominated in either U.S. dollars or foreign currencies, to certain special purpose entities (“SPEs”) that have issued either debt securities or commercial paper for which payment of interest and principal is secured by such funding agreements. During the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, we issued $10.3 billion and $12.9 billion, respectively, and repaid $11.2 billion and $12.3 billion, respectively, under such funding agreements. At March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, total obligations outstanding under these funding agreements were $31.4 billion and $31.6 billion, respectively. See Note 4 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2015 Annual Report.
Federal Agricultural Mortgage Corporation Funding Agreements, Reported in Policyholder Account Balances
We have issued funding agreements to the Federal Agricultural Mortgage Corporation (“Farmer Mac”), as well as to certain SPEs that have issued debt securities for which payment of interest and principal is secured by such funding agreements, and such debt securities are also guaranteed as to payment of interest and principal by Farmer Mac. The obligations under all such funding agreements are secured by a pledge of certain eligible agricultural real estate mortgage loans. During the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, we issued $500 million and $0, respectively, and repaid $500 million and $0, respectively, under such funding agreements. At both March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, total obligations outstanding under these funding agreements were $2.6 billion. See Note 4 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2015 Annual Report.
Credit and Committed Facilities
 At March 31, 2016, we maintained a $4.0 billion unsecured credit facility and certain committed facilities aggregating $11.8 billion. When drawn upon, these facilities bear interest at varying rates in accordance with the respective agreements.
The unsecured credit facility is used for general corporate purposes, to support the borrowers’ commercial paper programs and for the issuance of letters of credit. At March 31, 2016, we had outstanding $567 million in letters of credit and no drawdowns against this facility. Remaining availability was $3.4 billion at March 31, 2016.

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The committed facilities are used for collateral for certain of our affiliated reinsurance liabilities. At March 31, 2016, $6.6 billion in letters of credit and $2.8 billion in aggregate drawdowns under collateral financing arrangements were outstanding. Remaining availability was $2.4 billion at March 31, 2016.
See Note 12 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2015 Annual Report for further information about these facilities.
We have no reason to believe that our lending counterparties will be unable to fulfill their respective contractual obligations under these facilities. As commitments associated with letters of credit and financing arrangements may expire unused, these amounts do not necessarily reflect our actual future cash funding requirements.
Outstanding Debt Under Global Funding Sources
The following table summarizes our outstanding debt at:
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015 (1)
 
(In millions)
Short-term debt
$
100

 
$
100

Long-term debt (2), (3)
$
17,860

 
$
17,889

Collateral financing arrangements
$
4,127

 
$
4,139

Junior subordinated debt securities
$
3,168

 
$
3,168

__________________
(1)
Net of $100 million of debt issuance costs, which were reported in other assets at December 31, 2015.
(2)
Excludes $55 million and $60 million at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively, of long-term debt relating to CSEs — FVO (see Note 6 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements). For more information regarding long-term debt, see Note 12 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2015 Annual Report.
(3)
Includes $403 million of non-recourse debt at both March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, for which creditors have no access, subject to customary exceptions, to the general assets of the Company other than recourse to certain investment subsidiaries.
Debt and Facility Covenants
Certain of our debt instruments and committed facilities, as well as our unsecured credit facility, contain various administrative, reporting, legal and financial covenants. We believe we were in compliance with all applicable covenants at March 31, 2016.
Dispositions
There were no cash proceeds from dispositions during either of the three months ended March 31, 2016 or 2015.
Liquidity and Capital Uses
In addition to the general description of liquidity and capital uses in “— Summary of the Company’s Primary Sources and Uses of Liquidity and Capital,” the following additional information is provided regarding our primary uses of liquidity and capital:
Common Stock Repurchases
Utilizing existing authorizations from the MetLife, Inc. Board of Directors, MetLife, Inc. may purchase its common stock from the MetLife Policyholder Trust, in the open market (including pursuant to the terms of a pre-set trading plan meeting the requirements of Rule 10b5-1 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (“Exchange Act”)) and in privately negotiated transactions. See “Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds — Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities.”
During the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, MetLife, Inc. repurchased 1,445,864 shares and 19,893,284 shares of common stock in the open market purchases for $70 million and $986 million, respectively.

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At March 31, 2016, MetLife, Inc. had no remaining common stock repurchase authorizations. Common stock repurchases are dependent upon several factors, including our capital position, liquidity, financial strength and credit ratings, general market conditions, the market price of MetLife, Inc.’s common stock compared to management’s assessment of the stock’s underlying value and applicable regulatory approvals, as well as other legal and accounting factors. SeeIndustry Trends Regulatory Developments U.S. Regulation Potential Regulation as a Non-Bank SIFI” and “— Industry Trends — Regulatory Developments — International Regulation — Global Systemically Important Insurers.” See also “Risk Factors — Capital-Related Risks — Regulatory Restrictions and Uncertainty and Restrictions Under the Terms of Certain of Our Securities May Prevent Us from Repurchasing Our Stock and Paying Dividends at the Level We Wish” and Note 16 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2015 Annual Report.
Preferred Stock Dividends
Information on the declaration, record and payment dates, as well as per share and aggregate dividend amounts, for MetLife, Inc.’s preferred stock was as follows for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015:
Declaration Date
 
Record Date
 
Payment Date
 
Preferred Stock Dividend
 
 
 
 
Series A
Per 
Share
 
Series A
Aggregate
 
Series B
Per 
Share
 
Series B
Aggregate
 
Series C
Per 
Share
 
Series C
Aggregate
 
 
 
 
 
 
(In millions, except per share data)
 
 
 
 
March 7, 2016
 
February 29, 2016
 
March 15, 2016
 
$
0.253

 
$
6

 
$

 
$

 
$

 
$

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
March 5, 2015
 
February 28, 2015
 
March 16, 2015
 
$
0.250

 
$
6

 
$
0.406

 
$
24

 
$

 
$

Preferred stock dividends are paid quarterly in accordance with the terms of MetLife, Inc.’s Floating Rate Non-Cumulative Preferred Stock, Series A, and ending with the June 15, 2015 payment date for the Series B preferred stock. Dividends are paid semi-annually on MetLife, Inc.’s Series C preferred stock, commencing December 15, 2015 and ending on June 15, 2020 and, thereafter, are paid quarterly.
Common Stock Dividends
Information on the declaration, record and payment dates, as well as per share and aggregate dividend amounts, for MetLife, Inc.’s common stock was as follows for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015:
Declaration Date
 
Record Date
 
Payment Date
 
Common Stock Dividend
Per Share
 
Aggregate
 
 
 
 
 
 
(In millions, except per share data)
January 6, 2016
 
February 5, 2016
 
March 14, 2016
 
$
0.375

 
$
413

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
January 6, 2015
 
February 6, 2015
 
March 13, 2015
 
$
0.350

 
$
394

The declaration and payment of common stock dividends is subject to the discretion of our Board of Directors, and will depend on MetLife, Inc.’s financial condition, results of operations, cash requirements, future prospects, regulatory restrictions on the payment of dividends by MetLife, Inc.’s insurance subsidiaries and other factors deemed relevant by the Board. See Note 14 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information regarding a common stock dividend declared subsequent to March 31, 2016.
Dividend Restrictions
If MetLife, Inc. were re-designated as a non-bank SIFI, the payment of dividends and other distributions by MetLife, Inc. to its security holders may be subject to regulation by the Federal Reserve. See “— Industry Trends — Regulatory Developments —U.S. Regulation — Potential Regulation as a Non-Bank SIFI.” In addition, if additional capital requirements are imposed on MetLife, Inc. as a G-SII, its ability to pay dividends could be reduced by any such additional capital requirements that might be imposed. See “— Industry Trends — Regulatory Developments — International Regulation — Global Systemically Important Insurers.” The payment of dividends is also subject to restrictions under the terms of our preferred stock and junior subordinated debentures in situations where we may be experiencing financial stress. See “Risk Factors — Capital-Related Risks — Regulatory Restrictions and Uncertainty and Restrictions Under the Terms of Certain

