NI Holdings, Inc.: Form 10-K for the period ended Dec 31, 2024

All dollar amounts, except per share amounts, are in thousands.

Overview

NI Holdings is a North Dakota business corporation that is the stock holding company of Nodak Insurance Company and became such in connection with the conversion of Nodak Mutual Insurance Company (“Nodak Mutual”) from a mutual to stock form of organization and the creation of a mutual holding company. The conversion was completed on March 13, 2017. Immediately following the conversion, all of the outstanding shares of common stock of Nodak Insurance Company (“Nodak Insurance,” the successor to Nodak Mutual Insurance Company) were issued to Nodak Mutual Group, Inc. (“Nodak Mutual Group”), which then contributed the shares to NI Holdings in exchange for 55% of the outstanding shares of common stock of NI Holdings. Nodak Insurance then became a wholly-owned stock subsidiary of NI Holdings. Prior to completion of the conversion, NI Holdings conducted no business and had no assets or liabilities. As a result of the conversion, NI Holdings became the holding company for Nodak Insurance and its existing subsidiaries. Concurrent with the conversion, on March 13, 2017, the Company completed an initial public offering (“IPO”) of 10,350,000 shares of common stock at a price of $10.00 per share. The Company received net proceeds of $93,145 from the offering, after deducting the underwriting discounts and offering expenses. The newly issued shares of NI Holdings were available for public trading on March 16, 2017.

These consolidated financial statements include the financial position and results of operations of NI Holdings and the following other entities:

• Nodak Insurance – a wholly-owned subsidiary of NI Holdings;
• Nodak Agency, Inc. (“Nodak Agency”) – a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nodak Insurance;
• American West Insurance Company (“American West”) – a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nodak Insurance;
• Primero Insurance Company (“Primero”) – an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Nodak Insurance;
• Battle Creek Insurance Company (“Battle Creek”) – a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nodak Insurance, formerly Battle Creek Mutual Insurance Company. Battle Creek Mutual Insurance Company became affiliated with Nodak Insurance in 2011 and, prior to January 2, 2024, was controlled by Nodak Insurance via a surplus note. The terms of the surplus note allowed Nodak Insurance to appoint two-thirds of the Battle Creek Mutual Insurance Company Board of Directors. As of January 2, 2024, the North Dakota Secretary of State approved the conversion of Battle Creek Mutual Insurance Company from a mutual insurance company to a stock insurance company. In accordance with the approved plan of conversion, the name of Battle Creek Mutual Insurance Company became Battle Creek Insurance Company, the surplus note was considered paid in full as of the conversion date, and Battle Creek became a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nodak Insurance;
• Direct Auto Insurance Company (“Direct Auto”) – a wholly-owned subsidiary of NI Holdings; and
• Westminster American Insurance Company (“Westminster”) – a wholly-owned subsidiary of NI Holdings until it was sold to Scott Insurance Holdings, LLC (“Scott Insurance Holdings”) on June 30, 2024.

A chart of the corporate structure as of December 31, 2024, and a more complete description of each of the NI Holdings subsidiaries, is included below.

NI HOLDINGS, INC. ORGANIZATIONAL CHART

The executive offices of NI Holdings and Nodak Insurance are located at 1101 First Avenue North, Fargo, North Dakota 58102, and the main office phone number is 701-298-4200. NI Holdings’ website address is www.niholdingsinc.com (http://www.niholdingsinc.com). The Company makes available on its website, free of charge, its Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K, and amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”) as soon as reasonably practicable after it electronically files such material with, or furnish it to, the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). Information contained on such website is not incorporated by reference into this 2024 Annual Report, and such information should not be considered to be part of this 2024 Annual Report.

Subsidiary and Affiliate Companies

Intercompany Reinsurance Pooling Arrangement

Effective January 1, 2020, all of our insurance subsidiary and affiliate companies entered into an intercompany reinsurance pooling agreement. Nodak Insurance is the lead company of the pool, and assumes the net premiums, net losses, and underwriting expenses from each of the other four companies. Nodak Insurance then retrocedes balances back to each company, while retaining its own share of the pool’s net underwriting results, based on individual pool percentages established in the respective pooling agreement. This arrangement allows each insurance company to rely upon the capacity of the pool’s total statutory capital and surplus. As a result, they are evaluated by A.M. Best Company, Inc. (“AM Best”) on a group basis and hold a single combined financial strength rating, long-term issuer credit rating, and financial size category. Subsequent to the June 30, 2024, date of sale, Westminster is no longer a member of the pool, and the pooling percentages for the remaining insurance subsidiaries were updated based on their respective surplus as a percentage of the pool as of December 31, 2023.

Nodak Insurance Company

Nodak Insurance is the largest domestic property and casualty insurance company based in North Dakota, offering private passenger auto, homeowners, farmowners, commercial multi-peril, crop hail, and Federal multi-peril crop insurance coverages through its captive agents in the state.

Nodak Insurance was formed in 1946 to offer property and casualty insurance to members of the North Dakota Farm Bureau (“NDFB”), and benefits from a strong marketing affiliation with that organization. Nodak Insurance’s bylaws provide that a person must be a member and remain a member of the NDFB in order to become and remain a policyholder of Nodak Insurance. Nodak Insurance’s bylaws also require that four members of the Board of Directors of Nodak Insurance must be members of the NDFB. Similarly, one-third of the members of the Board of Directors of Nodak Mutual Group must be persons designated by the NDFB.

The NDFB has granted Nodak Insurance a nonexclusive, nontransferable license to use the name “Farm Bureau” and the “FB” logo and associated trademarks to market Nodak Insurance products. Nodak Insurance has held this license since the insurance company’s inception in 1946, and the current version of the license agreement has been in place since 2002. The current license agreement between the NDFB and Nodak Insurance renewed on October 1, 2024, with an expiration date of September 30, 2025. The agreement has historically been renewed annually by a vote of the Nodak Insurance Board of Directors. Under the current license agreement, Nodak Insurance is required to pay to the NDFB an annual royalty payment equal to 1.3% of Nodak Insurance’s written premiums (excluding multi-peril crop insurance premiums), subject to a minimum annual payment of $900 and a maximum annual payment of $1,672. The maximum royalty payment is adjusted annually based upon the June index month for the Consumer Price Index.

As of December 31, 2024, Nodak Insurance distributed its insurance products through 63 exclusive agents appointed by Nodak Insurance.

Nodak Agency, Inc.

Nodak Agency is an inactive shell corporation.

Tri-State, Ltd.

Tri-State, Ltd. is an inactive shell corporation.

American West Insurance Company

American West is a property and casualty insurance company licensed in eight states in the Midwest and Western regions of the United States (“U.S.”). American West began writing policies in 2002 and primarily writes private passenger auto, homeowners, and farm coverages in South Dakota. American West also writes private passenger auto coverage in North Dakota, as well as crop hail and Federal multi-peril crop insurance coverages in Minnesota and South Dakota. As of December 31, 2024, American West distributed its products through independent agents in 63 contracted agencies.

Primero Insurance Company

Primero is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Tri-State, Ltd. Tri-State, Ltd. is an inactive shell corporation 100% owned by Nodak Insurance. Primero is a property and casualty insurance company writing non-standard automobile coverage in the states of Nevada, Arizona, North Dakota, and South Dakota during 2024. Primero was acquired by Nodak Insurance in 2014. As of December 31, 2024, Primero no longer writes coverage in the state of Nevada. Primero distributed its policies through independent agents in 216 contracted agencies in the three remaining states.

Battle Creek Insurance Company

Battle Creek is a property and casualty insurance company writing private passenger auto, homeowners, and farm coverages solely in the state of Nebraska. As of December 31, 2024, Battle Creek distributed its policies through independent agents in 113 contracted agencies. Battle Creek became affiliated with Nodak Insurance in 2011, and Nodak Insurance provides underwriting, claims management, policy administration, and other administrative services to Battle Creek.

On January 2, 2024, Battle Creek issued 300,000 shares of its common stock to Nodak Insurance at a $10.00 per share par value and became a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nodak Insurance. Because we concluded that we controlled Battle Creek prior to January 2, 2024, we consolidated the financial statements of Battle Creek, and Battle Creek’s policyholders’ interest in Battle Creek was reflected as a non-controlling interest in shareholders’ equity in our Consolidated Balance Sheets for NI Holdings (“Consolidated Balance Sheets”) and its net income or loss was excluded from net income or loss attributed to NI Holdings in our Consolidated Statements of Operations for NI Holdings (“Consolidated Statements of Operations”). Subsequent to January 2, 2024, Battle Creek is fully consolidated in our Consolidated Balance Sheets and Consolidated Statements of Operations and, as such, no longer reflected as a non-controlling interest.

Direct Auto Insurance Company

Direct Auto is a property and casualty insurance company licensed in Illinois. Direct Auto began writing non-standard automobile coverage in 2007, and was acquired by NI Holdings on August 31, 2018, via a stock purchase agreement. As of December 31, 2024, Direct Auto distributed its policies through independent agents in 156 contracted agencies, concentrated primarily in the Chicago area.

Westminster American Insurance Company

Westminster is a property and casualty insurance company licensed in 18 states and the District of Columbia. Westminster is headquartered in Owings Mills, Maryland and underwrites commercial multi-peril insurance in the states of Delaware, Georgia, Kentucky, Maryland, New Jersey, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and the District of Columbia. Westminster was sold to Scott Insurance Holdings on June 30, 2024. Subsequent to the date of sale, Westminster is reflected as discontinued operations within our Consolidated Balance Sheets and Consolidated Statements of Operations. For additional information see Part II, Item 8, Note 20 “Discontinued Operations” of this 2024 Annual Report.

General Information

Nodak Insurance markets and distributes its policies through its captive agents, while all other companies utilize the independent agent distribution channel. Additionally, all of the Company’s insurance subsidiary and affiliate companies are rated “A” Excellent by AM Best.

The same executive management team provides oversight and strategic direction for the entire organization. Nodak Insurance provides common product oversight, pricing practices, and underwriting standards, as well as underwriting and claims administration, to itself, American West, and Battle Creek. Primero and Direct Auto personnel manage the day-to-day operations of their respective companies. Westminster personnel managed the day-to-day operations of their company prior to the date of sale.

The consolidated financial statements of NI Holdings presented herein include the financial position and results of operations of NI Holdings, Direct Auto, Westminster (as discontinued operations), and Nodak Insurance, including Nodak Insurance’s subsidiaries of American West, Primero and Battle Creek. Each of the insurance companies is subject to examination and comprehensive regulation by the insurance department of its state of domicile, North Dakota.

Market Overview for Continuing Operations

We market our personal lines products in the upper Midwest states of North Dakota, Nebraska, South Dakota, and Minnesota. We offer non-standard auto insurance in the states of Illinois, Arizona, Nevada, South Dakota, and North Dakota. We offer commercial multi-peril insurance in the states of North Dakota and South Dakota. The following chart shows our direct premiums written during the last two years and our relative market share within each of our states during the year ended December 31, 2023:

Growth Strategy

We believe we have many opportunities to grow our business. Strategies we employ to achieve this growth include:

• continued emphasis on our relationship with the NDFB, a key advocacy group for agricultural and rural interests which enjoys a high profile and favorable reputation throughout North Dakota;
• expansion and enhancement of independent agency relationships, including the use of technology such as mobile apps, online quoting, and policy issuance initiatives to make it easy for agents and insureds to do business with us;
• capitalizing on our excellent claims service for all insureds;
• selective expansion of our insurance products in states where we currently operate, as well as those states where we hold insurance licenses; and
• consideration of strategic acquisitions and investment opportunities in businesses that align with our growth objectives.

Corporate Capital Strategy

Our philosophy is to deploy capital in a manner that provides long-term protection for our policyholders and creates long-term value for our shareholders. This philosophy is supported by a number of underlying strategies implemented across the organization that are focused on preservation of capital, including:

• prioritizing the use of data and modeling tools to help estimate the frequency and severity of risks within our insurance portfolio;
• maintaining a conservatively managed investment portfolio that supports our insurance operations under a wide range of operating and market conditions;
• ensuring our reinsurance program is designed to provide sufficient protection against material insurance exposures including, but not limited to, catastrophes caused by weather-related events; and
• relying upon our Enterprise Risk Management framework to identify, quantify, and manage a broad range of risks across the organization.

We view our capital position to consist of three layers, each of which has a specific size and purpose:

• The first layer of capital, which we refer to as “regulatory capital,” is the amount of capital needed to satisfy state insurance regulatory requirements while supporting our growth objectives. This capital is held by each of our insurance company subsidiaries.
• The second layer of capital is considered “contingency capital.” While our regulatory capital is, by definition, a cushion for absorbing financial consequences of adverse events, such as loss reserve development, litigation, weather catastrophes, and investment market corrections, we view that as a base and hold additional capital for even more extreme operating conditions. This capital is generally also held by each of our insurance company subsidiaries.
• The third layer of capital is classified as “excess capital” and represents the excess of the sum of the first two layers. This capital is available for deployment by NI Holdings in conjunction with our excess capital deployment priorities.

Our excess capital deployment priorities are to (1) invest in existing businesses where we see opportunities for profitable growth, (2) make strategic investments and acquisitions that enhance our businesses and achieve appropriate risk-adjusted returns over time, and (3) return capital to shareholders through share repurchases or shareholder dividends.

Insurance Products by Segment

Our consolidated financial results from continuing operations include our Private Passenger Auto, Non-Standard Auto, Home and Farm, Crop, and All Other reporting segments. Information regarding products and services offered in each segment is included below. Additionally, revenues, underwriting results, and identifiable assets and liabilities for each segment are shown in Part II, Item 8, Note 21 “Segment Information.” The financial performance of each segment is discussed in Part II, Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.”

Private Passenger Auto

Nodak Insurance, Battle Creek, and American West each write private passenger auto insurance to provide protection against liability for bodily injury and property damage arising from automobile accidents as well as protection against loss from damage to automobiles owned by the insured. Private passenger auto accounted for $97,209 (28.4%) of direct premiums written by the Company on a consolidated basis during 2024.

Non-Standard Auto

Primero and Direct Auto write non-standard auto insurance with a focus on minimum-limit auto liability coverage. Non-standard auto insurance accounted for $87,467 (25.6%) of direct premiums written by the Company on a consolidated basis during 2024.

Home and Farm

Nodak Insurance, Battle Creek, and American West each write homeowners and farmowners policies to provide coverage for damage to buildings, equipment, and contents for a variety of perils, including fire, lightning, wind, hail, and theft. These policies also cover liability arising from injury to other persons or their property while on the insured’s premises. Home and farm accounted for $107,203 (31.3%) of direct premiums written by the Company on a consolidated basis during 2024.

Crop

Nodak Insurance, American West, and Battle Creek offer crop hail and multi-peril crop insurance policies. Multi-peril crop insurance is a federal program that protects against crop yield losses from all types of natural causes and loss of revenue due to declines in the prices of agricultural products. Crop hail insurance is a private insurance product designed to provide protection against losses to farmers’ crops due primarily to hail damage. Collectively, crop insurance accounted for $36,421 (10.6%) of direct premiums written by the Company on a consolidated basis during 2024.

All Other

In addition to the products described above, Nodak Insurance, American West, and Battle Creek write commercial and excess liability coverages. Collectively, these other coverages accounted for $14,002 (4.1%) of the direct premiums written by the Company on a consolidated basis during 2024. This segment also includes an assumed reinsurance book of business, with $820 of assumed premiums written on a consolidated basis during 2024. The majority of these assumed premiums written are related to a domestic and international reinsurance pool for which the Company made the decision to non-renew its participation as of January 1, 2022, and the associated assumed premiums represent run-off of this business.

