10-QPeriod: Q3 FY2010

METLIFE INC Quarterly Report for Q3 Ended Sep 30, 2010

Filed November 4, 2010For Securities:METMET-PEMET-PFMET-PA

Summary

MetLife Inc. reported a significant turnaround in its financial performance for the nine months ended September 30, 2010, compared to the same period in 2009. The company posted a net income of $2.701 billion, a substantial improvement from a net loss of $2.591 billion in the prior year. This recovery was driven by favorable market conditions, leading to higher net investment income and reduced investment and derivative losses. The company's total revenues increased significantly, reflecting growth across its segments, particularly in universal life and investment-type products and net investment income. Key drivers of this improvement include a substantial rebound in net investment gains (losses) and a significant reduction in net derivatives losses, largely due to market stabilization and more favorable hedging outcomes. Management highlighted a focus on expense management and disciplined underwriting as contributing factors to the enhanced profitability. The company also advanced its strategic growth initiatives, notably preparing for the acquisition of ALICO, which was completed shortly after the reporting period. Investors should note the strong recovery in profitability, driven by improved market conditions and strategic execution. The company's proactive management of its investment portfolio, including the use of derivatives for hedging, appears to be contributing positively. However, continued vigilance regarding market volatility, potential regulatory changes, and the successful integration of the ALICO acquisition will be crucial for future performance.

Financial Statements
Beta
Revenue$12.34B
Operating Expenses$2.99B
Operating Income$2.60B
Interest Expense$397.00M
Net Income$316.00M
EPS (Basic)$0.33
EPS (Diluted)$0.32
Shares Outstanding (Basic)875.78M
Shares Outstanding (Diluted)883.10M

Key Highlights

  • 1MetLife reported a net income of $2.701 billion for the nine months ended September 30, 2010, a significant recovery from a net loss of $2.591 billion in the same period of 2009.
  • 2Total revenues increased by 38.9% to $39.880 billion for the nine months ended September 30, 2010, compared to $28.717 billion in the prior year, driven by higher net investment income, universal life and investment-type product policy fees, and a substantial improvement in net investment and derivatives gains (losses).
  • 3Operating earnings available to common shareholders increased by 59.4% to $2.734 billion for the nine months ended September 30, 2010, compared to $1.572 billion in the prior year period, demonstrating operational profitability improvement.
  • 4Total assets grew to $617.255 billion as of September 30, 2010, from $539.314 billion at December 31, 2009, reflecting growth across business segments and preparation for the ALICO acquisition.
  • 5The company issued $3.623 billion in common stock and $3 billion in senior notes in August 2010 in anticipation of the ALICO acquisition, strengthening its capital position.
  • 6Net unrealized losses on fixed maturity and equity securities significantly improved from a net unrealized loss of $1.330 billion at December 31, 2009, to a net unrealized gain of $5.756 billion at September 30, 2010.
  • 7The acquisition of ALICO was completed on November 1, 2010, for a total consideration of $16.397 billion, significantly expanding MetLife's international presence and product diversification.

Frequently Asked Questions

MetLife demonstrated a strong financial recovery, reporting a net income of $2.701 billion for the nine months ended September 30, 2010, a significant improvement from a net loss of $2.591 billion in the same period of 2009. This turnaround was driven by improved market conditions, leading to higher net investment income and reduced investment and derivatives losses.

The improved results were primarily driven by favorable market conditions, leading to higher net investment income and a significant turnaround in net investment gains (losses) and net derivatives gains (losses). The company also benefited from growth in policy fees, particularly on separate accounts due to equity market recovery, and strategic expense management initiatives.

The investment portfolio showed improved performance with net investment income increasing and net investment gains (losses) moving from a significant loss in 2009 to a smaller loss in 2010. The company is exposed to credit risk, interest rate risk, liquidity risk, and market valuation risk. They manage these risks through diversification, ALM strategies, and the use of derivatives. The company noted a significant improvement in its net unrealized loss position on fixed maturity and equity securities.

The acquisition of ALICO, completed on November 1, 2010, for $16.397 billion, is a major strategic move that significantly expands MetLife's international presence and product diversification. It is expected to accelerate the company's global growth strategy and is anticipated to contribute substantially to MetLife's operating earnings in the coming years.