Item 1. Financial Statements.

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Item 1. Financial Statements.

Aflac Incorporated and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Statements of Earnings

Three Months Ended September 30,Nine Months Ended September 30,
(In millions, except for share and per-share amounts - Unaudited)2024202320242023
Revenues:
Net earned premiums, principally supplemental health insurance (1)$3,328$3,476$10,109$10,737
Net investment income1,0061,0043,1002,946
Net investment gains (losses)(1,408)4232391,101
Other income (loss)234776139
Total revenues2,9494,95013,52414,923
Benefits and expenses:
Benefits and claims, excluding reserve remeasurement2,0032,0656,0426,420
Reserve remeasurement (gains) losses(408)(205)(515)(312)
Total benefits and claims, net1,5951,8605,5276,108
Acquisition and operating expenses:
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs214201638608
Insurance commissions251250751797
Insurance and other expenses7477852,1792,290
Interest expense5049147148
Total acquisition and operating expenses1,2621,2853,7153,843
Total benefits and expenses2,8573,1459,2429,951
Earnings before income taxes921,8054,2824,972
Income taxes185236741581
Net earnings$(93)$1,569$3,541$4,391
Net earnings per share:
Basic$(.17)$2.65$6.26$7.31
Diluted(.17)2.646.237.28
Weighted-average outstanding common shares used in computing earnings per share (In thousands):
Basic557,899591,246565,757600,991
Diluted560,414593,596568,216603,419
Cash dividends per share$.50$.42$1.50$1.26

(1) Includes a gain (loss) of $(75) and $22 for the three-month periods and $(80) and $22 for the nine-month periods ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively, related to remeasurement of the deferred profit liability for limited-payment contracts.

See the accompanying Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

Aflac Incorporated and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss)

Three Months Ended September 30,Nine Months Ended September 30,
(In millions - Unaudited)2024202320242023
Net earnings$(93)$1,569$3,541$4,391
Other comprehensive income (loss) before income taxes:
Unrealized foreign currency translation gains (losses) during period788(194)(52)(674)
Unrealized gains (losses) on fixed maturity securities:
Unrealized holding gains (losses) on fixed maturity securities during period268(2,978)(457)489
Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses on fixed maturity securities included in net earnings(53)(41)(271)(125)
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives during period2134
Effect of changes in discount rate assumptions during period(1,889)5,3093,1571,563
Pension liability adjustment during period(3)1068
Total other comprehensive income (loss) before income taxes(887)2,0982,3801,325
Income tax expense (benefit) related to items of other comprehensive income (loss)(502)520537656
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes(385)1,5781,843669
Total comprehensive income (loss)$(478)$3,147$5,384$5,060

See the accompanying Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

Aflac Incorporated and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Balance Sheets

(In millions, except for share and per-share amounts)September 30, 2024 (Unaudited)December 31, 2023
Assets:
Investments and cash:
Fixed maturity securities available-for-sale, at fair value (no allowance for credit losses in 2024 and 2023, amortized cost $67,289 in 2024 and $67,807 in 2023)$68,261$69,578
Fixed maturity securities available-for-sale - consolidated variable interest entities, at fair value (amortized cost $3,130 in 2024 and $2,882 in 2023)4,0313,712
Fixed maturity securities held-to-maturity, at amortized cost, net of allowance for credit losses of $5 in 2024 and $5 in 2023 (fair value $18,975 in 2024 and $19,657 in 2023)17,69817,819
Equity securities, at fair value8081,088
Commercial mortgage and other loans, net of allowance for credit losses of $284 in 2024 and $274 in 2023 (includes $9,261 in 2024 and $10,150 in 2023 of consolidated variable interest entities)11,54412,527
Other investments (includes $2,704 in 2024 and $2,381 in 2023 of consolidated variable interest entities)7,6474,530
Cash and cash equivalents5,6124,306
Total investments and cash115,601113,560
Receivables814848
Accrued investment income696731
Deferred policy acquisition costs9,2329,132
Property and equipment, at cost less accumulated depreciation421445
Other1,6782,008
Total assets$128,442$126,724
Liabilities and shareholders’ equity:
Liabilities:
Policy liabilities:
Future policy benefits$79,672$83,718
Unpaid policy claims381261
Unearned premiums1,4061,451
Other policyholders’ funds6,0956,169
Total policy liabilities87,55491,599
Income taxes454154
Payables for return of cash collateral on loaned securities4,2331,503
Notes payable and lease obligations7,9787,364
Other3,3934,119
Total liabilities103,612104,739
Commitments and contingent liabilities (Note 13)
Shareholders’ equity:
Common stock of $.10 par value. In thousands: authorized 1,900,000 shares in 2024 and 2023; issued 1,356,692 shares in 2024 and 1,355,398 shares in 2023136136
Additional paid-in capital2,8762,771
Retained earnings50,97247,993
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss):
Unrealized foreign currency translation gains (losses)(4,139)(4,069)
Unrealized gains (losses) on fixed maturity securities5571,139
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives(20)(22)
Effect of changes in discount rate assumptions(67)(2,560)
Pension liability adjustment(8)(8)
Treasury stock, at average cost(25,477)(23,395)
Total shareholders’ equity24,83021,985
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity$128,442$126,724

See the accompanying Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

Aflac Incorporated and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity

(In millions, except for per share amounts - Unaudited)Common StockAdditional Paid-in CapitalRetained EarningsAccumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)Treasury StockTotal Shareholders' Equity
Balance at December 31, 2023$136$2,771$47,993$(5,520)$(23,395)$21,985
Net earnings001,879001,879
Unrealized foreign currency translation gains (losses) during period, net of income taxes000(597)0(597)
Unrealized gains (losses) on fixed maturity securities during period, net of income taxes and reclassification adjustments000(47)0(47)
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives during period, net of income taxes000(4)0(4)
Effect of changes in discount rate assumptions during period, net of income taxes0001,06501,065
Pension liability adjustment during period, net of income taxes000101
Dividends to shareholders (1) ($.00 per share)000000
Exercise of stock options040004
Share-based compensation01800018
Purchases of treasury stock0000(793)(793)
Treasury stock reissued013001326
Balance at March 31, 2024$136$2,806$49,872$(5,102)$(24,175)$23,537
Net earnings001,755001,755
Unrealized foreign currency translation gains (losses) during period, net of income taxes000(425)0(425)
Unrealized gains (losses) on fixed maturity securities during period, net of income taxes and reclassification adjustments000(691)0(691)
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives during period, net of income taxes000404
Effect of changes in discount rate assumptions during period, net of income taxes0002,92002,920
Pension liability adjustment during period, net of income taxes000202
Dividends to shareholders (1) ($.50 per share)00(282)00(282)
Exercise of stock options020002
Share-based compensation01200012
Purchases of treasury stock0000(810)(810)
Treasury stock reissued01500823
Balance at June 30, 2024$136$2,835$51,345$(3,292)$(24,977)$26,047

(1) Dividends to shareholders are recorded in the period in which they are declared.

See the accompanying Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

(continued)

Aflac Incorporated and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity (continued)

(In millions, except for per share amounts - Unaudited)Common StockAdditional Paid-in CapitalRetained EarningsAccumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)Treasury StockTotal Shareholders' Equity
Balance at June 30, 2024$136$2,835$51,345$(3,292)$(24,977)$26,047
Net earnings00(93)00(93)
Unrealized foreign currency translation gains (losses) during period, net of income taxes0009520952
Unrealized gains (losses) on fixed maturity securities during period, net of income taxes and reclassification adjustments0001560156
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives during period, net of income taxes000202
Effect of changes in discount rate assumptions during period, net of income taxes000(1,492)0(1,492)
Pension liability adjustment during period, net of income taxes000(3)0(3)
Dividends to shareholders (1) ($.50 per share)00(280)00(280)
Exercise of stock options010001
Share-based compensation02100021
Purchases of treasury stock0000(505)(505)
Treasury stock reissued01900524
Balance at September 30, 2024$136$2,876$50,972$(3,677)$(25,477)$24,830

(1) Dividends to shareholders are recorded in the period in which they are declared.

See the accompanying Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

(continued)

Aflac Incorporated and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity (continued)

(In millions, except for per share amounts - Unaudited)Common StockAdditional Paid-in CapitalRetained EarningsAccumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)Treasury StockTotal Shareholders' Equity
Balance at December 31, 2022$135$2,641$44,367$(6,429)$(20,574)$20,140
Net earnings001,188001,188
Unrealized foreign currency translation gains (losses) during period, net of income taxes000(54)0(54)
Unrealized gains (losses) on fixed maturity securities during period, net of income taxes and reclassification adjustments0001,99101,991
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives during period, net of income taxes000101
Effect of changes in discount rate assumptions during period, net of income taxes000(2,794)0(2,794)
Pension liability adjustment during period, net of income taxes000707
Dividends to shareholders (1) ($.00 per share)000000
Exercise of stock options030003
Share-based compensation01400014
Purchases of treasury stock0000(732)(732)
Treasury stock reissued07001320
Balance at March 31, 2023$135$2,665$45,555$(7,278)$(21,293)$19,784
Net earnings001,634001,634
Unrealized foreign currency translation gains (losses) during period, net of income taxes000(631)0(631)
Unrealized gains (losses) on fixed maturity securities during period, net of income taxes and reclassification adjustments0006890689
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives during period, net of income taxes000101
Effect of changes in discount rate assumptions during period, net of income taxes000(165)0(165)
Pension liability adjustment during period, net of income taxes00046046
Dividends to shareholders (1) ($.42 per share)00(252)00(252)
Exercise of stock options050005
Share-based compensation11700018
Purchases of treasury stock0000(708)(708)
Treasury stock reissued01000818
Balance at June 30, 2023$136$2,697$46,937$(7,338)$(21,993)$20,439

(1) Dividends to shareholders are recorded in the period in which they are declared.

See the accompanying Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

(continued)

Aflac Incorporated and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity (continued)

(In millions, except for per share amounts - Unaudited)Common StockAdditional Paid-in CapitalRetained EarningsAccumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)Treasury StockTotal Shareholders' Equity
Balance at June 30, 2023$136$2,697$46,937$(7,338)$(21,993)$20,439
Net earnings001,569001,569
Unrealized foreign currency translation gains (losses) during period, net of income taxes000(235)0(235)
Unrealized gains (losses) on fixed maturity securities during period, net of income taxes and reclassification adjustments000(2,381)0(2,381)
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives during period, net of income taxes000101
Effect of changes in discount rate assumptions during period, net of income taxes0004,19304,193
Pension liability adjustment during period, net of income taxes000000
Dividends to shareholders (1) ($.42 per share)00(249)00(249)
Exercise of stock options020002
Share-based compensation02000020
Purchases of treasury stock0000(707)(707)
Treasury stock reissued01000717
Balance at September 30, 2023$136$2,729$48,257$(5,760)$(22,693)$22,669

(1) Dividends to shareholders are recorded in the period in which they are declared.

See the accompanying Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

Aflac Incorporated and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

Nine Months Ended September 30,
(In millions - Unaudited)20242023
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net earnings$3,541$4,391
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash provided (used) by operating activities:
Change in receivables and advance premiums2842
Capitalization of deferred policy acquisition costs(767)(804)
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs638608
Increase in policy liabilities(259)(99)
Change in income tax liabilities(64)(289)
Net investment (gains) losses(239)(1,101)
Other, net(504)(140)
Net cash provided (used) by operating activities2,3742,608
Cash flows from investing activities:
Proceeds from investments sold or matured:
Available-for-sale fixed maturity securities4,8322,112
Equity securities702353
Held-to-maturity fixed maturity securities22
Commercial mortgage and other loans1,4821,276
Costs of investments acquired:
Available-for-sale fixed maturity securities(4,589)(2,359)
Equity securities(333)(299)
Commercial mortgage and other loans(937)(744)
Other investments, net(2,682)(1,153)
Settlement of derivatives, net(92)56
Cash received (pledged or returned) as collateral, net2,7812,894
Other, net98(160)
Net cash provided (used) by investing activities1,2641,978
Cash flows from financing activities:
Purchases of treasury stock(2,050)(2,100)
Proceeds from borrowings8230
Principal payments under debt obligations(194)0
Dividends paid to shareholders(820)(730)
Change in investment-type contracts, net(162)(114)
Treasury stock reissued219
Other, net(20)(1)
Net cash provided (used) by financing activities(2,402)(2,936)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents70(91)
Net change in cash and cash equivalents1,3061,559
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period4,3063,943
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period$5,612$5,502
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:
Income taxes paid$805$870
Interest paid127132
Noncash interest2116
Noncash real estate acquired in satisfaction of debt38090
Noncash financing activities:
Lease obligations2550
Treasury stock issued for:
Associate stock bonus1513
Shareholder dividend reinvestment3128
Share-based compensation grants65

See the accompanying Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

Aflac Incorporated and Subsidiaries

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

(Interim period data - Unaudited)

1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Description of Business

Aflac Incorporated (the Parent Company) and its subsidiaries (collectively, the Company) primarily sell supplemental health and life insurance in Japan and the United States (U.S.). The Company's insurance business is marketed and administered through Aflac Life Insurance Japan Ltd. (ALIJ) in Japan and through American Family Life Assurance Company of Columbus (Aflac), American Family Life Assurance Company of New York (Aflac New York), Continental American Insurance Company (CAIC), Tier One Insurance Company (TOIC) and Aflac Benefits Solutions, Inc. (ABS) in the U.S. The Company’s operations consist of two reportable business segments: Aflac Japan, which includes ALIJ, and Aflac U.S., which includes Aflac, Aflac New York, CAIC, TOIC and ABS. Aflac New York is a wholly owned subsidiary of Aflac. Most of the Aflac U.S. policies are individually underwritten and marketed through independent agents. With the exception of dental and vision products administered by ABS, and certain group life insurance products, Aflac U.S. markets and administers group products through CAIC, branded as Aflac Group Insurance. Additionally, Aflac U.S. markets its consumer markets products through TOIC. The Company's insurance operations in the U.S. and Japan service the two markets for the Company's insurance business. The Parent Company, other operating business units that are not individually reportable, reinsurance activities, including internal reinsurance activity with Aflac Re Bermuda Ltd. (Aflac Re), and other business activities not included in Aflac Japan or Aflac U.S., as well as intercompany eliminations, are included in Corporate and other.

Basis of Presentation

The Company prepares its financial statements in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (U.S. GAAP). These principles are established primarily by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB). In these Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements, references to U.S. GAAP issued by the FASB are derived from the FASB Accounting Standards CodificationTM (ASC). The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires the Company to make estimates based on currently available information when recording transactions resulting from business operations. The most significant items on the Company's balance sheet that involve a greater degree of accounting estimates and actuarial determinations subject to changes in the future are the valuation of investments and derivatives, deferred policy acquisition costs (DAC), liabilities for future policy benefits and income taxes. These accounting estimates and actuarial determinations are sensitive to market conditions, investment yields, interest rates, mortality, morbidity, commission and other acquisition expenses and terminations by policyholders. As additional information becomes available, or actual amounts are determinable, the recorded estimates are revised and reflected in the consolidated financial statements. Although some variability is inherent in these estimates, the Company believes the amounts provided are reasonable and reflective of the best estimates of management.

The unaudited consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Parent Company, its subsidiaries and those entities required to be consolidated under applicable accounting standards. All material intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.

In the opinion of management, the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements of the Company contain all adjustments, consisting of normal recurring accruals, which are necessary to fairly present the consolidated balance sheets as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, the consolidated statements of earnings and comprehensive income (loss) for the three- and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, the consolidated statements of shareholders' equity for the three-month periods ended March 31, 2024 and 2023, June 30, 2024 and 2023, and September 30, 2024 and 2023, and the consolidated statements of cash flows for the nine-month periods ended September 30, 2024 and 2023. Results of operations for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of results for the entire year. As a result, these financial statements should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and notes thereto included in the Company's annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 (2023 Annual Report).

Reclassifications: Certain reclassifications have been made to prior-year amounts to conform to current-year reporting classifications. These reclassifications had no impact on net earnings or total shareholders' equity.

For the nine-month period ended September 30, 2023, an immaterial reclassification was made to the consolidated statement of cash flows related to investments in limited partnerships resulting in an increase to net cash flows provided by operating activities of $251 million with a corresponding decrease to net cash flows provided by investing activities.

New Accounting Pronouncements

Accounting Pronouncements Pending Adoption

Accounting Standards Update (ASU) 2023-09 Income Taxes (Topic 740) – Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures

In December 2023, the FASB issued amendments that require enhanced income tax disclosures including (1) disclosure of specific categories and greater disaggregation of information in the rate reconciliation and (2) income taxes paid disaggregated by jurisdiction. It also includes certain other amendments to improve the effectiveness of income tax disclosures.

The amendments are effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2024. Early adoption is permitted. The adoption of this guidance has no impact on the Company’s financial position or results of operations. The Company is evaluating the impact of adoption on its disclosures.

ASU 2023-07 Segment Reporting (Topic 280) – Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures

In November 2023, the FASB issued amendments that will add certain segment disclosures related to significant segment expenses and require that a public entity disclose the title and position of the Chief Operating Decision Maker (CODM) and an explanation of how the CODM uses the reported measure(s) of segment profit or loss in assessing segment performance and deciding how to allocate resources.

The amendments are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024. Early adoption is permitted. The adoption of this guidance has no impact on the Company’s financial position or results of operations but will expand its disclosures. The Company has identified its significant segment expenses and developed the required disclosures in accordance with the new guidance, which will be reflected in the notes contained in the Company's 2024 Form 10-K.

Recent accounting guidance not discussed above is not applicable, did not have, or is not expected to have a material impact to the Company's business.

For additional information on new accounting pronouncements and recent accounting guidance and their impact, if any, on the Company's financial position, results of operations or disclosures, see Note 1 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in the 2023 Annual Report.

2. BUSINESS SEGMENT INFORMATION

The Company consists of two reportable insurance business segments: Aflac Japan and Aflac U.S., both of which sell supplemental health and life insurance. In addition, the Parent Company, other operating business units that are not individually reportable, reinsurance activities, including internal reinsurance activity with Aflac Re, and other business activities not included in Aflac Japan or Aflac U.S., as well as intercompany eliminations, are included in Corporate and other. The Company does not allocate corporate overhead expenses to business segments.

Consistent with U.S. GAAP accounting guidance for segment reporting, the Company evaluates and manages its business segments using a financial performance measure called pretax adjusted earnings.

  • Pretax adjusted earnings** are adjusted revenues less benefits and adjusted expenses. The adjustments to both revenues and expenses account for certain items that are outside management’s control because they tend to be driven by general economic conditions and events or are related to infrequent activities not directly associated with insurance operations. The Company excludes income taxes related to operations to arrive at pretax adjusted earnings.

◦Adjusted revenues are U.S. GAAP total revenues excluding net investment gains and losses, except for amortized hedge costs/income related to foreign currency exposure management strategies and net interest income/expense from derivatives associated with certain investment strategies, which are

reclassified from net investment gains (losses) and included in adjusted earnings as a component of adjusted net investment income when analyzing operations.

◦Adjusted expenses are U.S. GAAP total acquisition and operating expenses including the impact of interest from derivatives associated with notes payable but excluding any non-recurring or other items not associated with the normal course of the Company’s insurance operations and that do not reflect the Company’s underlying business performance.

Aflac Japan's adjusted revenues as a percentage of the Company's total adjusted revenues were 55% and 56% in the three- and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2024, respectively, and 60% in both the three- and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2023. The percentage of the Company's total assets attributable to Aflac Japan was 79% at September 30, 2024, compared with 80% at December 31, 2023.

Information regarding operations by reportable segment and Corporate and other follows:

Three Months Ended September 30,Nine Months Ended September 30,
(In millions)2024202320242023
Revenues:
Aflac Japan:
Net earned premiums (1)$1,709$1,973$5,241$6,207
Adjusted net investment income6626792,0361,927
Other income782026
Total adjusted revenue Aflac Japan2,3782,6607,2978,160
Aflac U.S.:
Net earned premiums1,4591,4194,3884,272
Adjusted net investment income210209634609
Other income153346102
Total adjusted revenue Aflac U.S.1,6841,6615,0684,983
Corporate and other (2)225115723384
Total adjusted revenues4,2874,43613,08813,527
Net investment gains (losses)(1,408)4232391,101
Reconciling items:
Amortized hedge costs72619148
Amortized hedge income(25)(25)(87)(92)
Net interest (income) expense from derivatives associated with certain investment strategies8890265239
Total revenues$2,949$4,950$13,524$14,923

(1) Includes a gain (loss) of $(75) and $22 for the three-month periods and $(80) and $22 for the nine-month periods ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively, related to remeasurement of the deferred profit liability for limited-payment contracts.