Crop Insurance

Crop insurance is purchased by agricultural producers, including farmers, ranchers, and others to protect themselves against either the loss of their crops (yield) due to natural disasters such as hail, freezing, plant disease, drought, and floods, or the loss of revenue due to declines in the prices of agricultural products. The two general categories of crop insurance are referred to as “crop-yield insurance” and “crop-revenue insurance.” Crop-yield insurance protects against a reduction in the yield per acre from the historical average yield in a specified area, such as a county or National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration weather grid, while crop-revenue insurance provides protection against declines in the price of the particular crop. Most of the multi-peril crop insurance policies written today combine both yield and revenue protection, with the revenue component providing the policyholder with the option to calculate price-based losses on the higher of the prevailing price when the crop is planted or the price at harvest.

Beginning in 1980, the U.S. Congress expanded the federal crop insurance program to cover more crops and regions of the country. More importantly, Congress permitted private sector insurers to market and administer federal insurance policies in exchange for an opportunity to earn a profit while bearing a portion of the insurance risk. Congress also authorized a premium subsidy for the farmers and ranchers. As a result, there was a rapid increase in the acres insured from approximately 26 million acres in 1980 to 100 million acres in 1990. The Federal Crop Insurance Reform Act of 1994 made participation in the crop insurance program mandatory for farmers to be eligible to participate in other government support programs and provided a minimum level of free catastrophic risk coverage for insured and noninsured crops.

American Farm Bureau Insurance Services (“AFBIS”) underwrites all of our, as well as several other state Farm Bureau affiliated insurers, multi-peril crop and crop hail insurance policies. AFBIS also processes and administers all claims made by policyholders under such policies. We reimburse AFBIS for its actual loss adjustment expense with respect to the policies issued by us and pay AFBIS a percentage of the premiums we receive with respect to such policies.

Marketing and Distribution

Our marketing philosophy is to sell profitable business using a focused, cost-effective distribution system. Nodak Insurance distributes its insurance products through exclusive agents in North Dakota, while American West, Battle Creek, Primero, and Direct Auto rely on independent agents.

We review our agents with respect to both premium volume and profitability. Our captive agents for Nodak Insurance are hired and trained by our sales staff in North Dakota, while the independent agents for our other companies are appointed by the underwriting or marketing staff for each respective company. We hold regular training sessions when we introduce new products or product changes, and we identify specific topics that may help our agents more effectively market our products.

For the year ended December 31, 2024, no individual agent was responsible for more than 5% of the Company’s direct premiums written.

Agents are compensated through a fixed base commission structure. Agents receive commission as a percentage of premiums as their primary compensation from us. The Risk Management Agency of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (“RMA”) establishes the maximum commission that can be paid to agents with respect to crop insurance policies. Nodak Insurance, Battle Creek, American West, and Direct Auto pay annual profit-sharing commissions with respect to all property and casualty (non-crop) business based on company-specific production metrics related to premiums and profitability.

Our marketing efforts are further supported by our claims philosophy, which is designed to provide prompt and efficient service and claims processing, resulting in a positive experience for agents and policyholders. We believe that these positive experiences contribute to achieving higher policyholder retention and new business growth over time. While we rely on our captive and independent agents for distribution and customer support, underwriting and claim handling responsibilities are retained by us. Many of our agents have had direct relationships with us for a number of years.

Underwriting, Risk Assessment, and Pricing

We strive to be disciplined in our pricing by pursuing rate increases to maintain or improve our underwriting profitability while still being able to attract and retain customers. We utilize pricing reviews that we believe will help us price risks more accurately, maintain appropriate policyholder retention, and support the production of profitable new business. These pricing reviews involve evaluating our claims experience and loss trends on a periodic basis to identify changes in the frequency and severity of our claims. We then consider whether our premium rates are adequate relative to the level of underwriting risk as well as the sufficiency of our underwriting guidelines.

The nature of our business requires that we remain sensitive to the marketplace and the pricing strategies of our competitors. Using the market information as a reference point, we typically set our prices based on our estimated future costs. From time to time, we may reduce our discounts or apply a premium surcharge to achieve an appropriate return. Pricing flexibility allows us to provide a fair rate commensurate with the assumed risk. If our pricing strategy cannot yield sufficient premium to cover our costs on a particular type of risk, we may choose not to underwrite that risk. It is our philosophy not to sacrifice profitability for premium growth.

Enterprise Risk Management

Our Company is subject to significant risks, including the normal risks of a property and casualty insurance company. These risks are discussed in more detail in Part I, Item 1A, “Risk Factors.”

We consider an enterprise-wide risk management program to be an integral part of managing our business and a key element in our approach to corporate governance. Our Enterprise Risk Management Committee (the “ERMC”) is responsible for the alignment of operational risk management strategies as the coordination point for enterprise-level direction setting with regard to risk management issues. The multi-disciplinary ERMC regularly monitors risk reports and metrics regarding a variety of continuing and emerging risks that may adversely affect the Company, its shareholders, its policyholders, or other stakeholders. The Audit Committee of the Board of Directors oversees risk management and regularly receives reports from the ERMC.

Reinsurance

We cede and assume certain premiums and losses to and from various companies and associations under a variety of reinsurance agreements. We seek to limit the maximum net loss that can arise from large risks or risks in concentrated areas of exposure through use of these agreements, either on an automatic basis under general reinsurance contracts known as treaties or through facultative contracts on substantial individual risks.

Reinsurance contracts do not relieve us from our obligation to policyholders. Additionally, failure of reinsurers to honor their obligations could result in significant losses to us. There can be no assurance that reinsurance will continue to be available to us to the same extent, and at the same cost, as it has in the past. We may choose in the future to reevaluate the use of reinsurance to increase or decrease the amounts of risk ceded to reinsurers.

For additional information, see Part II, Item 8, Note 6 “Reinsurance.”

Unpaid Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses

We maintain reserves for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses. Our liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses consists of (1) case reserves, which are reserves for claims that have been reported to us, and (2) reserves for claims that have been incurred but not yet been reported and for the future development of case reserves (“IBNR”). We determine a provision for the ultimate cost of those claims without regard to how long it takes to settle them or the time value of money. The determination of reserves involves actuarial and statistical projections of what we expect to be the cost of the ultimate settlement and administration of such claims. The liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses is set based on facts and circumstances then known, estimates of future trends in claims severity, and other variable factors such as inflation and changing judicial theories of liability. Our liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses is not discounted.

For additional information, see Part II, Item 7, “Critical Accounting Policies” and Part II, Item 8, Note 8 “Unpaid Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses.”

Investments

The majority of funds available for investments are deployed in a widely diversified portfolio of high quality, liquid taxable U.S. government, tax-exempt and taxable U.S. municipal, taxable corporate, and U.S. agency mortgage-backed bonds. We regularly monitor the effective duration of our fixed income investments, and our investment purchases and sales are executed with the objective of having adequate funds available to satisfy our insurance and other obligations. Generally, the expected principal and interest payments produced by our fixed income portfolio adequately fund the estimated runoff of the Company’s insurance reserves. The substantial amount by which the fair value of the fixed income portfolio exceeds the value of the net insurance liabilities, as well as the positive cash flow from newly sold policies and the large amount of high-quality liquid bonds, contribute to the Company’s ability to fund claim payments without having to sell illiquid assets or access its credit facilities.

We also invest a much smaller percentage of the portfolio in private placement debt offerings and equity securities, which have the potential for higher returns but also involve varying degrees of risk, including higher volatility and/or less liquidity.

The Investment Committee of NI Holdings’ Board of Directors reviews and approves the Company’s investment policy periodically. The investment portfolio is managed by Conning, Inc.

For additional information, see Part II, Item 7, “Critical Accounting Policies” and Part II, Item 8, Note 4 “Investments.”

Financial Strength

Ratings are an important factor in assessing the Company’s competitive position in the insurance industry. The Company is reviewed regularly by the independent rating agency AM Best, who assigns a financial strength rating to the Company, which reflects its assessment of an insurer’s ability to meet its financial obligations to policyholders. An insurer’s financial strength rating is one of the primary factors evaluated by those in the market to purchase insurance. A poor rating indicates that there is an increased likelihood that the insurer could become insolvent and therefore not able to fulfill its obligations under the insurance policies it issues. This rating can also affect an insurer’s level of written premiums, the lines of business it can write, and, for insurers like us that are also public registrants, the market value of its securities.

All of the Company’s insurance subsidiaries and affiliate companies are rated “A” Excellent by AM Best, which is the third highest out of 15 possible ratings, under a group rating due to the intercompany pooling reinsurance agreement. Effective May 10, 2024, AM Best affirmed a stable financial strength outlook to the group.

Competition

The property casualty and crop insurance markets are competitive. We compete with stock insurance companies, mutual insurance companies, and other underwriting organizations. Our largest competitors in North Dakota for private passenger auto and homeowners include Progressive, State Farm, American Family, National General, Farmers Union, and Auto-Owners insurance companies. In South Dakota and Nebraska, we have small market shares and our competitors are the large national and regional companies as well as Farmers Mutual of Nebraska. In our non-standard auto markets, which are primarily Illinois and Arizona, our primary competitors are regional carriers.

Based on 2023 data, Nodak Insurance is the second largest writer of farmowners insurance in North Dakota. Our largest competitors include Farmers Union, North Star Mutual, American Family, and Liberty Mutual insurance companies. In Nebraska and South Dakota, we have a small farmowners market share, which is dominated by the large national and regional carriers.

The principal competitors in our markets for multi-peril crop insurance include Chubb, QBE Insurance Group, Zurich, AgriSompo, and Great American Insurance Group. The premium rates for multi-peril crop insurance are established by the RMA and, accordingly, we compete with other insurance companies on factors such as agency relationships, claim service, and market reputation in the crop insurance market. We believe that our relationship with the NDFB and our leading market share are significant factors in maintaining our market share of the crop insurance business in North Dakota. The Company’s multi-peril crop insurance premiums for North Dakota were $30,641, $39,073, and $45,465 for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively. Total North Dakota multi-peril crop premiums for the industry were $1,231,110, $1,491,650, and $1,537,758 for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively.

With respect to writing property and casualty insurance, competitive factors include pricing, agency relationships, policy support, claim service, and market reputation. Like other writers of property and casualty insurance, our policy terms vary from state to state based on state regulations, competition, pricing, and other factors including the prescribed minimum liability limits in each state. We believe our Company differentiates itself from many larger companies competing for this business by focusing on ease of doing business and providing excellent claims service with local, knowledgeable employees.

To compete successfully in the property and casualty insurance market, we utilize data-driven insights and a disciplined underwriting approach to assess and price risks, practice prudent claims management, reserve appropriately for unpaid claims, and provide quality service and competitive commissions to our independent and captive agents.

Regulation

General

We are subject to extensive regulation, particularly at the state level. This regulation varies by state, but generally has its source in statutes and regulations that establish standards and requirements for conducting the business of insurance and that delegate regulatory authority to state insurance regulatory agencies. In general, such regulation is intended for the protection of those who purchase or use insurance products, not the companies that write the policies. These laws and regulations have a significant impact on our business and relate to a wide variety of matters including accounting methods, agent and company licensure, claims procedures, corporate governance, examinations, investing practices, policy forms, pricing, trade practices, reserve adequacy, and underwriting standards.

State insurance laws and regulations require our insurance company subsidiaries to file financial statements with state insurance departments everywhere they do business, and they are subject to examination by the departments they are domiciled in at any time. Our insurance company subsidiaries prepare statutory-basis financial statements in accordance with accounting practices and procedures prescribed or permitted by the state in which they are domiciled. Our domiciliary states generally conform to National Association of Insurance Commissioners (“NAIC”) accounting practices and procedures, so our examination reports and other filings generally are accepted by other states. As of December 31, 2024, all of our insurance subsidiaries are domiciled in North Dakota.

The NAIC provides guidance to the states with respect to standardized laws and regulations (including the accounting practices and procedures discussed above), which represent an effort to standardize insurance industry practices across state lines, oftentimes referred to as “Model Regulations.” It should be noted that these “model” laws are regulations that have no authority until the individual states pass them as part of the state legislative process, which may, or may not, be done as suggested, or with modifications.

Premium rate regulation varies greatly among jurisdictions and lines of insurance. In the states in which our insurance company subsidiaries write insurance, premium rates for the various lines of insurance are subject to either prior approval or limited review upon implementation. The premium rates for multi-peril crop insurance are established by the RMA. For additional information, see Part I, Item 1, “Crop Insurance.”

Many jurisdictions have laws and regulations that limit an insurer’s ability to withdraw from a particular market. For example, states may limit an insurer’s ability to cancel or non-renew policies. Laws and regulations that limit cancellation and non-renewal may restrict our ability to exit unprofitable marketplaces in a timely manner.

Crop Insurance

The multi-peril crop insurance business is overseen by the federal government through the RMA. The RMA outlines policy language, establishes premium rates, and develops loss adjustment procedures for insurance programs under the federal crop insurance program. In addition, through the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation (“FCIC”), the RMA provides premium subsidies to farmers and sets the commission percentages that can be paid to agents. All participating insurance carriers are subject to the same Standard Reinsurance Agreement (“SRA”), which outlines items such as reporting requirements and claims handling procedures, proportional and non-proportional reinsurance terms, and the level of administrative and operating reimbursement paid to insurers. The RMA also provides oversight to the approved insurance providers (“AIPs”). The AIPs are required to use the policies, premium rates, and loss adjustment procedures set by the RMA without modification and are required to issue a policy to any eligible applicant regardless of risk or profitability. The RMA conducts audits of AIPs with respect to claims and loss adjustment procedures.

American Agricultural Insurance Company is the AIP through which we issue multi-peril crop insurance policies and is the holder of the SRA with the FCIC.

NAIC Risk-Based Capital Requirements

North Dakota and most other states have adopted the NAIC system of risk-based capital requirements that require insurance companies to calculate and report information under a risk-based formula. These risk-based capital requirements attempt to measure statutory capital and surplus needs based on the risks in a company’s mix of products and investment portfolio. Under the formula, a company first determines its “authorized control level” risk-based capital. This authorized control level takes into account (i) the risk with respect to the insurer’s assets; (ii) the risk of adverse insurance experience with respect to the insurer’s liabilities and obligations; (iii) the interest rate risk with respect to the insurer’s business; and (iv) all other business risks and such other relevant risks as are set forth in the risk-based capital instructions. A company’s “total adjusted capital” is the sum of statutory capital and surplus and such other items as the risk-based capital instructions may provide. The formula is designed to allow state insurance regulators to identify insufficiently capitalized companies.

The requirements provide for four different levels of regulatory attention. The “company action level” is triggered if a company’s total adjusted capital is less than 2.0 times its authorized control level but greater than or equal to 1.5 times its authorized control level. At the company action level, the company must submit a comprehensive plan to the regulatory authority that discusses proposed corrective actions to improve the capital position. The “regulatory action level” is triggered if a company’s total adjusted capital is less than 1.5 times but greater than or equal to 1.0 times its authorized control level. At the regulatory action level, the regulatory authority will perform a special examination of the company and issue an order specifying corrective actions that must be followed. The “authorized control level” is triggered if a company’s total adjusted capital is less than 1.0 times but greater than or equal to 0.7 times its authorized control level. At this level, the regulatory authority may take action it deems necessary, including placing the company under regulatory control. The “mandatory control level” is triggered if a company’s total adjusted capital is less than 0.7 times its authorized control level. At this level, the regulatory authority is mandated to place the company under its control. The capital levels of our insurance subsidiary and affiliate companies all exceed the authorized control level and have never triggered any of these regulatory capital levels. We cannot guarantee, however, that the capital requirements applicable to such companies will not increase in the future, or that the underlying ratios will not erode.

