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

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

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY OF THIRD QUARTER 2022 FINANCIAL RESULTS

Aon plc is a leading global professional services firm providing a broad range of risk, health, and wealth solutions. Through our experience, global reach, and comprehensive analytics, we are better able to help clients meet rapidly changing, increasingly complex, and interconnected challenges. We are committed to accelerating innovation to address unmet and evolving client needs, so that our clients are better informed, better advised, and able to make better decisions to protect and grow their business. Management is focused on strengthening Aon and uniting the firm with one portfolio of capability enabled by data and analytics and one operating model to deliver additional insight, connectivity, and efficiency.

Financial Results

The following is a summary of our third quarter of 2022 financial results.

  • Revenue was flat at $2.7 billion compared to the prior year period due primarily to organic revenue growth of 5% and a 1% favorable impact from fiduciary investment income, offset by a 5% unfavorable impact if prior year period results were translated at current period foreign exchange rates (“foreign currency translation”) and a 1% unfavorable impact from acquisitions, divestitures, and other. For the first nine months of 2022, revenue increased $236 million, or 3%, to $9.3 billion compared to the prior year period due primarily to organic revenue growth of 7%, partially offset by a 4% unfavorable impact from foreign currency translation.

  • Operating expenses were $2.1 billion, a decrease of $1.4 billion from the prior year period. The decrease was due primarily to the $1.0 billion Termination Fee payment and certain transaction costs incurred related to terminating the combination with WTW in the prior year period (together, the “transaction costs”) and a $138 million favorable impact from foreign currency translation, partially offset by an increase in expense associated with 5% organic revenue growth and investments in long-term growth. Operating expenses for the first nine months of 2022 were $6.7 billion, a decrease of $1.3 billion compared to the prior year period primarily due to transaction costs incurred in the prior year period and a $271 million favorable impact from foreign currency translation, partially offset by an increase in expense related to 7% organic revenue growth.

  • Operating margin increased to 21.9% from (29.6)% in the prior year period. The increase was driven by a decrease in operating expenses as listed above and organic revenue growth of 5%. Operating margin for the first nine months of 2022 increased to 28.4% from 12.2% in the prior period. The increase was primarily driven by a decrease in operating expenses as listed above and organic revenue growth of 7%.

  • Due to the factors set forth above, Net income (loss) increased $1.3 billion to $418 million compared to the prior year period. For the first nine months of 2022, Net income increased $1.5 billion to $2.0 billion compared to the first nine months of 2021.

  • Diluted net income (loss) per share was $1.92 compared to $(3.99) per share for the prior year period. During the first nine months of 2022, diluted net income earnings per share was $9.00 compared to $1.72 per share for the prior period.

  • Cash flows provided by operating activities was $2.2 billion for the first nine months of 2022, an increase of $926 million from the prior year period, primarily due to the $1.0 billion Termination Fee payment and additional payments related to terminating the combination with WTW and related costs in the prior year period, and strong operating income growth, partially offset by higher receivables and incentive compensation payments following strong performance in 2021.

We focus on four key metrics not presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP that we communicate to shareholders: organic revenue growth, adjusted operating margin, adjusted diluted earnings per share, and free cash flow. These non-GAAP metrics should be viewed in addition to, not instead of, our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. The following is our measure of performance against these four metrics for the third quarter of 2022:

  • Organic revenue growth is a non-GAAP measure defined under the caption “Review of Consolidated Results — Organic Revenue Growth.” Organic revenue growth was 5% for the third quarter of 2022, driven by ongoing strong retention and net new business generation. Organic revenue growth was 7% for the first nine months of 2022, driven by ongoing strong retention and net new business generation.

  • Adjusted operating margin, a non-GAAP measure defined under the caption “Review of Consolidated Results — Adjusted Operating Margin,” was 23.1% for the third quarter of 2022 compared to 22.1% in the prior year period. The increase in adjusted operating margin primarily reflects strong organic revenue growth, partially offset by increased expenses and investments in long-term growth. For the first nine months of 2022, adjusted operating margin was

30.0% compared to 29.2% for the prior year period. The increase in adjusted operating margin primarily reflects strong organic revenue growth, partially offset by increased expenses and investments in long-term growth.

  • Adjusted diluted earnings per share, a non-GAAP measure defined under the caption “Review of Consolidated Results — Adjusted Diluted Earnings per Share,” was $2.02 per share for the third quarter of 2022 and $9.51 per share for the first nine months of 2022, compared to $1.74 and $8.31 per share for the respective prior year periods.