(2) The change in value of federal historic rehabilitation and solar investments in partnerships of $57 and $64 for the three-month periods and $119 and $169 for the nine-month periods ended September 30, 2024, and 2023, respectively, is included as a reduction to net investment income. Tax credits on these investments of $78 and $63 for the three-month periods and $142 and $171 for the nine-month periods ended September 30, 2024, and 2023, respectively, have been recorded as an income tax benefit in the consolidated statements of earnings. See Note 3 for additional information on these investments.

Three Months Ended September 30,Nine Months Ended September 30,
(In millions)2024202320242023
Pretax earnings:
Aflac Japan (1)$1,073$869$2,747$2,479
Aflac U.S.3504781,0891,199
Corporate and other (2)15(49)36(107)
Pretax adjusted earnings1,4381,2983,8723,571
Other income (loss)03(1)38
Net investment gains (losses)(1,408)4232391,101
Reconciling items:
Amortized hedge costs72619148
Amortized hedge income(25)(25)(87)(92)
Net interest (income) expense from derivatives associated with certain investment strategies8890265239
Impact of interest from derivatives associated with notes payable(8)(10)(25)(33)
Total earnings before income taxes$92$1,805$4,282$4,972
Income taxes applicable to pretax adjusted earnings$227$203$665$570
Effect of foreign currency translation on after-tax adjusted earnings(16)(33)(97)(100)

(1) Includes a gain (loss) of $(75) and $22 for the three-month periods and $(80) and $22 for the nine-month periods ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively, related to remeasurement of the deferred profit liability for limited-payment contracts.

*(2)*The change in value of federal historic rehabilitation and solar investments in partnerships of $57 and $64 for the three-month periods and $119 and $169 for the nine-month periods ended September 30, 2024, and 2023, respectively, is included as a reduction to net investment income. Tax credits on these investments of $78 and $63 for the three-month periods and $142 and $171 for the nine-month periods ended September 30, 2024, and 2023, respectively, have been recorded as an income tax benefit in the consolidated statements of earnings. See Note 3 for additional information on these investments.

The Company's total assets were as follows:

(In millions)September 30, 2024December 31, 2023
Assets:
Aflac Japan$101,132$101,541
Aflac U.S.22,50121,861
Corporate and other4,8093,322
Total assets$128,442$126,724

3. INVESTMENTS

Investment Holdings

The amortized cost and allowance for credit losses for the Company's investments in fixed maturity securities and the fair values of these investments as well as the fair value of the Company's investments in equity securities are shown in the following tables.

September 30, 2024
(In millions)Amortized CostAllowance for Credit LossesGross Unrealized GainsGross Unrealized LossesFair Value
Securities available-for-sale, carried at fair value through other comprehensive income:
Fixed maturity securities:
Yen-denominated:
Japan government and agencies$22,304$0$758$2,322$20,740
Municipalities96308577971
Mortgage- and asset-backed securities3840522367
Public utilities3,04302321163,159
Sovereign and supranational3680238383
Banks/financial institutions5,92903093325,906
Other corporate5,89806283006,226
Total yen-denominated38,88902,0403,17737,752
U.S. dollar-denominated:
U.S. government and agencies199031201
Municipalities1,218073321,259
Mortgage- and asset-backed securities3,2110199473,363
Public utilities3,9820431984,315
Sovereign and supranational790320111
Banks/financial institutions3,4620415233,854
Other corporate19,35202,55449721,409
Total U.S. dollar-denominated31,50303,70769834,512
Other currencies:
Other corporate2701028
Total other currencies2701028
Total securities available-for-sale$70,419$0$5,748$3,875$72,292
December 31, 2023
(In millions)Amortized CostAllowance for Credit LossesGross Unrealized GainsGross Unrealized LossesFair Value
Securities available-for-sale, carried at fair value through other comprehensive income:
Fixed maturity securities:
Yen-denominated:
Japan government and agencies$23,067$0$1,040$1,696$22,411
Municipalities9680115581,025
Mortgage- and asset-backed securities2150611210
Public utilities3,7570325824,000
Sovereign and supranational3730247390
Banks/financial institutions5,89603203655,851
Other corporate5,89806992946,303
Total yen-denominated40,17402,5292,51340,190
U.S. dollar-denominated:
U.S. government and agencies191024189
Municipalities1,246065381,273
Mortgage- and asset-backed securities2,7480184562,876
Public utilities3,34603601143,592
Sovereign and supranational1220338147
Banks/financial institutions2,6760359512,984
Other corporate20,18602,51866522,039
Total U.S. dollar-denominated30,51503,52193633,100
Total securities available-for-sale$70,689$0$6,050$3,449$73,290
September 30, 2024
(In millions)Amortized CostAllowance for Credit LossesNet Carrying AmountGross Unrealized GainsGross Unrealized LossesFair Value
Securities held-to-maturity, carried at amortized cost:
Fixed maturity securities:
Yen-denominated:
Japan government and agencies$16,970$2$16,968$1,200$0$18,168
Municipalities2620262310293
Public utilities350352037
Sovereign and supranational4183415420457
Other corporate180182020
Total yen-denominated17,703517,6981,277018,975
Total securities held-to-maturity$17,703$5$17,698$1,277$0$18,975
December 31, 2023
(In millions)Amortized CostAllowance for Credit LossesNet Carrying AmountGross Unrealized GainsGross Unrealized LossesFair Value
Securities held-to-maturity, carried at amortized cost:
Fixed maturity securities:
Yen-denominated:
Japan government and agencies$17,085$2$17,083$1,746$0$18,829
Municipalities2660266410307
Public utilities340344038
Sovereign and supranational4213418440462
Other corporate180183021
Total yen-denominated17,824517,8191,838019,657
Total securities held-to-maturity$17,824$5$17,819$1,838$0$19,657
September 30, 2024December 31, 2023
(In millions)Fair ValueFair Value
Equity securities, carried at fair value through net earnings:
Equity securities:
Yen-denominated$515$751
U.S. dollar-denominated293252
Other currencies085
Total equity securities$808$1,088

The methods of determining the fair values of the Company's investments in fixed maturity securities and equity securities are described in Note 5.

During the first nine months of 2024 and 2023, respectively, the Company did not reclassify any investments from the held-to-maturity category to the available-for-sale category.

Contractual and Economic Maturities

The contractual and economic maturities of the Company's investments in fixed maturity securities at September 30, 2024, were as follows:

(In millions)Amortized Cost (1)Fair Value
Available-for-sale:
Due in one year or less$1,240$1,329
Due after one year through five years7,7938,611
Due after five years through 10 years19,53921,081
Due after 10 years38,25237,541
Mortgage- and asset-backed securities3,5953,730
Total fixed maturity securities available-for-sale$70,419$72,292
Held-to-maturity:
Due in one year or less$0$0
Due after one year through five years3738
Due after five years through 10 years9,44010,201
Due after 10 years8,2218,736
Total fixed maturity securities held-to-maturity$17,698$18,975

(1) Net of allowance for credit losses

Economic maturities are used for certain debt instruments with no stated maturity where the expected maturity date is based on the combination of features in the financial instrument such as the right to call or prepay obligations or changes in coupon rates.

Investment Concentrations

The Company's process for investing in credit-related investments begins with an independent approach to underwriting each issuer's fundamental credit quality. The Company evaluates independently those factors that it believes could influence an issuer's ability to make payments under the contractual terms of the Company's instruments. This includes a thorough analysis of a variety of items including the issuer's country of domicile (including political, legal, and financial considerations); the industry in which the issuer competes (with an analysis of industry structure, end-market dynamics, and regulation); company specific issues (such as management, assets, earnings, cash generation, and capital needs); and contractual provisions of the instrument (such as financial covenants and position in the capital structure). The Company further evaluates the investment considering broad business and portfolio management objectives, including asset/liability needs, portfolio diversification, and expected income.

Investment exposures that individually exceeded 10% of shareholders' equity were as follows:

September 30, 2024December 31, 2023
(In millions)Credit RatingAmortized CostFair ValueCredit RatingAmortized CostFair Value
Japan National Government*(1)*A+$38,280$37,942A+$39,151$40,222

*(1)*Japan Government Bonds (JGBs) or JGB-backed securities

Net Investment Gains and Losses

Information regarding pretax net gains and losses from investments is as follows:

Three Months Ended September 30,Nine Months Ended September 30,
(In millions)2024202320242023
Net investment gains (losses):
Sales and redemptions:
Fixed maturity securities available-for-sale:
Gross gains from sales$1$3$41$11
Gross losses from sales(66)(13)(375)(22)
Foreign currency gains (losses)17351660136
Other investments:
Gross gains (losses) from sales and redemptions(3)36733
Total sales and redemptions10577333158
Equity securities134710035
Credit losses:
Fixed maturity securities held-to-maturity0001
Commercial mortgage and other loans(85)(83)(113)(116)
Impairment losses(55)0(55)0
Loan commitments(1)125
Reinsurance recoverables and other005(3)
Total credit losses(141)(82)(161)(113)
Derivatives and other:
Derivative gains (losses)436(53)(54)(630)
Foreign currency gains (losses)(1,821)434211,651
Total derivatives and other(1,385)381(33)1,021
Total net investment gains (losses)$(1,408)$423$239$1,101

The unrealized holding gains, net of losses, recorded as a component of net investment gains and losses for the three-month period ended September 30, 2024 that relate to equity securities held at the September 30, 2024 reporting date were $34 million. The unrealized holding gains, net of losses, recorded as a component of net investment gains and losses for the three-month period ended September 30, 2023 that relate to equity securities held at the September 30, 2023 reporting date were $47 million.

The unrealized holding gains, net of losses, recorded as a component of net investment gains and losses for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2024 that relate to equity securities held at the September 30, 2024 reporting date were $79 million. The unrealized holding gains, net of losses, recorded as a component of net investment gains and losses for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2023 that relate to equity securities held at the September 30, 2023 reporting date were $13 million.

Unrealized Investment Gains and Losses

Effect on Shareholders’ Equity

The net effect on shareholders’ equity of unrealized gains and losses from fixed maturity securities was as follows:

(In millions)September 30, 2024December 31, 2023
Unrealized gains (losses) on securities available-for-sale$1,873$2,601
Deferred income taxes(1,316)(1,462)
Shareholders’ equity, unrealized gains (losses) on fixed maturity securities$557$1,139

Gross Unrealized Loss Aging

The following tables show the fair values and gross unrealized losses of the Company's available-for-sale investments for the periods ended September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, aggregated by investment category and length of time that individual securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position.

September 30, 2024
TotalLess than 12 months12 months or longer
(In millions)Fair ValueUnrealized LossesFair ValueUnrealized LossesFair ValueUnrealized Losses
Fixed maturity securities available- for-sale:
U.S. government and agencies:
U.S. dollar-denominated$76$1$27$0$49$1
Japan government and agencies:
Yen-denominated8,0882,3228742307,2142,092
Municipalities:
U.S. dollar-denominated636328062832
Yen-denominated2897710027977
Mortgage- and asset- backed securities:
U.S. dollar-denominated999475802041927
Yen-denominated208220020822
Public utilities:
U.S. dollar-denominated1,25698369988789
Yen-denominated9101163043260684
Sovereign and supranational:
Yen-denominated56800568
Banks/financial institutions:
U.S. dollar-denominated71623419329720
Yen-denominated3,484332431103,053322
Other corporate:
U.S. dollar-denominated6,0794971,579314,500466
Yen-denominated1,80730021371,594293
Total$24,604$3,875$4,814$342$19,790$3,533
December 31, 2023
TotalLess than 12 months12 months or longer
(In millions)Fair ValueUnrealized LossesFair ValueUnrealized LossesFair ValueUnrealized Losses
Fixed maturity securities available- for-sale:
U.S. government and agencies:
U.S. dollar-denominated$123$4$53$1$70$3
Japan government and agencies:
Yen-denominated8,3931,6961,6573036,7361,393
Municipalities:
U.S. dollar-denominated7033831167237
Yen-denominated3015834026758
Mortgage- and asset- backed securities:
U.S. dollar-denominated92556340658550
Yen-denominated5811005811
Public utilities:
U.S. dollar-denominated1,1201142284892110
Yen-denominated1,028824441358469
Sovereign and supranational:
U.S. dollar-denominated35800358
Yen-denominated60700607
Banks/financial institutions:
U.S. dollar-denominated65551159449647
Yen-denominated3,67336518643,487361
Other corporate:
U.S. dollar-denominated6,380665799195,581646
Yen-denominated1,94829430891,640285
Total$25,402$3,449$4,239$364$21,163$3,085

Analysis of Securities in Unrealized Loss Positions

The unrealized losses on the Company's available-for-sale securities have been primarily related to general market changes in interest rates, foreign exchange rates, and/or the levels of credit spreads rather than specific concerns with the issuer's ability to pay interest and repay principal.

For any available-for-sale securities with significant declines in fair value, the Company performs detailed analyses to identify whether the drivers of the declines are due to general market drivers, such as the recent rise in interest rates, or due to credit-related factors. Identifying the drivers of the declines in fair value helps to align and allocate the Company‘s resources to the review and monitoring of securities with real credit-related concerns that could impact ultimate collection of principal and interest. For any significant declines in fair value determined to be non-interest rate or market-related, the Company performs a more focused review of the related issuers' specific credit profile.

For corporate issuers, the Company evaluates their assets, business profile including industry dynamics and competitive positioning, financial statements and other available financial data. For non-corporate issuers, the Company analyzes all sources of credit support, including issuer-specific factors. The Company utilizes information available in the public domain and, for certain private placement issuers, from consultations with the issuers directly. The Company also considers ratings from Nationally Recognized Statistical Rating Organizations (NRSROs), as well as the specific characteristics of the security it owns including seniority in the issuer's capital structure, covenant protections, or other relevant features. From these reviews, the Company evaluates the issuers' continued ability to service the Company's investment through payment of interest and principal.

Assuming no credit-related factors develop, unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale securities are expected to diminish as investments near maturity. Based on its credit analysis, the Company believes that the issuers of its available-for-sale investments in the sectors shown in the table above have the ability to service their obligations to the Company. Further, the Company does not intend to sell the investments and it is not more likely than not that the Company will be required to sell the investments before recovery of their amortized cost bases, which may be at maturity.

However, from time to time the Company identifies certain available-for-sale securities where the amortized cost basis exceeds the present value of the cash flows expected to be collected due to credit-related factors and as a result, a credit loss allowance will be estimated. Based on an evaluation of its securities currently in an unrealized loss position, the Company has determined that those securities should not have a credit loss allowance as of September 30, 2024. Refer to the Allowance for Credit Losses section below for additional information.

As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, the Company had an immaterial amount of fixed maturity securities on nonaccrual status.

Commercial Mortgage and Other Loans

The Company classifies its transitional real estate loans (TREs), commercial mortgage loans (CMLs), middle market loans (MMLs), and other loans as held-for-investment and includes them in the commercial mortgage and other loans line on the consolidated balance sheets. The Company carries them on the balance sheet at amortized cost less an estimated allowance for credit losses.

The following table reflects the composition of the carrying value for commercial mortgage and other loans by property type as of the periods presented.

(In millions)September 30, 2024December 31, 2023
Amortized Cost% of TotalAmortized Cost% of Total
Commercial Mortgage and other loans:
Transitional real estate loans:
Office$1,51312.8%$1,80714.1%
Retail3503.04733.7
Apartments/Multi-Family2,33419.72,60820.4
Industrial1161.01571.2
Hospitality6635.68146.4
Other4243.62552.0
Total transitional real estate loans5,40045.76,11447.8
Commercial mortgage loans:
Office3302.83592.8
Retail2161.83012.4
Apartments/Multi-Family5764.95864.6
Industrial4383.74633.6
Other15.100.0
Total commercial mortgage loans1,57513.31,70913.4
Middle market loans4,51138.14,67736.5
Other loans3422.93012.3
Total commercial mortgage and other loans$11,828100.0%$12,801100.0%
Allowance for credit losses(284)(274)
Total net commercial mortgage and other loans$11,544$12,527

CMLs and TREs were secured by properties entirely within the U.S. (with the largest concentrations in California (21%), Texas (13%) and Florida (10%)). MMLs are issued only to companies domiciled within the U.S. and Canada.

Transitional Real Estate Loans

TREs are commercial mortgage loans that are typically relatively short-term floating rate instruments secured by a first lien on the property. These loans provide funding for properties undergoing a change in their physical characteristics and/or economic profile and do not typically require any principal repayment prior to the maturity date.

As of September 30, 2024, the Company had $362 million in outstanding commitments to fund TREs. These commitments are contingent on the final underwriting and due diligence to be performed.

Commercial Mortgage Loans

CMLs are typically fixed rate loans on commercial real estate with partial repayment of principal over the life of the loan with the remaining outstanding principal being repaid upon maturity. This loan portfolio is generally considered higher quality investment grade loans.

Middle Market Loans

MMLs are typically first lien senior secured cash flow loans to small to mid-size companies for working capital, refinancing, acquisition, and recapitalization. These loans are generally considered to be below investment grade. The carrying value for MMLs included $21 million and $24 million for a short-term credit facility that is reflected in other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets, as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively.

As of September 30, 2024, the Company had commitments of approximately $680 million to fund future MMLs. These commitments are contingent upon the availability of MMLs that meet the Company's underwriting criteria.

Other Loans

Other loans are primarily infrastructure loans. Infrastructure loans are typically senior secured, financing operating portfolios of contracted solar and wind assets generating cash flow for loan repayment. The infrastructure loan portfolio weighted average rating is investment grade.

As of September 30, 2024, the Company had commitments of approximately $1 million to fund future other loans. These commitments are contingent upon the availability of other loans that meet the Company's underwriting criteria.

Credit Quality Indicators

For TREs, the Company’s key credit quality indicators include performance of the loan and loan-to-value (LTV), which is calculated by dividing the current outstanding loan balance by the estimated property value, primarily using values at origination. Given that TREs involve properties undergoing a repositioning of their commercial profile, LTV provides the most insight into the credit risk of the loan. The Company monitors the performance of the loans periodically, but not less frequently than quarterly. The monitoring process also focuses on higher risk loans, which include those that are delinquent or for which foreclosure or deed in lieu of foreclosure is anticipated.

For CMLs, the Company’s key credit quality indicators include LTV and debt service coverage ratios (DSCR). DSCR is the most recently available net operating income of the underlying property compared to the required debt service of the loan.

For MMLs and held-to-maturity fixed maturity securities, the Company’s key credit quality indicator is credit ratings. The Company’s held-to-maturity portfolio is composed of investment grade securities that are senior unsecured instruments, while its MMLs generally have below-investment-grade ratings but are typically senior secured instruments. The Company monitors the credit ratings periodically, but not less frequently than quarterly.

For other loans, the Company's key credit quality indicator is credit ratings. The Company monitors these credit ratings periodically, but not less frequently than quarterly.

The following tables present as of September 30, 2024 the amortized cost basis of TREs, CMLs, MMLs, and other loans by year of origination and credit quality indicator.