NAIC Ratios

The NAIC has also developed a set of 13 financial ratios referred to as the Insurance Regulatory Information System (“IRIS”). Based on statutory-basis financial statements filed with state insurance regulators, the NAIC annually calculates these IRIS ratios to assist state insurance regulators in monitoring the financial condition of insurance companies. The NAIC has established an acceptable range for each of the IRIS financial ratios. If four or more of its IRIS ratios fall outside the range deemed acceptable by the NAIC, an insurance company may receive inquiries from individual state insurance departments. However, a ratio falling outside the usual range may not necessarily be considered adverse. In some years, it may not be unusual for financially sound companies to have several ratios with results outside the usual ranges. During the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, none of our insurance company subsidiaries produced results outside the acceptable range for more than three of the IRIS tests. During the year ended December 31, 2022, our insurance company subsidiaries produced results outside the acceptable range for as many as six of the IRIS tests, primarily driven by our significant net loss for the year that negatively impacted IRIS ratios related to the operating ratio and certain ratios based on policyholders’ surplus.

Enterprise Risk Assessment

In 2012, the NAIC adopted various changes to its Model Regulations (the “NAIC Amendments”). The NAIC Amendments, when adopted by the various states, are designed to respond to perceived gaps in the regulation of insurance holding company systems in the U.S. The NAIC Amendments include a requirement that an insurance holding company system’s ultimate controlling person submit annually to its lead state insurance regulator an “enterprise risk report.” This enterprise risk report identifies the activities, circumstances, or events involving one or more affiliates of an insurer that, if not remedied properly, are likely to have a material adverse effect upon the financial condition or liquidity of the insurer or its insurance holding company system as a whole. The Company files a Form F Enterprise Report annually with each domiciliary state in support of this requirement. The NAIC Amendments also include provisions requiring a controlling person to submit prior notice to its domiciliary insurance regulator of its divestiture of control, having detailed minimum requirements for cost sharing and management agreements between an insurer and its affiliates, and expanding of the agreements between an insurer and its affiliates to be filed with its domiciliary insurance regulator.

In 2012, the NAIC also adopted the Own Risk Solvency Assessment (“ORSA”) Model Act. The ORSA Model Act, when adopted by the various states, will require an insurance holding company system’s chief risk officer to submit at least annually to its lead state insurance regulator a confidential report detailing its own internal solvency assessment. Such an assessment is to be tailored to the nature, scale, and complexity of an insurer. This assessment will include the material and relevant risks identified by the insurer associated with an insurer’s current business plan and the sufficiency of capital resources to support those risks. Although our insurance company subsidiaries are exempt from ORSA because of their size, we intend to incorporate those elements of ORSA that we believe constitute “best practices” into our internal enterprise risk assessment.

Market Conduct Regulation

State insurance laws and regulations include numerous provisions governing trade practices and the marketplace activities of insurers, including provisions governing the form and content of disclosure to consumers, illustrations, advertising, sales practices, and complaint handling. State regulatory authorities generally enforce these provisions through periodic market conduct examinations.

Guaranty Fund Laws

All states have guaranty fund laws under which insurers doing business in the state can be assessed to fund policyholder liabilities of insolvent insurance companies. Under these laws, an insurer is subject to assessment depending upon its market share in the state of a given line of business. For the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, we paid only minimal assessments pursuant to state insurance guaranty association laws. We establish reserves relating to insurance companies that are subject to insolvency proceedings when it becomes probable that we will be subject to an assessment and the amount of such assessment can be estimated. We cannot predict the amount and timing of any future assessments under these laws.

Federal Regulation

The U.S. federal government generally does not directly regulate the insurance industry except for certain areas of the market, such as insurance for crops, flood, nuclear, and terrorism risks. However, the federal government has undertaken initiatives or considered legislation in several areas that may affect the insurance industry, including tort reform, corporate governance, and the taxation of reinsurance companies. The Dodd-Frank Act established the Federal Insurance Office, which is authorized to study, monitor, and report to Congress on the insurance industry and to recommend that the Financial Stability Oversight Council designate an insurer as an entity posing risks to the U.S. financial stability in the event of the insurer’s material financial distress or failure. In December 2013, the Federal Insurance Office issued a report on alternatives to modernize and improve the system of insurance regulation in the U.S., including by increasing national uniformity through either a federal charter or effective action by the states. Changes to federal legislation and administrative policies in several areas, including changes in federal taxation, can also significantly affect the insurance industry and us.

We are also subject to the Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act of 2003 and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, both of which require us to protect the privacy of our customers’ information, including health and credit information.

Privacy

We are subject to numerous U.S. federal and state laws governing the collection, disclosure, and protection of personal and confidential information of our clients or employees. These laws and regulations are increasing in complexity and number, change frequently, and may conflict. Congress, state legislatures, and regulatory authorities are expected to consider additional regulation relating to privacy and other aspects of customer information.

As mandated by the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (“GLBA”), states have promulgated laws and regulations that require financial institutions, including insurance companies, to take steps to protect the privacy of certain consumer and customer information. The NAIC has adopted several provisions to facilitate the implementation of the GLBA, including the Privacy of Consumer Financial and Health Information Model Regulation and the Standards for Safeguarding Customer Information Model Regulation. Several states adopted similar provisions regarding the safeguarding of customer information. We have implemented procedures to comply with the GLBA’s related privacy requirements.

In October 2017, the NAIC adopted the Insurance Data Security Model Law (“IDSML”), which requires insurers, insurance agents, and other entities required to be licensed under state insurance laws to develop and maintain a written information security program, conduct risk assessments, oversee the data security practices of third-party service providers, and other related requirements. Several states in which we operate, including North Dakota, have adopted the IDSML. Such enactments and regulations could raise compliance costs and subject us to the risk of regulatory enforcement actions, penalties, and reputational harm. Any such events could potentially have an adverse impact on our business, financial condition, or results of operations.

Office of Foreign Asset Control

The Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Asset Control (“OFAC”) maintains a list of “Specifically Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons” (the “SDN List”). The SDN List identifies persons and entities that the government believes are associated with terrorists, rogue nations, or drug traffickers. OFAC’s regulations prohibit insurers, among others, from doing business with persons or entities on the SDN List. If the insurer finds and confirms a match, the insurer must take steps to block or reject the transaction, notify the affected person, and file a report with OFAC.

Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act of 2012

Until December 31, 2022, we were an emerging growth company (“EGC”), as defined in the Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act of 2012 (the “JOBS Act”). We previously took advantage of certain exemptions from various reporting requirements that are applicable to other public companies that are not EGCs, such as reduced public company reporting, accounting, and corporate governance requirements. However, beginning on December 31, 2022, we are no longer an EGC and no longer have the ability to delay adoption of these new or revised accounting standards or to take advantage of reduced corporate governance disclosures.

Dividends

As an insurance holding company with no independent operations or source of revenue, our capacity to pay dividends to our shareholders is based on the ability of our insurance company subsidiaries to pay dividends to us. The ability of our subsidiaries to pay dividends to us is regulated by the laws of their state of domicile. Under these laws, insurance companies must provide advance informational notice to the domicile state insurance regulatory authority prior to payment of any dividend or distribution to its shareholders. Prior approval from the state insurance regulatory authority must be obtained before payment of an “extraordinary dividend” as defined under the state’s insurance code. For additional information, see Part II, Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Liquidity and Capital Resources,” and Part II, Item 8, Note 22 “Statutory Net Income (Loss), Capital and Surplus, and Dividend Restrictions.”

Holding Company Laws

Most states, including North Dakota, have enacted legislation that regulates insurance holding company systems. Each insurance company in a holding company system is required to register with the insurance supervisory agency of its state of domicile and furnish certain information, including information concerning the operations of companies within the holding company group that may materially affect the operations, management, or financial condition of the insurers within the group. Pursuant to these laws, the North Dakota Insurance Department requires prior disclosure of material transactions involving an insurance company and its affiliates. Under these laws, the North Dakota Insurance Department will have the right to examine us at any time.

All transactions within our consolidated group affecting our insurance company subsidiaries must be fair and equitable. Notice of certain material transactions between NI Holdings and any person or entity in our holding company system will be required to be given to the Department of Insurance of the applicable domiciliary state. Certain transactions cannot be completed without the prior approval of the various Departments of Insurance.

Approval of the state insurance commissioner is required prior to any transaction affecting the control of an insurer domiciled in that state. In North Dakota, the acquisition of 10% or more of the outstanding voting securities of an insurer or its holding company is presumed to be a change in control. North Dakota law also prohibits any person or entity from (i) making a tender offer for, or a request or invitation for tenders of, or seeking to acquire or acquiring any voting security of a North Dakota insurer if, after the acquisition, the person or entity would be in control of the insurer, or (ii) effecting or attempting to effect an acquisition of control of or merger with a North Dakota insurer, unless the offer, request, invitation, acquisition, effectuation, or attempt has received the prior approval of the North Dakota Insurance Department.

Human Capital

Our key human capital management objectives are to attract, retain, and develop talent to deliver on the Company’s strategy. To support these objectives, our human resources programs are designed to recruit and retain talented individuals; provide training and development within the Company and the insurance industry; reward and support employees through competitive pay and benefit programs; keep employees safe and healthy; and provide opportunities for community involvement.

We offer comprehensive compensation and benefits packages to our employees including a 401(k) Plan, Employee Stock Ownership Plan (“ESOP”), healthcare and insurance benefits, health savings and flexible spending accounts, paid time off, and flexible work arrangements. We also offer stock-based compensation to certain management personnel as a way to attract and retain key talent. For additional information, see Part II, Item 8, Note 12 “Benefit Plans” and Note 18 “Share-Based Compensation” for further discussion of our benefit plans and stock-based compensation.

As of December 31, 2024, NI Holdings and its subsidiaries had 216 total employees, of which 202 were full-time employees. Employee turnover averaged 29.0% during 2024, compared to 22.7% during 2023, and 25.2% during 2022. A significant portion of this turnover is related to Direct Auto, which generally experiences higher turnover.

An investment in the Company’s common shares involves certain risks. The following is a discussion of material risks and uncertainties that may affect the Company’s business, financial condition, and future results.

Insurance Risks

Catastrophic or other significant natural or man-made losses may negatively affect our financial condition and operating results.

As a property and casualty insurer, we are subject to claims from catastrophes or other natural perils that may have a significant negative impact on our operating and financial results. We have experienced catastrophe losses and can be expected to experience catastrophe losses in the future. Catastrophe losses can be caused by various events, including snow storms, ice storms, freezing temperatures, tropical storms and hurricanes, earthquakes, tornadoes, wind, hail, fires, and other natural or man-made disasters. In addition, longer-term natural catastrophe trends may be changing, and new types of catastrophe losses may be developing due to climate change, a phenomenon that has been associated with extreme weather events linked to rising temperatures, and includes effects on global weather patterns, greenhouse gases, sea, land and air temperatures, sea levels, rain, hail and snow. Climate change may also impact insurability by impairing our ability to identify and quantify potential hazards that will result in losses and offer our customers products at an affordable price. The frequency, number, and severity of these losses are unpredictable. The extent of losses from a catastrophe is a function of both the total amount of insured exposure in the area affected by the event and the severity of the event. Our ability to effectively manage catastrophe risk is dependent, in part, on the reliance of various catastrophe models, which may produce unreliable output as a result of inaccurate or incomplete data, along with the inherent uncertainty of future frequency and severity of losses. The impact of changing climate conditions on the overall insurance industry may also materially affect the availability and cost of reinsurance to us. Our investment portfolio is also subject to the effects of climate change as economic shifts alter the return dynamic of long-term investments and reduce valuations.

We write a significant amount of business in North Dakota. As a result, adverse developments from severe weather events in North Dakota would have a greater effect on our financial condition and results of operations than if our business was less geographically concentrated. The incidence and severity of such events are inherently unpredictable.

We attempt to reduce our exposure to catastrophe losses through a disciplined underwriting and risk management approach that emphasizes long-term profitability over short-term gains in premiums or market share, geographical diversification of our operations, and the use of reinsurance. However, there can be no guarantee that our underwriting and risk management efforts will be successful in mitigating our exposure to catastrophe losses or the impact of such losses when they occur. In addition, while we maintain reinsurance coverage with a catastrophe excess of loss program, such coverage may be insufficient to cover our losses. Our reinsurance coverage includes a catastrophe excess of loss program, which in 2024 limited our catastrophe exposure to $20 million retention per event, with $133 million of reinsurance coverage placed in excess of this retention. For 2025, we expect our catastrophe excess of loss program will limit our catastrophe exposure to $20 million retention per event, with $117 million of reinsurance coverage placed in excess of this retention. If we are not able to effectively mitigate our exposure to catastrophe losses, whether through our underwriting process or reinsurance coverage, in the event of such losses our business and results of operations could be adversely affected.

For additional information, see Part II, Item 8, Note 3 “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Basis of Presentation” and Note 6 “Reinsurance.”

If actual losses exceed our loss and loss adjustment expense reserves or if changes in the estimated level of loss and loss adjustment expense reserves are necessary as a result of changes in the legal, regulatory, and economic environments in which we operate, our financial results could be materially and adversely affected.

We maintain reserves to cover estimated unpaid losses and expenses necessary to settle claims. The reserves for losses and loss adjustment expenses that we have established are estimates of amounts needed to pay reported and unreported claims and related expenses, based on facts and circumstances known to us at the time we established the reserves. Reserves are actuarially projected based on historical claims information, industry statistics, anticipated trends, and other factors. The process of estimating loss reserves involves a high degree of judgment and is subject to a number of variables. While we believe that our reserves for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses are appropriate, to the extent that such reserves prove to be inadequate or excessive in the future, we would adjust them and recognize the change in earnings in the period the reserves are adjusted. There can be no assurance that the estimates of such liabilities will not change in the future and any such adjustment could have a material impact on our financial condition and results of operations. For additional information, see Part II, Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” “Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses,” and Part II, Item 8, Note 8 “Unpaid Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses.”

It is possible that, among other things, past or future steps taken by the federal government and the Federal Reserve to manage the U.S. economy, including fiscal and monetary policy measures, could lead to higher than anticipated levels of inflation, which generally leads to increased loss costs and other operating expenses. However, our relatively high concentration in short tail lines of business limits the potential impact of this exposure long-term and allows us to price for those increases in future policy periods.

Any downgrade in our financial strength rating could affect our ability to write new business or renew our existing business, which would lead to a decrease in revenue and net income.

Third-party rating agencies, such as AM Best, periodically assess and rate the claims-paying ability of insurers based on criteria established by the rating agencies. Ratings assigned by AM Best are an important factor influencing the competitive position of insurance companies. AM Best ratings, which are reviewed at least annually, represent independent opinions of financial strength and ability to meet obligations to policyholders and are not directed toward the protection of investors. Therefore, our AM Best rating should not be relied upon as a basis for an investment decision to purchase our common stock.