  • Free cash flow, a non-GAAP measure defined under the caption “Review of Consolidated Results — Free Cash Flow,” increased in the first nine months of 2022 by $902 million from the prior year period, to $2.1 billion, reflecting an increase in cash flows from operations, partially offset by a $24 million increase in capital expenditures.

COVID-19 PANDEMIC

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted, and may continue to result, in significant economic disruption and volatility, although much progress has been made in the development and distribution of vaccines, contributing to overall improved economic conditions globally. We continue to closely monitor the situation and its impacts on our business. We continue to be fully operational and in compliance with governmental restrictions considering the impact on health and safety of our colleagues, their families, and our clients. We continue to deploy business continuity protocols and our Smart Working strategy to facilitate remote working capabilities to ensure the health and safety of our colleagues, to deliver results on behalf of clients, and to comply with public health and travel guidelines and restrictions.

As the situation continues to evolve, the scale and duration of the disruption and impact of COVID-19 cannot be predicted, and COVID-19 may adversely affect our business and results of operations. However, for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2022 the impacts of COVID-19 on our business results have lessened and we have seen overall strength across the firm. We continue to monitor the situation closely.

ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL, AND GOVERNANCE

For many companies, the management of ESG risks and opportunities has become increasingly important, and ESG-related challenges, such as extreme weather events, supply chain disruptions and public health crises continue to create volatility and uncertainty for our clients. Aon offers a wide range of risk assessment, consulting and advisory solutions designed to address and manage ESG issues for clients, and to enable our clients to create more sustainable value. We view ESG risks as presenting an important opportunity for Aon to work together as one firm to address client needs and improve our impact on ESG matters.

RUSSIAN WAR IN UKRAINE

The Russian war in Ukraine, initiated on February 24, 2022, has resulted in certain sanctions being imposed by jurisdictions in which we operate, including the U.S., the E.U., and the U.K., on Russia and certain Russian companies and individuals. The Company’s operations in Russia and Ukraine continue to represent an immaterial portion of the Company’s global operations and the war has not had a material impact on the Company’s global operations as of September 30, 2022.

The Company continues to monitor the potential impacts on the business and the ancillary impacts that the military conflict could have on other global operations.

REVIEW OF CONSOLIDATED RESULTS

Summary of Results

Our consolidated results are as follows (in millions):

Three Months Ended September 30,Nine Months Ended September 30,
2022202120222021
Revenue
Total revenue$2,696$2,702$9,349$9,113
Expenses
Compensation and benefits1,5321,8354,9385,182
Information technology133130371359
Premises7198216251
Depreciation of fixed assets3756115138
Amortization and impairment of intangible assets343687112
Other general expense2991,3489651,955
Total operating expenses2,1063,5036,6927,997
Operating income (loss)590(801)2,6571,116
Interest income73159
Interest expense(103)(80)(296)(237)
Other income (expense)1610717
Income (loss) before income taxes510(868)2,447895
Income tax expense9223467460
Net income (loss)418(891)1,980435
Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests1094843
Net income (loss) attributable to Aon shareholders$408$(900)$1,932$392
Diluted net income (loss) per share attributable to Aon shareholders$1.92$(3.99)$9.00$1.72
Weighted average ordinary shares outstanding - diluted212.6225.4214.6227.7

Revenue

Total revenue was flat in the third quarter of 2022 compared to the third quarter of 2021. This reflects organic revenue growth of 5% and a 1% favorable impact from fiduciary investment income, offset by a 5% unfavorable impact from foreign currency translation and a 1% unfavorable impact from acquisitions, divestitures, and other. For the first nine months of 2022, revenue increased by $236 million, or 3%, compared to the prior year period. This increase reflects organic revenue growth of 7%, partially offset by a 4% unfavorable impact from foreign currency translation.

Commercial Risk Solutions revenue decreased $23 million, or 2%, to $1.5 billion in the third quarter of 2022, compared to $1.5 billion in the third quarter of 2021. Organic revenue growth was 5% in the third quarter of 2022, driven by strong growth across most major geographies, reflecting strong retention, new business generation, and management of the renewal book portfolio. Strength in retail brokerage was highlighted by double-digit growth in the UK, Asia, and Latin America, driven by continued strength in core P&C. U.S. retail brokerage was pressured primarily by transaction solutions, which declined primarily due to lower external deal volume. On average globally, exposures and pricing were modestly positive, resulting in a modestly positive market impact. For the first nine months of 2022, revenue increased $105 million, or 2%, to $4.9 billion, compared to $4.8 billion in the first nine months of 2021. Organic revenue growth was 7% in the first nine months of 2022, driven by growth across every major geography, including double-digit growth in EMEA, Asia and the Pacific, and Latin America, driven by strong retention and management of the renewal book portfolio. Results also reflect strong growth in project-related work, partially offset by a decline in transaction solutions primarily due to lower external deal volume. On average globally, exposures and pricing were modestly positive, resulting in a modestly positive market impact overall.