Transitional Real Estate Loans
(In millions)20242023202220212020PriorTotal
Loan-to-Value Ratio:
0%-59.99%$0$0$617$587$36$19$1,259
60%-69.99%0115396573185591,661
70%-79.99%01481471282551,677
80% or greater0022023680267803
Total$0$129$2,047$2,108$216$900$5,400
Current-period gross writeoffs:$0$0$0$5$0$49$54
Commercial Mortgage Loans
(In millions)20242023202220212020PriorTotalWeighted-Average DSCR
Loan-to-Value Ratio:
0%-59.99%$0$33$0$268$58$935$1,2942.78
60%-69.99%00025046712.11
70%-79.99%130000881011.25
80% or greater000001091090.65
Total$13$33$0$293$58$1,178$1,5752.50
Weighted Average DSCR1.212.620.003.152.592.35
Current-period gross writeoffs:$0$0$0$0$0$3$3
Middle Market Loans
(In millions)20242023202220212020PriorRevolving LoansTotal
Credit Ratings:
BBB$10$27$39$80$93$80$16$345
BB20655396421276409721,835
B15649253557249598491,911
CCC0022788811317318
CC4000023128
C and lower0006068074
Total$376$131$710$1,142$706$1,291$155$4,511
Current-period gross writeoffs:$0$0$0$27$0$23$0$50
Other Loans
(In millions)20242023202220212020PriorRevolving LoansTotal
Credit Ratings:
A$0$21$86$0$0$0$0$107
AA008300011
BBB787300000151
BB0073000073
Total$78$94$167$3$0$0$0$342
Current-period gross writeoffs:$0$0$0$0$0$0$0$0

Past Due and Nonaccrual Loans

The following tables present an aging of past due and nonaccrual loans at amortized cost, before allowance for credit losses, as of the periods presented.

September 30, 2024
(In millions)CurrentLess Than 90 Days Past Due90 Days or More Past Due**(1)**Total Past DueTotal LoansNonaccrual Status
Transitional real estate loans$4,843$32$525$557$5,400$525
Commercial mortgage loans1,5750001,5750
Middle market loans4,40346621084,51167
Other loans3420003420
Total$11,163$78$587$665$11,828$592

(1) As of September 30, 2024, there were $18 of loans that were 90 days or more past due that continued to accrue interest.

December 31, 2023
(In millions)CurrentLess Than 90 Days Past Due90 Days or More Past Due*(1)*Total Past DueTotal LoansNonaccrual Status
Transitional real estate loans$5,481$108$525$633$6,114$633
Commercial mortgage loans1,676330331,7090
Middle market loans4,592085854,67785
Other loans3010003010
Total$12,050$141$610$751$12,801$718

(1) As of December 31, 2023, there were no loans that were 90 days or more past due that continued to accrue interest.

For the three- and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2024 and September 30, 2023, the Company recognized no interest income for TREs, CMLs, MMLs, or other loans on nonaccrual status. Of these loans, TREs with an amortized cost of $202 million and $160 million had no credit loss allowance as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively, because these loans are collateral dependent assets for which the estimated fair values of the collateral were in excess of amortized cost. As of September 30, 2024, MMLs with an amortized cost of $5 million were on nonaccrual status without an allowance for credit losses. As of December 31, 2023, there were no MMLs on nonaccrual status without an allowance for credit losses.

Loan Modifications to Borrowers Experiencing Financial Difficulties

The Company granted certain loan modifications to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty during the first nine months of 2024 and 2023. The types of modifications granted may include interest rate reductions, principal forgiveness, other-than-insignificant payment delays, term extensions or a combination of these types of modifications. The amount, timing, and extent of modifications granted are considered in determining any credit loss allowance recorded.

The following tables present the amortized cost basis of modified loans to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty and the financial effect of the modifications, disaggregated by loan classification and type of modification.

Three Months Ended September 30, 2024
(In millions)Amortized Cost (1)% of TotalFinancial Effect
Transitional Real Estate Loans:
Other-than-insignificant payment delays$1232.3%Delay in payments of 24 months on average

(1) Net of allowance for credit losses

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024
(In millions)Amortized Cost (1)% of TotalFinancial Effect
Transitional Real Estate Loans:
Other-than-insignificant payment delays$1983.8%Delay in payments of 29 months on average
Other-than-insignificant payment delays and interest rate reduction2164.1Delay in payments of 47 months on average, and reduction in the weighted-average contractual interest rate from 7.9% to 6.6%

(1) Net of allowance for credit losses

Loan modifications to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty for the three- and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2023, were immaterial.

The following table presents an aging of loans that received modifications in the 12 months preceding the period presented, at amortized cost.

September 30, 2024
(In millions)CurrentLess Than 90 Days Past Due90 Days or More Past Due
Transitional real estate loans$414$0$0

The Company closely monitors the performance of the loans that are modified to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty to understand the effectiveness of its modification efforts. Loans that were granted a modification in the past 12 months, as of September 30, 2024, and subsequently defaulted in the three- and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2024, were immaterial. There were no modified loans to borrowers experiencing financial difficulties in the past 12 months, as of September 30, 2023, that subsequently defaulted in the three- and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2023.

As of September 30, 2024, the Company had $6 million of outstanding commitments to lend additional funds to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty that were granted a loan modification.

Allowance for Credit Losses

The Company calculates its allowance for credit losses for held-to-maturity securities, loan receivables and loan commitments by grouping assets with similar risk characteristics when there is not a specific expectation of a loss for an individual asset. For held-to-maturity securities, MMLs, and MML commitments, the Company groups assets by credit ratings, industry, and country.

The Company groups CMLs and TREs and respective loan commitments by property type, property location and the property’s LTV and DSCR. On a quarterly basis, CMLs and TREs within a portfolio segment that share similar risk characteristics are pooled for calculation of credit loss allowance. On an ongoing basis, TREs, CMLs and other loans with dissimilar risk characteristics (i.e., loans with significant declines in credit quality), such as collateral dependent mortgage loans (i.e., when the borrower is experiencing financial difficulty, including when foreclosure is probable), are evaluated individually for credit loss. For example, the credit loss allowance for a collateral dependent loan is established as the excess of amortized cost over the estimated fair value of the loan’s underlying collateral, less selling cost when foreclosure is probable. Accordingly, the change in the estimated fair value of the collateral dependent loans, which are evaluated individually for credit loss, is recorded as a change in the credit loss allowance as a component of net investment gains (losses) in the consolidated statements of earnings.

The credit allowance for held-to-maturity fixed maturity securities and loan receivables is estimated using a probability-of-default (PD) / loss-given-default (LGD) method, discounted for the time value of money. For held-to-maturity fixed maturity securities, available-for-sale fixed maturity securities and loan receivables, the Company includes the change in present value due to the passage of time in the change in the allowance for credit losses. The Company’s methodology for estimating credit losses utilizes the contractual maturity date of the financial asset, adjusted when necessary to reflect the expected timing of repayment (such as prepayment options, renewal options, call options, or extension options). The Company applies reasonable and supportable forecasts of macroeconomic variables that impact the determination of PD / LGD over a two-year period for held-to-maturity fixed maturity securities and MMLs. The Company reverts to historical loss information over one year, following the two-year forecast period. For the CML and TRE portfolio, the Company applies reasonable and supportable forecasts of macroeconomic variables as well as national and local real-estate market factors to estimate future credit losses where the market factors revert back to historical levels over time with the period being dependent on current market conditions, projected market conditions and difference in the current and historical market levels for each factor. The Company continuously monitors the estimation methodology, due to changes in portfolio composition, changes in underwriting practices and significant events or conditions and makes adjustments as necessary.

The Company’s held-to-maturity portfolio includes Japan Government and Agency securities of $16.8 billion amortized cost as of September 30, 2024 that meet the requirements for zero-credit-loss expectation and therefore these asset classes have been excluded from the current expected credit loss measurement.

An investment in an available-for-sale security may be impaired if the fair value falls below amortized cost. The Company regularly reviews its available-for-sale portfolio for declines in fair value. The Company's available-for-sale impairment model focuses on the ultimate collection of the cash flows from its investments and whether the Company has the intent to sell or if it is more likely than not the Company would be required to sell the security prior to recovery of its amortized cost. The determination of the amount of impairments under this model is based upon the Company's periodic evaluation and assessment of known and inherent risks associated with the respective securities. Such evaluations and assessments are revised as conditions change and new information becomes available.

When determining the Company's intention to sell a security prior to recovery of its fair value to amortized cost, the Company evaluates facts and circumstances such as, but not limited to, future cash flow needs, decisions to reposition its security portfolio, and risk profile of individual investment holdings. The Company performs ongoing analyses of its liquidity needs, which includes cash flow testing of its policy liabilities, debt maturities, projected dividend payments, and other cash flow and liquidity needs.

The Company’s methodology for estimating credit losses for available-for-sale securities utilizes the discounted cash flow model, based on past events, current market conditions and future economic conditions, as well as industry analysis and credit ratings of the securities. In addition, the Company evaluates the specific issuer’s probability of default and expected recovery of its position in the event of default based on the underlying financial condition and assets of the borrower as well as seniority and/or security of other debt holders in the issuer when developing management’s best estimate of expected cash flows.

The following table presents the roll forward of the allowance for credit losses by portfolio segment for loans and by accounting classification for securities.

(In millions)Transitional Real Estate LoansCommercial Mortgage LoansMiddle Market LoansOther Loans and Loan CommitmentsHeld-to- Maturity SecuritiesAvailable- for-Sale SecuritiesTotal
Three Months Ended September 30, 2024:
Balance at June 30, 2024$(123)$(17)$(98)$(13)$(5)$0$(256)
(Addition to) release of allowance for credit losses(67)(16)(5)(1)00(89)
Writeoffs, net of recoveries393000042
Change in foreign exchange0000000
Balance at September 30, 2024$(151)$(30)$(103)$(14)$(5)$0$(303)
Three Months Ended September 30, 2023:
Balance at June 30, 2023$(76)$(9)$(140)$(20)$(5)$0$(250)
(Addition to) release of allowance for credit losses (1)(35)(3)3110(33)
Writeoffs, net of recoveries0000000
Change in foreign exchange0000(1)0(1)
Balance at September 30, 2023$(111)$(12)$(137)$(19)$(5)$0$(284)
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024:
Balance at December 31, 2023$(112)$(16)$(146)$(16)$(5)$0$(295)
(Addition to) release of allowance for credit losses(93)(17)(7)200(115)
Writeoffs, net of recoveries54350000107
Change in foreign exchange0000000
Balance at September 30, 2024$(151)$(30)$(103)$(14)$(5)$0$(303)
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2023:
Balance at December 31, 2022$(54)$(9)$(129)$(24)$(7)$0$(223)
(Addition to) release of allowance for credit losses (1)(57)(3)(8)510(62)
Writeoffs, net of recoveries0000000
Change in foreign exchange0000101
Balance at September 30, 2023$(111)$(12)$(137)$(19)$(5)$0$(284)

(1) Includes an allowance for credit losses of $4 recognized on financial assets accounted for as purchased financial assets with credit deterioration that is not recorded in earnings upon recognition.

As of September 30, 2024, the Company identified TREs and CMLs with an amortized cost of $198 million and $28 million, respectively, in anticipation of potential foreclosure or deed in lieu of foreclosure transactions. As of September 30, 2024, the Company established a credit allowance of $33 million related to these loans.

Other Investments

The table below reflects the composition of the carrying value for other investments as of the periods presented.

(In millions)September 30, 2024December 31, 2023
Other investments:
Policy loans$221$214
Short-term investments (1)3,5331,304
Limited partnerships (2)3,2062,750
Real estate owned645227
Other4235
Total other investments$7,647$4,530

(1) Includes securities lending collateral

(2) Includes tax credit investments and asset classes such as private equity and real estate funds

The Parent Company invests in partnerships that specialize in rehabilitating historic structures or the installation of solar equipment in order to receive federal historic rehabilitation and solar tax credits. These investments are classified as limited partnerships and included in other investments in the consolidated balance sheets. The change in value of each investment is recorded as a reduction to net investment income. Tax credits generated by these investments are recorded as an income tax benefit in the consolidated statements of earnings.

Real estate owned (REO) consists of office buildings or other commercial properties obtained through foreclosure or deed in lieu of foreclosure of certain of the Company’s TREs. As of September 30, 2024, all REO was classified as held-and-used for the production of income and is carried at cost less accumulated depreciation. As of December 31, 2023, $210 million of REO was classified as held-and-used with the remaining $17 million classified as held-for-sale, which is carried at the lower of depreciated cost or fair value less cost to sell and is not further depreciated once classified as such. Depreciation expense was $4 million and $8 million for the three- and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2024, respectively, and immaterial for the three- and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2023. Additionally, as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, accumulated depreciation was $9 million and an immaterial amount, respectively.

As of September 30, 2024, the Company had $3.0 billion in outstanding commitments to fund investments in limited partnerships.

Variable Interest Entities (VIEs)

In the normal course of its activities, the Company invests in legal entities that are VIEs. The Company's debt or ownership interest in VIEs is limited to holding the equity interests and obligations issued by them. With the exception of commitments to limited partnerships and to certain loan investments made in the normal course of business, the Company has not provided any direct or contingent obligations to fund the limited activities of these VIEs or support related to the limited activities of these VIE and does not have any intention to do so in the future, nor does it have any direct or indirect financial guarantees.

The Company's risk of loss related to its interests in any of its VIEs is limited to the carrying value of the related investments, and in certain cases, to any unfunded commitments held in the VIE.

For those VIEs other than certain unit trust structures, the Company's involvement is passive in nature.

VIEs - Consolidated

The Company is the primary beneficiary of a VIE if it has

  • the power to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly impact the economic performance of the entity

and

  • the obligation to absorb losses of or the right to receive benefits from the entity that could be potentially significant to the VIE.

If the Company determines that it is the VIE’s primary beneficiary, it consolidates the VIE. Creditors or beneficial interest holders of VIEs where the Company is the primary beneficiary have no recourse to the general credit of the Company except to the extent of the unfunded commitments referenced above, as the Company’s obligation to each VIE is limited to the amount of its committed investment.

The following table presents carrying value and balance sheet caption in which the assets and liabilities of consolidated VIEs are reported.

Investments in Consolidated Variable Interest Entities

(In millions)September 30, 2024December 31, 2023
Assets:
Fixed maturity securities, available-for-sale$4,031$3,712
Commercial mortgage and other loans9,26110,150
Other investments (1)2,7042,381
Other assets (2)5255
Total assets of consolidated VIEs$16,048$16,298
Liabilities:
Other liabilities (2)$623$507
Total liabilities of consolidated VIEs$623$507

(1) Consists entirely of alternative investments in limited partnerships

(2) Consists entirely of derivatives

The Company is the sole investor in the consolidated VIEs listed in the table above. The Company invests in fixed maturity securities issued by VIEs that in turn hold U.S. dollar-denominated fixed maturity securities coupled with foreign currency swap agreements. The weighted-average lives of the Company's investments in these VIEs are very similar to the underlying collateral held by these VIEs. The activities of these VIEs are limited to holding invested assets and foreign currency swaps and utilizing the cash flows from these securities to service the VIEs' debt. Neither the Company nor any of its creditors are able to obtain the underlying collateral of these VIEs unless there is an event of default or other specified event. The Company is not a direct counterparty to the foreign currency swap contracts and has no control over them. The Company's loss exposure to these VIEs is limited to its original investment. These consolidated VIEs do not rely on outside or ongoing sources of funding to support their activities beyond the underlying collateral and foreign currency swap contracts, if applicable. The underlying collateral assets and funding of these consolidated VIEs are generally static in nature.

The Company also utilizes unit trust structures in its Aflac Japan segment to invest in various asset classes, which include CMLs, MMLs, TREs, other loans and limited partnerships. The limited partnership investments are comprised of private equity and real estate funds. The Company’s loss exposure to these VIEs is limited to its original investments, together with any unfunded portion of the Company’s commitments made in the normal course of business to fund certain loan investments and limited partnership investments, as described in the Commercial Mortgage and Other Loans and Other Investments sections of this note. Excluding these commitments, the Company does not provide financial or other support to consolidated VIEs.

VIEs - Not Consolidated

The table below reflects the carrying value and balance sheet caption in which the Company's investments in VIEs that are not consolidated are reported.

Investments in Variable Interest Entities Not Consolidated

(In millions)September 30, 2024December 31, 2023
Assets:
Fixed maturity securities, available-for-sale$6,683$6,424
Other investments (1)502369
Total investments in VIEs not consolidated$7,185$6,793

(1) Consists entirely of alternative investments in limited partnerships

Certain investments in VIEs that the Company is not required to consolidate are investments that are in the form of debt obligations issued by the VIEs. These fixed maturity securities include structured securities, primarily asset-backed securities. The Company's involvement in the related VIEs is limited to that of a passive investor in asset-backed securities issued by the VIEs. The Company also invests in VIEs that are the primary financing vehicles used by their corporate sponsors to raise financing in the capital markets. The variable interests created by these VIEs are principally or solely a result of the debt instruments issued by them. The Company does not have the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the entity's economic performance, nor does it have the obligation to absorb losses of the VIE entity or the right to receive benefits from the entity that could be significant to the entity. As such, the Company is not the primary beneficiary of these VIEs and therefore is not required to consolidate them. The Company's maximum exposure to loss on these investments is limited to the amount of the Company's investment.

The Company also holds equity investments in limited partnerships that have been determined to be VIEs. These partnerships primarily invest in private equity and real estate funds. The Company’s maximum exposure to loss on these investments is limited to the amount of its investment and any unfunded commitments. As described in the Other Investments section of this note, the Company makes commitments to fund partnership investments in the normal course of business. Excluding these commitments, the Company did not provide financial or other support to unconsolidated VIEs. The Company is not the primary beneficiary of these VIEs and is therefore not required to consolidate them. The Company classifies these investments as other investments in the consolidated balance sheets.

Securities Lending and Pledged Securities

The Company lends fixed maturity securities and, from time to time, public equity securities to financial institutions in short-term securities lending transactions. These short-term securities lending arrangements increase investment income with minimal risk. The Company receives cash or other securities as collateral for such loans. The Company's securities lending policy requires that the fair value of the securities received as collateral be 102% or more of the fair value of the loaned securities and that unrestricted cash received as collateral be 100% or more of the fair value of the loaned securities. The securities loaned continue to be carried as investment assets on the Company's balance sheet during the terms of the loans and are not reported as sales. For loans involving unrestricted cash or securities as collateral, the collateral is reported as an asset with a corresponding liability for the return of the collateral. For loans where the Company receives as collateral securities that the Company is not permitted to sell or repledge, the collateral is not reflected on the consolidated financial statements.

Details of collateral by loaned security type and remaining maturity of the agreements were as follows:

Securities Lending Transactions Accounted for as Secured Borrowings
Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements
September 30, 2024December 31, 2023
(In millions)Overnight and Continuous**(1)**Up to 30 daysTotalOvernight and Continuous*(1)*Up to 30 daysTotal
Securities lending transactions:
Fixed maturity securities:
Japan government and agencies$0$3,179$3,179$0$737$737
Public utilities5205219019
Banks/financial institutions133013372072
Other corporate86908696750675
Total borrowings$1,054$3,179$4,233$766$737$1,503
Gross amount of recognized liabilities for securities lending transactions$4,233$1,503

(1) The related loaned security, under the Company's U.S. securities lending program, can be returned to the Company at the transferee's discretion; therefore, they are classified as Overnight and Continuous.

In connection with securities lending, in addition to cash collateral received, the Company received from counterparties securities collateral of $3.3 billion and $4.3 billion at September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively, which may not be sold or re-pledged, unless the counterparty is in default. Such securities collateral is not reflected on the consolidated financial statements.

The Company did not have any repurchase agreements or repurchase-to-maturity transactions outstanding as of September 30, 2024, and December 31, 2023, respectively.

Certain fixed maturity securities can be pledged as collateral as part of derivative transactions, or pledged to support state deposit requirements on certain investment programs. For additional information regarding pledged securities related to derivative transactions, see Note 4.

4. DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS

The Company's freestanding derivative financial instruments include:

  • foreign currency forwards and options used in hedging foreign exchange risk on U.S. dollar-denominated investments in Aflac Japan's portfolio, with options used on a standalone basis and/or in a collar strategy;

  • foreign currency forwards and options used to economically hedge certain portions of forecasted cash flows denominated in yen and hedge the Company's long term exposure to a weakening yen;

  • cross-currency interest rate swaps, also referred to as foreign currency swaps, associated with certain senior notes and subordinated debentures;

  • foreign currency swaps that are associated with variable interest entity (VIE) bond purchase commitments, and investments in special-purpose entities, including VIEs where the Company is the primary beneficiary;

  • interest rate swaps used to economically hedge interest rate fluctuations in certain variable-rate investments;

  • interest rate swaptions used to hedge changes in the fair value associated with interest rate fluctuations for certain U.S. dollar-denominated available-for-sale fixed-maturity securities; and

  • bond purchase commitments at the inception of investments in consolidated VIEs.