All of the Company’s insurance subsidiaries hold a financial strength rating of “A” (Excellent) by AM Best, the third highest rating out of 15 rating classifications. Our most recent rating by AM Best was affirmed on May 10, 2024. Financial strength ratings are used by agents, customers, lenders, and other insurance carriers as a means of assessing the financial strength and quality of insurance companies. If our financial position deteriorates, we may not maintain our favorable financial strength rating from AM Best. A downgrade of our rating could severely limit or prevent us from writing desirable business or from renewing our existing business. In addition, a downgrade could negatively affect our ability to implement our strategy because it could cause our current or potential agents to choose other more highly rated competitors or reduce our ability to obtain reinsurance. For additional information, see Part I, Item 1, “Business” and “Financial Strength.”

Our results may fluctuate as a result of many factors, including cyclical changes in the insurance industry, competition, and innovation and emerging technologies.

The property and casualty insurance industry has historically been characterized by soft markets (periods of relatively high levels of price competition, less restrictive underwriting practices, and generally low premium rates) followed by hard markets (periods of capital shortages resulting in a lack of insurance availability, relatively low levels of price competition, more selective underwriting of risks, and relatively high premium rates). During soft markets, we may lose business to other carriers offering competitive insurance at lower rates. We may also choose to reduce our premiums or limit premium increases leading to a reduction in profit margins and revenues. Our industry is also influenced by general economic conditions, which could reduce overall premium volume for us and our competitors. Additionally, the industry could be impacted by changes in customer preferences, including customer demand for direct, point-of-sale, or other non-traditional distribution channels. Consolidation within the industry could also influence future growth and profit potential.

Innovation and emerging technologies continue to greatly impact the insurance industry. If we are unable to keep pace with the technological changes that our competitors implement, we may not be able to attract and retain customers, adequately price risks, or operate as efficiently as our competitors. In addition, emerging technologies in the automotive industry such as autonomous vehicles, driver-assistance and accident-avoidance features, sensor technology, and other forms of automation may reduce the future need for, or decrease the future pricing of, our auto insurance products.

Our success depends primarily on our ability to underwrite risks effectively and price our insurance products appropriately.

The nature of the insurance business is such that pricing must be determined before the underlying costs are fully known. This requires significant reliance on estimates and assumptions used in pricing our policies. If we fail to appropriately price the risks we insure or if our claims experience is more frequent or severe than our underlying risk assumptions, our profitability may be negatively affected. If we overestimate the risks we are exposed to, we may overprice our products, and new business growth and retention of existing business may be adversely affected. The ability to effectively underwrite risks and price products appropriately is subject to a number of uncertainties, including:

• availability of sufficient reliable data and our ability to properly analyze available data;
• market and competitive conditions;
• regulatory or legislative changes;
• selection and application of appropriate pricing techniques; and
• adverse changes in claims experience, such as distracted driving or a more aggressive tort environment.

Under the federal crop insurance program, each insurer is required to accept every application for multi-peril crop insurance that they receive, and the premiums and the policy terms are set by the RMA, which is the federal government agency administering the federal crop insurance program. Accordingly, no policy underwriting is necessary in connection with our multi-peril crop insurance line of business. Unlike the multi-peril crop business, we have the ability to underwrite and price crop hail insurance. We rely on AFBIS to underwrite our crop hail insurance line of business. If we believe the policy will expose us to too much risk in a particular geographic area or if we are unwilling to insure the crop, we have the ability to decline to issue the policy.

Volatility in crop prices and yields, as a result of weather conditions, trade policies, or other events, could adversely impact our financial condition and operating results.

Unpredictable weather conditions and other events such as excessive rain, flooding, droughts, hail, pests, and plant diseases can significantly impact crop prices and yields, creating volatility in our crop insurance business. Additionally, international trade policies, including the imposition of tariffs between major trading partners such as the United States and China, can create significant fluctuations in crop prices. We are unable to predict the ultimate result and duration of any tariff actions by the U.S. government, or countermeasures that may be taken by other nations. These trade tensions and retaliatory tariffs may affect agricultural commodity prices and create additional market uncertainty in our crop insurance business. In addition, the amount of multi-peril crop insurance business we retain is subject to the terms of the SRA and is dependent on the actual direct loss ratio experience. A significant decrease in crop prices and variability in the loss experience, whether caused by weather events, trade policies, or other events, could have a material negative effect on our business and results of operations.

Our ability to manage our exposure to underwriting risks depends on the availability and cost of reinsurance coverage.

We use reinsurance arrangements to manage the amount of risk we retain, stabilize underwriting results, and increase underwriting capacity. The availability and cost of reinsurance are subject to current market conditions and may vary significantly over time. Any decrease in the amount of reinsurance maintained will increase our risk of loss. We may be unable to maintain our desired reinsurance coverage or to obtain other reinsurance coverage in adequate amounts and/or at favorable rates. If we are unable to maintain appropriate reinsurance coverage, it may be difficult for us to manage our underwriting risks and operate our business profitably. For additional information, see Part II, Item 8, Note 6 “Reinsurance.”

If we cannot collect loss recoveries from our reinsurers in accordance with our reinsurance agreements, we may incur additional losses.

Although reinsurance creates a contractual liability for reinsurers to the extent the risk is transferred, it does not eliminate our liability to policyholders because we remain liable as the primary insurer on all reinsured risks. Our reinsurance program strategically spreads exposure among a group of highly-rated, geographically diverse, and well-capitalized reinsurers. All of our significant reinsurance partners are rated “A-” (Excellent) or better by AM Best. However, we remain subject to credit risk relating to our ability to collect these recoverables. Our reinsurance recoveries are also subject to the underlying losses meeting the qualifying conditions and specified limits within the respective contracts. Additionally, we are subject to the risk that reinsurers may dispute their obligations to pay our claims. Our inability to collect a material recovery from a reinsurer on a timely basis, or at all, could have a material adverse effect on our liquidity, operating results, and financial condition. For additional information, see Part II, Item 8, Note 6 “Reinsurance.”

Business and Operational Risks

The impact of a future pandemic, and related economic conditions, could materially affect our results of operations, financial position, and/or liquidity.

We face risks associated with pandemics, including the impact of reduced economic activity and unemployment, government actions, and capital markets disruption. These risks are unpredictable and difficult to quantify, and could vary significantly depending on the extent and duration of the pandemic and related economic conditions, along with potentially impacting each of our business segments and geographic markets differently.

Any future federal, state, and local government actions to address the impact of a pandemic may adversely affect us. Regulatory restrictions or requirements could impact pricing, risk selection, and our rights and obligations with respect to our policies and insureds, including our ability to cancel policies or our right to collect premiums. It is also possible that changes in economic conditions and steps taken by federal, state, and local governments could require an increase in taxes at the federal, state, and local levels, which would adversely impact our results of operations. Additionally, potential capital markets disruption could lead to our fixed income portfolio being adversely impacted by ratings downgrades, increased bankruptcies, declines in real estate valuations, and/or declines in fixed income yields, along with increased volatility in our equity portfolio.

We may not be able to grow our business if we cannot retain and expand our captive and independent agent relationships, we cannot provide competitive products for these agents to sell, and/or consumers seek other distribution methods offered by our competitors.

Our ability to retain existing agents, and to attract new agents, is essential to the continued growth of our business. Nodak Insurance utilizes captive agents who only sell our Company’s products. Outside of North Dakota, we write business through the independent agent distribution model. If we are not able to offer competitive products and a competitive compensation structure to our captive agents and/or if our independent agents find it easier to do business with our competitors, we may be unable to retain existing business or generate sufficient new business.

While our products are sold through either independent or captive agents, our competitors may sell insurance through other distribution models, including the internet, direct marketing, or other emerging forms of distribution. To the extent that current and potential policyholders change their insurance shopping preferences, this may have an adverse effect on our ability to grow, financial position, and results of operations.

Acquisitions could disrupt our business and harm our financial condition or results of operations.

As part of our growth strategy, we will continue to evaluate acquisition opportunities. Any acquisitions involve a number of risks that could materially adversely affect our business and operating results, including:

• problems integrating the acquired operations into our existing business;
• operating and underwriting results of the acquired operations not meeting our expectations;
• diversion of management’s time and attention from our existing business;
• higher than anticipated capital requirements;
• difficulties in retaining business relationships with agents and policyholders of the acquired company;
• risks associated with entering markets in which we lack extensive prior experience;
• tax issues associated with acquisitions;
• acquisition-related disputes, including disputes over contingent consideration and escrows;
• loss of key employees of the acquired company;
• impairment of related goodwill and intangible assets; and
• changes in strategy resulting in the sale of an acquired business which may result in a capital loss.

Our access to capital may be limited or may not be available on favorable terms.

Our future capital requirements depend on many factors, including rating agency and regulatory requirements, the performance of our investment portfolio, strategic initiatives, acquisition opportunities, and the ability to write business successfully at rate levels sufficient to cover losses. We may need to raise additional capital in the future through debt or equity financings. However, we can provide no assurance that we will be successful in raising funds pursuant to additional equity or debt financings or that such funds will be raised at prices that do not create substantial dilution for our existing stockholders. Any debt financing obtained by us in the future would cause us to incur debt service expenses and could include restrictive covenants relating to our capital raising activities and other financial and operational matters, which may make it more difficult for us to obtain additional capital and pursue business opportunities. Macroeconomic challenges and volatility in capital markets could limit our ability to raise capital when needed on terms favorable to us, or at all. If we cannot obtain adequate capital or sources of credit on favorable terms, or at all, our business, financial condition, results of operations, and strategic initiatives could be adversely affected.

We may be unable to attract, retain or effectively manage the succession of key personnel.

The success of our business is dependent, to a large extent, on our ability to attract and retain key employees, in particular our senior officers and key management of our insurance subsidiaries. Our business may be adversely affected if labor market conditions make it difficult for us to retain or, if needed, replace our current key officers with individuals having equivalent qualifications and experience at compensation levels competitive for our industry. While we believe we offer competitive compensation and benefit arrangements, there can be no guarantee that we will be able to retain our key employees. There is significant competition from within the property and casualty insurance industry and from businesses outside the industry for those in key management positions, as well as others possessing highly specialized knowledge in areas such as actuarial, accounting, information technology, and data and analytics. In addition, our employment and other agreements with our key officers do not include non-compete covenants or non-solicitation provisions because they are unenforceable under North Dakota law. If we are not able to successfully attract, retain, and motivate our employees, our business, financial results, and reputation could be materially and adversely affected.

A failure in our operational systems or infrastructure, or those of our third-party service providers, including operational errors, could disrupt business, damage our reputation, and cause losses.

Our operations rely on the secure processing, storage, and transmission of confidential information, including in our computer systems and networks and those of third-party service providers. We rely heavily on our operating systems in connection with issuing policies, paying claims, and providing the information we need to conduct our business. We also rely on the operating systems of AFBIS in connection with various processes with respect to our crop lines of business. Our business depends on effective information security and systems, and we place significant reliance on the integrity and timeliness of the data our information systems process to support our business. A breakdown or disruption of any of these systems could materially adversely affect our ability to conduct our business and our results of operations.

We are exposed to many other types of operational risk, including the risk of fraud by employees and outsiders, clerical and recordkeeping errors, and computer or telecommunications systems malfunctions. Our business depends on our ability to process a large number of increasingly complex transactions. If any of our operational, accounting, or other data processing systems fail or have other significant shortcomings, we could be materially adversely affected. Similarly, we depend on our employees. We could be materially adversely affected if one or more of our employees cause a significant operational breakdown or failure, either as a result of human error or intentional sabotage or fraudulent manipulation of our operations or systems.

Cyberattacks, security breaches, or similar events affecting the technologies and systems we rely on to operate our business and to maintain and protect sensitive Company and customer data could disrupt our operations, harm our reputation, and result in material losses.

We have implemented administrative and technical controls, have taken actions to reduce the risk of cyber incidents and to protect our information technology and assets, and will continue to modify such procedures as circumstances warrant and negotiate appropriate terms in our agreements with third-party providers to protect our assets. However, such measures may be insufficient to prevent unauthorized access, computer viruses, malware or other malicious code or cyberattack, business compromise attacks, catastrophic events, system failures and disruptions, employee errors or malfeasance, third-party (including outsourced service providers) errors or malfeasance, loss of assets, and other events that could have security consequences. Such an event may result in data loss or loss of assets which could result in significant losses, reputational damage, or other adverse effects on our operations.

In addition, our technologies, systems, and networks may become the target of cyberattacks or information security breaches that could result in the unauthorized release, gathering, monitoring, misuse, loss or destruction of our or our insureds’ confidential, proprietary and other information, or otherwise disrupt our or our insureds’ or other third-parties’ business operations, which in turn may result in legal claims, regulatory scrutiny and liability, reputational damage, the incurrence of costs to eliminate or mitigate further exposure, and the loss of customers. Although to date we are not aware of any information security breaches or losses relating to cyberattacks, there can be no assurance that we will not suffer such losses in the future. Our risk and exposure to these matters remains heightened because of, among other things, the evolving nature and increasing frequency and sophistication of these threats and the outsourcing of some of our business operations. As a result, cybersecurity and the continued development and enhancement of our controls, processes, and practices designed to protect our systems, computers, software, data, and networks from attack, damage, or unauthorized access remain a priority. As cyber threats continue to evolve, we may be required to expend significant additional resources to continue to modify or enhance our protective measures or to investigate and remediate any information security vulnerabilities.

The compromise of personal, confidential, or proprietary information could also subject us to legal liability or regulatory action, including fines, penalties, or intervention, under evolving cybersecurity, data protection, and privacy laws and regulations enacted by the U.S. federal and state governments. Such laws and regulations have become increasingly widespread and demanding in recent years and may result in increased compliance costs and risk of regulatory actions or penalties. If incurred, such regulatory actions or penalties could harm our reputation. Any such events could have an adverse impact on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

Regulatory Risks

A portion of our written premiums and net profits are generated from multi-peril crop insurance business, and the loss of such business as a result of a termination of or substantial changes to the federal crop insurance program could have an adverse effect on our revenues and net income.

In 2024, 2023, and 2022, our direct premiums written generated from the multi-peril crop insurance line of business were 9.8%, 10.2%, and 12.8%, respectively, of total written premiums. Through the FCIC, the U.S. government subsidizes insurance companies by assuming an increasingly higher portion of losses incurred by farmers as a result of weather-related and other perils as well as commodity price fluctuations. The U.S. government also subsidizes the premium cost to farmers for multi-peril crop yield and revenue insurance. Without this risk assumption, losses incurred by insurance companies would be higher. Without the premium subsidy, the number of farmers purchasing multi-peril crop insurance would decline significantly. Periodically, members of the U.S. Congress propose to significantly reduce the government’s involvement in the federal crop insurance program in an effort to reduce government spending. If legislation is adopted to reduce the amount of risk the government assumes, the amount of insurance premium subsidy provided to farmers or otherwise reduce the coverage provided under multi-peril crop insurance policies, losses would increase and purchases of multi-peril crop insurance could experience a significant decline nationwide and in our market area. Such changes could have an adverse effect on our revenues and income.

Our businesses are heavily regulated by the jurisdictions in which we conduct business and changes in regulation, including required participation in pools, premium surcharges, and higher tax rates, may reduce our profitability and limit our growth.