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of Our Securities May Prevent Us from Repurchasing Our Stock and Paying Dividends at the Level We Wish” and Note 16 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2015 Annual Report.
Debt Repayments
In March 2016, following regulatory approval, MetLife Reinsurance Company of Charleston, a wholly-owned subsidiary of MetLife, Inc., repurchased and canceled $12 million in aggregate principal amount of its surplus notes, which were reported in collateral financing arrangements on the consolidated balance sheets.
Debt Repurchases
We may from time to time seek to retire or purchase our outstanding debt through cash purchases and/or exchanges for other securities, in open market purchases, privately negotiated transactions or otherwise. Any such repurchases or exchanges will be dependent upon several factors, including our liquidity requirements, contractual restrictions, general market conditions, and applicable regulatory, legal and accounting factors. Whether or not to repurchase any debt and the size and timing of any such repurchases will be determined at our discretion.
Support Agreements
MetLife, Inc. and several of its subsidiaries (each, an “Obligor”) are parties to various capital support commitments and guarantees with subsidiaries. Under these arrangements, each Obligor, with respect to the applicable entity, has agreed to cause such entity to meet specified capital and surplus levels or has guaranteed certain contractual obligations. We anticipate that in the event that these arrangements place demands upon us, there will be sufficient liquidity and capital to enable us to meet anticipated demands. See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Liquidity and Capital Resources — MetLife, Inc. — Liquidity and Capital Uses — Support Agreements” included in the 2015 Annual Report.
Insurance Liabilities
Liabilities arising from our insurance activities primarily relate to benefit payments under various life insurance, property & casualty, annuity and group pension products, as well as payments for policy surrenders, withdrawals and loans. For annuity or deposit type products, surrender or lapse behavior differs somewhat by segment. In the Retail segment, which includes individual annuities, lapses and surrenders tend to occur in the normal course of business. During the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, general account surrenders and withdrawals from annuity products were $1.0 billion and $946 million, respectively. In the Corporate Benefit Funding segment, which includes pension risk transfers, bank-owned life insurance and other fixed annuity contracts, as well as funding agreements and other capital market products, most of the products offered have fixed maturities or fairly predictable surrenders or withdrawals. With regard to the Corporate Benefit Funding segment liabilities that provide customers with limited rights to accelerate payments, at March 31, 2016 there were no funding agreements or other capital market products that could be put back to the Company.
Pledged Collateral
We pledge collateral to, and have collateral pledged to us by, counterparties in connection with our derivatives. At March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, we had received cash collateral of $10.1 billion and $6.6 billion, respectively. At March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, we had pledged cash collateral of $499 million and $241 million, respectively. With respect to OTC-bilateral derivatives in a net liability position that have credit contingent provisions, a one-notch downgrade in the Company’s credit or financial strength rating, as applicable, would have required $5 million of additional collateral be provided to our counterparties as of March 31, 2016. See Note 7 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information about collateral pledged to us, collateral we pledge and derivatives subject to credit contingent provisions.
We pledged collateral and have had collateral pledged to us, and may be required from time to time to pledge additional collateral or be entitled to have additional collateral pledged to us, in connection with collateral financing arrangements related to the reinsurance of closed block and universal life secondary guarantee liabilities.
We pledged collateral from time to time in connection with funding agreements. See Note 4 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2015 Annual Report.

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Securities Lending
We participate in a securities lending program whereby securities are loaned to third parties, primarily brokerage firms and commercial banks. We obtain collateral, usually cash, from the borrower, which must be returned to the borrower when the loaned securities are returned to us. Under our securities lending program, we were liable for cash collateral under our control of $31.0 billion and $30.2 billion at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. Of these amounts, $8.7 billion and $10.1 billion at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively, were on open, meaning that the related loaned security could be returned to us on the next business day requiring the immediate return of cash collateral we hold. The estimated fair value of the securities on loan related to the cash collateral on open at March 31, 2016 was $8.5 billion, over 99% of which were U.S. government and agency securities which, if put to us, could be immediately sold to satisfy the cash requirements to immediately return the cash collateral. See Note 6 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
Litigation
Putative or certified class action litigation and other litigation, and claims and assessments against us, in addition to those discussed elsewhere herein and those otherwise provided for in the consolidated financial statements, have arisen in the course of our business, including, but not limited to, in connection with our activities as an insurer, employer, investor, investment advisor, taxpayer and, formerly, a mortgage lending bank. Further, state insurance regulatory authorities and other federal and state authorities regularly make inquiries and conduct investigations concerning our compliance with applicable insurance and other laws and regulations. See Note 13 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
We establish liabilities for litigation and regulatory loss contingencies when it is probable that a loss has been incurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. For material matters where a loss is believed to be reasonably possible but not probable, no accrual is made but we disclose the nature of the contingency and an aggregate estimate of the reasonably possible range of loss in excess of amounts accrued, when such an estimate can be made. It is not possible to predict or determine the ultimate outcome of all pending investigations and legal proceedings. In some of the matters referred to herein, very large and/or indeterminate amounts, including punitive and treble damages, are sought. Although in light of these considerations, it is possible that an adverse outcome in certain cases could have a material adverse effect upon our financial position, based on information currently known by us, in our opinion, the outcome of such pending investigations and legal proceedings are not likely to have such an effect. However, given the large and/or indeterminate amounts sought in certain of these matters and the inherent unpredictability of litigation, it is possible that an adverse outcome in certain matters could, from time to time, have a material adverse effect on our consolidated net income or cash flows in particular quarterly or annual periods.
Acquisitions
There were no acquisitions during either of the three months ended March 31, 2016 or 2015.
Contractual Obligations
See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Liquidity and Capital Resources — The Company — Contractual Obligations” included in the 2015 Annual Report for additional information regarding the Company’s contractual obligations.
MetLife, Inc.
Liquidity and Capital Management
Liquidity and capital are managed to preserve stable, reliable and cost-effective sources of cash to meet all current and future financial obligations and are provided by a variety of sources, including a portfolio of liquid assets, a diversified mix of short- and long-term funding sources from the wholesale financial markets and the ability to borrow through credit and committed facilities. Liquidity is monitored through the use of internal liquidity risk metrics, including the composition and level of the liquid asset portfolio, timing differences in short-term cash flow obligations, access to the financial markets for capital and debt transactions and exposure to contingent draws on MetLife, Inc.’s liquidity. MetLife, Inc. is an active participant in the global financial markets through which it obtains a significant amount of funding. These markets, which serve as cost-effective sources of funds, are critical components of MetLife, Inc.’s liquidity and capital management. Decisions to access these markets are based upon relative costs, prospective views of balance sheet growth and a targeted liquidity profile and capital structure. A disruption in the financial markets could limit MetLife, Inc.’s access to liquidity.