Some of the Company's derivatives are designated as cash flow hedges, fair value hedges or net investment hedges; however, other derivatives do not qualify for hedge accounting or the Company elects not to designate them as accounting hedges.

Derivative Types

Foreign currency forwards and options are executed for the Aflac Japan segment in order to hedge the currency risk on the carrying value of certain U.S. dollar-denominated investments. The average maturity of these forwards and options can change depending on factors such as market conditions and types of investments being held. In situations where the maturity of the forwards and options is shorter than the underlying investment being hedged, the Company may enter into new forwards and options near maturity of the existing derivative in order to continue hedging the underlying investment. In forward transactions, Aflac Japan agrees with another party to buy a fixed amount of yen and sell a corresponding amount of U.S. dollars at a specified future date. The Company also uses one-sided foreign currency put options to mitigate the settlement risk on U.S. dollar-denominated assets related to extreme foreign currency rate changes. From time to time, Aflac Japan also executes foreign currency option transactions in a collar strategy, where Aflac Japan agrees with another party to simultaneously purchase put options and sell call options. In the purchased put transactions, Aflac Japan obtains the option to buy a fixed amount of yen and sell a corresponding amount of U.S. dollars at a specified future date. In the sold call transactions, Aflac Japan agrees to sell a fixed amount of yen and buy a corresponding amount of U.S. dollars at a specified future date. The combination of purchasing the put option and selling the call option results in no net premium being paid (i.e. a costless or zero-cost collar).

From time to time, the Company may also enter into foreign currency forwards and options to hedge the currency risk associated with the net investment in Aflac Japan. In these forward transactions, the Company agrees with another party to buy a fixed amount of U.S. dollars and sell a corresponding amount of yen at a specified price at a specified future date. In the option transactions, the Company may use a combination of foreign currency options to protect expected future cash flows by simultaneously purchasing yen put options (options that protect against a weakening yen) and selling yen call options (options that limit participation in a strengthening yen). The combination of these two actions create a zero-cost collar. Additionally, the Company enters into purchased options to hedge cash flows from the net investment in Aflac Japan.

The Company enters into foreign currency swaps pursuant to which it exchanges an initial principal amount in one currency for an initial principal amount of another currency, with an agreement to re-exchange the principal amounts at a future date. There may also be periodic exchanges of payments at specified intervals based on the agreed upon rates and notional amounts. Foreign currency swaps are used primarily in the consolidated VIEs in the Company's Aflac Japan portfolio to convert foreign-denominated cash flows to yen, the functional currency of Aflac Japan, in order to minimize cash flow fluctuations. The Company also uses foreign currency swaps to economically convert certain of its U.S. dollar-denominated senior note and subordinated debenture principal and interest obligations into yen-denominated obligations.

In order to reduce investment income volatility from its variable-rate investments, the Company enters into receive–fixed, pay–floating interest rate swaps. These derivatives are cleared and settled through a central clearinghouse.

Swaptions are used to mitigate the adverse impact resulting from significant changes in the fair value of U.S. dollar-denominated available-for-sale securities due to fluctuation in interest rates. In a payer swaption, the Company pays a premium to obtain the right, but not the obligation, to enter into a swap contract where it will pay a fixed rate and receive a floating rate. Interest rate swaption collars are combinations of two swaption positions. In order to maximize the efficiency of the collars while minimizing cost, a collar strategy is used whereby the Company purchases a long payer swaption (the Company purchases an option that allows it to enter into a swap where the Company will pay the fixed rate and receive the floating rate of the swap) and sells a short receiver swaption (the Company sells an option that provides the counterparty with the right to enter into a swap where the Company will receive the fixed rate and pay the floating rate of the swap). The combination of purchasing the long payer swaption and selling the short receiver swaption results in no net premium being paid (i.e. a costless or zero-cost collar).

Bond purchase commitments result from repackaged bond structures that are consolidated VIEs whereby there is a delay in the trade date and settlement date of the bond within the structure to ensure completion of all necessary legal agreements to support the consolidated VIE that issues the repackaged bond. Since the Company has a commitment to purchase the underlying bond at a specified price, the agreement meets the definition of a derivative where the value is derived based on the current market value of the bond compared to the fixed purchase price to be paid on the settlement date.

Derivative Balance Sheet Classification

The table below summarizes the balance sheet classification of the Company's derivative fair value amounts, as well as the gross asset and liability fair value amounts. The fair value amounts presented do not include income accruals. Derivative assets are included in other assets, while derivative liabilities are included in other liabilities within the Company’s consolidated balance sheets. The notional amount of derivative contracts represents the basis upon which pay or receive amounts are calculated and are not reflective of exposure or credit risk.

September 30, 2024December 31, 2023
(In millions)Asset DerivativesLiability DerivativesAsset DerivativesLiability Derivatives
Hedge Designation/ Derivative TypeNotional AmountFair ValueFair ValueNotional AmountFair ValueFair Value
Cash flow hedges:
Foreign currency swaps - VIE$18$0$4$18$0$4
Total cash flow hedges18041804
Fair value hedges:
Foreign currency options0002,15800
Total fair value hedges0002,15800
Net investment hedge:
Foreign currency forwards1,91963352,61117927
Foreign currency options00045600
Total net investment hedge1,91963353,06717927
Non-qualifying strategies:
Foreign currency swaps1,200801,200310
Foreign currency swaps - VIE3,417526193,41755503
Foreign currency forwards0007,40259477
Foreign currency options26,715572422,55720
Interest rate swaps17,2301923917,23011419
Total non-qualifying strategies48,56213688251,8061581,399
Total derivatives$50,499$199$921$57,049$337$1,430

Cash Flow Hedges

For certain variable-rate U.S. dollar-denominated available-for-sale securities held by Aflac Japan via consolidated VIEs, foreign currency swaps are used to swap the U.S. Dollar (USD) variable rate interest and principal payments to fixed rate Japanese Yen (JPY) interest and principal payments. The Company has designated foreign currency swaps as a hedge of the variability in cash flows of a forecasted transaction or of amounts to be received or paid related to a recognized asset (“cash flow” hedge). The remaining maximum length of time for which these cash flows are hedged is approximately two years. The derivatives in the Company's consolidated VIEs that are not designated as accounting hedges are discussed in the Non-qualifying Strategies section of this note.

Fair Value Hedges

The Company designates and accounts for certain foreign currency forwards, options, and interest rate swaptions as fair value hedges when they meet the requirements for hedge accounting. The Company recognizes gains and losses on these derivatives as well as the offsetting gain or loss on the related hedged items in current earnings.

Foreign currency forwards and options hedge the foreign currency exposure of certain U.S. dollar-denominated available-for-sale fixed-maturity investments held in Aflac Japan. The change in the fair value of the foreign currency forwards related to the changes in the difference between the spot rate and the forward price is excluded from the assessment of hedge effectiveness. The change in fair value of the foreign currency option related to the time value of the option is recognized in current earnings and is excluded from the assessment of hedge effectiveness.

Interest rate swaptions hedge the interest rate exposure of certain U.S. dollar-denominated available-for-sale securities held in Aflac Japan. For these hedging relationships, the Company excludes time value from the assessment of hedge effectiveness and recognizes changes in the intrinsic value of the swaptions in current earnings within net investment income. The change in the time value of the swaptions is recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) and amortized into earnings (net investment income) over its legal term.

The following table presents the gains and losses on derivatives and the related hedged items in fair value hedges. The Company had no fair value hedges during the three- and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2024.

Fair Value Hedging Relationships

(In millions)Hedging DerivativesHedged Items
Hedging DerivativesHedged ItemsTotal Gains (Losses)Gains (Losses) Excluded from Effectiveness Testing**(1)**Gains (Losses) Included in Effectiveness Testing**(2)**Gains (Losses)****(2)Net Investment Gains (Losses) Recognized for Fair Value Hedge
Three Months Ended September 30, 2023:
Foreign currency optionsFixed maturity securities$(1)$(1)$0$0$0
Total gains (losses)$(1)$(1)$0$0$0
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2023:
Foreign currency optionsFixed maturity securities$(65)$(65)$0$0$0
Total gains (losses)$(65)$(65)$0$0$0

(1) Gains (losses) excluded from effectiveness testing includes the forward point on foreign currency forwards and time value change on foreign currency options which are reported in the consolidated statements of earnings as net investment gains (losses). It also includes the change in the fair value of the interest rate swaptions related to the time value of the swaptions which is recognized as a component of other comprehensive income (loss).

(2) Gains and losses on foreign currency forwards and options and related hedged items are reported in the consolidated statements of earnings as net investment gains (losses). For interest rate swaptions and related hedged items, gains and losses included in the hedge assessment, premium amortization and time value amortization while the hedge items are still outstanding are reported within net investment income. The time value gains and losses for interest rate swaptions when the related hedged items are redeemed are reported in net investment gains (losses) consistent with the impact of the hedged item. For the three- and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2023, gains and losses included in the hedge assessment on interest rate swaptions and related hedged items were immaterial.

The following table shows the carrying amounts of assets designated and qualifying as hedged items in fair value hedges of interest rate risk and the related cumulative hedge adjustment included in the carrying amount. The Company had no fair value hedges of interest rate risk as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023; therefore, the amounts presented in the table below are related to previous fair value hedges of interest rate risk that were discontinued.

(In millions)Carrying Amount of the Hedged Assets/(Liabilities)****(1)Cumulative Amount of Fair Value Hedging Adjustment Included in the Carrying Amount of Hedged Assets/(Liabilities)
September 30, 2024December 31, 2023September 30, 2024December 31, 2023
Fixed maturity securities$1,610$1,692$149$164

(1) The balance includes hedging adjustment on discontinued hedging relationships of $149 in 2024 and $164 in 2023.

Net Investment Hedge

The Company's investment in Aflac Japan is affected by changes in the yen/dollar exchange rate. To mitigate this exposure, the Parent Company's yen-denominated liabilities (see Note 9) have been designated as non-derivative hedges and certain foreign currency forwards and options have been designated as derivative hedges of the foreign currency exposure of the Company's net investment in Aflac Japan.

The Company's net investment hedge was effective during the three- and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively.

Non-qualifying Strategies

For the Company's derivative instruments in consolidated VIEs that do not qualify for hedge accounting treatment, all changes in their fair value are reported in current period earnings within net investment gains (losses). The amount of gain or loss recognized in earnings for the Company's VIEs is attributable to the derivatives in those investment structures. While the change in value of the swaps is recorded in current period earnings, the change in value of the available-for-sale fixed maturity securities associated with these swaps is recorded in other comprehensive income.

As of September 30, 2024, the Parent Company had $1.2 billion notional amount of cross-currency interest rate swap agreements related to certain of its U.S. dollar-denominated senior notes to effectively convert a portion of the interest on the notes from U.S. dollar to Japanese yen. Changes in the values of these swaps are recorded in current period earnings.

The Company uses foreign currency forwards and options to economically mitigate the currency risk of some of its U.S. dollar-denominated loan receivables and U.S. government fixed maturity securities held within the Aflac Japan segment. These arrangements are not designated as accounting hedges, as the foreign currency remeasurement of the loan receivables impacts current period earnings, and substantially offsets gains and losses from foreign currency forwards within net investment gains (losses). The Company also has certain foreign currency forwards on U.S. dollar-denominated available-for-sale securities where hedge accounting is not being applied.

The Company uses interest rate swaps to economically convert the variable rate investment income to a fixed rate on certain variable-rate investments.

Impact of Derivatives and Hedging Instruments

The following table summarizes the impact to earnings and other comprehensive income (loss) from all derivatives and hedging instruments.

Three Months Ended September 30,
20242023
(In millions)Net Investment Income (1)Net Investment Gains (Losses)Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)****(2)Net Investment Income (1)Net Investment Gains (Losses)Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)(2)
Qualifying hedges:
Cash flow hedges:
Foreign currency swaps - VIE$(1)$(1)$2$(1)$(1)$1
Total cash flow hedges(1)(1)(3)2(1)(1)(3)1
Fair value hedges:
Foreign currency options0(1)
Total fair value hedges0(1)
Net investment hedge:
Non-derivative hedging instruments0(522)0112
Foreign currency forwards43(225)7132
Total net investment hedge43(747)71144
Non-qualifying strategies:
Foreign currency swaps01
Foreign currency swaps - VIE44(22)
Foreign currency forwards032
Foreign currency options191(9)
Interest rate swaps159(124)
Total non-qualifying strategies394(122)
Total$(1)$436$(745)$(1)$(53)$145

1) Interest expense/income on cash flow hedges are recorded in net investment income. For interest rate swaptions classified as fair value hedges, the change in the time value of the swaptions is recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) and amortized into net investment income over its legal term. If the swaption is early terminated but the hedge item is still outstanding, the amortization of disposal amount of the swaptions is recorded in net investment income over the remaining life of the hedged items.

(2) Gains and losses on cash flow hedges and the change in the fair value of interest rate swaptions related to the time value of the swaptions in fair value hedges are recorded as unrealized gains (losses). Gains and losses on net investment hedges related to changes in foreign currency spot rates are recorded in the unrealized foreign currency translation gains (losses) line in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss).

(3) Impact of cash flow hedges reported as net investment gains (losses) includes $1 of losses reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into earnings during the three-month period ended September 30, 2024, and $1 of losses during the three-month period ended September 30, 2023.

Nine Months Ended September 30,
20242023
(In millions)Net Investment Income**(1)**Net Investment Gains (Losses)Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)****(2)Net Investment Income*(1)*Net Investment Gains (Losses)Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)(2)
Qualifying hedges:
Cash flow hedges:
Foreign currency swaps - VIE$(1)$(3)$3$(1)$(3)$3
Total cash flow hedges(1)(3)(3)3(1)(3)(3)3
Fair value hedges:
Foreign currency options0(65)
Interest rate swaptions (4)000(1)01
Total fair value hedges000(1)(65)1
Net investment hedge:
Non-derivative hedging instruments0(21)0450
Foreign currency forwards11974198454
Foreign currency options00(8)0
Total net investment hedge11953190904
Non-qualifying strategies:
Foreign currency swaps24
Foreign currency swaps - VIE(172)(112)
Foreign currency forwards17(350)
Foreign currency options9(46)
Interest rate swaps(26)(244)
Forward bond purchase commitment - VIE0(4)
Total non-qualifying strategies(170)(752)
Total$(1)$(54)$56$(2)$(630)$908

(1) Interest expense/income on cash flow hedges are recorded in net investment income. For interest rate swaptions classified as fair value hedges, the change in the time value of the swaptions is recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) and amortized into net investment income over its legal term. If the swaption is early terminated but the hedge item is still outstanding, the amortization of disposal amount of the swaptions is recorded in net investment income over the remaining life of the hedged items.

(2) Gains and losses on cash flow hedges and the change in the fair value of interest rate swaptions related to the time value of the swaptions in fair value hedges are recorded as unrealized gains (losses). Gains and losses on net investment hedges related to changes in foreign currency spot rates are recorded in the unrealized foreign currency translation gains (losses) line in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss).

(3) Impact of cash flow hedges reported as net investment gains (losses) includes $3 of losses reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into earnings during the nine-month period ended September 30, 2024, and $3 of losses during the nine-month period ended September 30, 2023.

(4) Includes $1 of losses reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into earnings during the nine-month period ended September 30, 2024, and $1 of losses during the nine-month period ended September 30, 2023, related to fair value hedges excluded component. Impact shown net of effect of hedged items (see Fair Value Hedges section of this Note 4 for further detail).

As of September 30, 2024, $5 million of deferred losses on derivative instruments recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income are expected to be reclassified into earnings during the next twelve months.

Credit Risk Assumed through Derivatives

For the foreign currency swaps associated with the Company's VIE investments for which it is the primary beneficiary, the Company bears the risk of loss due to counterparty default even though it is not a direct counterparty to those contracts.

The Company is a direct counterparty to the foreign currency swaps that it has entered into in connection with certain of its senior notes and subordinated debentures; foreign currency forwards; and foreign currency options, and therefore the Company is exposed to credit risk in the event of nonperformance by the counterparties in those contracts. The risk of counterparty default for the Company's foreign currency swaps, certain foreign currency forwards, and foreign currency options is mitigated by collateral posting requirements that counterparties to those transactions must meet.

As of September 30, 2024, all of the Company's derivative agreement counterparties were investment grade.

The Company engages in over-the-counter (OTC) bilateral derivative transactions directly with unaffiliated third parties under International Swaps and Derivatives Association, Inc. (ISDA) agreements and other documentation. Most of the ISDA agreements also include Credit Support Annexes (CSAs) provisions, which generally provide for two-way collateral postings at the first dollar of exposure. The Company mitigates the risk that counterparties to transactions might be unable to fulfill their contractual obligations by monitoring counterparty credit exposure and collateral value while generally requiring that collateral be posted at the outset of the transaction. In addition, a significant portion of the derivative transactions have provisions that give the counterparty the right to terminate the transaction upon a downgrade of the Company's financial strength rating. The actual amount of payments that the Company could be required to make depends on market conditions, the fair value of outstanding affected transactions, and other factors prevailing at and after the time of the downgrade.

The Company also engages in OTC cleared derivative transactions through regulated central clearing counterparties. These positions are marked to market and margined on a daily basis (both initial margin and variation margin), and the Company has minimal exposure to credit-related losses in the event of nonperformance by counterparties to these derivatives.

Collateral posted by the Company to third parties for derivative transactions can generally be repledged or resold by the counterparties. The aggregate fair value of all derivative instruments with credit-risk-related contingent features that were in a net liability position by counterparty was approximately $794 million and $1.2 billion as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. If the credit-risk-related contingent features underlying these agreements had been triggered on September 30, 2024, the Company estimates that it would be required to post a maximum of $566 million of additional collateral to these derivative counterparties. The Company is generally allowed to sell or repledge collateral obtained from its derivative counterparties, although it does not typically exercise such rights. See the Offsetting tables below for collateral posted or received as of the reported balance sheet dates.

Offsetting of Financial Instruments and Derivatives

Most of the Company's derivative instruments are subject to enforceable master netting arrangements that provide for the net settlement of all derivative contracts between the Parent Company or its subsidiaries and the respective counterparty in the event of default or upon the occurrence of certain termination events. Collateral support agreements with the master netting arrangements generally provide that the Company will receive or pledge financial collateral at the first dollar of exposure.

The Company has securities lending agreements with unaffiliated financial institutions that post collateral to the Company in return for the use of its fixed maturity and public equity securities (see Note 3). When the Company has entered into securities lending agreements with the same counterparty, the agreements generally provide for net settlement in the event of default by the counterparty. This right of set-off allows the Company to keep and apply collateral received if the counterparty failed to return the securities borrowed from the Company as contractually agreed.

The tables below summarize the Company's derivatives and securities lending transactions, and as reflected in the tables, in accordance with U.S. GAAP, the Company's policy is to not offset these financial instruments in the consolidated balance sheets.