Most states require insurance companies authorized to do business in their state to participate in guaranty funds, which require the insurance companies to bear a portion of the unfunded obligations of impaired, insolvent, or failed insurance companies. These obligations are funded by assessments, which are expected to continue in the future. State guaranty associations levy assessments, up to prescribed limits, on all insurance companies doing business in the state based on their proportionate share of premiums written in the lines of business in which the impaired, insolvent, or failed insurance companies are engaged. Accordingly, the assessments levied on us may increase as we increase our written premiums. For additional information, see Part I, Item 1, “Business” and “Regulation.”

In addition, as a condition to conducting business in some states, insurance companies are required to participate in residual market programs to provide insurance to those who cannot procure coverage from an insurance carrier on a negotiated basis. Insurance companies generally can fulfill their residual market obligations by, among other things, participating in a reinsurance pool where the results of all policies provided through the pool are shared by the participating insurance companies. Although we price our insurance to account for our potential obligations under these pooling arrangements, we may not be able to accurately estimate our liability for these obligations. Accordingly, mandatory pooling arrangements may cause a decrease in our profits. As we write policies in new states that have mandatory pooling arrangements, we will be required to participate in additional pooling arrangements. Further, the impairment, insolvency, or failure of other insurance companies in these pooling arrangements would likely increase the liability for other members in the pool.

The effect of assessments and premium surcharges or increases in such assessments or surcharges could reduce our profitability in any given period or limit our ability to grow our business. In addition, state tax laws that specifically impact the insurance industry, such as premium taxes, or more general tax laws, such as U.S. federal corporate income taxes, could be enacted or changed and could have a material adverse impact on us.

We are subject to insurance industry laws and regulations, as well as claims and legal proceedings, which if determined unfavorably, could have a material adverse effect on our profitability.

We are subject to extensive supervision and regulation by the states in which we operate. The failure to comply with these regulations could subject the Company to sanctions and fines, including the cancellation or suspension of our licenses, which could significantly impact our financial condition and results of operations. State insurance departments also conduct periodic examinations of the affairs of insurance companies and require the filing of annual and other reports relating to financial condition, holding company issues, and other matters.

Additionally, changes in the level of regulation of the insurance industry or changes in laws or regulations themselves or interpretations by regulatory authorities could adversely affect our ability to operate our business. Federal laws and regulations, and the influence of international laws and regulations, may have adverse effects on our business, potentially including a change from a state-based system of regulation to a system of federal regulation, the repeal of the McCarran Ferguson Act, and/or measures under the Dodd-Frank Act that establish the Federal Insurance Office and provide for a determination that a non-bank financial company presents systemic risk and therefore should be subject to heightened supervision by the Federal Reserve Board. It is not known how this federal office will coordinate and interact with the NAIC and state insurance regulators. Adoption or implementation of any of these measures may restrict our ability to conduct our insurance business, govern our corporate affairs, or effectively manage our cost of doing business.

We also face a risk of litigation in the ordinary course of operating our businesses including the risk of class action lawsuits. We may become subject to class actions and individual suits alleging breach of fiduciary or other duties, including our obligations to indemnify directors and officers in connection with certain legal matters. We are also subject to litigation arising out of our general business activities such as contractual and employment relationships and claims regarding the infringement of the intellectual property of others. Plaintiffs in class action and other lawsuits against us may seek large or indeterminate amounts of damages, including punitive and treble damages, which may remain unknown for substantial periods of time.

New or changes to existing accounting rules and standards could adversely impact our reported results of operations.

Our consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”), as promulgated by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”), subject to the accounting-related rules and interpretations of the SEC. New accounting rules or changes in accounting standards or how they apply to our business may impact our reported financial condition or results of operations, and could cause increased volatility in reported earnings, which could affect the trading price of our common stock or our credit ratings.

Risks Related to Our Common Stock

Nodak Mutual Group’s majority control of our common stock will enable it to exercise voting control over most matters put to a vote of shareholders.

Nodak Mutual Group owns a majority of our outstanding common stock and, through its Board of Directors, is able to exercise voting control over most matters put to a vote of shareholders. The votes cast by Nodak Mutual Group may not be in the best interests of all shareholders. For example, Nodak Mutual Group may exercise its voting control to defeat a shareholder nominee for election to the Board of Directors of NI Holdings.

In addition, certain provisions of our Articles of Incorporation, such as the prohibition of cumulative voting for the election of directors and the prohibition on any person or group acquiring and having the right to vote in excess of 10% of our outstanding stock without the prior approval of the Board of Directors will make removal of the Company’s management difficult.

Our status as an insurance holding company with no direct operations could adversely affect our ability to fund operations, execute future share repurchases, or meet potential future shareholder dividend and/or debt obligations.

NI Holdings is an insurance holding company that transacts substantially all of its business through its subsidiaries. A significant source of funds available to us for the payment of operating expenses, share repurchases, and potential future dividends to shareholders and/or debt servicing are management fees, dividends from our subsidiaries, or other sources of capital. The payment of dividends by our subsidiaries are restricted by North Dakota’s insurance law. If we are unable to obtain dividends from our subsidiaries as needed to fund our operations, our business and financial results could be adversely affected.

Statutory provisions and provisions of our Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws may discourage takeover attempts of NI Holdings that shareholders may believe are in their best interests.

We are subject to provisions of North Dakota corporate and insurance law that hinder a change of control. North Dakota law requires the North Dakota Insurance Department’s prior approval of a change of control of an insurance holding company. Under North Dakota law, the acquisition of 10% or more of the outstanding voting stock of an insurer or its holding company is presumed to be a change in control. Approval by the North Dakota Insurance Department may be withheld even if the transaction would be in the shareholders’ best interest if the North Dakota Insurance Department determines that the transaction would be detrimental to policyholders.

Our Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws also contain provisions that may discourage a change in control. These provisions may serve to entrench management and may discourage a takeover attempt that shareholders may consider to be in their best interest or in which they would receive a substantial premium over the current market price. These provisions may make it extremely difficult for any one person, entity, or group of affiliated persons or entities to acquire voting control of NI Holdings, with the result that it may be extremely difficult to bring about a change in the Board of Directors or management. Some of these provisions also may perpetuate present management because of the additional time required to cause a change in the control of the Board of Directors. Other provisions make it difficult for shareholders owning less than a majority of the voting stock to be able to elect even a single director.

General Risks

Our investment portfolio is subject to credit and interest rate risk, and therefore our revenues and financial results may fluctuate with interest rates, investment results, equity market fluctuations, and developments in the capital markets.

Investment income is an important component of our net income and overall profitability. We invest premiums received from policyholders and other available cash to generate investment income and capital appreciation, while also maintaining sufficient liquidity to pay claims and operating expenses. Changes in interest rates and credit quality may result in fluctuations in the income derived from, the valuation of, and in the case of declines in credit quality, payment defaults on our fixed income securities. Such conditions could give rise to significant realized and unrealized investment losses or the impairment of securities. Potential higher interest rates could reduce the carrying value of our fixed income and short-term investments, negatively impacting the Company’s carrying value in the short-term. Over the long-term, however, higher interest rates would provide an incremental benefit to our net investment income as excess cash and the proceeds of maturing bonds are reinvested at higher rates. We manage our exposure to interest rate increases by monitoring the duration within our investment portfolio and maintaining maturities that minimize any forced sales within the portfolio. However, even with such monitoring efforts, we may be forced to sell securities at a loss, which would adversely affect our results of operations.

We also invest a portion of our assets in equity securities, which are subject to greater volatility in their investment returns than fixed income investments. Unlike fixed income securities, the changes in the fair value of our equity securities are recognized in net income. General economic conditions, stock market volatility, changes in tax laws, and many other factors beyond our control can adversely affect the value of these securities and potentially reduce our net investment income and/or lead to net investment losses.

Any significant or long-running negative changes in the fixed income or equity markets could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows. Our investment portfolio is also subject to credit and cash flow risk, including risks associated with our investments in asset-backed and mortgage-backed securities. Because our investment portfolio is the largest component of our assets and a multiple of our shareholders’ equity, adverse changes in economic conditions could result in impairments that are material to our financial condition and operating results. Such economic changes could arise from overall changes in the financial markets or specific changes to industries, companies, or municipalities in which we maintain investment holdings. See Part II, Item 7A, “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.”

We may not be able to manage our growth effectively.

We intend to continue to grow our business in the future, which could require additional capital, systems development, and skilled personnel. However, there are inherent risks associated with this strategy, including the risks of unsuccessfully identifying profitable business opportunities, managing capital requirements, expanding systems and internal controls, maintaining innovative products and technologies, allocating human capital resources, identifying qualified employees and/or agents, and integrating future acquisitions. The failure to manage our growth effectively could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations.

We could be adversely affected by a future unexpected business interruption involving our office buildings, operational systems and infrastructure, key external vendors, and/or workforce.

Our business operations could be substantially interrupted by flooding, snow, ice, wind, and other weather-related incidents, or from fire, pandemics, power loss, telecommunications failures, terrorism, or other such events. Our business continuity plans may not sufficiently remediate all risks associated with future significant business interruptions. Any damage caused by such a failure or loss may cause interruptions in our business operations that may adversely affect our service levels and business.

Cybersecurity risk is an important and evolving focus for the Company. The increased sophistication and activities of unauthorized parties attempting to access our systems is an ever-present risk. Cybersecurity risks may also arise from human error, fraud, or malice on the part of employees or third parties who have authorized access to our systems or information.

Our information security program is directly managed by a dedicated Director of Information Systems, whose team is responsible for enterprise-wide cybersecurity strategy, policy, standards, architecture, and processes. Company employees are periodically required to affirm their understanding of several policies and standards, including those related to cybersecurity. Our cybersecurity strategy is primarily focused on network security, data security, vulnerability management, incident management, and disaster recovery. We utilize internal resources as well as third-party consultants and vendors to periodically conduct cybersecurity vulnerability testing, facilitate employee training, perform system assessments, and provide recommendations based on industry best practices.

The Director of Information Systems provides periodic reports to our ERMC related to cybersecurity risks and threats, the status of projects to strengthen our information security systems and controls, assessments of the information security program and related third-party service providers, and the emerging threat landscape. The ERMC provides oversight and support related to our cybersecurity program and consists of our Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Director of Information Systems, and other appropriate members of senior management who possess the relevant expertise to assess and manage cybersecurity risks as part of the broader enterprise risk management process. Periodic reports are also provided to appropriate members of senior management that include information regarding prevention, detection, mitigation, and remediation efforts related to cybersecurity incidents.

Our Chief Executive Officer and Director of Information Systems also provide periodic reports to the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors regarding ERMC activities and assessments, including those related to cybersecurity and cybersecurity incidents. The Audit Committee of the board oversees our risk management program, which focuses on the most significant risks we face in the short-, intermediate-, and long-term timeframes. Audit Committee meetings include discussions of specific risk areas throughout the year, including, among others, those relating to cybersecurity threats, and reports from management on our enterprise risk profile on an annual basis.

As of the date of this 2024 Annual Report, we are not aware of any risks from cybersecurity threats that have materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect the Company, including our business strategy, results of operations, or financial condition. Refer to the risk factor captioned “Cyberattacks, security breaches, or similar events affecting the technologies and systems we rely on to operate our business and to maintain and protect sensitive Company and customer data could disrupt our operations, harm our reputation, and result in material losses” in Part I, Item 1A, “Risk Factors” for additional details regarding cybersecurity risks and potential impacts on our business.

Our headquarters is located at 1101 First Avenue North, Fargo, North Dakota, which is also the headquarters of Nodak Insurance. Nodak Insurance owns this building and leases a portion of the building to the NDFB and to AFBIS.

Battle Creek owns the building in which its offices are located at 603 South Preece Street, Battle Creek, Nebraska.

Tri-State Ltd. leases the building at 506 5th Street, Spearfish, South Dakota.

Direct Auto leases office space at 8700 West Bryn Mawr Avenue, Chicago, Illinois under a lease that expires on August 31, 2029.

We believe that the offices currently occupied by each of our subsidiaries are sufficient for their needs and any expected internal growth in the near future.

We are party to litigation in the normal course of business. Based upon information presently available to us, we do not consider any litigation to be material. However, given the inherent uncertainties of litigation, we cannot assure you that our results of operations and financial condition will not be materially adversely affected by any litigation.

The following discussion is intended to provide a more comprehensive review of our operating results and financial condition than can be obtained from reading the consolidated financial statements alone. Unless otherwise noted, the information in the following discussion is being presented for our continuing operations. The discussion should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto included in Part II, Item 8, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.” Some of the information contained in this discussion and analysis or set forth elsewhere in this 2024 Annual Report constitutes forward-looking information that involves risks and uncertainties. Please see “Forward-Looking Statements” and Part I, Item 1A, “Risk Factors” for a discussion of important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results described, or implied by, the forward-looking statements contained herein.

Our Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations included in this document discusses 2024 and 2023 items and year-over-year comparisons between 2024 and 2023 as well as discussions of 2022 items and year-over-year comparisons between 2023 and 2022, which were included due to the impacts of discontinued operations for those prior periods.

All dollar amounts, except per share amounts, are in thousands.

Financial Highlights

2024 Consolidated Results of Continuing Operations

• Net income of $6,600, or $0.31 per share basic and diluted
• Net premiums earned of $310,110
• Net investment income of $10,943
• Net unfavorable prior year reserve development of $13,517
• Underwriting loss of $2,321
• Combined ratio of 100.7%
• Operating cash flows of $15,082

2024 Consolidated Financial Condition

• Total cash and investments of $385,094
• Total assets of $526,545
• Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses of $137,288
• Total liabilities of $281,914
• Shareholders’ equity of $244,631

Results of Continuing Operations

Our consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with GAAP. Management evaluates our operations by monitoring key measures of growth and profitability, which may include the disclosure of certain non-GAAP financial measures. Our results of operations are influenced by numerous factors affecting the U.S. property and casualty insurance industry including competition, weather, catastrophic events, innovation and emerging technologies, changes in regulations, inflation, general economic conditions, judicial trends, fluctuations in interest rates, and other changes in the financial markets.

Our premium levels and underwriting results have been, and will continue to be, influenced by market conditions. The property and casualty insurance industry has historically been characterized by soft markets (periods of relatively high levels of price competition, less restrictive underwriting practices, and generally low premium rates) followed by hard markets (periods of capital shortages resulting in a lack of insurance availability, relatively low levels of price competition, more selective underwriting of risks, and relatively high premium rates). During soft markets, we may lose business to other carriers offering competitive insurance at lower rates. We may also choose to reduce our premiums or limit premium increases leading to a reduction in profit margins and revenues. Our industry is also influenced by general economic conditions, which could reduce overall premium volume for us and our competitors. Additionally, the industry is impacted by changes in customer preferences, including customer demand for direct, point-of-sale, or other non-traditional distribution channels. We regularly monitor our performance and competitive position by line of business and geographic market to determine appropriate rate actions.

Premiums in the multi-peril crop insurance business are primarily influenced by the types of crops planted, number of acres insured, and commodity prices because the rates are established by the RMA rather than individual insurance carriers. The expected experience of this business for the calendar year may also significantly affect the reported net earned premiums and losses due to the risk-sharing arrangement with the federal government. Multi-peril crop insurance premiums are generally written in the second quarter, and earned ratably over the period of risk, which generally extends into the fourth quarter. Premiums in the crop hail insurance business are also generally written in the second quarter and earned ratably until the end of the third quarter.

Premiums in our other lines of business are written and earned throughout the year based on their coverage periods. Losses on this business are also incurred throughout the year but are usually more frequent and/or severe during periods of elevated weather-related activity.