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MetLife, Inc.’s ability to maintain regular access to competitively priced wholesale funds is fostered by its current credit ratings from the major credit rating agencies. We view our capital ratios, credit quality, stable and diverse earnings streams, diversity of liquidity sources and our liquidity monitoring procedures as critical to retaining such credit ratings.
Liquidity
For a summary of MetLife, Inc.’s liquidity, see “— The Company — Liquidity.”
Capital
For a summary of MetLife, Inc.’s capital, see “— The Company — Capital.” For further information regarding potential capital restrictions and limitations on MetLife, Inc. as a non-bank SIFI and G-SII, see “Business — Regulation — U.S. Regulation — Regulation as a Non-Bank SIFI” and “Business — Regulation — International Regulation — Global Systemically Important Insurers” included in the 2015 Annual Report, as amended or supplemented by discussions of regulatory developments in “— Industry Trends — Regulatory Developments — U.S. Regulation — Potential Regulation as a Non-Bank SIFI,” as well as “— Industry Trends — Regulatory Developments — International Regulation — Global Systemically Important Insurers.” See also “— The Company — Liquidity and Capital Uses — Common Stock Repurchases” for information regarding MetLife, Inc.’s common stock repurchases.
Liquid Assets
At March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, MetLife, Inc. and other MetLife holding companies had $5.3 billion and $6.4 billion, respectively, in liquid assets. Of these amounts, $4.4 billion and $5.3 billion were held by MetLife, Inc. and $988 million and $1.1 billion were held by other MetLife holding companies, at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. Liquid assets include cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments and publicly-traded securities excluding assets that are pledged or otherwise committed. Assets pledged or otherwise committed include: (i) amounts related to cash collateral received from counterparties in connection with derivatives; (ii) investments held in trust in support of collateral financing arrangements; and (iii) investments pledged in support of derivatives.
Liquid assets held in non-U.S. holding companies are generated in part through dividends from non-U.S. insurance operations. Such dividends are subject to local insurance regulatory requirements, as discussed in “— Liquidity and Capital Sources — Dividends from Subsidiaries.” The cumulative earnings of certain active non-U.S. operations have been reinvested indefinitely in such non-U.S. operations, as described in Note 19 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2015 Annual Report. Under current tax laws, should we repatriate such earnings, we may be subject to additional U.S. income taxes and foreign withholding taxes.
See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Liquidity and Capital Resources — MetLife, Inc. — Liquid Assets” included in the 2015 Annual Report for additional information on the sources and uses of liquid assets for MetLife, Inc. and other MetLife holding companies.
Liquidity and Capital Sources
In addition to the description of liquidity and capital sources in “— The Company — Summary of the Company’s Primary Sources and Uses of Liquidity and Capital” and “— The Company — Liquidity and Capital Sources,” the following additional information is provided regarding MetLife, Inc.’s primary sources of liquidity and capital:
Dividends from Subsidiaries
MetLife, Inc. relies, in part, on dividends from its subsidiaries to meet its cash requirements. MetLife, Inc.’s insurance subsidiaries are subject to regulatory restrictions on the payment of dividends imposed by the regulators of their respective domiciles. The dividend limitation for U.S. insurance subsidiaries is generally based on the surplus to policyholders at the end of the immediately preceding calendar year and statutory net gain from operations for the immediately preceding calendar year. Statutory accounting practices, as prescribed by insurance regulators of various states in which we conduct business, differ in certain respects from accounting principles used in financial statements prepared in conformity with GAAP. The significant differences relate to the treatment of DAC, certain deferred income tax, required investment liabilities, statutory reserve calculation assumptions, goodwill and surplus notes.

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The table below sets forth the dividends permitted to be paid in 2016 by MetLife, Inc.’s primary insurance subsidiaries without insurance regulatory approval and the respective dividends paid during the three months ended March 31, 2016:
 
 
2016
 
Company
 
Paid
 
Permitted w/o
Approval (1)
 
 
 
(In millions)
 
Metropolitan Life Insurance Company
 
$
1,500

 
$
3,753

 
American Life Insurance Company
 
$

 
$

 
MetLife Insurance Company USA
 
$

 
$
586

 
Metropolitan Property and Casualty Insurance Company
 
$

 
$
233

(2
)
Metropolitan Tower Life Insurance Company
 
$

 
$
70

 
__________________
(1)
Reflects dividend amounts that may be paid during 2016 without prior regulatory approval. However, because dividend tests may be based on dividends previously paid over rolling 12-month periods, if paid before a specified date during 2016, some or all of such dividends may require regulatory approval.
(2)
Reflects revised interpretation of statutory dividend limits from amount reported in the 2015 Annual Report.
In addition to the amounts presented in the table above, for the three months ended March 31, 2016, MetLife, Inc. received cash of $70 million from certain of its other subsidiaries, of which $20 million represented a dividend and $50 million represented a return of capital.
The dividend capacity of our non-U.S. operations is subject to similar restrictions established by the local regulators. The non-U.S. regulatory regimes also commonly limit the dividend payments to the parent to a portion of the prior year’s statutory income, as determined by the local accounting principles. The regulators of our non-U.S. operations, including Japan’s Financial Services Agency, may also limit or not permit profit repatriations or other transfers of funds to the U.S. if such transfers are deemed to be detrimental to the solvency or financial strength of the non-U.S. operations, or for other reasons. Most of the non-U.S. subsidiaries are second tier subsidiaries which are owned by various non-U.S. holding companies. The capital and rating considerations applicable to the first tier subsidiaries may also impact the dividend flow into MetLife, Inc.
We actively manage target and excess capital levels and dividend flows on a proactive basis and forecast local capital positions as part of the financial planning cycle. The dividend capacity of certain U.S. and non-U.S. subsidiaries is also subject to business targets in excess of the minimum capital necessary to maintain the desired rating or level of financial strength in the relevant market. We cannot provide assurance that MetLife, Inc.’s subsidiaries will have statutory earnings to support payment of dividends to MetLife, Inc. in an amount sufficient to fund its cash requirements and pay cash dividends and that the applicable regulators will not disapprove any dividends that such subsidiaries must submit for approval. See “Risk Factors — Capital-Related Risks — As a Holding Company, MetLife, Inc. Depends on the Ability of Its Subsidiaries to Pay Dividends, a Major Component of Holding Company Free Cash Flow” included in the 2015 Annual Report and Note 16 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2015 Annual Report.
Short-term Debt
MetLife, Inc. maintains a commercial paper program, the proceeds of which can be used to finance the general liquidity needs of MetLife, Inc. and its subsidiaries. MetLife, Inc. had no short-term debt outstanding at either March 31, 2016 or December 31, 2015.
Credit and Committed Facilities
See “— The Company — Liquidity and Capital Sources — Global Funding Sources — Credit and Committed Facilities” for information about MetLife, Inc.’s unsecured credit facility.
MetLife, Inc. maintains a committed facility with a capacity of $425 million. At March 31, 2016, MetLife, Inc. had outstanding $425 million in letters of credit and no drawdowns against this facility. In addition, MetLife, Inc. is a party and/or guarantor to committed facilities of certain of its subsidiaries, which aggregated $11.4 billion at March 31, 2016. The committed facilities are used as collateral for certain of the Company’s affiliated reinsurance liabilities.
See “— The Company — Liquidity and Capital Sources — Global Funding Sources — Credit and Committed Facilities” for further information regarding these facilities.