Offsetting of Financial Assets and Derivative Assets

September 30, 2024
Gross Amounts Not Offset in Balance Sheet
(In millions)Gross Amount of Recognized AssetsGross Amount Offset in Balance SheetNet Amount of Assets Presented in Balance SheetFinancial InstrumentsSecurities CollateralCash Collateral ReceivedNet Amount
Derivative assets:
Derivative assets subject to a master netting agreement or offsetting arrangement
OTC - bilateral$128$0$128$(45)$(12)$(49)$22
OTC - cleared19019(19)000
Total derivative assets subject to a master netting agreement or offsetting arrangement1470147(64)(12)(49)22
Derivative assets not subject to a master netting agreement or offsetting arrangement
OTC - bilateral525252
Total derivative assets not subject to a master netting agreement or offsetting arrangement525252
Total derivative assets1990199(64)(12)(49)74
Securities lending and similar arrangements4,18904,18900(4,189)0
Total$4,388$0$4,388$(64)$(12)$(4,238)$74
December 31, 2023
Gross Amounts Not Offset in Balance Sheet
(In millions)Gross Amount of Recognized AssetsGross Amount Offset in Balance SheetNet Amount of Assets Presented in Balance SheetFinancial InstrumentsSecurities CollateralCash Collateral ReceivedNet Amount
Derivative assets:
Derivative assets subject to a master netting agreement or offsetting arrangement
OTC - bilateral$271$0$271$(85)$(53)$(130)$3
OTC - cleared11011(11)000
Total derivative assets subject to a master netting agreement or offsetting arrangement2820282(96)(53)(130)3
Derivative assets not subject to a master netting agreement or offsetting arrangement
OTC - bilateral555555
Total derivative assets not subject to a master netting agreement or offsetting arrangement555555
Total derivative assets3370337(96)(53)(130)58
Securities lending and similar arrangements1,48001,48000(1,480)0
Total$1,817$0$1,817$(96)$(53)$(1,610)$58

Offsetting of Financial Liabilities and Derivative Liabilities

September 30, 2024
Gross Amounts Not Offset in Balance Sheet
(In millions)Gross Amount of Recognized LiabilitiesGross Amount Offset in Balance SheetNet Amount of Liabilities Presented in Balance SheetFinancial InstrumentsSecurities CollateralCash Collateral PledgedNet Amount
Derivative liabilities:
Derivative liabilities subject to a master netting agreement or offsetting arrangement
OTC - bilateral$59$0$59$(45)$0$(8)$6
OTC - cleared2390239(19)(15)(205)0
Total derivative liabilities subject to a master netting agreement or offsetting arrangement2980298(64)(15)(213)6
Derivative liabilities not subject to a master netting agreement or offsetting arrangement
OTC - bilateral623623623
Total derivative liabilities not subject to a master netting agreement or offsetting arrangement623623623
Total derivative liabilities9210921(64)(15)(213)629
Securities lending and similar arrangements4,23304,233(4,189)0044
Total$5,154$0$5,154$(4,253)$(15)$(213)$673
December 31, 2023
Gross Amounts Not Offset in Balance Sheet
(In millions)Gross Amount of Recognized LiabilitiesGross Amount Offset in Balance SheetNet Amount of Liabilities Presented in Balance SheetFinancial InstrumentsSecurities CollateralCash Collateral PledgedNet Amount
Derivative liabilities:
Derivative liabilities subject to a master netting agreement or offsetting arrangement
OTC - bilateral$504$0$504$(85)$(381)$(37)$1
OTC - cleared4190419(11)(19)(389)0
Total derivative liabilities subject to a master netting agreement or offsetting arrangement9230923(96)(400)(426)1
Derivative liabilities not subject to a master netting agreement or offsetting arrangement
OTC - bilateral507507507
Total derivative liabilities not subject to a master netting agreement or offsetting arrangement507507507
Total derivative liabilities1,43001,430(96)(400)(426)508
Securities lending and similar arrangements1,50301,503(1,480)0023
Total$2,933$0$2,933$(1,576)$(400)$(426)$531

For additional information on the Company's financial instruments, see the accompanying Notes 3 and 5 and Notes 1, 3 and 5 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in the 2023 Annual Report.

5. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

Fair Value Hierarchy

U.S. GAAP specifies a hierarchy of valuation techniques based on whether the inputs to those valuation techniques are observable or unobservable. These two types of inputs create three valuation hierarchy levels, as follows:

  • Level 1 valuations reflect quoted market prices for identical assets or liabilities in active markets.

  • Level 2 valuations reflect quoted market prices for similar assets or liabilities in an active market, quoted market prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in non-active markets or model-derived valuations in which all significant valuation inputs are observable in active markets.

  • Level 3 valuations reflect valuations in which one or more of the significant inputs are not observable in an active market.

The following tables present the fair value hierarchy levels of the Company's assets and liabilities that are measured and carried at fair value on a recurring basis.

September 30, 2024
(In millions)Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)Significant Observable Inputs (Level 2)Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)Total Fair Value
Assets:
Securities available-for-sale, carried at fair value:
Fixed maturity securities:
Government and agencies$20,089$852$0$20,941
Municipalities02,23002,230
Mortgage- and asset-backed securities02,5211,2093,730
Public utilities06,9045707,474
Sovereign and supranational046628494
Banks/financial institutions09,750109,760
Other corporate027,28937427,663
Total fixed maturity securities20,08950,0122,19172,292
Equity securities6470161808
Other investments3,533003,533
Cash and cash equivalents5,612005,612
Other assets:
Foreign currency swaps060060
Foreign currency forwards063063
Foreign currency options057057
Interest rate swaps019019
Total other assets01990199
Total assets$29,881$50,211$2,352$82,444
Liabilities:
Other liabilities:
Foreign currency swaps$0$623$0$623
Foreign currency forwards035035
Foreign currency options024024
Interest rate swaps02390239
Total liabilities$0$921$0$921
December 31, 2023
(In millions)Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)Significant Observable Inputs (Level 2)Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)Total Fair Value
Assets:
Securities available-for-sale, carried at fair value:
Fixed maturity securities:
Government and agencies$21,700$900$0$22,600
Municipalities02,29802,298
Mortgage- and asset-backed securities02,3147723,086
Public utilities07,3392537,592
Sovereign and supranational050730537
Banks/financial institutions08,757788,835
Other corporate027,69464828,342
Total fixed maturity securities21,70049,8091,78173,290
Equity securities84002481,088
Other investments1,304001,304
Cash and cash equivalents4,306004,306
Other assets:
Foreign currency swaps086086
Foreign currency forwards02380238
Foreign currency options0202
Interest rate swaps011011
Total other assets03370337
Total assets$28,150$50,146$2,029$80,325
Liabilities:
Other liabilities:
Foreign currency swaps$0$507$0$507
Foreign currency forwards05040504
Interest rate swaps04190419
Total liabilities$0$1,430$0$1,430

The following tables present the carrying amount and fair value categorized by fair value hierarchy level for the Company's financial instruments that are not carried at fair value.

September 30, 2024
(In millions)Carrying ValueQuoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)Significant Observable Inputs (Level 2)Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)Total Fair Value
Assets:
Securities held-to-maturity, carried at amortized cost:
Fixed maturity securities:
Government and agencies$16,968$18,007$161$0$18,168
Municipalities26202930293
Public utilities35037037
Sovereign and supranational41504570457
Other corporate18020020
Commercial mortgage and other loans11,5440011,31511,315
Other investments (1)42042042
Total assets$29,284$18,007$1,010$11,315$30,332
Liabilities:
Other policyholders’ funds$6,095$0$0$6,015$6,015
Notes payable (excluding leases)7,86806,8957487,643
Total liabilities$13,963$0$6,895$6,763$13,658

(1) Excludes policy loans of $221, equity method investments of $3,206, and REO of $645, at carrying valu**e.

December 31, 2023
(In millions)Carrying ValueQuoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)Significant Observable Inputs (Level 2)Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)Total Fair Value
Assets:
Securities held-to-maturity, carried at amortized cost:
Fixed maturity securities:
Government and agencies$17,083$18,662$167$0$18,829
Municipalities26603070307
Public utilities34038038
Sovereign and supranational41804620462
Other corporate18021021
Commercial mortgage and other loans12,5270012,21712,217
Other investments (1)35035035
Total assets$30,381$18,662$1,030$12,217$31,909
Liabilities:
Other policyholders’ funds$6,169$0$0$6,080$6,080
Notes payable (excluding leases)7,24006,1787526,930
Total liabilities$13,409$0$6,178$6,832$13,010

(1) Excludes policy loans of $214, equity method investments of $2,750, and REO of $227, at carrying value.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

Fixed maturity and equity securities

The fair values of the Company’s public fixed maturity securities are generally based on prices provided by third-party pricing vendors. The Company utilizes internally generated valuations or broker quotes for privately issued fixed maturity securities or fixed maturity securities where there is no price available from a third-party pricing vendor.

The fair values of the Company's public equity securities are generally based on price quotes, including quoted market prices readily available from independent public exchange markets or established security dealer associations. The Company determines the fair values of privately issued equity securities using the following approaches or techniques: price quotes and valuations from third-party pricing vendors, in-house valuations and non-binding price quotes the Company obtains from outside brokers.

The pricing data and market quotes the Company obtains from outside sources, including third-party pricing services, are reviewed internally for reasonableness. If a fair value appears unreasonable, the Company will re-examine the inputs and assess the reasonableness of the pricing data with the provider. Additionally, the Company may compare the inputs to relevant market indices and other performance measurements. Based on management's analysis, the valuation is confirmed or may be revised if there is evidence of a more appropriate estimate of fair value based on available market data. The Company has performed verification of the inputs and calculations in any valuation models, including independent validations and back testing, to confirm that the valuations represent reasonable estimates of fair value. For the periods presented, the Company has not adjusted the quotes or prices it obtains from the pricing services and brokers it uses.

For internally generated valuations, the Company utilizes valuation models developed by a third-party pricing vendor. The models and associated processes and controls are executed by Company personnel.

These models are discounted cash flow (DCF) valuation models but also use information from related markets, specifically public bond markets and the credit default swap (CDS) market, to estimate expected cash flows. The models take into consideration any unique characteristics of the securities and make various adjustments to arrive at an appropriate issuer-specific loss adjusted credit curve using the most appropriate comparable security(ies) of the issuer and issuer-specific CDS spreads. This credit curve is then used with the relevant recovery rates to estimate expected cash flows and modeling of additional features, including illiquidity adjustments, if necessary, to price the security by discounting those loss adjusted cash flows. In cases where a credit curve cannot be developed from market information for the specific issuer, the valuation methodology takes into consideration other market observable inputs, including:

  • the most appropriate comparable security(ies) of a guarantor and/or parent

  • CDS spreads of a guarantor and/or parent

  • bonds of comparable issuers with similar characteristics such as rating, geography, or sector

  • CDS spreads of an appropriate index or of comparable issuers with similar characteristics such as rating, geography, or sector

  • bond indices that are comparative in rating, industry, maturity, and region.

The following tables present the pricing sources for the fair values of the Company's fixed maturity and equity securities.

September 30, 2024
(In millions)Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)Significant Observable Inputs (Level 2)Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)Total Fair Value
Securities available-for-sale, carried at fair value:
Fixed maturity securities:
Government and agencies:
Third-party pricing vendor$20,089$505$0$20,594
Internal03470347
Total government and agencies20,089852020,941
Municipalities:
Third-party pricing vendor01,96201,962
Internal02680268
Total municipalities02,23002,230
Mortgage- and asset-backed securities:
Third-party pricing vendor02,48702,487
Internal0343872
Broker/other001,1711,171
Total mortgage- and asset-backed securities02,5211,2093,730
Public utilities:
Third-party pricing vendor03,85803,858
Internal03,04603,046
Broker/other00570570
Total public utilities06,9045707,474
Sovereign and supranational:
Third-party pricing vendor01110111
Internal03550355
Broker/other002828
Total sovereign and supranational046628494
Banks/financial institutions:
Third-party pricing vendor05,33005,330
Internal04,42004,420
Broker/other001010
Total banks/financial institutions09,750109,760
Other corporate:
Third-party pricing vendor021,666021,666
Internal05,6231695,792
Broker/other00205205
Total other corporate027,28937427,663
Total securities available-for-sale$20,089$50,012$2,191$72,292
Equity securities, carried at fair value:
Third-party pricing vendor$647$0$0$647
Broker/other00161161
Total equity securities$647$0$161$808
September 30, 2024
(In millions)Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)Significant Observable Inputs (Level 2)Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)Total Fair Value
Securities held-to-maturity, carried at amortized cost:
Fixed maturity securities:
Government and agencies:
Third-party pricing vendor$18,007$161$0$18,168
Total government and agencies18,007161018,168
Municipalities:
Third-party pricing vendor02930293
Total municipalities02930293
Public utilities:
Third-party pricing vendor037037
Total public utilities037037
Sovereign and supranational:
Third-party pricing vendor02240224
Internal02330233
Total sovereign and supranational04570457
Other corporate:
Third-party pricing vendor020020
Total other corporate020020
Total securities held-to-maturity$18,007$968$0$18,975
December 31, 2023
(In millions)Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)Significant Observable Inputs (Level 2)Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)Total Fair Value
Securities available-for-sale, carried at fair value:
Fixed maturity securities:
Government and agencies:
Third-party pricing vendor$21,692$808$0$22,500
Internal060060
Broker/other832040
Total government and agencies21,700900022,600
Municipalities:
Third-party pricing vendor01,42601,426
Internal02560256
Broker/other06160616
Total municipalities02,29802,298
Mortgage- and asset-backed securities:
Third-party pricing vendor02,27702,277
Internal027105132
Broker/other010667677
Total mortgage- and asset-backed securities02,3147723,086
Public utilities:
Third-party pricing vendor04,57004,570
Internal02,67702,677
Broker/other092253345
Total public utilities07,3392537,592
Sovereign and supranational:
Third-party pricing vendor01180118
Internal03300330
Broker/other0593089
Total sovereign and supranational050730537
Banks/financial institutions:
Third-party pricing vendor05,08505,085
Internal03,008693,077
Broker/other06649673
Total banks/financial institutions08,757788,835
Other corporate:
Third-party pricing vendor018,088418,092
Internal04,2102304,440
Broker/other05,3964145,810
Total other corporate027,69464828,342
Total securities available-for-sale$21,700$49,809$1,781$73,290
Equity securities, carried at fair value:
Third-party pricing vendor$800$0$0$800
Internal00216216
Broker/other4003272
Total equity securities$840$0$248$1,088
December 31, 2023
(In millions)Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)Significant Observable Inputs (Level 2)Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)Total Fair Value
Securities held-to-maturity, carried at amortized cost:
Fixed maturity securities:
Government and agencies:
Third-party pricing vendor$18,662$167$0$18,829
Total government and agencies18,662167018,829
Municipalities:
Third-party pricing vendor03070307
Total municipalities03070307
Public utilities:
Third-party pricing vendor038038
Total public utilities038038
Sovereign and supranational:
Third-party pricing vendor02260226
Internal02360236
Total sovereign and supranational04620462
Other corporate:
Third-party pricing vendor021021
Total other corporate021021
Total securities held-to-maturity$18,662$995$0$19,657

The following is a discussion of the determination of fair value of the Company's remaining financial instruments.

Derivatives

The Company uses derivative instruments to manage the risk associated with certain assets. However, the derivative instrument may not be classified in the same fair value hierarchy level as the associated asset. The significant inputs to pricing derivatives are generally observable in the market or can be derived by observable market data. When these inputs are observable, the derivatives are classified as Level 2.

The Company uses present value techniques to value non-option based derivatives. It also uses option pricing models to value option based derivatives. Key inputs are as follows:

Instrument TypeLevel 2
Interest rate derivativesSwap yield curves Basis curves Interest rate volatility (1)
Foreign currency exchange rate derivatives - Non-VIEs (forwards, swaps and options)Foreign currency forward rates Swap yield curves Basis curves Foreign currency spot rates Foreign cross-currency basis curves Foreign currency volatility (1)
Foreign currency exchange rate derivatives - VIEs (swaps)Foreign currency spot rates Swap yield curves Credit default swap curves Basis curves Recovery rates Foreign currency forward rates Foreign cross-currency basis curves

(1) Option-based only

The fair values of the foreign currency forwards and options are based on observable market inputs, therefore they are classified as Level 2.

The Parent Company has cross-currency swap agreements related to certain of its U.S. dollar-denominated senior notes to effectively convert a portion of the interest on the notes from U.S. dollar to Japanese yen. Their fair values are based on observable market inputs, therefore they are classified as Level 2.

To determine the fair value of its interest rate derivatives, the Company uses inputs that are generally observable in the market or can be derived from observable market data. Interest rate swaps are cleared trades. In a cleared swap contract, the clearinghouse provides benefits to the counterparties similar to contracts listed for investment traded on an exchange since it maintains a daily margin to mitigate counterparties' credit risk. These derivatives are priced using observable inputs, accordingly, they are classified as Level 2.

For derivatives associated with VIEs where the Company is the primary beneficiary, the Company is not the direct counterparty to the swap contracts. Nevertheless, the Company has full transparency into the contracts to properly value the swaps for reporting purposes. For these derivatives, the Company utilizes valuation models developed by independent valuation analytics providers. The models are market standard DCF models and all associated processes and controls are executed by Company personnel. These models take into consideration any unique characteristics of the derivatives in determining the appropriate valuation methodology to estimate expected cash flows. The fair values of these swaps are based on observable market inputs and are classified as Level 2 within the fair value hierarchy.

For forward bond purchase commitments with VIEs, the fair value of the derivative is based on the difference in the fixed purchase price and the current market value of the related bond prior to the settlement date. Since the bond is typically a public bond with readily available pricing, the derivatives associated with the forward purchase commitment are classified as Level 2 within the fair value hierarchy.

Commercial mortgage and other loans

Commercial mortgage and other loans include TREs, CMLs, MMLs and other loans. The Company's loan receivables do not have readily determinable market prices and generally lack market liquidity. Fair values for loan receivables are determined based on the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the applicable U.S. Treasury or floating-rate benchmark yield plus an appropriate spread that considers other risk factors, such as credit and liquidity risk. The spreads are a significant component of the pricing inputs and are generally considered unobservable. Therefore, these investments are classified as Level 3 within the fair value hierarchy.

Other investments

Other investments includes short-term investments that are measured at fair value where amortized cost approximates fair value.

Other policyholders' funds

The largest component of the other policyholders' funds liability is the Company's annuity line of business in Aflac Japan. The Company's annuities have fixed benefits and premiums. For this product, the Company estimates the fair value to be equal to the cash surrender value. This is analogous to the value paid to policyholders on the valuation date if they were to surrender their policy. The Company periodically checks the cash value against discounted cash flow projections for reasonableness. The Company considers its inputs for this valuation to be unobservable and have accordingly classified this valuation as Level 3.

Notes payable

The fair values of the Company's publicly issued notes payable are determined by utilizing available sources of observable inputs from third-party pricing vendors and are classified as Level 2. The Company's private placement notes payable are valued using the same internal models that the Company uses for its yen-denominated and U.S. dollar-denominated private placement investment portfolio. The fair values for these private placements are deemed Level 2 valuations, as they are model-derived valuations that are generated internally with all significant valuation inputs being observed in active markets. The fair values of the Company's yen-denominated loans approximate their carrying values and are classified as Level 3.

Transfers between Hierarchy Levels and Level 3 Rollforward

Assets and liabilities are transferred into Level 3 when a significant input cannot be corroborated with market observable data. This occurs when market activity decreases significantly and underlying inputs cannot be observed, current prices are not available, and/or when there are significant variances in quoted prices, thereby affecting transparency. Assets and liabilities are transferred out of Level 3 when circumstances change such that a significant input can be corroborated with market observable data. This may be due to a significant increase in market activity, a specific event, or one or more significant input(s) becoming observable.

The following tables present the changes in fair value of the Company's investments carried at fair value classified as Level 3.