Property Claims Service (“PCS”), a division of the Insurance Services Office, maintains industry loss data related to catastrophe loss events. PCS defines a catastrophe as an event that causes damage of $25 million or more in insured property losses and affects a significant number of insureds. When reporting on our losses from catastrophe events, we may include losses from those events that were defined as a catastrophe by PCS or those events which may include losses that we believe are, or will be, material to our operations, either in amount or in number of claims made. The frequency and severity of catastrophic losses we experience in any year may significantly affect our results of operations and financial position. In analyzing the underwriting performance of our property and casualty insurance business, we evaluate performance both including and excluding catastrophe losses. Portions of our catastrophe losses may be recoverable under our catastrophe reinsurance agreements.

For more information on the Company’s results of operations by segment, see Part II, Item 8, Note 21 “Segment Information.”

The consolidated net income from continuing operations for the Company was $6,600 for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to net income of $19,831 for the year ended December 31, 2023, and a net loss of $38,685 for the year ended December 31, 2022.

The major components of our revenues and net income (loss) for the three periods are shown below:

30

Net Premiums Earned

Net premiums earned for the year ended December 31, 2024 increased $17,993, or 6.2%, to $310,110, compared to $292,117 for the year ended December 31, 2023.

Net premiums earned for the year ended December 31, 2023 increased $20,377, or 7.5%, to $292,117, compared to $271,740 for the year ended December 31, 2022.

Below are comments regarding significant changes in net premiums earned by business segment:

Private passenger auto – Net premiums earned for 2024 increased $6,954, or 8.3%, from 2023. Results were driven by new business growth in North Dakota as well as significant rate increases in North Dakota, South Dakota, and Nebraska, partially offset by lower new business and retention levels in South Dakota and Nebraska as a result of underwriting actions taken to improve profitability. Net premiums earned for 2023 increased $5,755, or 7.4%, from 2022. This increase was driven by significant rate increases in North Dakota, South Dakota, and Nebraska, partially offset by lower new business production as a result of underwriting actions taken to improve profitability.

Non-Standard auto – Net premiums earned for 2024 increased $7,465, or 8.5%, from 2023. Results were driven by prior period new business growth in Illinois and Arizona as well as significant rate increases in the Chicago market where our non-standard auto business is concentrated, partially offset by lower retention compared to the prior year and the decision to exit Nevada. Net premiums earned for 2023 increased $20,849, or 31.2%, from 2022. This increase was driven by new business growth, improved retention, and significant rate increases in the Chicago market.

Home and farm – Net premiums earned for 2024 increased $7,372, or 8.8%, from 2023. Results were driven by new business growth in North Dakota, rate increases, and increased insured property values, which were primarily the result of higher inflationary factors. These increases were partially offset by lower retention rates and new business levels in Nebraska and South Dakota as a result of underwriting actions taken to improve profitability. Net premiums earned for 2023 increased $5,008, or 6.4%, from 2022. This increase was driven by rate increases along with increased insured property values, which were primarily the result of higher inflationary factors. These premium increases were partially offset by lower levels of new business production as a result of underwriting actions taken to improve profitability

Crop – Net premiums earned for 2024 decreased $4,675, or 18.1%, from 2023. This decrease was driven by a reduction in acres insured and lower commodity prices, which are a key determinant of premiums on a Federal multi-peril crop insurance policy, in the current year. Net premiums earned for 2023 decreased $8,904, or 25.6%, from 2022. This decrease was driven by lower commodity prices and lower muti-peril crop insurance rates in 2023, combined with fewer acres insured compared to the prior year. In addition, the strong multi-peril crop results for 2023 resulted in higher ceded premiums as required by the SRA.

All other – Net premiums earned for 2024 increased $877, or 7.4%, from 2023. Results were driven by rate and insured value increases for the commercial and excess lines of business, partially offset by the continued run-off of our participation in an assumed domestic and international reinsurance pool of business. Net premiums earned for 2023 decreased $2,331, or 16.5%, from 2022. This decrease was driven by the decision to non-renew our participation in an assumed domestic and international reinsurance pool of business as of January 1, 2022.

Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses

The Company’s net losses and loss adjustment expenses for the year ended December 31, 2024 increased $20,949, or 11.2%, to $207,465, compared to $186,516 for the year ended December 31, 2023.

The Company’s net losses and loss adjustment expenses for the year ended December 31, 2023 decreased $55,234, or 22.8%, to $186,516, compared to $241,750 for the year ended December 31, 2022.

Below are comments regarding significant changes in net losses and loss adjustment expenses, and the net loss and loss adjustment expenses ratios by business segment:

Private passenger auto – The net loss and loss adjustment expenses ratio decreased 14.8 percentage points in 2024 compared to 2023. This decrease was driven by lower levels of weather-related losses in the current year due to the mild winter in the Midwest compared to elevated winter weather-related losses in the prior year as well as favorable prior year loss reserve development. Both periods were positively affected by earned premium growth. The net loss and loss adjustment expenses ratio decreased 12.1 percentage points in 2023 compared to 2022. This decrease was the result of recent significant rate increases, lower loss frequency compared to the prior year, and favorable prior year loss reserve development, partially offset by elevated loss costs due to high levels of inflation.

Non-Standard auto – The net loss and loss adjustment expenses ratio increased 8.1 percentage points in 2024 compared to 2023. This increase was driven by unfavorable prior year loss reserve development related to elevated bodily injury losses, partially offset by earned premium growth resulting from new business growth and significant rate increases. We continue to take significant underwriting actions as a result of these elevated losses and challenging market conditions. The net loss and loss adjustment expenses ratio increased 12.9 percentage points in 2023 compared to 2022. This increase was driven by elevated loss severity as a result of inflationary factors as well as unfavorable prior year loss reserve development, partially offset by significant rate increases.

Home and farm – The net loss and loss adjustment expenses ratio increased 10.0 percentage points in 2024 compared to 2023. This increase was driven by higher loss severity and higher non-catastrophe weather-related losses in North Dakota and Nebraska during 2024 compared to the prior year, partially offset by earned premium growth in the current year. The net loss and loss adjustment expenses ratio decreased 76.5 percentage points in 2023 compared to 2022. This decrease was driven by the much-improved loss experience as a result of having no catastrophe losses during 2023 compared to 2022, combined with improved non-catastrophe weather losses and the significant rate increases and underwriting actions we implemented to address the profitability on these lines of business. Catastrophe losses, net of reinsurance, for the Home and Farm segment accounted for 72.1 percentage points of the net loss and loss adjustment expense ratio for the year ended December 31, 2022.

Crop – The net loss and loss adjustment expenses ratio increased 1.1 percentage points in 2024 compared to 2023. The strong results for 2024 were the result of favorable crop growing conditions, similar to the prior year. The net loss and loss adjustment expenses ratio decreased 14.1 percentage points in 2023 compared to 2022. This decrease was due to improved crop growing conditions in 2023 in comparison to 2022.

All other – The net loss and loss adjustment expenses ratio increased 33.0 percentage points in 2024 compared to 2023. This increase was driven by elevated large loss experience compared to the prior year and an inter-segment reclassification of a large loss during 2023. The net loss and loss adjustment expenses ratio decreased 55.5 percentage points in 2023 compared to 2022. This decrease was driven by improved loss experience related to the commercial and excess liability lines of business.

Underwriting and General Expenses and Expense Ratio

The expense ratio is calculated by dividing other underwriting and general expenses and amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs by net premiums earned. The expense ratio measures a company’s operational efficiency in producing, underwriting, and administering its insurance business. The overall expense ratio increased 0.6 percentage points in the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to the same period in 2023. The increase in the amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs is due to higher deferrable costs resulting from significant earned premium growth compared to the prior year, including significant growth in the Non-Standard Auto segment which generally pays higher agent commissions than our other segments. The increase in the other underwriting and general expenses is due to the costs incurred in the current year associated with the execution of separation agreements with our former Chief Executive Officer and former Senior Vice President of Operations. The overall expense ratio increased 4.2 percentage points in the year ended December 31, 2023, compared to the same period in 2022. The increase in amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs was driven by higher deferrable costs resulting from overall premium growth compared to the prior year, including significant growth in the non-standard auto segment which generally pays higher agent commissions than our other segments. The increase in other underwriting and general expenses was due to the impact of continued high levels of inflation and 2022 expenses being favorably impacted by multi-peril crop insurance final settlements.

Underwriting Gain (Loss) and Combined Ratio

Underwriting gain (loss) measures the pre-tax profitability of our insurance operations. It is derived by subtracting losses and loss adjustment expenses, amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs, and other underwriting and general expenses from net premiums earned. The combined ratio represents the sum of these losses and expenses as a percentage of net premiums earned and measures our overall underwriting profit.

The total underwriting gain (loss) decreased $10,965, or 126.9%, for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to the same period in 2023. The total underwriting gain (loss) increased $57,562, or 117.7%, for the year ended December 31, 2023, compared to the same period in 2022. These results were driven by the factors discussed in the Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses and the Underwriting and General Expenses and Expense Ratio sections above.

The overall combined ratio increased 3.7 percentage points in the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to the same period in 2023. The overall combined ratio decreased 21.0 percentage points in the year ended December 31, 2023, compared to the same period in 2022. These results were driven by the factors discussed in the Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses and the Underwriting and General Expenses and Expense Ratio sections above.

Fee and Other Income

We had fee and other income of $1,938 for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to $1,940 for the year ended December 31, 2023, and $1,381 for the year ended December 31, 2022. Fee income is largely attributable to the Non-Standard Auto segment and is a key component in measuring its profitability. Fee and other income on this business decreased to $1,219 for the year ended December 31, 2024, from $1,293 for the year ended December 31, 2023, due to elevated other income in the prior year. Fee and other income for non-standard auto increased to $1,293 for the year ended December 31, 2023, from $831 for the year ended December 31, 2022, due to an increase in policies that generate fee income.

Goodwill Impairment Charge

We had a goodwill impairment charge of $2,628 for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to $6,756 for the years ended December 31, 2023, and $0 for the year ended December 31, 2022. See Part II, Item 8, Note 10 “Goodwill and Other Intangibles” for additional information.

Net Investment Income

The following table shows our average cash and invested assets, net investment income, and return on average cash and invested assets for the reported periods for continuing operations:

Net investment income increased $2,909 for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to the year ended December 31, 2023. This increase was primarily driven by the higher interest rate environment which resulted in higher reinvestment rates in our fixed income portfolio as well as higher yields on our cash and cash equivalents, partially offset by higher investment expenses. Net investment income increased $1,398 for the year ended December 31, 2023, compared to the year ended December 31, 2022. This increase was primarily driven by higher reinvestment rates as well as a strategic increased allocation to fixed income securities in our investment portfolio.

Gross and net return on average cash and invested assets increased year-over-year from 2023 to 2024, primarily driven by the favorable interest rate environment that resulted in significantly higher net investment income on an increased average balance of fixed income securities as well as cash and cash equivalents (measured at fair value). In addition, the increase in investments in high dividend yield equities resulted in relatively consistent year-over-year dividend income despite a reduction in the average equities balance (measured at fair value). The increase in average cash and invested assets was driven by additional investments in fixed income securities as a result of positive operating cash flows during 2024.

Gross and net return on average cash and invested assets increased year-over-year from 2022 to 2023, driven by the higher net investment income and a higher proportion of the equity portfolio being invested in high dividend yield equities in 2023, along with a decrease in average cash and invested assets (measured at fair value). This decrease in average cash and invested assets was driven by challenging equity market conditions, particularly during the middle and later stages of 2022, combined with investment sales as a result of an unusually high number of weather-related losses in 2022.

Net Investment Gains (Losses)

Net investment gains (losses) consisted of the following:

We had net realized gains of $551 for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to $12,096 for the year ended December 31, 2023, and $1,984 for the year ended December 31, 2022. The elevated net realized gains for the year ended December 31, 2023, were the result of a strategic liquidation of a portfolio of equity securities. The gross realized gains from the sale of these securities were largely offset by the elimination of the unrealized gain position of these securities. No credit impairment losses were reported during any of the periods presented.

We experienced an increase in net unrealized gains on equity securities of $1,662 during the year ended December 31, 2024, attributable to overall favorable equity markets during the current year. The change in net unrealized gains on equity securities for 2023 was driven by the equity portfolio liquidation noted above and the impact of changes in fair value attributable to equity market volatility. The 2022 decreases were driven by the impact of changes in fair value attributable to unfavorable equity markets. We had net realized gains on the sale of equity securities of $750, $12,619, and $2,051 during the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively.

Our fixed income securities are classified as available for sale because we will, from time to time, execute sales of securities that are not impaired, consistent with our investment goals and policies. The fixed income portion of the portfolio experienced net unrealized losses of $191 during the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to net unrealized gains of $9,168 during the year ended December 31, 2023. The changes were primarily the result of changes in U.S. interest rates. The change in the fair value of fixed income securities is not reflected in net income; rather it is reflected as a separate component (net of income taxes) of other comprehensive income. The fixed income portfolio experienced net unrealized losses of $39,971 during the year ended December 31, 2022.

Income (Loss) before Income Taxes

We had pre-tax income of $10,145 for the year ended December 31, 2024, a pre-tax income of $20,547 for the year ended December 31, 2023, and pre-tax loss of $52,876 for the year ended December 31, 2022. The year-over-year decrease in 2024 compared to 2023 was largely attributable to higher loss severity and non-catastrophe weather-related losses for Home and Farm in the states of North Dakota and Nebraska, unfavorable prior year loss reserve development for Non-Standard Auto, a goodwill impairment charge for Non-Standard Auto, and expenses incurred related to the separation agreements with our former Chief Executive Officer and former Senior Vice President of Operations, partially offset by net earned premium growth, improved loss experience for Private Passenger Auto, and higher net investment income. The year-over-year improvement in 2023 compared to 2022 was largely attributable to the significant catastrophe losses and significantly higher investment losses during 2022.

Income Tax Expense (Benefit)

We recorded income tax expense of $3,545 for the year ended December 31, 2024, income tax expense of $716 for the year ended December 31, 2023, and an income tax benefit of $14,191 for the year ended December 31, 2022. Including the impacts of discontinued operations and the loss on sale of discontinued operations, we recorded an income tax benefit of $3,192 for the year ended December 31, 2024, income tax expense of $963 for the year ended December 31, 2023, and an income tax benefit of $15,254 for the year ended December 31, 2022. Including the impacts of discontinued operations and the loss on sale of discontinued operations, our effective tax rate for 2024 was 35.2% compared to an effective tax rate of (22.6)% and 22.1% for 2023 and 2022, respectively. Our 2024 effective tax rate was impacted by several factors, but the loss on sale of discontinued operations, non-taxable compensation-related expenses, and non-taxable goodwill impairment charge were the most significant drivers of the variance from the statutory rate. Our 2023 effective tax rate was impacted by several factors, but the 2023 non-taxable goodwill impairment charge was the most significant driver of the variance from the statutory rate. Our 2022 effective tax rate was impacted by several factors, but the change in valuation allowance and non-taxable executive compensation were the most significant drivers of the variance from the statutory rate. The valuation allowance against certain deferred income tax assets was $2,506 as of December 31, 2024, $505 as of December 31, 2023, and $694 as of December 31, 2022.