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Long-term Debt Outstanding
The following table summarizes the outstanding long-term debt of MetLife, Inc. at:
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015 (1)
 
(In millions)
Long-term debt — unaffiliated
$
16,901

 
$
16,927

Long-term debt — affiliated
$
3,304

 
$
3,314

Collateral financing arrangements
$
2,797

 
$
2,797

Junior subordinated debt securities
$
1,733

 
$
1,733

__________________
(1)
Net of $82 million of debt issuance costs, which were reported in other assets at December 31, 2015.
Debt and Facility Covenants
Certain of MetLife, Inc.’s debt instruments and committed facilities, as well as its credit facility, contain various administrative, reporting, legal and financial covenants. MetLife, Inc. believes it was in compliance with all applicable covenants at March 31, 2016.
Dispositions
There were no cash proceeds from dispositions during either of the three months ended March 31, 2016 or 2015.
Liquidity and Capital Uses
The primary uses of liquidity of MetLife, Inc. include debt service, cash dividends on common and preferred stock, capital contributions to subsidiaries, common and preferred stock repurchases, payment of general operating expenses and acquisitions. Based on our analysis and comparison of our current and future cash inflows from the dividends we receive from subsidiaries that are permitted to be paid without prior insurance regulatory approval, our investment portfolio and other cash flows and anticipated access to the capital markets, we believe there will be sufficient liquidity and capital to enable MetLife, Inc. to make payments on debt, pay cash dividends on its common and preferred stock, contribute capital to its subsidiaries, repurchase its common and preferred stock, pay all general operating expenses and meet its cash needs.
In addition to the description of liquidity and capital uses in “— The Company — Liquidity and Capital Uses,” the following additional information is provided regarding MetLife, Inc.’s primary uses of liquidity and capital:
Affiliated Capital Transactions
During the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, MetLife, Inc. invested an aggregate of $1.5 billion and $173 million, respectively, in various subsidiaries. The investment in the first quarter of 2016 included a cash capital contribution of $1.5 billion to MetLife USA.
MetLife, Inc. lends funds, as necessary, to its subsidiaries and affiliates, some of which are regulated, to meet their capital requirements. MetLife, Inc. had loans to subsidiaries outstanding of $1.2 billion at both March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015.
In April 2016, American Life issued a $140 million short-term note to MetLife, Inc. The short-term note bears interest at six-month LIBOR plus 1.00% and matures in July 2016.
Repayments of Affiliated Long-term Debt
In March 2016, MetLife, Inc. repaid $10 million of affiliated long-term debt to MetLife Exchange Trust I, at maturity, in exchange for a return of capital. The long-term note bore interest at three-month LIBOR plus 0.70%.
Support Agreements
MetLife, Inc. is party to various capital support commitments and guarantees with certain of its subsidiaries. Under these arrangements, MetLife, Inc. has agreed to cause each such entity to meet specified capital and surplus levels or has guaranteed certain contractual obligations. See “— The Company — Liquidity and Capital Uses — Support Agreements.”
Acquisitions
There were no acquisitions by MetLife, Inc. during either of the three months ended March 31, 2016 or 2015.

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Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements
See Note 1 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
Future Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements
See Note 1 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
Non-GAAP and Other Financial Disclosures
In this report, the Company presents certain measures of its performance that are not calculated in accordance with GAAP. We believe that these non-GAAP financial measures enhance the understanding of our performance by highlighting the results of operations and the underlying profitability drivers of our business. The following non-GAAP financial measures should not be viewed as substitutes for the most directly comparable financial measures calculated in accordance with GAAP:
Non-GAAP financial measures:
Comparable GAAP financial measures:
(i)
operating revenues
(i)
GAAP revenues
(ii)
operating expenses
(ii)
GAAP expenses
(iii)
operating earnings
(iii)
net income (loss)
(iv)
operating earnings available to common shareholders
(iv)
net income (loss) available to MetLife, Inc.’s common shareholders
(v)
free cash flow of all holding companies
(v)
MetLife, Inc.’s net cash provided by operating activities
See “— Results of Operations” for reconciliations of these measures to the most directly comparable GAAP measures.
Our definitions of the various non-GAAP and other financial measures discussed in this report may differ from those used by other companies:
Operating earnings is the measure of segment profit or loss we use to evaluate segment performance and allocate resources. Consistent with GAAP guidance for segment reporting, operating earnings is our measure of segment performance. Operating earnings is also a measure by which senior management’s and many other employees’ performance is evaluated for the purposes of determining their compensation under applicable compensation plans.
Operating earnings is defined as operating revenues less operating expenses, both net of income tax. Operating earnings available to common shareholders is defined as operating earnings less preferred stock dividends.
Operating revenues and operating expenses exclude results of discontinued operations and other businesses that have been or will be sold or exited by MetLife and are referred to as divested businesses. In addition, for the three months ended March 31, 2016, operating revenues and operating expenses exclude the financial impact of converting the Company’s Japan operations to calendar year-end reporting without retrospective application of this change to prior periods and is referred to as lag elimination. Operating revenues also excludes net investment gains (losses) and net derivative gains (losses). Operating expenses also excludes goodwill impairments.
The following additional adjustments are made to GAAP revenues, in the line items indicated, in calculating operating revenues:
Universal life and investment-type product policy fees excludes the amortization of unearned revenue related to net investment gains (losses) and net derivative gains (losses) and certain variable annuity GMIB fees (“GMIB Fees”);
Net investment income: (i) includes amounts for investment hedge adjustments, (ii) includes income from discontinued real estate operations, (iii) excludes post-tax operating earnings adjustments relating to insurance joint ventures accounted for under the equity method, (iv) excludes certain amounts related to contractholder-directed unit-linked investments, and (v) excludes certain amounts related to securitization entities that are VIEs consolidated under GAAP; and
Other revenues are adjusted for settlements of foreign currency earnings hedges.

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The following additional adjustments are made to GAAP expenses, in the line items indicated, in calculating operating expenses:
Policyholder benefits and claims and policyholder dividends excludes: (i) changes in the policyholder dividend obligation related to net investment gains (losses) and net derivative gains (losses), (ii) inflation-indexed benefit adjustments associated with contracts backed by inflation-indexed investments and amounts associated with periodic crediting rate adjustments based on the total return of a contractually referenced pool of assets and other pass through adjustments (also known as asymmetrical and non-economic accounting for insurance contracts), (iii) benefits and hedging costs related to GMIBs (“GMIB Costs”), and (iv) market value adjustments associated with surrenders or terminations of contracts (“Market Value Adjustments”);
Interest credited to policyholder account balances includes adjustments for earned income on derivatives and amortization of premium on derivatives that are hedges of policyholder account balances but do not qualify for hedge accounting treatment and excludes amounts related to net investment income earned on contractholder-directed unit-linked investments;
Amortization of DAC and VOBA excludes amounts related to: (i) net investment gains (losses) and net derivative gains (losses), (ii) GMIB Fees and GMIB Costs, and (iii) Market Value Adjustments;
Amortization of negative VOBA excludes amounts related to Market Value Adjustments;
Interest expense on debt excludes certain amounts related to securitization entities that are VIEs consolidated under GAAP; and
Other expenses excludes costs related to: (i) noncontrolling interests, (ii) implementation of new insurance regulatory requirements, and (iii) acquisition, integration and other costs.
Operating earnings also excludes the recognition of certain contingent assets and liabilities that could not be recognized at acquisition or adjusted for during the measurement period under GAAP business combination accounting guidance. In addition to the tax impact of the adjustments mentioned above, provision for income tax expense (benefit) also includes the impact related to the timing of certain tax credits, as well as certain tax reforms.
The following additional information is relevant to an understanding of our performance results:
The impact of changes in our foreign currency exchange rates is calculated using the average foreign currency exchange rates for the current period and is applied to each of the comparable periods (“Constant Currency Basis”).
We sometimes refer to sales activity for various products. These sales statistics do not correspond to revenues under GAAP, but are used as relevant measures of business activity. Further, sales statistics for our Latin America, Asia and EMEA segments are on a Constant Currency Basis.
Operating ROE - operating earnings available to common shareholders, divided by average GAAP common stockholders’ equity.
Operating ROE, excluding AOCI other than FCTA - operating earnings available to common shareholders divided by average GAAP common stockholders’ equity, excluding AOCI other than FCTA.
Allocated equity - portion of MetLife, Inc.’s common stockholders’ equity that management allocates to each of its segments and sub-segments based on local capital requirements and economic capital. See “ Economic Capital.” Allocated equity excludes the impact of AOCI other than FCTA.
The Company uses a measure of free cash flow to facilitate an understanding of its ability to generate cash for reinvestment into its businesses or use in discretionary capital actions. The Company defines free cash flow as the sum of cash available at MetLife’s holding companies from dividends from operating subsidiaries, expenses and other net flows of the holding companies, and net contributions from debt to be at or below target leverage ratios. This measure of free cash flow is prior to discretionary capital deployment, including common stock dividends and repurchases, debt reduction and mergers and acquisitions. Free cash flow should not be viewed as a substitute for net cash provided by (used in) operating activities calculated in accordance with GAAP. The free cash flow ratio is typically expressed as a percentage of annual operating earnings available to common shareholders.