Three Months Ended September 30, 2024
Fixed Maturity SecuritiesEquity Securities
(In millions)Mortgage- and Asset- Backed SecuritiesPublic UtilitiesSovereign and SupranationalBanks/ Financial InstitutionsOther CorporateTotal
Balance, beginning of period$1,213$365$25$69$384$157$2,213
Net investment gains (losses) included in earnings1000023
Unrealized gains (losses) included in other comprehensive income (loss)57193020099
Purchases, issuances, sales and settlements:
Purchases314804983184
Issuances0000000
Sales00000(1)(1)
Settlements(18)(1)0(4)(1)0(24)
Transfers into Level 3151390050159
Transfers out of Level 3(90)00(59)(132)0(281)
Balance, end of period$1,209$570$28$10$374$161$2,352
Changes in unrealized gains (losses) relating to Level 3 assets and liabilities still held at the end of the period included in earnings$1$0$0$0$0$6$7
Three Months Ended September 30, 2023
Fixed Maturity SecuritiesEquity Securities
(In millions)Mortgage- and Asset- Backed SecuritiesPublic UtilitiesSovereign and SupranationalBanks/ Financial InstitutionsOther CorporateTotal
Balance, beginning of period$652$302$32$69$572$213$1,840
Net investment gains (losses) included in earnings00000(7)(7)
Unrealized gains (losses) included in other comprehensive income (loss)(13)(12)(1)(2)(41)0(69)
Purchases, issuances, sales and settlements:
Purchases553600360127
Issuances0000000
Sales0000000
Settlements(11)(6)0000(17)
Transfers into Level 3000339042
Transfers out of Level 3(3)(61)00(42)(3)(109)
Balance, end of period$680$259$31$70$564$203$1,807
Changes in unrealized gains (losses) relating to Level 3 assets and liabilities still held at the end of the period included in earnings$0$0$0$0$0$(3)$(3)
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024
Fixed Maturity SecuritiesEquity Securities
(In millions)Mortgage- and Asset- Backed SecuritiesPublic UtilitiesSovereign and SupranationalBanks/ Financial InstitutionsOther CorporateTotal
Balance, beginning of period$772$253$30$78$648$248$2,029
Net investment gains (losses) included in earnings30000(5)(2)
Unrealized gains (losses) included in other comprehensive income (loss)4880(9)16063
Purchases, issuances, sales and settlements:
Purchases338147091933690
Issuances0000000
Sales00000(1)(1)
Settlements(67)(26)(2)(9)(4)(84)(192)
Transfers into Level 32054210050631
Transfers out of Level 3(90)(233)0(59)(484)0(866)
Balance, end of period$1,209$570$28$10$374$161$2,352
Changes in unrealized gains (losses) relating to Level 3 assets and liabilities still held at the end of the period included in earnings$3$0$0$0$0$0$3
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2023
Fixed Maturity SecuritiesEquity Securities
(In millions)Mortgage- and Asset- Backed SecuritiesPublic UtilitiesSovereign and SupranationalBanks/ Financial InstitutionsOther CorporateTotal
Balance, beginning of period$343$497$37$159$742$209$1,987
Net investment gains (losses) included in earnings00000(13)(13)
Unrealized gains (losses) included in other comprehensive income (loss)(23)(18)(4)2(33)0(76)
Purchases, issuances, sales and settlements:
Purchases383360014810577
Issuances0000000
Sales0000000
Settlements(144)(15)(2)(7)(3)0(171)
Transfers into Level 31241803390184
Transfers out of Level 3(3)(259)0(87)(329)(3)(681)
Balance, end of period$680$259$31$70$564$203$1,807
Changes in unrealized gains (losses) relating to Level 3 assets and liabilities still held at the end of the period included in earnings$1$1$0$0$0$(9)$(7)

Fair Value Sensitivity

Level 3 Significant Unobservable Input Sensitivity

The following tables summarize the significant unobservable inputs used in the valuation of the Company's Level 3 investments carried at fair value. Included in the tables are the inputs or range of possible inputs that have an effect on the overall valuation of the financial instruments.

September 30, 2024
(In millions)Fair ValueValuation Technique(s)Unobservable InputRangeWeighted Average
Assets:
Securities available-for-sale, carried at fair value:
Fixed maturity securities:
Mortgage- and asset-backed securities$1,209Consensus pricingOffered quotes85.75-109.00(a)100.74
Public utilities570Discounted cash flowCredit spreads175 bps-375 bps(c)216 bps
Sovereign and supranational28Consensus pricingOffered quotesN/A(b)N/A
Banks/financial institutions10Adjusted costPrivate financialsN/A(d)N/A
Other corporate374Discounted cash flowCredit spreads90 bps-294 bps(c)211 bps
Equity securities161Adjusted costPrivate financialsN/A(d)N/A
Total assets$2,352

(a) Represents prices for securities where the Company receives unadjusted broker quotes and for which there is no transparency into the providers' valuation techniques.

(b) Category represents a single security; range not applicable.

(c) Actual or equivalent credit spreads in basis points.

(d) Prices do not utilize credit spreads; therefore, range is not applicable.

December 31, 2023
(In millions)Fair ValueValuation Technique(s)Unobservable InputRangeWeighted Average
Assets:
Securities available-for-sale, carried at fair value:
Fixed maturity securities:
Mortgage- and asset-backed securities$772Consensus pricingOffered quotes84.81-105.89(a)99.39
Public utilities253Consensus pricingOffered quotes94.34-102.99(a)96.46
Sovereign and supranational30Consensus pricingOffered quotesN/A(b)N/A
Banks/financial institutions78Discounted cash flowCredit spreadsN/A(b)N/A
Other corporate648Discounted cash flowCredit spreads69 bps-423 bps(c)206 bps
Equity securities248Adjusted costPrivate financialsN/A(d)N/A
Total assets$2,029

(a) Represents prices for securities where the Company receives unadjusted broker quotes and for which there is no transparency into the providers' valuation techniques.

(b) Category represents a single security; range not applicable.

(c) Actual or equivalent credit spreads in basis points.

(d) Prices do not utilize credit spreads; therefore, range is not applicable.

The following is a discussion of the significant unobservable inputs or valuation techniques used in determining the fair value of securities classified as Level 3.

Credit Spreads

The Company holds certain assets that are of a unique, specialized, and/or securitized nature that do not trade on a regular basis in an active market, which makes their fair values difficult to estimate. Most of these assets are managed by external asset managers and the Company utilizes these managers for their expertise when evaluating various inputs used to determine the fair values for these assets, including identifying the appropriate credit or risk spread over risk-free interest rates that incorporates the unique nature or structure of the asset in the valuations. For those assets of a similar nature but not managed by external asset managers, the Company internally estimates the spreads and risk adjustments over risk-free interest rates that reflect the unique nature or structure of the asset as well as the current pricing environment and market conditions for comparable or related investments. Credit or risk spreads are an important input needed to complete the discounted cash flow analyses used to estimate an investment’s fair value. Credit or risk spreads underlying these fair values are a significant, unobservable input whose derivation is based on the Company’s evaluation of a combination of the external manager’s expertise and knowledge, the current pricing environment, and market conditions for the specific asset.

Offered Quotes

In circumstances where the Company's valuation model price is overridden because it implies a value that is not consistent with current market conditions, the Company will solicit bids from a limited number of brokers. The Company also receives unadjusted prices from brokers for certain of its mortgage and asset-backed securities. These quotes are non-binding but are reflective of valuation best estimates at that particular point in time. Offered quotes are an unobservable input in the determination of fair value of mortgage- and asset-backed securities, certain banks/financial institutions, certain other corporate, and equity securities investments.

Private Financials

The Company invests in the debt and equity securities of private companies operating in the cancer, healthtech, insurtech, finance, internet of things, big data and analytics sectors. Due to their private and often small, startup nature, these companies rely on capital provided by institutional and private equity investors for their ongoing operations. They do not have public securities that trade on a regular basis in an active market, which makes their fair values difficult to estimate. The Company values these investments on a cost basis with appropriate adjustments made based on monitoring private financial information provided by these companies. Adjustments to valuations are generally made as new funding tranches are executed or if the financial information provided significantly changes indicating the need for impairment. This private financial information is unobservable and is a significant determinant in the fair value of these corporate venture investments.

For additional information on the Company's investments and financial instruments, see the accompanying Notes 3 and 4 and Notes 1, 3 and 4 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in the 2023 Annual Report.

6. DEFERRED POLICY ACQUISITION COSTS

The following tables present a rollforward of deferred policy acquisition costs by reporting segment and disaggregated by product type.

September 30, 2024
Aflac JapanAflac U.S.
(In millions)CancerMedical and Other HealthLife InsuranceOtherAccidentDisabilityCritical CareHospital IndemnityDental/VisionLife InsuranceOtherTotal
Deferred policy acquisition costs:
Balance at December 31, 2023$2,971$2,041$491$56$917$625$1,336$436$86$172$1$9,132
Capitalization221792531019311963955(1)767
Amortization expense(139)(75)(26)(2)(107)(88)(114)(55)(9)(23)0(638)
Foreign currency translation and other(14)(13)(2)00000000(29)
Balance at September 30, 2024$3,039$2,032$488$57$911$630$1,341$444$86$204$0$9,232
December 31, 2023
Aflac JapanAflac U.S.
(In millions)CancerMedical and Other HealthLife InsuranceOtherAccidentDisabilityCritical CareHospital IndemnityDental/VisionLife InsuranceOtherTotal
Deferred policy acquisition costs:
Balance at December 31, 2022$3,035$2,161$525$55$904$613$1,304$418$88$135$1$9,239
Capitalization31712333815112517384106111,086
Amortization expense(184)(105)(34)(3)(138)(113)(141)(66)(12)(24)4(816)
Foreign currency translation and other(197)(138)(33)(4)000000(5)(377)
Balance at December 31, 2023$2,971$2,041$491$56$917$625$1,336$436$86$172$1$9,132

The Company uses the following constant level bases to amortize deferred policy acquisition costs:

Policy TypeConstant-level Basis
Life Products (U.S.)Face Amount
Health Products (U.S.)Number of Policies in Force
Health & Life Products (Japan)Units in Force

Face amount is the stated dollar amount that the policy’s beneficiaries receive upon the death of the insured. For life and health products issued in Japan, the constant-level basis used is units in force, which is a proxy for face amount and insurance in force, respectively. Future DAC amortization is impacted by persistency.

There were no changes to the inputs, judgments or methods used to determine amortization amounts during the nine-month periods ended September 30, 2024 and 2023. The Company updated the assumptions used to determine amortization using the same assumptions as those used for measuring the liability for future policy benefits during the nine-month periods ended September 30, 2024 and 2023. The Company recognizes the effects of changes in assumptions prospectively over the remaining contract term as a revision of the future amortization pattern. For additional information on deferred policy acquisition costs, see Notes 1 and 6 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in the 2023 Annual Report.

7. POLICY LIABILITIES

Future Policy Benefits

The liability for future policy benefits is determined as the present value of expected future policy benefits to be paid to or on the behalf of policyholders and certain related expenses less the present value of expected future net premiums receivable under the Company's insurance contracts. Future net premiums receivable are future gross premiums receivable under the contract multiplied by the net premium ratio (NPR).

The following tables present the changes in the present value of expected future net premiums and the present value of expected future policy benefits by reporting segment and disaggregated by product type. The present value of expected future net premiums and the present value of expected future policy benefits are presented gross of internal and external ceded reinsurance.

September 30, 2024
Aflac JapanAflac U.S.
(In millions)CancerMedical and Other HealthLife InsuranceOtherAccidentDisabilityCritical CareHospital IndemnityDental/VisionLife InsuranceOther
Present value of expected future net premiums:
Balance at December 31, 2023$17,509$14,697$6,488$1,088$2,488$1,652$4,074$1,107$206$853$277
Beginning balance at original discount rate16,45214,0406,2581,0692,6301,7384,4161,193217909272
Effect of changes in cash flow assumptions(627)(154)(191)(19)65(47)(106)(21)(17)(5)(8)
Effect of actual variances from expected experience(72)(123)(60)(12)338(55)16(9)(18)27
Adjusted beginning of period balance15,75313,7636,0071,0382,7281,6994,2551,188191886291
Issuances7352773461324228843918740173401
Interest accrual286228831379491303462716
Net premiums collected (1)(1,099)(861)(656)(76)(357)(301)(432)(182)(29)(116)(35)
Foreign currency translation(134)(114)(59)(11)0000000
Other(1)000(5)(4)(6)(3)(1)(3)(9)
Ending balance at original discount rate15,54013,2935,7219772,6871,7314,3861,224207967664
Effect of changes in discount rate assumptions535269125(2)(96)(46)(256)(60)(6)(33)35
Balance at September 30, 2024$16,075$13,562$5,846$975$2,591$1,685$4,130$1,164$201$934$699
Present value of expected future policy benefits:
Balance at December 31, 2023$50,161$25,257$29,731$5,178$3,109$2,422$11,290$1,943$478$1,764$798
Beginning balance at original discount rate43,62625,02330,2565,4443,3022,54112,1202,0765061,971769
Effect of changes in cash flow assumptions(817)(229)(303)(7)109(73)(112)(31)(28)(3)(12)
Effect of actual variances from expected experience(107)(145)(73)(21)38(11)(86)15(12)(28)25
Adjusted beginning of period balance42,70224,64929,8805,4163,4492,45711,9222,0604661,940782
Issuances7492863521724730145219242179405
Interest accrual1,02643043870997438663155836
Benefit payments(2,066)(766)(1,180)(157)(408)(349)(693)(235)(45)(83)(69)
Foreign currency translation(318)(173)(218)(36)0000000
Other00000000000
Ending balance at original discount rate42,09324,42629,2725,3103,3872,48312,0672,0804782,0941,154
Effect of changes in discount rate assumptions4,484(761)(1,597)(460)(137)(66)(680)(95)(17)(175)59
Balance at September 30, 202446,57723,66527,6754,8503,2502,41711,3871,9854611,9191,213
Net liability for future policy benefits30,50210,10321,8293,8756597327,257821260985514
Less: reinsurance recoverable3,8961,4300000000190
Net liability for future policy benefits after reinsurance recoverable$26,606$8,673$21,829$3,875$659$732$7,257$821$260$966$514

(1) Net premiums collected represent the portion of gross premiums collected from policyholders that is used to fund expected future benefit payments.

December 31, 2023
Aflac JapanAflac U.S.
(In millions)CancerMedical and Other HealthLife InsuranceOtherAccidentDisabilityCritical CareHospital IndemnityDental/VisionLife InsuranceOther
Present value of expected future net premiums:
Balance at December 31, 2022$19,298$16,714$7,485$1,256$2,534$1,635$4,486$1,220$211$724$110
Beginning balance at original discount rate18,22116,1957,2841,2422,7601,7755,0501,365231799118
Effect of changes in cash flow assumptions(165)(470)43(12)(16)(51)(494)(142)(9)61(9)
Effect of actual variances from expected experience(315)(137)(42)(15)(58)(29)(223)(73)(17)(25)(2)
Adjusted beginning of period balance17,74115,5887,2851,2152,6861,6954,3331,150205835107
Issuances1,0344183352632337649324944181169
Interest accrual4123341242010262179458316
Net premiums collected (1)(1,564)(1,261)(1,017)(112)(473)(390)(580)(247)(39)(137)(17)
Foreign currency translation(1,170)(1,038)(469)(80)0000000
Other(1)(1)00(8)(5)(9)(4)(1)(1)7
Ending balance at original discount rate16,45214,0406,2581,0692,6301,7384,4161,193217909272
Effect of changes in discount rate assumptions1,05765723019(142)(86)(342)(86)(11)(56)5
Balance at December 31, 2023$17,509$14,697$6,488$1,088$2,488$1,652$4,074$1,107$206$853$277
Present value of expected future policy benefits:
Balance at December 31, 2022$54,766$27,419$31,954$5,582$3,098$2,445$11,489$2,074$488$1,526$622
Beginning balance at original discount rate47,67727,56632,8005,9403,3912,63612,8462,3005321,778624
Effect of changes in cash flow assumptions(147)(507)65(27)(11)(59)(592)(194)(14)72(13)
Effect of actual variances from expected experience(385)(154)(51)(15)(75)(59)(271)(99)(22)(32)(4)
Adjusted beginning of period balance47,14526,90532,8145,8983,3052,51811,9832,0074961,818607
Issuances1,0594323413233139250525846185169
Interest accrual1,4736086251001279652484216833
Benefit payments(2,987)(1,153)(1,415)(206)(464)(465)(893)(274)(59)(105)(48)
Foreign currency translation(3,064)(1,769)(2,109)(380)0000000
Other00003011258
Ending balance at original discount rate43,62625,02330,2565,4443,3022,54112,1202,0765061,971769
Effect of changes in discount rate assumptions6,535234(525)(266)(193)(119)(830)(133)(28)(207)29
Balance at December 31, 202350,16125,25729,7315,1783,1092,42211,2901,9434781,764798
Net liability for future policy benefits32,65210,56023,2434,0906217707,216836272911521
Less: reinsurance recoverable4,1351,5210000000150
Net liability for future policy benefits after reinsurance recoverable$28,517$9,039$23,243$4,090$621$770$7,216$836$272$896$521

(1) Net premiums collected represent the portion of gross premiums collected from policyholders that is used to fund expected future benefit payments.

The following tables present the weighted-average interest rates and weighted-average liability duration (calculated using the original discount rate) by reporting segment and disaggregated by product type.

September 30, 2024
Aflac JapanAflac U.S.
CancerMedical and Other HealthLife InsuranceOtherAccidentDisabilityCritical CareHospital IndemnityDental/VisionLife InsuranceOther
Weighted-average interest, original discount rate (1)3.9 %2.5 %2.1 %1.8 %4.0 %4.3 %4.6 %4.5 %4.3 %3.8 %5.4 %
Weighted-average interest, current discount rate (1)2.2 %2.7 %2.0 %2.4 %5.2 %5.1 %5.3 %5.2 %5.2 %5.2 %5.2 %
Weighted-average liability duration (years)12.623.716.216.98.05.611.19.17.613.58.8

(1) The weighted-average interest rates are calculated using the reserve balances as the weights. No adjustments were made to observable market information.

December 31, 2023
Aflac JapanAflac U.S.
CancerMedical and Other HealthLife InsuranceOtherAccidentDisabilityCritical CareHospital IndemnityDental/VisionLife InsuranceOther
Weighted-average interest, original discount rate (1)3.9 %2.6 %2.1 %1.8 %3.9 %4.2 %4.6 %4.4 %4.3 %3.7 %5.4 %
Weighted-average interest, current discount rate (1)1.8 %2.3 %1.7 %2.1 %5.3 %5.3 %5.3 %5.3 %5.3 %5.3 %5.3 %
Weighted-average liability duration (years)13.124.916.317.38.15.611.39.37.913.69.4

(1) The weighted-average interest rates are calculated using the reserve balances as the weights. No adjustments were made to observable market information.

The following table presents a reconciliation of the disaggregated rollforwards above to the ending future policy benefits presented in the consolidated balance sheets. The deferred profit liability for limited-payment contracts and the deferred reinsurance gain liability are presented together with the liability for future policy benefits in the consolidated balance sheets and have been included as reconciling items in the table below.

(In millions)September 30, 2024December 31, 2023
Balances included in future policy benefits rollforward:
Aflac Japan
Cancer$30,502$32,652
Medical and other health10,10310,560
Life insurance21,82923,243
Other3,8754,090
Aflac U.S.
Accident659621
Disability732770
Critical care7,2577,216
Hospital indemnity821836
Dental/vision260272
Life insurance985911
Other514521
Corporate and other3,8974,225
Deferred profit liability2,0001,806
Deferred reinsurance gain liability9491,012
Intercompany eliminations (1)(4,711)(5,017)
Total$79,672$83,718

(1) Elimination entry necessary due to the internal reinsurance transactions with Aflac Re and to recapture a portion of policy liabilities ceded externally as a result of the reinsurance retrocession transaction. See Note 8 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in the 2023 Annual Report.

Discount rates are determined using upper-medium grade (low-credit-risk) fixed-income instrument yields that reflect the duration characteristics of the liability. Locked-in discount rates are determined separately for each issue-year cohort as a single discount rate, calculated as the weighted-average of monthly upper-medium grade (low-credit-risk) fixed-income instrument forward curves in the calendar year, where the weights are the annualized premiums issued for each month of the cohort. The single discount rate for each issue-year cohort is determined by solving for a rate that produces an equivalent NPR to the forward curve and will remain unchanged after the calendar year of issue.

Discount rates are updated each reporting period and require estimation techniques (e.g., interpolation, extrapolation) for determination of points on the curve for which there is limited or no observable market data. The Company constructs a current discount rate curve separately for discounting cash flows used to calculate each of the Japan and U.S. liabilities for future policy benefits, reflective of the characteristics of the corresponding insurance liabilities, such as currency and tenor.

In the Aflac Japan segment, all long-duration insurance policies are denominated in yen. A significant portion of policies are characterized by tenors exceeding the availability of liquid market data in Japan for single-A rated (as a proxy for upper-medium grade) corporate yen-denominated debt. The discount rate curve is designed to prioritize the observable inputs where available, while past the last liquid point, the data is derived based on estimation techniques consistent with the fair value guidance in ASC 820. The Aflac Japan segment curve utilizes liquid market indices tracking publicly traded yen-denominated single-A corporate debt for the initial 10-year tenor. For the bonds within these market indices where only local ratings are available, the Company prioritizes the bonds with local ratings that are equivalent to a single-A rating based on international rating standards.