Net Income (Loss)

We had net income before non-controlling interest of $6,600 for the year ended December 31, 2024, net income of $19,831 for the year ended December 31, 2023, and a net loss of $38,685 for the year ended December 31, 2022. The year-over-year decrease in 2024 compared to 2023 was largely attributable to higher loss severity and non-catastrophe weather-related losses for Home and Farm in the states of North Dakota and Nebraska, unfavorable prior year loss reserve development for Non-Standard Auto, a goodwill impairment charge for Non-Standard Auto, and expenses incurred related to the separation agreements with our former Chief Executive Officer and former Senior Vice President of Operations, partially offset by net earned premium growth, improved loss experience for Private Passenger Auto, and higher net investment income. The year-over-year improvement in 2023 compared to 2022 was largely attributable to the significant catastrophe losses and significantly higher investment losses during 2022.

Return on Average Equity

For the year ended December 31, 2024, we had annualized return on average equity, after non-controlling interest, of 2.8%, compared to annualized return on average equity, after non-controlling interest, of 7.9% and (13.6)% for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

Average equity is calculated as the average between beginning and ending equity, excluding non-controlling interest, for the period.

Principal Revenue Items

Revenue is primarily derived from net premiums earned, net investment income, and net investment gains (losses).

Gross and Net Premiums Written

Gross premiums written is equal to direct premiums written and assumed premiums before the effect of ceded reinsurance. Gross premiums written are recognized upon sale of new insurance contracts or renewal of existing contracts. Net premiums written is equal to gross premiums written less premiums ceded to reinsurers.

Premiums Earned

Premiums earned is the earned portion of net premiums written. Insurance premiums on property and casualty policies are recognized in proportion to the underlying risk insured and are earned ratably over the duration of the policies or, in the case of crop insurance, over the period of risk to the Company. At the end of each accounting period, the portion of the premiums that is not yet earned is included in unearned premiums and is realized as revenue in subsequent periods over the remaining term of the policy or period of risk. Our property and casualty policies, other than some of our auto lines and the non-standard auto policies, typically have a term of twelve months.

Due to the nature of the crop planting and harvesting cycle and the deadlines for filing and processing claims under the federal crop insurance program, insurance premiums for multi-peril crop insurance are recognized and earned during the period of risk, which usually begins in spring and ends with harvest in the fall. Under the federal crop insurance program, farmers must purchase crop insurance with respect to spring planted crops by March 15. By July 15, the farmer must report the number of acres planted in each crop. On September 1, the insurer bills the farmer for the insurance premium, which is due and payable by the farmer by October 1. If the farmer does not pay the premium by such date, the insurer will charge interest at a rate of 15% because the insurer is required to pay the farmer’s portion of the premium to the FCIC by November 15, regardless of whether the farmer pays the premium to the insurer. Except for claims occurring in the spring (primarily for prevented planting and required replanting claims), claims are required to be filed with the FCIC by December 15. A different cycle exists for crops planted in the fall, such as winter wheat, but the vast majority of crop insurance we write covers crops planted in the spring.

Net Investment Income and Net Investment Gains (Losses)

We invest our excess cash in fixed income and equity securities. Investment income includes interest and dividends earned on invested assets and is reported net of investment-related expenses. Net investment gains (losses) are reported separately from net investment income. We recognize realized gains when investments are sold for an amount greater than their cost or amortized cost (in the case of fixed income securities) and realized losses when investments are sold for an amount less than their cost or amortized cost or when credit impairments are recorded, as applicable. We recognize changes in unrealized gains and losses of equity securities in net income as part of net investment gains (losses). These gains and losses may be significant given the fair market value of the equity portfolio and the inherent volatility in equity markets. The changes in unrealized gains and losses on fixed income securities are recorded in other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes. Therefore, these changes have no impact on net income but do impact shareholders’ equity.

The portfolio of investments for NI Holdings and its insurance subsidiaries is managed by Conning, Inc., which has discretion to buy and sell securities in accordance with the investment policy approved by our Board of Directors.

Principal Expense Items

Our expenses consist primarily of losses and loss adjustment expenses, amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs, other underwriting and general expenses, and income taxes.

Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses

Losses and loss adjustment expenses represent the largest expense item and include (1) claim payments made, (2) estimates for future claim payments and changes in those estimates from prior periods, and (3) costs associated with investigating, defending, and adjusting claims, including legal fees.

Amortization of Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs and Other Underwriting and General Expenses

Expenses incurred to underwrite risks are referred to as policy acquisition costs. Policy acquisition costs consist of commission expenses, state premium taxes, and certain other underwriting expenses that vary with and are primarily related to the writing and acquisition of new and renewal business. These policy acquisition costs are deferred and amortized over the effective period of the related insurance policies. Other underwriting and general expenses consist of salaries, professional fees, office supplies, depreciation, and all other operating expenses not otherwise classified separately.

Income Taxes

Current income taxes represent amounts paid or owed to the federal government and certain states whose payment is based upon net income (subject to regulatory adjustments) generated by the Company. The generation of net losses may result in income tax benefits. As noted above, it does not include state premium taxes that are based purely on the collection of policyholder premiums.

We use the asset and liability method of accounting for deferred income taxes. Deferred income taxes arise from the recognition of temporary differences between financial statement carrying amounts and the income tax bases of its assets and liabilities. A valuation allowance is provided when it is more likely than not that some portion of the deferred income tax asset will not be realized. The effect of a change in tax rates is recognized in the period of the enactment date. Total income taxes reflect both current income taxes and the change in the net deferred income tax asset or liability, excluding amounts attributed to accumulated other comprehensive income.

Critical Accounting Policies

General

The preparation of financial statements in accordance with GAAP requires both the use of estimates and judgment relative to the application of appropriate accounting policies. We are required to make estimates and assumptions in certain circumstances that affect amounts reported in our consolidated financial statements and related footnotes. We evaluate these estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis based on historical developments, market conditions, industry trends, and other information that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances. There can be no assurance that actual results will conform to these estimates and assumptions and that reported results of operations would not be materially adversely affected by the need to make accounting adjustments to reflect changes in these estimates and assumptions from time to time. We believe the following policies are the most sensitive to estimates and judgments.

Unpaid Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses

How reserves are established

With respect to our traditional property and casualty insurance products, we maintain reserves for the payment of claims (indemnity losses) and expenses related to adjusting those claims (loss adjustment expenses). Our liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses consists of (1) case reserves, which are reserves for claims that have been reported to us, and (2) IBNR, which represents reserves for claims that have been incurred but have not yet been reported and for the future development of reported claims. As some claims may not be reported for several years, the liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses may include significant estimates for IBNR based on the time necessary to settle the claim.

Loss adjustment expenses consist of two components – allocated loss adjustment expenses and unallocated loss adjustment expenses. Allocated loss adjustment expenses are the expenses for defense and cost containment, including legal fees, court costs, and investigation fees, which are linked to the settlement of specific individual claims or losses. Unallocated loss adjustment expenses are expenses that generally cannot be associated with a specific claim, including internal costs such as salaries and other overhead costs. Estimates of future costs to administer reported and unreported claims for both allocated and unallocated expenses are included in IBNR.

When a claim is reported to one of the insurance companies, its claims personnel establish a case reserve for the estimated amount of the ultimate payment to the extent it can be determined or estimated, in many cases a default reserve is utilized until the claims personnel can determine a more claim specific amount. The amount of the loss reserve for the reported claim is based primarily upon an evaluation of coverage, liability, damages suffered, and any other information considered pertinent to estimating the exposure presented by the claim. Each claim is contested or settled individually based upon its merits, and some property and casualty claims may take years to resolve, especially in situations where legal action may be involved. Case reserves are reviewed on a regular basis and are updated as new information becomes available.

When a catastrophe occurs, which in our case usually involves the weather perils of wind and hail, we utilize mapping technology, through geographic coding of our property risks, to overlay the path of the storm. This enables us to establish estimated damage amounts based on the wind speed and size of the hail for case or per claim loss amounts. This process allows us to determine within a reasonable time (5-7 days) an estimated number of claims and estimated losses from the storm. We have also begun reviewing the results of the predicted cost of the claim generated by the catastrophe models as a reasonability check on the anticipated cost of the storm. If we estimate the damages to be in excess of half of the retained catastrophe amount, reinsurers are notified immediately of a potential loss so that we can quickly recover reinsurance payments once the retention is exceeded.

We estimate multi-peril crop insurance losses on a quarterly basis based upon historical loss patterns, current crop conditions, current weather patterns, and input from crop loss adjusters. These estimates have proven to be reasonably accurate indicators of our anticipated losses for this line of business.

Our actuaries assist with the estimation of the liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses. The actuaries prepare estimates by first deriving an actuarially based estimate of the ultimate cost of total losses and loss adjustment expenses incurred as of the financial statement date based on established actuarial methods as described below. We then reduce the estimated ultimate loss and loss adjustment expenses by loss and loss adjustment expenses payments and case reserves carried as of the financial statement date. The actuarially determined estimate is based upon indications from various actuarial methodologies including paid chain-ladder, incurred chain-ladder, Bornhuetter-Ferguson, weighted averages of the methods, and judgment. The specific method used to estimate the ultimate losses varies depending on the judgment of the actuaries as to what is the most appropriate for the line of business. Management reviews these estimates and supplements the actuarial analysis with information not fully incorporated into the actuarially based estimate, such as changes in the external business environment and internal company processes. Management may adjust the actuarial estimates based on this supplemental information in order to arrive at the amount recorded in the consolidated financial statements.

A further discussion of the actuarial methodologies used follows:

Bornhuetter-Ferguson Method - The Bornhuetter-Ferguson Method is a blended method that explicitly considers both actual loss development to date and expected future loss emergence. This method is applied on both a paid loss basis and an incurred loss basis. This method uses selected loss development patterns to calculate the expected percentage of losses unpaid (or unreported). The expected future loss component of the method is calculated by multiplying earned premium for the given exposure period by a selected a priori (i.e. deductive) loss ratio. The resulting dollars are then multiplied by the expected percentage of unpaid (or unreported) losses described above. This provides an estimate of future paid (or reported) losses that is then added to actual paid (or incurred) loss data to produce the estimated ultimate loss.

Paid and Case Incurred Loss Development (Chain-Ladder) Method - The Paid and Case Incurred Loss Development Method utilizes ratios of cumulative paid losses, case incurred losses, or paid loss adjustment expenses at each age of development as a percent of the preceding development age. Selected ratios are then multiplied together to produce a set of loss development factors which when applied to the most current data value, by accident period, develop the estimated ultimate losses or loss adjustment expenses. Ultimate losses or loss adjustment expenses are then selected for each accident year from the various methods employed.

Ratio of Paid Allocated Loss Adjustment Expenses to Paid Loss Method - The Ratio of Paid Allocated Loss Adjustment Expenses to Paid Loss Method utilizes the ratio of paid allocated loss adjustment expenses to paid losses and is similar to the Paid and Case Incurred Loss Development (Chain-Ladder) Method described above, except that the data projected are the ratios of paid allocated loss adjustment expenses to paid losses. The projected ultimate ratio is then multiplied by the selected ultimate losses, by accident year, to yield the ultimate allocated loss adjustment expenses. Allocated loss adjustment expenses reserves are calculated by subtracting paid losses from ultimate allocated loss adjustment expenses.

The process of estimating loss reserves involves a high degree of judgment and is subject to a number of variables. These variables can be affected by both internal and external events, such as changes in claims handling procedures/staffing, inflation, weather, legal trends, and regulatory and legislative changes. The impact of many of these items on ultimate costs for losses and loss adjustment expenses is difficult to estimate. Loss reserve estimation is also affected by the volume of claims, the potential severity of individual claims, the determination of occurrence date for a claim, and reporting lags (the time between the occurrence of the policyholder event and when it is actually reported to the insurer). Informed judgment is applied throughout the process, including the application of various individual experiences and expertise to multiple sets of data and analyses. We continually refine our estimates of unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses in a regular ongoing process as historical loss experience develops and additional claims are reported and settled. We consider all significant facts and circumstances known at the time the liabilities for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses are established.

There is an inherent amount of uncertainty in the establishment of liabilities for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses. This uncertainty is greatest in the current and most recent accident years due to the more recent nature of the claims being reported and relatively small percentage of these claims that have been reported, investigated, and adjusted by our claims staff. Therefore, the reserves carried in these more recent accident years are generally more conservative than those carried for older accident years. As we have the opportunity to investigate and adjust the reported claims, both the case and IBNR reserves are adjusted to more closely reflect the ultimate expected loss.

Other factors that may have an impact on our case and IBNR reserves include, but are not limited to, those described below.

Changes in liability law and public attitudes regarding damage awards

Laws governing liability claims and judicial interpretations thereof can change over time, which can expand the scope of coverage anticipated by insurers when initially establishing reserves for claims. In addition, public attitudes regarding damage awards can result in judges and juries granting higher recoveries for damages than expected by claims personnel when reserves are established. In addition, these changes can result in both increased claim frequency and severity as both plaintiffs and their legal counsel perceive the opportunity for higher damage awards. Reserves established for claims that occurred in prior years would not have anticipated these legal changes and, therefore, could prove to be inadequate for the ultimate losses paid by the Company, causing us to experience adverse development and higher loss payments in future years.

Change in claims handling and/or setting case reserves

Changes in Company personnel and/or the approach to how claims are reported, adjusted, and reserved may affect the reserves we establish. As discussed above, the setting of IBNR reserves is not an exact science and involves the expert judgment of an actuary. One actuary’s reserve opinion may differ slightly from another actuary’s opinion. This is the primary reason why the IBNR reserve estimate is customarily reported as a range by a company’s actuary, which provides a company with an acceptable range to use in establishing its best estimate for IBNR reserves.

Economic inflation

A sudden and extreme increase in the economic inflation rate could have a significant impact on our case and IBNR reserves. When establishing case reserves, claims personnel generally establish an amount that in their opinion will provide a conservative amount to settle the loss. If the time to settle the claim extends over a period of years, which is possible but unlikely as we usually settle claims in less than a year on average, the initial reserve may not anticipate an economic inflation rate that is significantly higher than the current inflation rate. This can also apply to IBNR reserves. Should the economic inflation rate increase significantly, we may not anticipate the need to adjust the IBNR reserves accordingly, which could lead to deficient IBNR reserves.

Increases or decreases in claim severity for reasons other than inflation

Factors exist that can drive the cost to settle claims for reasons other than standard inflation. For example, demand surge caused by a significant catastrophe, such as a derecho, has an impact on not only the availability and cost of building materials such as roofing and other materials, but also the availability and cost of labor. Numerous other factors could also cause claim severity to increase beyond what our historic reserves would reflect. In addition, unexpected increases in labor, healthcare, or building material costs and other factors may cause fluctuations in the ultimate development of the case reserves.

Actual settlement experience different from historical data trends

When establishing IBNR reserves, our actuaries consider many of the factors discussed above. One of the more important factors that is considered when setting reserves is the past or historical claim settlement experience. Our actuaries consider factors such as the number of files entering litigation, payment patterns, length of time it takes our claims personnel to settle the claims, and average payment amounts when estimating reserve amounts. Should future settlement patterns change due to the legal environment, our claims handling philosophy, or personnel, it may have an impact on the future claims payments, which could cause existing reserves to either be redundant (excessive) or deficient (below) compared to the actual loss amount.

Change in Reporting Lag

As discussed above, we utilize historical patterns to provide an accurate estimate of what will take place in the future. Should we experience an unexpected delay in reporting time (claims are slower to be reported than in the past), we may underestimate the anticipated number of future claims, which could cause the ultimate loss we may experience to be underestimated. A lag in reporting may be caused by changes in how claims are reported, the types or lines of business we write, our distribution system, and the geographic area where we choose to insure risk.