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Finally, in this discussion, we also provide forward-looking guidance on an operating, or non-GAAP, basis. A reconciliation of these non-GAAP measures to the most directly comparable GAAP measures is not accessible on a forward-looking basis because we believe it is not possible to provide other than a range of net investment gains and losses and net derivative gains and losses, which can fluctuate significantly within or outside the range and from period to period and may have a significant impact on GAAP net income.
Subsequent Events
See Note 14 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

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Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
We regularly analyze our exposure to interest rate, equity market price and foreign currency exchange rate risks. As a result of that analysis, we have determined that the estimated fair values of certain assets and liabilities are materially exposed to changes in interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates and changes in the equity markets. We have exposure to market risk through our insurance operations and investment activities. We use a variety of strategies to manage interest rate, foreign currency exchange rate and equity market risk, including the use of derivatives. A description of our market risk exposures may be found under “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk” in Part II, Item 7A, of the 2015 Annual Report. There have been no material changes to our market risk exposures from the market risk exposures previously disclosed in the 2015 Annual Report.

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Item 4. Controls and Procedures
Management, with the participation of the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures as defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(e) as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that these disclosure controls and procedures are effective.
There were no changes to the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(f) during the quarter ended March 31, 2016 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

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Part II — Other Information
Item 1. Legal Proceedings
The following should be read in conjunction with (i) Part I, Item 3, of the 2015 Annual Report; and (ii) Note 13 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in Part I of this report.
Asbestos-Related Claims
MLIC is and has been a defendant in a large number of asbestos-related suits filed primarily in state courts. These suits principally allege that the plaintiff or plaintiffs suffered personal injury resulting from exposure to asbestos and seek both actual and punitive damages.
As reported in the 2015 Annual Report, MLIC received approximately 3,856 asbestos-related claims in 2015. During the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, MLIC received approximately 1,386 and 1,046 new asbestos-related claims, respectively. See Note 21 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2015 Annual Report for historical information concerning asbestos claims and MLIC’s increase in its recorded liability at December 31, 2014. The number of asbestos cases that may be brought, the aggregate amount of any liability that MLIC may incur, and the total amount paid in settlements in any given year are uncertain and may vary significantly from year to year.
MLIC reevaluates on a quarterly and annual basis its exposure from asbestos litigation, including studying its claims experience, reviewing external literature regarding asbestos claims experience in the United States, assessing relevant trends impacting asbestos liability and considering numerous variables that can affect its asbestos liability exposure on an overall or per claim basis. These variables include bankruptcies of other companies involved in asbestos litigation, legislative and judicial developments, the number of pending claims involving serious disease, the number of new claims filed against it and other defendants and the jurisdictions in which claims are pending. Based upon its regular reevaluation of its exposure from asbestos litigation, MLIC has updated its liability analysis for asbestos-related claims through March 31, 2016.
Regulatory Matters
Sale and Replacement of Variable Annuities and FINRA Letter of Acceptance, Waiver and Consent
MSI has entered into a Letter of Acceptance, Waiver and Consent with FINRA (hereinafter, the “Letter”). In the Letter, FINRA stated that, from 2009 through 2014, MSI violated certain National Association of Securities Dealers and FINRA rules in connection with sales and replacements of variable annuities and certain riders on such annuities. MSI was censured and will pay a $20 million fine and an additional $5 million to reimburse customers. MSI has accrued this amount.
Other Litigation
Fauley v. Metropolitan Life Insurance Company, et al. (Circuit Court of the 19th Judicial Circuit, Lake County, Ill., July 3, 2014)
Plaintiffs filed this lawsuit against defendants, including MLIC and a former MetLife financial services representative, alleging that the defendants sent unsolicited fax advertisements to plaintiff and others in violation of the Telephone Consumer Protection Act, as amended by the Junk Fax Prevention Act, 47 U.S.C. § 227. The court issued a final order certifying a nationwide settlement class and approving a settlement under which MLIC has agreed to pay up to $23 million to resolve claims as to fax ads sent between August 23, 2008 and August 7, 2014. On March 23, 2016, the intermediate appellate court affirmed the trial court’s order.
MetLife, Inc. v. Financial Stability Oversight Council (D. D.C., January 13, 2015)
MetLife, Inc. filed this action in D.C. District Court seeking to overturn the FSOC’s designation of MetLife, Inc. as a non-bank SIFI. The suit is brought under the section of Dodd-Frank providing that a company designated as a non-bank SIFI may petition the federal courts for review, and seeks an order requiring that the final determination be rescinded. The D.C. District Court issued a decision on March 30, 2016 granting, in part, MetLife, Inc.’s cross motion for summary judgment, and rescinding the FSOC’s designation of MetLife, Inc. as a non-bank SIFI. On April 8, 2016, the FSOC filed a notice of appeal of the D.C. District Court’s order.

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Martin v. Metropolitan Life Insurance Company, (Superior Court of the State of California, County of Contra Costa, filed December 17, 2015)
Plaintiffs filed this putative class action lawsuit on behalf of themselves and all California persons who have been charged compound interest by MLIC in life insurance policy and/or premium loan balances within the last four years. Plaintiffs allege that MLIC has engaged in a pattern and practice of charging compound interest on life insurance policy and premium loans without the borrower authorizing such compounding, and that this constitutes an unlawful business practice under California law. Plaintiff asserts causes of action for declaratory relief, violation of California’s Unfair Competition Law and Usury Law, and unjust enrichment. Plaintiff seeks declaratory and injunctive relief, restitution of interest, and damages in an unspecified amount. On April 12, 2016, the court granted MLIC’s motion to dismiss.
Newman v. Metropolitan Life Insurance Company (N.D. Ill., filed March 23, 2016)
Plaintiff filed this putative class action alleging causes of action for breach of contract, fraud, and violations of the Illinois Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act, based on MLIC’s class-wide increase in premiums charged for long-term care insurance policies with one of two policy features. Plaintiff alleges a class consisting of: (i) herself and all persons over age 65 who selected a Reduced Pay at Age 65 feature and whose premium rates were increased after age 65; and/or (ii) all persons who purchased a 5% Automatic Compound Inflation Protection Rider and whose premiums paid for the rider were increased. Plaintiff asserts that premiums could not be increased for these class members and/or that marketing material with respect to these two features was misleading as to MLIC’s right to increase premiums. Plaintiff seeks unspecified compensatory, statutory and punitive damages as well as recessionary and injunctive relief. The Company intends to defend this action vigorously. 
Summary
Putative or certified class action litigation and other litigation and claims and assessments against the Company, in addition to those discussed previously and those otherwise provided for in the Company’s consolidated financial statements, have arisen in the course of the Company’s business, including, but not limited to, in connection with its activities as an insurer, mortgage lending bank, employer, investor, investment advisor and taxpayer. Further, state insurance regulatory authorities and other federal and state authorities regularly make inquiries and conduct investigations concerning the Company’s compliance with applicable insurance and other laws and regulations.
It is not possible to predict the ultimate outcome of all pending investigations and legal proceedings. In some of the matters referred to previously, very large and/or indeterminate amounts, including punitive and treble damages, are sought. Although in light of these considerations it is possible that an adverse outcome in certain cases could have a material effect upon the Company’s financial position, based on information currently known by the Company’s management, in its opinion, the outcomes of such pending investigations and legal proceedings are not likely to have such an effect. However, given the large and/or indeterminate amounts sought in certain of these matters and the inherent unpredictability of litigation, it is possible that an adverse outcome in certain matters could, from time to time, have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated net income or cash flows in particular quarterly or annual periods.