For the discount rates applicable to tenors for which the Japan single-A debt market is not liquid but there is sufficient observable market data and/or the observable market data is available for similar instruments (between 10 and 30 years), the Company estimates tenor-specific single-A credit spreads and applies them to risk-free government rates. Lastly, for the tenors where there is limited or no observable single-A or similar market data or risk-free government rates (beyond 30

years), the discount curve is derived by extrapolation of risk free rates beyond their last liquid point following the Smith-Wilson method and grading of the estimated forward credit spread anchored by the ultimate forward rate. The ultimate forward rate is based on the economic value-based solvency regime, which is consistent with the International Association of Insurance Supervisors (IAIS) Insurance Capital Standards (ICS) (to be introduced in Japan in 2025), and is adjusted for credit and inflation components.

For the Aflac U.S. segment where all long-duration insurance policies are denominated in U.S. dollars and substantially all have cash flow duration within 30 years, for which the U.S. upper-medium grade fixed-income market is liquid and observable, the Company uses data from a liquid fixed-income market index tracking single-A U.S. corporate debt. For the insignificant portion of the policies with cash flow tenors exceeding 30 years, the discount curve beyond that tenor is extrapolated following the Smith-Wilson method from year 30 to the same ultimate forward rate calculated for the Japan discount curve at year 60 and held constant thereafter. The use of the same ultimate rate for U.S. and Japan segments is based on the assumption of long-term global economic convergence.

For the three-month periods ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, the Company recognized $(1.5) billion and $4.2 billion in other comprehensive income (loss) net of tax, respectively, due to changes in the future policy benefits estimate from updating the discount rate assumptions. For the nine-month periods ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, the Company recognized $2.5 billion and $1.2 billion in other comprehensive income (loss) net of tax, respectively, due to changes in the future policy benefits estimate from updating the discount rate assumptions. There were no changes to the methods used to determine the discount rates during the nine-month periods ended September 30, 2024 and 2023.

For the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company recognized $(460) million in other comprehensive income (loss) net of tax, due to changes in the future policy benefits estimate from updating the discount rate assumptions. There were no changes to the methods used to determine the discount rates during the year ended December 31, 2023.

Mortality rate assumptions are based on industry tables and adjusted for the Company's actual or expected experience where credible or appropriate. These assumptions typically vary by age, gender, and other demographic characteristics such as smoking status.

Morbidity assumptions are based on the Company's internal data and consider emerging experience. These assumptions are reflective of the coverage and benefits provided and generally vary by age, gender, duration, and any other material policyholder characteristics. In cases where a calendar-year trend is significant, future cash flow projections may include a trend adjustment.

In Japan, separate lapse assumptions are set based on actual or expected experience. These lapse and total termination rate assumptions vary by line of business and with policyholder characteristics such as duration. In the U.S., the majority of the future cash flows are modeled using total termination rates (which include both lapse and mortality) and are adjusted for actual experience. Policy provisions, such as reaching premium paid-up status, are taken into account when setting assumptions.

For the three- and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, the variance of actual experience from expected experience was primarily due to favorable variances in morbidity assumptions as compared to actual experience. There were no changes to the inputs, judgments or methods used in measuring the liability for future policy benefits during the nine-month periods ended September 30, 2024 and 2023.

The Company performs an annual review of its assumptions during the third quarter. In 2024, the Company's annual assumption review process resulted in favorable changes largely due to recent favorable Japan morbidity experience. In 2023, the Company's annual assumption review process resulted in favorable changes to its morbidity and termination assumptions, largely due to reflecting more recent favorable U.S. morbidity experience.

The following table summarizes the amount of net earned premiums recognized in the consolidated statements of earnings by reporting segment and disaggregated by product type.

Three Months Ended September 30,Nine Months Ended September 30,
(In millions)2024202320242023
Net earned premiums:
Aflac Japan
Cancer$885$1,004$2,595$3,154
Medical and other health5776401,7522,018
Life insurance2513719061,183
Other3538104113
Aflac U.S.
Accident314320955973
Disability333315998941
Critical care4394361,3241,317
Hospital indemnity181180548547
Dental/vision5453159160
Life insurance141122420351
Other29137531
Corporate and other16083479258
Reinsurance ceded(71)(99)(206)(309)
Total$3,328$3,476$10,109$10,737

The following table summarizes the amount of interest expense related to insurance contracts recognized in total benefits and claims, net in the consolidated statements of earnings by reporting segment and disaggregated by product type.

Three Months Ended September 30,Nine Months Ended September 30,
(In millions)2024202320242023
Interest expense:
Aflac Japan
Cancer$257$243$740$804
Medical and other health7163202206
Life insurance123115355378
Other20195761
Aflac U.S.
Accident762018
Disability982526
Critical care8586256259
Hospital indemnity10102930
Dental/vision3399
Life insurance1183127
Other772020
Total$603$568$1,744$1,838

The following tables summarize the amount of undiscounted expected future gross premiums and expected future policy benefits and expenses and discounted (discounted at the current period discount rate) expected future gross premiums and expected future policy benefits and expenses by reporting segment and disaggregated by product type. These tables are presented gross of internal and external ceded reinsurance. Future gross premiums represent the expected amount of future premiums to be received. For limited-payment policies, the premiums are collected over a shorter period than the policy term over which benefits are provided. As a result, once the policy reaches premium paid-up status, the future gross premiums can be significantly less than the future benefit payments. Further, benefits and expenses are generally greater in the later years of a policy. These are the primary factors that result in future gross premiums lower than future benefit and expense payments for certain lines of business of the Company.

September 30, 2024December 31, 2023
(In millions)Gross PremiumsBenefits and ExpensesGross PremiumsBenefits and Expenses
Undiscounted expected future gross premiums and expected future policy benefits and expenses:
Aflac Japan
Cancer$57,471$63,270$59,169$66,427
Medical and other health37,28238,76338,58339,884
Life insurance12,13341,54512,67742,541
Other1,6657,2321,7817,448
Aflac U.S.
Accident8,9774,6949,0954,548
Disability5,7483,1095,7763,177
Critical care19,77520,42119,88620,626
Hospital indemnity4,9113,0234,9223,025
Dental/vision1,1246821,162726
Life insurance2,9223,4882,7193,260
Other1,6922,0177241,396
Total$153,700$188,244$156,494$193,058
September 30, 2024December 31, 2023
(In millions)Gross PremiumsBenefits and ExpensesGross PremiumsBenefits and Expenses
Discounted expected future gross premiums and expected future policy benefits and expenses:
Aflac Japan
Cancer$45,651$46,577$48,363$50,161
Medical and other health28,88523,66530,75725,257
Life insurance10,58227,67511,24029,731
Other1,3844,8501,5125,178
Aflac U.S.
Accident6,3813,2506,3693,109
Disability4,5512,4174,4882,422
Critical care12,58511,38712,41711,290
Hospital indemnity3,4841,9853,4191,943
Dental/vision796461807478
Life insurance2,0981,9191,9141,764
Other1,0781,213467798
Total$117,475$125,399$121,753$132,131

Loss expense as a result of NPR capping for the three- and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 was immaterial.

Other Policyholders' Funds

As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, the largest component of the other policyholders' funds liability was the Company's annuity line of business in Aflac Japan. The Company's annuities have fixed benefits and premiums.

The following table presents the changes in other policyholders’ funds.

(In millions)September 30, 2024December 31, 2023
Other policyholders' funds:
Fixed annuities account balance, beginning of period (1)$5,939$6,423
Premiums received86126
Transfers from WAYS conversions207229
Surrenders and withdrawals(49)(59)
Benefit payments(373)(419)
Interest credited4253
Foreign currency translation and other(38)(414)
Fixed annuities account balance, end of period5,8145,939
Other deposit type reserves281230
Total$6,095$6,169

(1) Aflac Japan fixed annuities

The following table presents other policyholders’ funds balances by range of guaranteed crediting rates.

September 30, 2024December 31, 2023
(In millions)Range of Guaranteed Minimum Crediting Rates (2)At Guaranteed MinimumCash Surrender ValueRange of Guaranteed Minimum Crediting Rates (2)At Guaranteed MinimumCash Surrender Value
Fixed annuities (1)0.5% - 2.2%$5,814$5,7340.5% - 2.3%$5,939$5,850

(1) Aflac Japan fixed annuities

(2) Weighted-average crediting rate of 1.5% at September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023.

Aflac Japan’s fixed annuities have guaranteed fixed crediting rates which results in the policyholders' funds balances being able to cover all guaranteed benefit amounts. The reserves are adequate to fully fund future benefits at any given time.

For additional information on policy liabilities, see Notes 1 and 7 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in the 2023 Annual Report.

8. REINSURANCE

The Company periodically enters into fixed quota-share coinsurance agreements in the normal course of business, primarily to provide additional capacity for future growth, optimize capital, limit losses, and minimize exposure to significant risks. For each of its reinsurance agreements, the Company determines whether the agreement provides indemnification against loss or liability relating to insurance risk in accordance with applicable accounting standards. For additional information on reinsurance, see Notes 1 and 8 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in the 2023 Annual Report.

The following table reconciles direct earned premiums, direct benefits and claims, excluding reserve remeasurement gains and losses, and reserve remeasurement gains and losses to net amounts after the effect of reinsurance.

Three Months Ended September 30,Nine Months Ended September 30,
(In millions)2024202320242023
Direct earned premiums$3,360$3,524$10,194$10,885
Ceded to other companies:
Ceded Aflac Japan closed blocks(32)(75)(97)(240)
Other(39)(24)(109)(69)
Assumed from other companies:
Retrocession activities28338496
Other11183765
Net earned premiums$3,328$3,476$10,109$10,737
Direct benefits and claims, excluding reserve remeasurement$2,024$2,106$6,101$6,545
Ceded benefits and change in reserves for future benefits:
Ceded Aflac Japan closed blocks(16)(71)(51)(222)
Other(20)(7)(53)(29)
Assumed from other companies:
Retrocession activities17294290
Other(2)8336
Benefits and claims, excluding reserve remeasurement$2,003$2,065$6,042$6,420
Direct reserve remeasurement (gains) losses$(407)$(219)$(515)$(327)
Ceded reserve remeasurement gains (losses)(1)14015
Reserve remeasurement (gains) losses$(408)$(205)$(515)$(312)
Total benefits and claims, net$1,595$1,860$5,527$6,108

The Company has recorded a deferred reinsurance gain liability related to reinsurance transactions which represents ceded reserves in excess of consideration paid, or consideration received in excess of assumed reserves. The remaining consolidated deferred reinsurance gain liability of $165 million and $175 million as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively, is included in future policy benefits in the consolidated balance sheets and is being amortized into income over the expected lives of the policies.

The Company has also recorded a reinsurance recoverable for reinsurance transactions. The reinsurance recoverable, which is included in other assets in the consolidated balance sheets, is reported net of allowance for credit losses and had a remaining balance of $183 million as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023. The allowance for credit losses related to the Company's reinsurance recoverable balance was $4 million and $10 million as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. The credit allowance for the reinsurance recoverable balance is estimated using a PD / LGD method and the key credit quality indicator is the credit rating of the Company’s reinsurance counterparty. The Company uses external credit ratings focused on the reinsurer’s financial strength and credit worthiness. As of September 30, 2024, the Company's reinsurance counterparties were rated A+. The Company monitors the credit ratings periodically, but not less frequently than quarterly.

These reinsurance transactions are indemnity reinsurance that do not relieve the Company from its obligations to policyholders. In the event that the reinsurer is unable to meet its obligations, the Company remains liable for the reinsured claims.

Internal Reinsurance Transactions

Aflac Re is a Bermuda domiciled insurer that reinsures certain policies issued by ALIJ. The inter-segment amounts associated with these internal reinsurance transactions are eliminated in consolidation.

9. NOTES PAYABLE AND LEASE OBLIGATIONS

A summary of notes payable and lease obligations follows:

(In millions)September 30, 2024December 31, 2023
1.125% senior sustainability notes due March 2026$399$398
2.875% senior notes due October 2026299299
3.60% senior notes due April 2030994993
6.90% senior notes due December 2039221221
6.45% senior notes due August 2040254254
4.00% senior notes due October 2046394394
4.750% senior notes due January 2049542542
Yen-denominated senior notes and subordinated debentures:
.300% senior notes due September 2025 (principal amount ¥12.4 billion)8787
.932% senior notes due January 2027 (principal amount ¥60.0 billion)419422
1.048% senior notes due March 2029 (principal amount ¥13.0 billion)910
1.075% senior notes due September 2029 (principal amount ¥33.4 billion)233234
.500% senior notes due December 2029 (principal amount ¥12.6 billion)8888
.550% senior notes due March 2030 (principal amount ¥13.3 billion)9393
1.159% senior notes due October 2030 (principal amount ¥29.3 billion)204206
1.412% senior notes due March 2031 (principal amount ¥27.9 billion)1950
.633% senior notes due April 2031 (principal amount ¥30.0 billion)209211
.843% senior notes due December 2031 (principal amount ¥9.3 billion)6565
.750% senior notes due March 2032 (principal amount ¥20.7 billion)144145
1.320% senior notes due December 2032 (principal amount ¥21.1 billion)147148
.844% senior notes due April 2033 (principal amount ¥12.0 billion)8484
1.488% senior notes due October 2033 (principal amount ¥15.2 billion)106106
1.682% senior notes due March 2034 (principal amount ¥7.7 billion)540
1.600% senior notes due March 2034 (principal amount ¥18.3 billion)1270
.934% senior notes due December 2034 (principal amount ¥9.8 billion)6869
.830% senior notes due March 2035 (principal amount ¥10.6 billion)7474
1.740% senior notes due March 2036 (principal amount ¥15.0 billion)1040
1.039% senior notes due April 2036 (principal amount ¥10.0 billion)6970
1.594% senior notes due September 2037 (principal amount ¥6.5 billion)4545
1.750% senior notes due October 2038 (principal amount ¥8.9 billion)6262
1.920% senior notes due March 2039 (principal amount ¥16.5 billion)1140
1.122% senior notes due December 2039 (principal amount ¥6.3 billion)4444
1.264% senior notes due April 2041 (principal amount ¥10.0 billion)6970
2.160% senior notes due March 2044 (principal amount ¥5.7 billion)400
2.108% subordinated debentures due October 2047 (principal amount ¥60.0 billion)416419
.963% subordinated bonds paid April 2024 (principal amount ¥30.0 billion)0211
1.560% senior notes due April 2051 (principal amount ¥20.0 billion)139140
2.144% senior notes due September 2052 (principal amount ¥12.0 billion)8384
1.958% subordinated bonds due December 2053 (principal amount ¥30.0 billion)209210
2.400% senior notes due March 2054 (principal amount ¥19.5 billion)1350
Yen-denominated loans:
Variable interest rate loan due August 2027 (.72% in 2024 and .35% in 2023, principal amount ¥11.7 billion)8282
Variable interest rate loan due August 2029 (.82% in 2024 and .45% in 2023, principal amount ¥25.3 billion)177178
Variable interest rate loan due August 2032 (.97% in 2024 and .60% in 2023, principal amount ¥70.0 billion)489492
Finance lease obligations payable through 203056
Operating lease obligations payable through 2049105118
Total notes payable and lease obligations$7,978$7,364

Amounts in the table above are reported net of debt issuance costs and issuance premiums or discounts, if applicable, that are being amortized over the life of the notes.

In April 2024, ALIJ redeemed ¥30.0 billion of its .963% subordinated bonds due April 2049.

In March 2024, the Parent Company issued five series of senior notes totaling ¥75.0 billion through a private placement. The first series, which totaled ¥18.3 billion, bears interest at a fixed rate of 1.600% per annum, payable semi-annually, and will mature in March 2034. The second series, which totaled ¥15.0 billion, bears interest at a fixed rate of 1.740% per annum, payable semi-annually, and will mature in March 2036. The third series, which totaled ¥16.5 billion, bears interest at a fixed rate of 1.920% per annum, payable semi-annually, and will mature in March 2039. The fourth series, which totaled ¥5.7 billion, bears interest at a fixed rate of 2.160% per annum, payable semi-annually, and will mature in March 2044. The fifth series, which totaled ¥19.5 billion, bears interest at a fixed rate of 2.400% per annum, payable semi-annually, and will mature in March 2054. These notes are redeemable at the Parent Company's option (i) in whole at any time or (ii) in part from time to time in an amount not less than 5% of the aggregate principal amount then outstanding of the notes to be redeemed.

In March 2024, the Parent Company issued three series of senior notes totaling ¥48.6 billion through a public debt offering under its U.S. shelf registration statement. The first series, which totaled ¥13.0 billion, bears interest at a fixed rate of 1.048% per annum, payable semi-annually, and will mature in March 2029. The second series, which totaled ¥27.9 billion, bears interest at a fixed rate of 1.412% per annum, payable semi-annually, and will mature in March 2031. The third series, which totaled ¥7.7 billion, bears interest at a fixed rate of 1.682% per annum, payable semi-annually, and will mature in March 2034. These notes are redeemable at the Parent Company’s option at any time, in whole but not in part, upon the occurrence of certain changes affecting U.S. taxation, as specified in the indenture governing the terms of the issuance. In addition, the notes maturing in March 2029, March 2031 and March 2034 are redeemable at the Parent Company's option, in whole or in part from time to time, on or after December 21, 2028, December 31, 2030 and September 21, 2033, respectively, at a redemption price equal to the aggregate principal amount of the applicable series to be redeemed plus accrued and unpaid interest on the principal amount to be redeemed to, but excluding, the date of redemption.

Interest expense related to the Company's notes payable, which is included in interest expense in the consolidated statements of earnings, was $49 million and $48 million for the three-month periods and $145 million and $144 million for the nine-month periods ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively.