Reinsurance Solutions revenue increased $43 million, or 12%, to $396 million in the third quarter of 2022, compared to $353 million in the third quarter of 2021. Organic revenue growth was 7% in the third quarter of 2022, driven by strong growth in treaty, reflecting strong retention and new business generation, as well as solid growth in both facultative placements and the

Strategy and Technology Group. For the first nine months of 2022 revenue increased $134 million, or 8%, to $1.9 billion, compared to $1.8 billion in the first nine months of 2021. Organic revenue growth was 7% in the first nine months of 2022, driven by continued net new business generation in treaty, as well as solid growth in both facultative placements and the Strategy and Technology Group. Market impact was modestly positive on results for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2022. The majority of revenue in our treaty portfolio is recurring in nature and is recorded in connection with the major renewal periods that take place throughout the first half of the year, while the second half of the year is largely driven by facultative placements and capital markets that are more transactional in nature.

Health Solutions revenue decreased $3 million, or 1%, to $494 million in the third quarter of 2022, compared to $497 million in the third quarter of 2021. Organic revenue growth was 5% in the third quarter of 2022, driven by double-digit growth in Human Capital, driven by data and advisory solutions. Results also reflect growth globally in core health and benefits brokerage, driven by strong retention and management of the renewal book portfolio, partially offset by a negative impact from the timing of certain revenues, as described in the second quarter and prior year period. For the first nine months of 2022, revenue increased $43 million, or 3%, to $1.5 billion, compared to $1.5 billion in the first nine months of 2021. Organic revenue growth was 8% in the first nine months of 2022, reflecting growth globally in core health and benefits brokerage, driven by strong retention and management of the renewal book portfolio. Strength in health and benefits included growth in advisory work related to wellbeing and resilience. Results also reflect double-digit growth in Human Capital, driven by data and advisory solutions.

Wealth Solutions revenue decreased $25 million, or 7%, to $326 million in the third quarter of 2022, compared to $351 million in the third quarter of 2021. Organic revenue growth was 2% overall in the third quarter of 2022, driven by growth in Retirement, reflecting higher utilization rates and project work related to pension de-risking and ongoing impacts of regulatory changes. In Investments, a decrease in AUM-based delegated investment management revenue was partially offset by growth in project-related work. For the first nine months of 2022, revenue decreased $48 million, or 5%, to $1.0 billion, compared to $1.1 billion in the first nine months of 2021. Organic revenue growth was 2% in the first nine months of 2022, reflecting growth in Retirement, primarily from higher utilization rates and project-related work. In Investments, growth in project-related work was offset by a decrease in AUM-based delegated investment management revenue.

Compensation and Benefits

Compensation and benefits expenses decreased $303 million, or 17%, in the third quarter of 2022 compared to the third quarter of 2021. This decrease was primarily driven by a $245 million decrease in transaction costs and a $106 million favorable impact from foreign currency translation, partially offset by an increase in expense associated with 5% organic revenue growth. For the first nine months of 2022, compensation and benefits decreased $244 million, or 5%, compared to the first nine months of 2021. The decrease was primarily driven by a $245 million decrease in transaction costs and a $214 million favorable impact from foreign currency translation, partially offset by an increase in expense associated with 7% organic revenue growth.

Information Technology

Information technology expenses, which represent costs associated with supporting and maintaining our infrastructure, increased $3 million, or 2%, in the third quarter of 2022 compared to the third quarter of 2021. This increase was primarily driven by an increase in expense associated with 5% organic revenue growth, partially offset by a $17 million decrease in transaction costs. For the first nine months of 2022, Information technology increased $12 million, or 3%, compared to the first nine months of 2021. The increase was primarily driven by an increase in expense associated with 7% organic revenue growth, partially offset by a $17 million decrease in transaction costs.

Premises

Premises expenses, which represent the cost of occupying offices in various locations throughout the world, decreased $27 million, or 28%, in the third quarter of 2022 compared to the third quarter of 2021. This decrease was primarily driven by a $22 million decrease in transaction costs and an $8 million favorable impact from foreign currency translation. For the first nine months of 2022, Premises expenses decreased $35 million, or 14%, compared to the first nine months of 2021. The decrease was primarily driven by a $22 million decrease in transaction costs and a $14 million favorable impact from foreign currency translation.