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Item 1A. Risk Factors
The following should be read in conjunction with, and supplements and amends, the factors that may affect the Company’s business or operations described under “Risk Factors” in Part I, Item 1A, of the 2015 Annual Report. Other than as described in this Item 1A, there have been no other material changes to our risk factors from the risk factors previously disclosed in the 2015 Annual Report.
Regulatory and Legal Risks
The following updates and replaces the similarly named sections of the risk factor entitled “Our Insurance and Brokerage Businesses Are Highly Regulated, and Changes in Regulation and in Supervisory and Enforcement Policies May Reduce Our Profitability and Limit Our Growth” included in the 2015 Annual Report. There have been no material changes to other sections of such risk factor. These sections include: “U.S. Regulation — Insurance Regulation,” “U.S. Regulation — U.S. Federal Regulation Affecting Insurance,” “International Regulation — Solvency Regimes,” and “General” within such risk factor included in the 2015 Annual Report.
Our Insurance and Brokerage Businesses Are Highly Regulated, and Changes in Regulation and in Supervisory and Enforcement Policies May Reduce Our Profitability and Limit Our Growth
Our insurance operations and brokerage businesses are subject to a wide variety of insurance and other laws and regulations. See “Business Regulation” included in the 2015 Annual Report, as amended or supplemented by discussions of regulatory developments elsewhere herein and in our subsequently filed Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q under the caption “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Industry Trends — Regulatory Developments,” and as further amended or supplemented below.
U.S. Regulation
ERISA Considerations
We provide products and services to certain employee benefit plans that are subject to ERISA or the Code. As such, our activities are subject to the restrictions imposed by ERISA and the Code, including the requirement under ERISA that fiduciaries must perform their duties solely in the interests of ERISA plan participants and beneficiaries, and that fiduciaries may not cause a covered plan to engage in certain prohibited transactions. The prohibited transaction rules of ERISA and the Code generally restrict the provision of investment advice to ERISA plans and participants and IRAs if the investment recommendation results in fees paid to the individual advisor, his or her firm or their affiliates that vary according to the investment recommendation chosen.
The DOL issued new regulations on April 6, 2016 with an effective date for most provisions of April 10, 2017. These rules substantially expand the definition of “investment advice” and thereby broaden the circumstances under which MetLife or its representatives, in providing investment advice with respect to ERISA plans, plan participants or IRAs, will be deemed a fiduciary under ERISA or the Code. The DOL also issued amendments to certain of its prohibited transaction exemptions, and issued a new exemption that applies more onerous disclosure and contract requirements to, and increase fiduciary requirements and fiduciary liability exposure in respect of, transactions involving ERISA plans, plan participants and IRAs. We are currently studying the impact of these developments on MetLife’s business. See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Industry Trends — Regulatory Developments — U.S. Regulation — ERISA Considerations,” as well as “Business — Regulation — U.S. Regulation — ERISA Considerations” included in the 2015 Annual Report.
We cannot predict what other proposals may be made, what legislation may be introduced or enacted or the impact of any such legislation on our business, results of operations and financial condition.
Potential Regulation of MetLife, Inc. as a Non-Bank SIFI
On March 30, 2016, the D.C. District Court ordered that the designation of MetLife, Inc. as a non-bank SIFI by the FSOC be rescinded. On April 8, 2016, the FSOC filed a notice of appeal of the D.C District Court’s order. On December 18, 2014, the FSOC had designated MetLife, Inc. as a non-bank SIFI subject to regulation by the Federal Reserve and the FDIC, as well as to enhanced supervision and prudential standards. On January 13, 2015, MetLife, Inc. had filed an action in the D.C. District Court asking the Court to review and rescind the FSOC’s designation.

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If the FSOC prevails on appeal or designates MetLife, Inc. as systemically important as part of its ongoing review of non-bank financial companies, MetLife, Inc. could once again be subject to regulation as a non-bank SIFI. However, many of the regulatory requirements that would apply to us if we were again so designated have not been specified. In particular, the Federal Reserve Board has not determined the requirements that will govern the amount and composition of capital that non-bank SIFIs would be required to hold. The Federal Reserve Board has indicated that it plans to apply enhanced prudential standards to non-bank SIFIs by rule or order. Accordingly, the manner in which these proposed standards might apply to MetLife, Inc. remains unclear. Regulation of MetLife, Inc. as a non-bank SIFI could materially and adversely affect our business.
If MetLife, Inc. were re-designated as a non-bank SIFI, our business and competitive position could be materially and adversely affected by any requirement of the Federal Reserve Board requiring insurers that are non-bank SIFIs to comply with capital standards or regimes (such as the Basel capital rules that were developed for banks) that do not take into account the insurance business model and the differences between banks and insurers. The capital requirements that would apply to us could also constrain our ability to pay dividends, repurchase common stock or other securities or engage in other transactions that could affect our capital. Enhanced capital requirements could adversely affect our ability to compete with other insurers that are not subject to those requirements, and our ability to issue guarantees could be constrained. We could have to raise the price of the products we offer, reduce the amount of risk we take on, or stop offering certain products altogether. Legislation was signed into law on December 18, 2014, relieving the Federal Reserve Board from certain provisions in Dodd-Frank that it believed constrained its ability to tailor capital rules for insurers that are non-bank SIFIs.
If re-designated as a non-bank SIFI, MetLife, Inc. may also be subject to additional prudential standards that the Federal Reserve Board may promulgate for non-bank SIFIs which will likely include leverage limits, liquidity requirements, single counterparty exposure limits, governance requirements for risk management, stress test requirements, special debt-to-equity limits for certain companies, and early remediation procedures. In addition, if re-designated as a non-bank SIFI, MetLife, Inc. will be required to comply with the requirements applicable to non-bank SIFIs, including the submission of a resolution plan setting forth how the company could be resolved under the Bankruptcy Code in the event of material financial distress. The Federal Reserve Board would also have the right to require any of MetLife, Inc.’s insurance companies, or insurance company affiliates, to take prompt action to correct any financial weaknesses. In addition, under the Volcker Rule, we could be subject to the imposition by the Federal Reserve Board of additional capital requirements and quantitative limits on certain of our trading and investment activities. Non-bank SIFIs and certain other large financial companies can be assessed under Dodd-Frank for any uncovered costs arising in connection with the resolution of a systemically important financial company. In addition, non-bank SIFIs must pay certain assessments and other charges to offset certain costs incurred by the Federal Reserve Board in fulfilling its oversight role and in connection with the Financial Research Fund within the U.S. Department of Treasury that funds the Office of Financial Research.
On January 12, 2016, MetLife, Inc. announced its plan to pursue the Separation. See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Executive Summary — Other Key Information — Significant Events.” There can be no assurance that the new company that would be created in connection with the Separation will not be designated by the FSOC as a non-bank SIFI, although such a company would be separately evaluated by the FSOC and may not meet a necessary threshold to advance to possible designation, or that any actions taken in furtherance of this plan will affect any decision the FSOC may make to re-designate MetLife, Inc. as a non-bank SIFI. We may consider further structural and other business alternatives that may be available to us in response to any re-designation of MetLife as a non-bank SIFI, and we cannot predict the impact that any such alternatives, if implemented, may have on the Company or its security holders. See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Industry Trends — Regulatory Developments — U.S. Regulation — Potential Regulation as a Non-Bank SIFI,” as well as “Business — Regulation — U.S. Regulation — Regulation as a Non-Bank SIFI” included in the 2015 Annual Report, for additional information regarding potential regulation of MetLife, Inc. as a non-bank SIFI.