A summary of the Company's lines of credit as of September 30, 2024 follows:

Borrower(s)TypeTermExpiration DateCapacityAmount OutstandingInterest Rate on Borrowed AmountMaturity PeriodCommitment FeeBusiness Purpose
Aflac Incorporated and Aflacuncommitted bilateral364 daysDecember 6, 2024$100 million$0 millionThe rate quoted by the bank and agreed upon at the time of borrowingUp to 3 monthsNoneGeneral corporate purposes
Aflac Incorporatedunsecured revolving5 yearsMay 9, 2027, or the date commitments are terminated pursuant to an event of default¥100.0 billion¥0.0 billionA rate per annum equal to (a) Tokyo Interbank Market Rate (TIBOR) plus, the alternative applicable TIBOR margin during the availability period from the closing date to the commitment termination date or (b) the TIBOR rate offered by the agent to major banks in yen for the applicable period plus, the applicable alternative TIBOR margin during the term out periodNo later than May 10, 2027.28% to .45%, depending on the Parent Company's debt ratings as of the date of determinationGeneral corporate purposes, including a capital contingency plan for the operations of the Parent Company
Aflac Incorporated and Aflacunsecured revolving5 yearsNovember 15, 2027, or the date commitments are terminated pursuant to an event of default$1.0 billion$0.0 billionA rate per annum equal to, at the Company's option, either, (a) Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) for U.S. dollar-denominated borrowings or TIBOR for Japanese yen-denominated borrowings, in either case adjusted for certain costs, or (b) a base rate determined by reference to the highest of (1) the federal funds rate plus 1/2 of 1%, (2) the rate of interest for such day announced by the agent as its prime rate, or (3) SOFR for an interest period of one month plus 1.00%, in each case plus an applicable marginNo later than November 15, 2027.08% to .20%, depending on the Parent Company's debt ratings as of the date of determinationGeneral corporate purposes, including a capital contingency plan for the operations of the Parent Company
Aflac Incorporated and Aflacuncommitted bilateralNone specifiedNone specified$50 million$0 millionA rate per annum equal to, at the Parent Company's option, either (a) a rate determined by reference to SOFR for the interest period relevant to such borrowing or (b) the base rate determined by reference to the highest of (1) the lender's USD short-term commercial loan rate and (2) the federal funds rate plus 1/2 of 1%Up to 3 monthsNoneGeneral corporate purposes
Aflac*(1)*uncommitted revolving364 daysDecember 2, 2024$250 million$0 millionThree-month term SOFR plus a 10 basis point SOFR adjustment and an additional 75 basis points per annumNo later than December 3, 2024NoneGeneral corporate purposes
Aflac Incorporated*(1)* (Tranche 1)uncommitted revolving364 daysNovember 25, 2024¥50.0 billion¥0.0 billionThree-month yen TIBOR plus 75 basis points per annumNo later than November 26, 2024NoneGeneral corporate purposes
Aflac Incorporated*(1)* (Tranche 2)uncommitted revolving364 daysNovember 25, 2024¥50.0 billion¥0.0 billionThree-month yen TIBOR plus 75 basis points per annumNo later than November 26, 2024NoneGeneral corporate purposes
Aflac New York*(1)*uncommitted revolving364 daysDecember 2, 2024$25 million$0 millionThree-month term SOFR plus a 10 basis point SOFR adjustment and an additional 75 basis points per annumNo later than December 3, 2024NoneGeneral corporate purposes
CAIC*(1)*uncommitted revolving364 daysDecember 2, 2024$15 million$0 millionThree-month term SOFR plus a 10 basis point SOFR adjustment and an additional 75 basis points per annumNo later than December 3, 2024NoneGeneral corporate purposes

(1) Intercompany credit agreement

(continued)

Borrower(s)TypeTermExpiration DateCapacityAmount OutstandingInterest Rate on Borrowed AmountMaturity PeriodCommitment FeeBusiness Purpose
TOIC*(1)*uncommitted revolving364 daysDecember 2, 2024$0.3 million$0 millionThree-month term SOFR plus a 10 basis point SOFR adjustment and an additional 75 basis points per annumNo later than December 3, 2024NoneGeneral corporate purposes
Aflac GI Holdings LLC*(1)*uncommitted revolving364 daysDecember 2, 2024$30 million$0 millionThree-month term SOFR plus a 10 basis point SOFR adjustment and an additional 75 basis points per annumNo later than December 3, 2024NoneGeneral corporate purposes
Aflac Incorporated*(1)*uncommitted revolving364 daysDecember 2, 2024$400 million$0 millionThree-month term SOFR plus a 10 basis point SOFR adjustment and an additional 97 basis points per annum for U.S. dollar-denominated borrowings or three-month TIBOR plus 97 basis points per annum for Japanese yen-denominated borrowingsNo later than December 3, 2024NoneGeneral corporate purposes
Aflac Re*(1)*uncommitted revolving364 daysDecember 2, 2024$400 million$0 millionThree-month term SOFR plus a 10 basis point SOFR adjustment and an additional 68 basis points per annum for U.S. dollar-denominated borrowings or three-month TIBOR plus 68 basis points per annum for Japanese yen-denominated borrowingsNo later than December 3, 2024NoneGeneral corporate purposes
Aflac Asset Management LLC*(1)*uncommitted revolving214 daysDecember 2, 2024$25 million$0 millionThree-month term SOFR plus a 10 basis point SOFR adjustment and an additional 68 basis points per annum for U.S. dollar-denominated borrowings or three-month TIBOR plus 68 basis points per annum for Japanese yen-denominated borrowingsNo later than December 3, 2024NoneGeneral corporate purposes
Aflac Global Ventures LLC*(1)*uncommitted revolving214 daysDecember 2, 2024$2 million$0 millionThree-month term SOFR plus a 10 basis point SOFR adjustment and an additional 68 basis points per annum for U.S. dollar-denominated borrowings or three-month TIBOR plus 68 basis points per annum for Japanese yen-denominated borrowingsNo later than December 3, 2024NoneGeneral corporate purposes

(1) Intercompany credit agreement

The Company was in compliance with all of the covenants of its notes payable and lines of credit at September 30, 2024. No events of default or defaults occurred during the nine-month period ended September 30, 2024.

For additional information, see Notes 4 and 9 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in the 2023 Annual Report.

10. SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

The following table is a reconciliation of the number of shares of the Company's common stock for the nine-month periods ended September 30.

(In thousands of shares)20242023
Common stock - issued:
Balance, beginning of period1,355,3981,354,079
Exercise of stock options and issuance of restricted shares1,2941,233
Balance, end of period1,356,6921,355,312
Treasury stock:
Balance, beginning of period776,919738,823
Purchases of treasury stock:
Share repurchase program23,44630,199
Other491360
Dispositions of treasury stock:
Shares issued to AFL Stock Plan(594)(707)
Exercise of stock options(99)(81)
Other(188)(179)
Balance, end of period799,975768,415
Shares outstanding, end of period556,717586,897

Outstanding share-based awards are excluded from the calculation of weighted-average shares used in the computation of basic earnings per share (EPS). The following table presents the approximate number of share-based awards to purchase shares, on a weighted-average basis, that were considered to be anti-dilutive and were excluded from the calculation of diluted EPS for the following periods.

Three Months Ended September 30,Nine Months Ended September 30,
(In thousands)2024202320242023
Anti-dilutive share-based awards002368

Share Repurchase Program

During the first nine months of 2024, the Company repurchased 23.4 million shares of its common stock for $2.1 billion as part of its share repurchase program. During the first nine months of 2023, the Company repurchased 30.2 million shares of its common stock for $2.1 billion as part of its share repurchase program. As of September 30, 2024, a remaining balance of 54.3 million shares of the Company's common stock was available for purchase under share repurchase authorizations by its board of directors.

Reclassifications from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income

The tables below are reconciliations of accumulated other comprehensive income by component for the following periods.

Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income

Three Months Ended September 30, 2024
(In millions)Unrealized Foreign Currency Translation Gains (Losses)Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Fixed Maturity SecuritiesUnrealized Gains (Losses) on DerivativesEffect of Changes in Discount Rate AssumptionsPension Liability AdjustmentTotal
Balance at June 30, 2024$(5,091)$401$(22)$1,425$(5)$(3,292)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassification9521981(1,492)(3)(344)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)0(42)100(41)
Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss)9521562(1,492)(3)(385)
Balance at September 30, 2024$(4,139)$557$(20)$(67)$(8)$(3,677)

All amounts in the table above are net of tax.

Three Months Ended September 30, 2023
(In millions)Unrealized Foreign Currency Translation Gains (Losses)Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Fixed Maturity SecuritiesUnrealized Gains (Losses) on DerivativesEffect of Changes in Discount Rate AssumptionsPension Liability AdjustmentTotal
Balance at June 30, 2023$(4,249)$1,978$(25)$(5,059)$17$(7,338)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassification(235)(2,349)04,19301,609
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)0(32)100(31)
Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss)(235)(2,381)14,19301,578
Balance at September 30, 2023$(4,484)$(403)$(24)$(866)$17$(5,760)

All amounts in the table above are net of tax.

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024
(In millions)Unrealized Foreign Currency Translation Gains (Losses)Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Fixed Maturity SecuritiesUnrealized Gains (Losses) on DerivativesEffect of Changes in Discount Rate AssumptionsPension Liability AdjustmentTotal
Balance at December 31, 2023$(4,069)$1,139$(22)$(2,560)$(8)$(5,520)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassification(70)(368)02,49312,056
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)0(214)20(1)(213)
Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss)(70)(582)22,49301,843
Balance at September 30, 2024$(4,139)$557$(20)$(67)$(8)$(3,677)

All amounts in the table above are net of tax.

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2023
(In millions)Unrealized Foreign Currency Translation Gains (Losses)Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Fixed Maturity SecuritiesUnrealized Gains (Losses) on DerivativesEffect of Changes in Discount Rate AssumptionsPension Liability AdjustmentTotal
Balance at December 31, 2022$(3,564)$(702)$(27)$(2,100)$(36)$(6,429)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassification(920)39801,23452764
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)0(99)301(95)
Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss)(920)29931,23453669
Balance at September 30, 2023$(4,484)$(403)$(24)$(866)$17$(5,760)

All amounts in the table above are net of tax.

The tables below summarize the amounts reclassified from each component of accumulated other comprehensive income into net earnings for the following periods.

Reclassifications Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income

(In millions)Three Months Ended September 30, 2024
Details about Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income ComponentsAmount Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive IncomeAffected Line Item in the Statements of Earnings
Unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities$53Net investment gains (losses)
(11)Tax (expense) or benefit*(1)*
$42Net of tax
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives$(1)Net investment gains (losses)
0Tax (expense) or benefit*(1)*
$(1)Net of tax
Amortization of defined benefit pension items:
Actuarial gains (losses)$0Acquisition and operating expenses*(2)*
Prior service (cost) credit0Acquisition and operating expenses*(2)*
0Tax (expense) or benefit*(1)*
$0Net of tax
Total reclassifications for the period$41Net of tax

(1) Based on 21% tax rate

(2) These accumulated other comprehensive income components are included in the computation of net periodic benefit cost (see Note 12 for additional details).

(In millions)Three Months Ended September 30, 2023
Details about Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income ComponentsAmount Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive IncomeAffected Line Item in the Statements of Earnings
Unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities$41Net investment gains (losses)
(9)Tax (expense) or benefit*(1)*
$32Net of tax
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives$(1)Net investment gains (losses)
0Tax (expense) or benefit*(1)*
$(1)Net of tax
Amortization of defined benefit pension items:
Actuarial gains (losses)$0Acquisition and operating expenses*(2)*
Prior service (cost) credit0Acquisition and operating expenses*(2)*
0Tax (expense) or benefit*(1)*
$0Net of tax
Total reclassifications for the period$31Net of tax

(1) Based on 21% tax rate

(2) These accumulated other comprehensive income components are included in the computation of net periodic benefit cost (see Note 12 for additional details).

(In millions)Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024
Details about Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income ComponentsAmount Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive IncomeAffected Line Item in the Statements of Earnings
Unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities$271Net investment gains (losses)
(57)Tax (expense) or benefit*(1)*
$214Net of tax
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives$(3)Net investment gains (losses)
1Tax (expense) or benefit*(1)*
$(2)Net of tax
Amortization of defined benefit pension items:
Actuarial gains (losses)$1Acquisition and operating expenses*(2)*
Prior service (cost) credit0Acquisition and operating expenses*(2)*
0Tax (expense) or benefit*(1)*
$1Net of tax
Total reclassifications for the period$213Net of tax

(1) Based on 21% tax rate

(2) These accumulated other comprehensive income components are included in the computation of net periodic benefit cost (see Note 12 for additional details).

(In millions)Nine Months Ended September 30, 2023
Details about Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income ComponentsAmount Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive IncomeAffected Line Item in the Statements of Earnings
Unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities$125Net investment gains (losses)
(26)Tax (expense) or benefit*(1)*
$99Net of tax
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives$(3)Net investment gains (losses)
(1)Net investment income
(4)Total before tax
1Tax (expense) or benefit*(1)*
$(3)Net of tax
Amortization of defined benefit pension items:
Actuarial gains (losses)$(1)Acquisition and operating expenses*(2)*
Prior service (cost) credit0Acquisition and operating expenses*(2)*
0Tax (expense) or benefit*(1)*
$(1)Net of tax
Total reclassifications for the period$95Net of tax

(1) Based on 21% tax rate

(2) These accumulated other comprehensive income components are included in the computation of net periodic benefit cost (see Note 12 for additional details).

11. SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION

As of September 30, 2024, the Company has outstanding share-based awards under the Aflac Incorporated Long-Term Incentive Plan (As Amended and Restated February 14, 2017), as further amended on August 9, 2022 (the Plan). Share-based awards are designed to reward employees for their long-term contributions to the Company and provide incentives for them to remain with the Company. The number and frequency of share-based awards are based on competitive practices, operating results of the Company, government regulations, and other factors.

The Plan allows for a maximum number of shares issuable over its term of 75 million shares including 38 million shares that may be awarded in respect of awards other than options or stock appreciation rights. If any awards granted under the Plan are forfeited or are terminated before being exercised or settled for any reason other than tax forfeiture, then the shares underlying the awards will again be available under the Plan.

The Plan allows awards to Company employees for incentive stock options (ISOs), non-qualifying stock options (NQSOs), restricted stock, restricted stock units, and stock appreciation rights. Non-employee directors are eligible for grants of NQSOs, restricted stock, and stock appreciation rights. As of September 30, 2024, approximately 33.6 million shares were available for future grants under this plan. The ISOs and NQSOs have a term of 10 years, and the share-based awards generally vest upon time-based conditions or time and performance-based conditions. Time-based vesting generally occurs after three years. Performance-based vesting conditions generally include the attainment of goals related to Company financial performance. As of September 30, 2024, the only performance-based awards issued and outstanding were restricted stock awards and units.

Stock options and stock appreciation rights granted under the amended Plan have an exercise price of at least the fair market value of the underlying stock on the grant date and have an expiration date no later than 10 years from the grant date. Time-based restricted stock awards, restricted stock units and stock options generally vest on a ratable basis over three years. The Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors has the discretion to determine vesting schedules.

Share-based awards granted to U.S.-based grantees are settled with authorized but unissued Company stock, while those issued to Japan-based grantees are settled with treasury shares.

The following table provides information on stock options outstanding and exercisable at September 30, 2024.

Stock Option Shares (in thousands)Weighted-Average Remaining Term (in years)Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in millions)Weighted-Average Exercise Price Per Share
Outstanding6881.8$54$33.65
Exercisable6881.85433.65

The Company received cash from the exercise of stock options in the amount of $11 million and $13 million during the first nine months of 2024 and 2023, respectively. The tax benefit realized as a result of stock option exercises and restricted stock releases was $28 million in the first nine months of 2024, compared with $20 million in the first nine months of 2023.

As of September 30, 2024, total compensation cost not yet recognized in the Company's consolidated financial statements related to restricted stock awards and units was $46 million, of which $22 million (1.8 million shares) was related to restricted stock awards and units with a performance-based vesting condition. The Company expects to recognize these amounts over a weighted-average period of approximately 1.7 years. There are no other contractual terms covering restricted stock awards once vested.

The following table summarizes restricted stock activity during the nine-month period ended September 30, 2024.

(In thousands of shares)SharesWeighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value Per Share
Restricted stock at December 31, 20232,308$62.96
Granted in 20241,27880.54
Canceled in 2024(40)74.71
Vested in 2024(1,449)47.05
Restricted stock at September 30, 20242,097$73.44

In February 2024, the Company granted 303 thousand performance-based stock awards and units, which are contingent on the achievement of the Company's financial performance metrics and its market-based conditions. On the date of grant, the Company estimated the fair value of restricted stock awards and units with market-based conditions using a Monte Carlo simulation model. The model discounts the value of the stock at the assumed vesting date based on the risk-free interest rate. Based on estimates of actual performance versus the vesting thresholds, the calculated fair value percentage payout estimate will be updated each quarter.

The Company uses third-party analyses to assist in developing the assumptions used in, as well as calibrating, a Monte Carlo simulation model. The Company is responsible for determining the assumptions used in estimating the fair value of its share-based payment awards.

For additional information on the Company's long-term share-based compensation plans and the types of share-based awards, see Note 12 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2023 Annual Report.

12. BENEFIT PLANS

The Company has funded defined benefit plans in Japan and the U.S.; however, future benefits under the U.S. plan were frozen effective January 1, 2024, which resulted in the Company recognizing a curtailment gain of $49 million in the second quarter of 2023. As part of the U.S. plan freeze, the Company offered lump sum payments to certain participants. The lump sum payments are expected to be distributed in November 2024, and the Company expects to recognize an immaterial settlement charge in the fourth quarter of 2024 due to the payments being greater than the settlement threshold. U.S. employees, including those that participated in the U.S. plan prior to the freeze, currently receive a nonelective 401(k) employer contribution.

The Company also maintains non-qualified, unfunded supplemental retirement plans that provide defined pension benefits in excess of limits imposed by federal tax law for certain Japanese, U.S. and former employees. However, future benefits under the Company's Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan and Retirement Plan for Senior Officers were frozen effective January 1, 2024, provided that actively employed participants may continue to accrue service toward eligibility for early retirement benefits or delayed early retirement benefits.

The Company provides certain health care benefits for eligible U.S. retired employees, their beneficiaries and covered dependents (other postretirement benefits). The health care plan is contributory and unfunded. Effective January 1, 2014, employees eligible for benefits included the following: (1) active employees whose age plus service, in years, equaled or exceeded 80 (rule of 80); (2) active employees who were age 55 or older and have met the 15 years of service requirement; (3) active employees who would meet the rule of 80 in the next five years; (4) active employees who were age 55 or older and who would meet the 15 years of service requirement within the next five years; and (5) current retirees. For certain employees and former employees, additional coverage is provided for all medical expenses for life.

Pension and other postretirement benefit expenses are included in acquisition and operating expenses in the consolidated statements of earnings, which includes other components of net periodic pension cost and postretirement costs (other than service costs) of $3 million and $2 million for the three-month periods and $7 million and $(41) million for the nine-month periods ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively. Total net periodic benefit cost includes the following components:

Three Months Ended September 30,
Pension BenefitsOther
JapanU.S.Postretirement Benefits
(In millions)202420232024202320242023
Components of net periodic benefit cost:
Service cost$3$4$0$0$0$0
Interest cost2291010
Expected return on plan assets(2)(2)(7)(8)00
Amortization of net actuarial (gain) loss000000
Curtailment (gain) loss000000
Net periodic benefit cost (credit)$3$4$2$2$1$0
Nine Months Ended September 30,
Pension BenefitsOther
JapanU.S.Postretirement Benefits
(In millions)202420232024202320242023
Components of net periodic benefit cost:
Service cost$10$11$0$7$0$0
Interest cost66283111
Expected return on plan assets(5)(5)(22)(26)00
Amortization of net actuarial (gain) loss00(1)001
Curtailment (gain) loss000(49)00
Net periodic benefit cost (credit)$11$12$5$(37)$1$2

During the nine months ended September 30, 2024, Aflac Japan contributed approximately $18 million (using the weighted-average yen/dollar exchange rate for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2024) to the Japanese funded defined benefit plan, and Aflac U.S. did not make a contribution to the U.S. funded defined benefit plan.

For additional information regarding the Company's Japanese and U.S. benefit plans, see Note 14 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in the 2023 Annual Report.

13. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES

In the second quarter of 2024, the Company entered into an agreement with an information technology and data services company to provide cloud hosting services for the Company. As of September 30, 2024, the agreement has a remaining term of three years with an aggregate remaining cost of $58 million.

In the second quarter of 2024, the Company renewed an outsourcing agreement with a technology and consulting company that provides for mainframe computer operations, distributed mid-range server computer operations, and related support for Aflac Japan. As of September 30, 2024, the agreement has a remaining term of four years with an aggregate remaining cost of ¥45.6 billion ($320 million using the September 30, 2024 exchange rate).

In the second quarter of 2024, the Company entered into an outsourcing agreement with a management consulting and technology services company to provide policy administration services for Aflac Japan. As of September 30, 2024, the agreement has a remaining term of four years with an aggregate remaining cost of ¥6.8 billion ($48 million using the September 30, 2024 exchange rate).

The Company is a defendant in various lawsuits and receives various regulatory inquiries considered to be in the normal course of business. Members of the Company's senior legal and financial management teams review litigation and regulatory inquiries on a quarterly and annual basis. The final results of any litigation or regulatory inquiries cannot be predicted with certainty. Although some of this litigation is pending in states where large punitive damages, bearing little relation to the actual damages sustained by plaintiffs, have been awarded in recent years, the Company believes the outcome of pending litigation will not have a material adverse effect on its financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.

See Note 3 for details on certain investment commitments.

Guaranty Fund Assessments

The U.S. insurance industry has a policyholder protection system that is monitored and regulated by state insurance departments. These life and health insurance guaranty associations are state entities (in all 50 states as well as Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia) created to protect policyholders of an insolvent insurance company. All insurance companies (with limited exceptions) licensed to sell life or health insurance in a state must be members of that state’s guaranty association. Under state guaranty association laws, certain insurance companies can be assessed (up to prescribed limits) for certain obligations to the policyholders and claimants of impaired or insolvent insurance companies that write the same line or similar lines of business.

Guaranty fund assessments for the three- and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 were immaterial.

For additional information regarding commitments and contingent liabilities, see Note 15 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in the 2023 Annual Report.

14. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

In October 2024, the Company received Bermuda Monetary Authority (BMA) approval for Aflac Re and ALIJ to enter into a coinsurance transaction whereby ALIJ will cede 30% of the liabilities associated with certain cancer insurance policies and riders to Aflac Re. The Company intends to execute this transaction in the fourth quarter of 2024. This transaction is expected to transfer approximately ¥275 billion of reserves associated with these policies and is expected to also include the transfer of assets by ALIJ to Aflac Re to support these reserves. This internal reinsurance transaction will have no financial statement impact on a consolidated basis, except for the effect of foreign currency accounting.

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