Depreciation of Fixed Assets

Depreciation of fixed assets primarily relates to software, leasehold improvements, furniture, fixtures, and equipment, computer equipment, buildings, and automobiles. Depreciation of fixed assets decreased $19 million, or 34%, in the third quarter of 2022 compared to the third quarter of 2021. This decrease was primarily driven by a $16 million decrease in

transaction costs. For the first nine months of 2022, Depreciation of fixed assets decreased $23 million, or 17%, compared to the first nine months of 2021. The decrease was primarily driven by a $16 million decrease in transaction costs.

Amortization and Impairment of Intangible Assets

Amortization and impairment of intangible assets primarily relates to finite-lived tradenames and customer-related, contract-based, and technology assets. Amortization and impairment of intangible assets decreased $2 million, or 6%, in the third quarter of 2022 compared to the third quarter of 2021. For the first nine months of 2022, Amortization and impairment of intangibles decreased $25 million, or 22%, compared to the first nine months of 2021.

Other General Expense

Other general expense in the third quarter of 2022 decreased $1,049 million, or 78%, compared to the third quarter of 2021 due primarily to a decrease in transaction costs, partially offset by an increase in expense associated with 5% organic revenue growth, including an increase in travel and entertainment expense. For the first nine months of 2022, Other general expense decreased $990 million, or 51%, compared to the prior year period due primarily to a decrease in transaction costs, partially offset by an increase in expense associated with 7% organic revenue growth, including an increase in travel and entertainment expense.

Interest Income

Interest income represents income earned on operating cash balances and other income-producing investments. It does not include interest earned on funds held on behalf of clients. During the third quarter of 2022, Interest income was $7 million, compared to $3 million in the third quarter of 2021. For the first nine months of 2022, Interest income was $15 million, compared to $9 million in the first nine months of 2021.

Interest Expense

Interest expense, which represents the cost of our debt obligations, was $103 million for the third quarter of 2022, an increase of $23 million, or 29%, from the third quarter of 2021. The increase primarily reflects an increase in total debt. For the first nine months of 2022, Interest expense was $296 million, an increase of $59 million, or 25%, from the prior year period. The increase primarily reflects an increase in total debt.

Other Income (Expense)

Other income was $16 million for the third quarter of 2022, compared to $10 million for the third quarter of 2021. Other income for the third quarter of 2022 primarily reflects net gains due to the favorable impact of exchange rates on the remeasurement of assets and liabilities in non-functional currencies. Other income was $71 million for the first nine months of 2022, compared to $7 million for the first nine months of 2021. Other income includes $53 million of gains from the disposal of businesses in Commercial Risk Solutions and Wealth Solutions, compared to $2 million in the prior year period.

Income (Loss) before Income Taxes

Due to the factors discussed above, Income (loss) before income taxes for the third quarter of 2022 was $510 million, a 159% increase from $(868) million in the third quarter of 2021, and Income before income taxes was $2,447 million for the first nine months of 2022, a 173% increase from $895 million for the first nine months of 2021.

Income Taxes

The effective tax rates on Net income (loss) were 18.0% and (2.6)% for the third quarter of 2022 and 2021, respectively. The effective tax rates on Net income were 19.1% and 51.4% for the first nine months ended September 30, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2022, the quarter-to-date tax rate was primarily driven by the geographical distribution of income and certain discrete items. The year-to-date tax rate was primarily driven by the geographical distribution of income and certain discrete items, primarily the favorable impacts of share-based payments.

For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2021, the quarter-to-date tax rate was primarily driven by the impact of the Termination Fee. The year-to-date tax rate was primarily driven by the Termination Fee, the U.K. tax rate increase, and the tax benefit of share-based payments. The U.K. enacted legislation on June 10, 2021 which increased the corporate income tax rate from 19% to 25% with effect from April 1, 2023 and we remeasured our U.K. deferred tax assets and liabilities accordingly.

Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Aon Shareholders

Net income (loss) attributable to Aon shareholders for the third quarter of 2022 increased to $408 million, or $1.92 per diluted share, from $(900) million, or $(3.99) per diluted share, in the prior year period. Net income attributable to Aon shareholders for the first nine months of 2022 increased to $1.9 billion, or $9.00 per diluted share, from $392 million, or $1.72 per diluted share, in the prior year period.