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International Regulation
Global Systemically Important Insurers
In the wake of the financial crisis, national and international authorities have proposed measures intended to increase the intensity of regulation of large financial institutions, requiring greater coordination among regulators and efforts to harmonize regulatory regimes. For example, the IAIS is participating in the FSB’s initiative to identify and manage global systemically important financial institutions. To this end, the IAIS published a methodology to assess the systemic relevance of global insurers and a framework of policy measures to be applied to G-SIIs and, on this basis, the FSB again so designated MetLife, Inc. in 2015. While the regulatory standards that would apply to G-SIIs are still being developed, they will include enhanced capital standards and supervision and other additional requirements that would not apply to companies that are not G-SIIs. The IAIS proposals would need to be implemented at the consolidated group level by legislation or regulation in each applicable jurisdiction. As MetLife, Inc. is no longer a U.S. non-bank SIFI and, therefore, has no consolidated group regulator, the impact on MetLife, Inc. of such proposals is uncertain. See Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Industry Trends — Regulatory Developments — International Regulation — Global Systemically Important Insurers,” as well as “Business — Regulation — International Regulation — Global Systemically Important Insurers” included in the 2015 Annual Report.
Risks Related to Acquisitions, Dispositions or Other Structural Changes
The following updates and replaces the similarly named sections of the risk factor entitled “We Could Face Difficulties, Unforeseen Liabilities, Asset Impairments or Rating Actions Arising from Business Acquisitions or Integrating and Managing Growth of Such Businesses, Dispositions of Businesses, or Legal Entity Reorganizations” included in the 2015 Annual Report. There have been no material changes to other sections of such risk factor. These sections include: “Risks Relating to Acquisitions,” “Risks Relating to Joint Ventures,” and “Risks Relating to Legal Entity Reorganizations,” within such risk factor included in the 2015 Annual Report.
We Could Face Difficulties, Unforeseen Liabilities, Asset Impairments or Rating Actions Arising from Business Acquisitions or Integrating and Managing Growth of Such Businesses, Dispositions of Businesses, or Legal Entity Reorganizations
We have engaged in dispositions and acquisitions of businesses in the past, and expect to continue to do so in the future. See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Executive Summary — Other Key Information — Significant Events” and Note 3 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information regarding MetLife, Inc.’s announcement of its plan to pursue the Separation and its entry into a purchase agreement with MassMutual. Such activity exposes us to a number of risks arising from (i) potential difficulties achieving projected financial results, including the costs and benefits of integration or deconsolidation; (ii) unforeseen liabilities or asset impairments; (iii) the scope and duration of rights to indemnification for losses; (iv) the use of capital which could be used for other purposes; (v) rating agency reactions; (vi) regulatory requirements that could impact our operations or capital requirements; (vii) changes in statutory or U.S. GAAP accounting principles, practices or policies; and (viii) certain other risks specifically arising from activities relating to an initial public offering, spin-off, joint venture or legal entity reorganization, including in connection with the proposed Separation.
The valuation and structure for any transaction reflect our financial projections and other qualitative and quantitative factors. Every transaction exposes us to the risk that actual results may materially differ from what we have projected. Factors that can cause our financial projections to vary materially from ultimate experience include, but are not limited to, macroeconomic, business growth, demographic, policyholder behavior, regulatory and political conditions.
Risks Relating to Dispositions
We may separate a business through an outright sale, or by alternate means such as a public offering of shares in an independent, publicly traded company or a spin-off, which would also result in a separate, possibly independent and publicly traded, company. See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Executive Summary — Other Key Information — Significant Events” and Note 3 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information on MetLife, Inc.’s announcement of its plan to pursue the Separation and its entry into a purchase agreement with MassMutual. A Separation, depending on the specific form, would be subject to the satisfaction of various conditions and approvals, including, among other things, approval of any transaction by the MetLife, Inc. Board of Directors, satisfaction of any applicable requirements of the SEC, and receipt of insurance and other regulatory approvals and other anticipated conditions. No assurance can be given regarding the form that the proposed Separation may take or the specific terms thereof, or that the Separation will in fact occur. The transactions contemplated by the purchase agreement with MassMutual are also subject to certain closing conditions, including regulatory approval.

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Unanticipated developments could delay, prevent or otherwise adversely affect our ability to effect any disposition transaction. Factors which could affect our ability to consummate such transactions include difficulties in finding buyers and delays or other problems with obtaining required regulatory, tax and other approvals, as well as adverse conditions in the capital and credit markets.
When we dispose of subsidiaries or operations, we may remain liable to the acquiror or to third parties for certain losses or costs arising from the divested business or on other bases. We may also incur a loss on the disposition. In anticipation of any disposition, we may need to restructure our operations, which could disrupt such operations and affect our ability to recruit key personnel needed to operate and grow such business. In addition, the actions of key employees of the business to be divested could adversely affect the success of such disposition as they may be more focused on obtaining employment, or the terms of their employment, than on maximizing the value of the business to be divested. Any such separation will also decrease the diversification of our sources of revenue and result in a greater percentage of our revenue being derived from non-U.S. sources which may increase our exposure to certain risks. See “ Risks Related to Our Business Our International Operations Face Political, Legal, Operational and Other Risks, Including Exposure to Local and Regional Economic Conditions, That Could Negatively Affect Those Operations or Our Profitability.” Any such separation would also affect the dividends available to be paid to MetLife, Inc. by the subsidiaries that are part of such separation. Furthermore, we may be unable to timely dissolve all contractual relationships with the divested business in the course of the proposed transaction, which may materially adversely affect our ability to realize value from the disposition. Such restructuring could also adversely affect our internal controls and procedures and impair our relationships with key customers, distributors and suppliers. An interruption or significant change in certain key relationships could materially affect our ability to market our products and could have a material adverse effect on our business, operating results and financial condition. A distributor has elected to suspend and other distributors may elect to suspend, alter, reduce or terminate their distribution relationships with us for various reasons, including uncertainty related to the proposed Separation, changes in our distribution strategy, adverse developments in our business, adverse rating agency actions or concerns about market-related risks. After any such disposition, shares of our Common Stock will represent an investment in a company different in size and characteristics from the present. These changes may cause some existing shareholders to sell their shares of our Common Stock, which could, if excessive, cause the market price of our Common Stock to decrease.
Risks Related to Our Business
The following updates and replaces the similarly named sections of the risk factor entitled “Our International Operations Face Political, Legal, Operational and Other Risks, Including Exposure to Local and Regional Economic Conditions, That Could Negatively Affect Those Operations or Our Profitability” included in the 2015 Annual Report. There have been no material changes to other sections of such risk factor.
Our International Operations Face Political, Legal, Operational and Other Risks, Including Exposure to Local and Regional Economic Conditions, That Could Negatively Affect Those Operations or Our Profitability
The U.K. has announced a referendum on its membership in the EU to be held in June 2016. If the referendum results in the withdrawal of the U.K. from the EU, the medium term impacts on our business both within the U.K. and the EU are uncertain. A vote to leave would trigger an extended negotiation period between the U.K. and the EU on the U.K.'s future trading relationship with the EU. In the meantime, the U.K. remains a member of the EU with unchanged rights to access the single EU market in goods and services. Our business model relies on certain rights to operate cross-border insurance operations which may be eliminated or modified after the period of negotiation between the U.K. and EU is completed. Currency volatility in both the U.K. and wider EU would likely increase, impacting our businesses in those markets. Operating expenses within our businesses could increase in the event of a U.K. withdrawal.