Due to the inherent uncertainty underlying loss reserve estimates, final resolution of the estimated liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses may be higher or lower than the related loss reserves at the reporting date. Therefore, actual paid losses, as claims are settled in the future, may be materially higher or lower in amount than current loss reserves. We reflect adjustments to the liability for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses in the results of operations during the period in which the estimates are changed.

Investments

Our fixed income securities and equity securities are classified as available-for-sale and carried at estimated fair value as determined by management based upon quoted market prices or a recognized independent pricing service at the reporting date for those or similar investments. Changes in unrealized investment gains or losses on the fixed income securities, net of applicable income taxes, are reflected directly in shareholders’ equity as a component of other comprehensive income (loss) and, accordingly, have no effect on net income (loss). Changes in unrealized investment gains or losses on equity securities are reported in net income (loss). Investment income from fixed income securities is recognized when earned, and realized investment gains (losses) are recognized when investments are sold, the fair value of equity securities change, or credit impairments are recognized.

For additional information on our investments, see Part II, Item 8, Note 4 “Investments” and Note 5 “Fair Value Measurements.”

Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs

Certain direct policy acquisition costs consisting of commissions, state premium taxes, and other direct underwriting expenses that vary with and are primarily related to the production of business are deferred and amortized over the effective period of the related insurance policies as the underlying policy premiums are earned.

At December 31, 2024 and 2023, deferred policy acquisition costs (“DAC”) and the related liability for unearned premiums were as follows:

The method followed in computing DAC limits the amount of deferred costs to their estimated realizable value, which gives effect to the premium to be earned, related investment income, losses and loss adjustment expenses, and certain other costs expected to be incurred as the premium is earned. Future changes in estimates, the most significant of which is expected losses and loss adjustment expenses, may require adjustments to DAC. If the estimation of net realizable value indicates that DAC are not recoverable, they would be written off or a premium deficiency reserve would be established.

Income Taxes

Current income taxes represent amounts paid or owed to the federal government and certain states whose payment is based upon net income (subject to regulatory adjustments) generated by the Company. The generation of net losses may result in income tax benefits, a portion of which may be in the form of refunds of prior income taxes paid to taxing authorities. We use the asset and liability method of accounting for deferred income taxes. Deferred income taxes arise from the recognition of temporary differences between financial statement carrying amounts and the income tax bases of our assets and liabilities. A valuation allowance is established when it is more likely than not that some portion of the deferred income tax asset will not be realized. Total income taxes reflect both current income taxes and the change in the net deferred income tax asset or liability, excluding amounts attributed to accumulated other comprehensive income.

We had gross deferred income tax assets of $15,946 at December 31, 2024, and $18,172 at December 31, 2023, arising primarily from unearned premiums, loss reserve discounting, net unrealized investment losses, and net operating loss carryforwards. A valuation allowance is required to be established for any portion of the deferred income tax asset for which we believe it is more likely than not that it will not be realized. A valuation allowance of $2,506 and $505 was maintained at December 31, 2024, and December 31, 2023, respectively.

We had gross deferred income tax liabilities of $6,116 at December 31, 2024, and $9,254 at December 31, 2023, arising primarily from deferred policy acquisition costs and other intangible assets.

We exercise significant judgment in evaluating the amount and timing of recognition of the resulting income tax liabilities and assets. These judgments require us to make projections of future taxable income. The judgments and estimates we make in determining our deferred income tax assets, which are inherently subjective, are reviewed on a continual basis as regulatory and business factors change. Any reduction in estimated future taxable income may require us to record a valuation allowance against our deferred income tax assets.

As of December 31, 2024, we had no material unrecognized income tax benefits or accrued interest and penalties. Federal income tax returns for the years 2020 through 2023 remain subject to examination.

Changing Climate Conditions

Longer-term natural catastrophe trends may be changing, and new types of catastrophe losses may be developing due to climate change, a phenomenon that has been associated with extreme weather events linked to rising temperatures, and includes effects on global weather patterns, greenhouse gases, sea, land and air temperatures, sea levels, rain, hail, and snow. The frequency, number, and severity of these losses are unpredictable. The extent of losses from a catastrophe is a function of both the total amount of insured exposure in the area affected by the event and the severity of the event. Our ability to effectively manage catastrophe risk is dependent, in part, on our reliance on various catastrophe models, which may produce unreliable output as a result of inaccurate or incomplete data, along with the inherent uncertainty of future frequency and severity of losses. The impact of changing climate conditions on the overall insurance industry may also materially affect the availability and cost of reinsurance to us. In addition, these changes could impact the creditworthiness of issuers of securities in which we invest, subjecting our investment portfolio to increased credit and interest rate risk, with the potential for reduced investment returns and/or material realized or unrealized losses.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

We expect to generate sufficient funds from our operations and maintain a high degree of liquidity in our investment portfolio to meet the demands of claim settlements and operating expenses for the foreseeable future. Our primary sources of funds are premium collections, investment earnings, and fixed income maturities.

We also have a $3,000 line of credit with Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. The terms of the line of credit include a floating interest rate of 2.50% above the daily simple secured overnight financing rate. There were no outstanding amounts during the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, or 2022. This line of credit is scheduled to expire on December 13, 2025.

The changes in cash and cash equivalents for continuing and discontinued operations for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022 were as follows:

For the year ended December 31, 2024, net cash provided by operating activities totaled $38,506 compared to $51,028 net cash provided by operating activities a year ago. This change was primarily driven by the severance payments to our former Chief Executive Officer and former Senior Vice President of Operations in the current year as well as the receipt of a significant income tax refund during 2023.

For the year ended December 31, 2024, net cash used by investing activities totaled $4,541 compared to $8,813 net cash used by investing activities a year ago. This change was primarily attributable to the proceeds from the sale of Westminster as well as a decrease in the net cash outflows for fixed income securities in the current year, partially offset by a decrease in the cash inflows from equity securities in the current year.

For the year ended December 31, 2024, net cash used by financing activities totaled $3,643 compared to $7,466 a year ago. This decrease in cash used was attributable to a reduction in share repurchases in the current year partially offset by the final pooling settlement between Nodak Insurance and Westminster.

For the year ended December 31, 2023, net cash provided by operating activities totaled $51,028 compared to $15,294 net cash used by operating activities during 2022. This change was primarily driven by lower claim payments and the receipt of a significant income tax refund during 2023.

For the year ended December 31, 2023, net cash used by investing activities totaled $8,813 compared to $25,048 net cash provided by investing activities during 2022. This change was primarily attributable to a decrease in maturities and sales of fixed income securities and an increase in purchases of fixed income securities during 2023 compared to 2022, partially offset by an increase in sales of equity securities and a decrease in purchases of equity securities.

For the year ended December 31, 2023, net cash used by financing activities totaled $7,466 compared to $18,281 during 2022. This decrease in cash used was attributable to installment payments on the Westminster consideration payable during 2022, partially offset by an increase in share repurchases during 2023 compared to 2022.

As a holding company, a principal source of long-term liquidity will be dividend payments from our directly-owned subsidiaries.

Nodak Insurance is restricted by the insurance laws of North Dakota as to the amount of dividends or other distributions it may pay to NI Holdings. North Dakota law sets the maximum amount of dividends that may be paid by Nodak Insurance during any twelve-month period after notice to, but without prior approval of, the North Dakota Insurance Department. This amount cannot exceed the lesser of (i) 10% of the Company’s surplus as regards policyholders as of the preceding December 31, or (ii) the Company’s statutory net income for the preceding calendar year (excluding realized investment gains), less any prior dividends paid during such twelve-month period. In addition, any insurance company other than a life insurance company may carry forward net income from the preceding two calendar years, not including realized investment gains, less any dividends actually paid during those two calendar years. Dividends in excess of this amount are considered “extraordinary” and are subject to the approval of the North Dakota Insurance Department.

The amount available for payment of dividends from Nodak Insurance to NI Holdings during 2025 without the prior approval of the North Dakota Insurance Department is approximately $8,273 as of December 31, 2024. No dividends were declared or paid by Nodak Insurance during the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023. The Nodak Insurance Board of Directors declared and paid dividends of $3,000 to NI Holdings during the year ended December 31, 2022.

The amount available for payment of dividends from Direct Auto to NI Holdings during 2025 without the prior approval of the North Dakota Insurance Department is approximately $3,146 as of December 31, 2024. No dividends were declared or paid by Direct Auto during the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, or 2022.

Prior to its payment of any dividend, Nodak Insurance will be required to provide notice of the dividend to the North Dakota Insurance Department. This notice must be provided to the North Dakota Insurance Department 30 days prior to the payment of an extraordinary dividend and 10 days prior to the payment of an ordinary dividend. The North Dakota Insurance Department has the power to limit or prohibit dividend payments if an insurance company is in violation of any law or regulation. These restrictions or any subsequently imposed restrictions may affect our future liquidity.

Westminster was sold on June 30, 2024, and therefore no dividends are available to be paid to NI Holdings subsequent to that date. No dividends were declared or paid by Westminster during the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 or 2022. See Part II, Item 8, Note 20 “Discontinued Operations” for additional information.

Contractual Obligations

The primary contractual obligations of the Company include gross loss and loss adjustment expenses payments as well as operating and finance lease obligations.

The Company’s unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses were $137,288 as of December 31, 2024. Historical payment experience indicates that approximately 46% of this amount will be paid during 2025 and another 37% will be paid over the subsequent two years. The actual timing and amounts of these payments in the future may vary.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

For a discussion of recent accounting pronouncements, see Part II, Item 8, Note 2 “Recent Accounting Pronouncements.”

Market Risk

Market risk is the risk that a company will incur losses due to adverse changes in the fair value of financial instruments. We have exposure to three principal types of market risk through our investment activities: interest rate risk, credit risk, and equity risk. Our primary market risk exposure is to changes in interest rates. We have not entered, and do not plan to enter, into any derivative financial instruments for hedging, trading, or speculative purposes.

Interest Rate Risk

Interest rate risk is the risk that a company will incur economic losses due to adverse changes in interest rates. Our exposure to interest rate changes primarily results from our significant holdings of fixed income securities. Fluctuations in interest rates have a direct impact on the fair value of these securities.

We develop our investment strategies based on a number of factors, including estimated duration of reserve liabilities, short and long-term liquidity needs, general economic conditions, expected rates of inflation and regulatory requirements. The portfolio duration of the fixed income securities in our investment portfolio at December 31, 2024 was 4.77 years. These fixed income securities include U.S. government bonds, securities issued by government agencies, obligations of state and local governments and governmental authorities, and corporate bonds, most of which are exposed to changes in prevailing interest rates. These fixed income securities may experience significant fluctuations in fair value resulting from changes in interest rates and are carried as available for sale. We manage the exposure to risks associated with interest rate fluctuations through active management and consultation with our outside fixed income portfolio manager.

Higher interest rates, oftentimes correlated to inflation, reduce the carrying value of our fixed income and short-term investments, negatively impacting the Company’s book value in the short-term. Over the long-term, however, higher interest rates provide an incremental benefit to our net investment income over time as excess cash and proceeds of maturing bonds are reinvested at higher rates. We manage our exposure to interest rate increases by monitoring the duration within our investment portfolio and maintaining maturities that minimize forced sales within the portfolio.

Additionally, we hold certain fixed income securities that have call features. In a potential declining interest rate environment, these securities may be called by their issuer and replaced with securities bearing lower interest rates.

If we are required to sell fixed income securities in a rising interest rate environment, we may recognize investment losses.

The table below shows the interest rate sensitivity of our fixed income securities (including both continuing and discontinued operations) measured in terms of fair value (which is equal to the carrying value for all of our investment securities that are subject to interest rate changes) at December 31, 2024 and 2023:

The interest rate exposure of our portfolio was proportionately consistent in the current year compared to the prior year, which is expected given the generally consistent composition and duration of the fixed income portfolio over this time.

Credit Risk

Credit risk is the potential economic loss principally arising from adverse changes in the financial condition of a specific debt issuer. We address this risk by investing primarily in fixed income securities that are rated investment grade by Moody’s Investors Services, Inc. or an equivalent rating quality. We also work in conjunction with our outside fixed income portfolio manager to monitor the financial condition of all of the issuers of fixed income securities in the portfolio. Additionally, our investment policy includes diversification rules that limit the credit exposure to any single issuer or asset class.

Equity Risk

Equity price risk is the risk that we will incur economic losses due to adverse changes in equity prices. Our equity portfolio is subject to a variety of risk factors, including general economic conditions which influence the performance of the underlying industries and companies within those industries. Industry and company-specific risks also have the potential to substantially affect the value of our portfolio. Our investment policy helps mitigate these risks by diversifying the portfolio and establishing parameters to help manage exposures.

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

The Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have reviewed and evaluated the effectiveness of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (“DCPs”), as required by Rules 13a-15(b) and 15d-15(b) under the Exchange Act, as of December 31, 2024. Based on that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report, were designed and functioning effectively to provide reasonable assurance that the information required to be disclosed in our periodic reports filed under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms, and that such material information is accumulated and communicated to the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosures. We believe that a control system, no matter how well designed and operated, cannot provide absolute assurance that the objectives of the control system are met, and no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, within a company have been detected.

Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. Under the supervision and with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer, our management has reviewed and evaluated the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting based on the framework and criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (the “COSO Framework”). Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements.

Based on our evaluation under the COSO Framework, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that the Company’s current internal control over financial reporting is effective at December 31, 2024, and that our consolidated financial statements we include in this 2024 Annual Report present fairly, in all material respects, our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

Forvis Mazars, LLP, our independent registered public accounting firm, has issued an audit report on the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2024. This audit report appears in Part II, Item 8 “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” of this 2024 Annual Report.

Material Weakness in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

A material weakness is a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting (“ICFR”), such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of the Company's annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis.

As previously disclosed in our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q/A for the quarter ended June 30, 2024, the Company did not design and maintain effective controls over its accounting for intercompany reinsurance pooling activity. Specifically, it lacked an effectively designed internal control related to the evaluation of pooling payable/receivable balances, including when a pool member is sold. This material weakness resulted in a material error and the restatement of the Company's consolidated financial statements for the three- and six-month periods ended June 30, 2024. Additionally, this material weakness could result in misstatements of the aforementioned accounts or disclosures that would result in a material misstatement to the annual or interim consolidated financial statements that would not be prevented or detected.

Remediation Plan for Material Weakness

Upon identification of the material weakness, management developed a remediation plan, which included designing and implementing a new quarterly intercompany pooling reconciliation and review process to fully evaluate pooling payable/receivable balances in support of financial reporting for GAAP purposes. The material weakness is considered remediated as of the end of the period covered by this report as the remediation plan has been implemented and there has been sufficient time for the Company to conclude through testing that the controls are operating effectively. As the Company's management, under the oversight of the Audit Committee, continues to evaluate and improve the Company's ICFR, management may decide to take additional measures to address control deficiencies or determine to modify, or in appropriate circumstances not to complete, certain of the remediation measures identified. We can offer no assurance that these initiatives will ultimately have the intended effects.

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

In the ordinary course of business, we periodically review our system of internal control over financial reporting to identify opportunities to improve our controls and increase efficiency, while ensuring that we maintain an effective internal control environment. Except for the identified material weakness above, there have not been any changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act) during the annual period covered by this report that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.