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Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
Purchases of common stock made by or on behalf of MetLife, Inc. or its affiliates during the quarter ended March 31, 2016 are set forth below:
Period
 
(a) Total Number
of Shares Purchased (1)
 
(b) Average Price Paid per Share
 
(c) Total Number
of Shares
Purchased as Part
of Publicly
Announced Plans
or Programs
 
(d) Maximum Number
(or Approximate
Dollar Value) of
Shares that May Yet
Be Purchased Under the
Plans or Programs (2)
January 1 — January 31, 2016
 
1,445,864

 
$
48.63

 
1,445,864

 
$

February 1 — February 29, 2016
 

 
$

 

 
$

March 1 — March 31, 2016
 

 
$

 

 
$

__________________
(1)
During the periods January 1 through January 31, 2016, February 1 through February 29, 2016 and March 1 through March 31, 2016, separate account index funds purchased 0 shares, 0 shares and 0 shares, respectively, of common stock on the open market in nondiscretionary transactions. Except for the foregoing, there were no shares of common stock which were repurchased by MetLife, Inc. other than through a publicly announced plan or program.
(2)
On December 12, 2014, MetLife, Inc. announced that its Board of Directors authorized $1.0 billion of common stock repurchases in addition to previously authorized repurchases and, on September 22, 2015, MetLife, Inc. announced that its Board of Directors authorized additional repurchases of $739 million of its common stock, bringing MetLife, Inc.’s available repurchase authorization under the December 2014 and September 2015 authorizations as of such date to $1.0 billion. In October 2015, MetLife, Inc. completed all repurchases under the December 2014 authorization. In January 2016, MetLife, Inc. completed all remaining repurchases under the September 2015 authorization. At March 31, 2016, MetLife, Inc. had no remaining authorizations. Under these authorizations, MetLife, Inc. may have purchased its common stock from the MetLife Policyholder Trust, in the open market (including pursuant to the terms of a pre-set trading plan meeting the requirements of Rule 10b5-1 under the Exchange Act) and in privately negotiated transactions. Common stock repurchases are dependent upon several factors, including our capital position, liquidity, financial strength and credit ratings, general market conditions, the market price of MetLife, Inc.’s common stock compared to management’s assessment of the stock’s underlying value and applicable regulatory approvals, as well as other legal and accounting factors. See “Risk Factors — Capital-Related Risks — Regulatory Restrictions and Uncertainty and Restrictions Under the Terms of Certain of Our Securities May Prevent Us from Repurchasing Our Stock and Paying Dividends at the Level We Wish” included in the 2015 Annual Report, as well as Note 16 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2015 Annual Report.

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Item 6. Exhibits
(Note Regarding Reliance on Statements in Our Contracts: In reviewing the agreements included as exhibits to this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, please remember that they are included to provide you with information regarding their terms and are not intended to provide any other factual or disclosure information about MetLife, Inc., its subsidiaries or affiliates, or the other parties to the agreements. The agreements contain representations and warranties by each of the parties to the applicable agreement. These representations and warranties have been made solely for the benefit of the other parties to the applicable agreement and (i) should not in all instances be treated as categorical statements of fact, but rather as a way of allocating the risk to one of the parties if those statements prove to be inaccurate; (ii) have been qualified by disclosures that were made to the other party in connection with the negotiation of the applicable agreement, which disclosures are not necessarily reflected in the agreement; (iii) may apply standards of materiality in a way that is different from what may be viewed as material to investors; and (iv) were made only as of the date of the applicable agreement or such other date or dates as may be specified in the agreement and are subject to more recent developments. Accordingly, these representations and warranties may not describe the actual state of affairs as of the date they were made or at any other time. Additional information about MetLife, Inc., its subsidiaries and affiliates may be found elsewhere in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and MetLife, Inc.’s other public filings, which are available without charge through the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission website at www.sec.gov.)
Exhibit
No.
 
Description
4.1
 
Certain instruments defining the rights of holders of long-term debt of MetLife, Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries are omitted pursuant to Item 601(b)(4)(iii) of Regulation S-K. MetLife, Inc. hereby agrees to furnish to the Securities and Exchange Commission, upon request, copies of such instruments.
10.1
 
Purchase Agreement by and among MetLife, Inc. and Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company, dated as of February 28, 2016.
18.1
 
Letter from Deloitte & Touche LLP, dated May 5, 2016, regarding change in accounting principles.
31.1
 
Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
31.2
 
Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32.1
 
Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32.2
 
Certification of Chief Financial Officer 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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Table of Contents

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.
 
METLIFE, INC.
 
 
 
By:
 
/s/ Peter M. Carlson
 
 
Name:  Peter M. Carlson
Title:    Executive Vice President
             and Chief Accounting Officer
             (Authorized Signatory and Principal
              Accounting Officer)
Date: May 5, 2016

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Table of Contents

Exhibit Index
(Note Regarding Reliance on Statements in Our Contracts: In reviewing the agreements included as exhibits to this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, please remember that they are included to provide you with information regarding their terms and are not intended to provide any other factual or disclosure information about MetLife, Inc., its subsidiaries or affiliates, or the other parties to the agreements. The agreements contain representations and warranties by each of the parties to the applicable agreement. These representations and warranties have been made solely for the benefit of the other parties to the applicable agreement and (i) should not in all instances be treated as categorical statements of fact, but rather as a way of allocating the risk to one of the parties if those statements prove to be inaccurate; (ii) have been qualified by disclosures that were made to the other party in connection with the negotiation of the applicable agreement, which disclosures are not necessarily reflected in the agreement; (iii) may apply standards of materiality in a way that is different from what may be viewed as material to investors; and (iv) were made only as of the date of the applicable agreement or such other date or dates as may be specified in the agreement and are subject to more recent developments. Accordingly, these representations and warranties may not describe the actual state of affairs as of the date they were made or at any other time. Additional information about MetLife, Inc., its subsidiaries and affiliates may be found elsewhere in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and MetLife, Inc.’s other public filings, which are available without charge through the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission website at www.sec.gov.) 
Exhibit
No.
 
Description
4.1
 
Certain instruments defining the rights of holders of long-term debt of MetLife, Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries are omitted pursuant to Item 601(b)(4)(iii) of Regulation S-K. MetLife, Inc. hereby agrees to furnish to the Securities and Exchange Commission, upon request, copies of such instruments.
10.1
 
Purchase Agreement by and among MetLife, Inc. and Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company, dated as of February 28, 2016.
18.1
 
Letter from Deloitte & Touche LLP, dated May 5, 2016, regarding change in accounting principles.
31.1
 
Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
31.2
 
Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32.1
 
Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32.2
 
Certification of Chief Financial Officer 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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