Non-GAAP Metrics

In our discussion of consolidated results, we sometimes refer to certain non-GAAP supplemental information derived from consolidated financial information specifically related to organic revenue growth, adjusted operating margin, adjusted diluted earnings per share, adjusted net income attributable to Aon shareholders, adjusted net income per share, other income (expense), as adjusted, adjusted effective tax rate, free cash flow, and the impact of foreign exchange rate fluctuations on operating results. Management believes that these measures are important to make meaningful period-to-period comparisons and that this supplemental information is helpful to investors. Management also uses these measures to assess operating performance and performance for compensation. This non-GAAP supplemental information should be viewed in addition to, not instead of, our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Organic Revenue Growth

We use supplemental information related to organic revenue growth to help us and our investors evaluate business growth from existing operations. Organic revenue growth is a non-GAAP measure that includes the impact of certain intercompany activity and excludes the impact of changes in foreign exchange rates, fiduciary investment income, acquisitions, divestitures, transfers between revenue lines, and gains or losses on derivatives accounted for as hedges. This supplemental information related to organic revenue growth represents a measure not in accordance with U.S. GAAP and should be viewed in addition to, not instead of, our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. Industry peers provide similar supplemental information about their revenue performance, although they may not make identical adjustments. A reconciliation of this non-GAAP measure to the reported Total revenue is as follows (in millions, except percentages):

Three Months Ended September 30,
20222021% ChangeLess: Currency Impact (1)Less: Fiduciary Investment Income (2)Less: Acquisitions, Divestitures & OtherOrganic Revenue Growth (3)
Revenue
Commercial Risk Solutions$1,482$1,505(2)%(5)%1%(3)%5%
Reinsurance Solutions39635312(4)367
Health Solutions494497(1)(4)—(2)5
Wealth Solutions326351(7)(6)—(3)2
Eliminations(2)(4)N/AN/AN/AN/AN/A
Total revenue$2,696$2,702—%(5)%1%(1)%5%
Nine Months Ended September 30,
20222021% ChangeLess: Currency Impact (1)Less: Fiduciary Investment Income (2)Less: Acquisitions, Divestitures & OtherOrganic Revenue Growth (3)
Revenue
Commercial Risk Solutions$4,893$4,7882%(4)%—%(1)%7%
Reinsurance Solutions1,9091,7758(3)137
Health Solutions1,5461,5033(3)—(2)8
Wealth Solutions1,0141,062(5)(4)—(3)2
Eliminations(13)(15)N/AN/AN/AN/AN/A
Total revenue$9,349$9,1133%(4)%—%—%7%

(1)Currency impact represents the effect on prior year period results if they were translated at current period foreign exchange rates.

(2)Fiduciary investment income for the three months ended September 30, 2022 and 2021, was $26 million and $2 million, respectively. Fiduciary investment income for the nine months ended September 30, 2022 and 2021, was $35 million and $6 million, respectively.

(3)Organic revenue growth includes the impact of certain intercompany activity and excludes the impact of changes in foreign exchange rates, fiduciary investment income, acquisitions, divestitures, transfers between revenue lines, and gains or losses on derivatives accounted for as hedges.

Adjusted Operating Margin

We use adjusted operating margin as a non-GAAP measure of our core operating performance. Adjusted operating margin excludes the impact of certain items, as listed below, because management does not believe these expenses are the best indicators of our core operating performance. This supplemental information related to adjusted operating margin represents a measure not in accordance with U.S. GAAP and should be viewed in addition to, not instead of, our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

A reconciliation of this non-GAAP measure to the reported operating margin is as follows (in millions, except percentages):

Three Months Ended September 30,Nine Months Ended September 30,
2022202120222021
Revenue$2,696$2,702$9,349$9,113
Operating income (loss) - as reported$590$(801)$2,657$1,116
Amortization and impairment of intangible assets343687112
Transaction costs and other charges related to the combination and resulting termination (1)—1,363—1,436
Legal settlements (2)——58—
Operating income - as adjusted$624$598$2,802$2,664
Operating margin - as reported21.9%(29.6)%28.4%12.2%
Operating margin - as adjusted23.1%22.1%30.0%29.2%

(1)As part of the proposed combination with WTW, which was subsequently terminated in the third quarter of 2021, certain transaction costs were incurred by the Company through the third quarter of 2021. These costs included advisory, legal, accounting, valuation, and other professional or consulting fees related to the combination, including planned divestitures, some of which were terminated, as well as certain compensation expenses and expenses related to further steps on our Aon United operating model as a result of the termination. Additionally, this includes the $1 billion Termination Fee paid in connection with the termination of the combination.

(2)In connection with certain legal settlements reached, a $58 million charge was recognized in the second quarter of 2022.

Adjusted Diluted Earnings per Share

We use adjusted diluted earnings per share as a non-GAAP measure of our core operating performance. Adjusted diluted earnings per share excludes the items identified above, along with certain pension settlements, when applicable, and related income taxes, because management does not believe these expenses are representative of our core earnings. This supplemental information related to adjusted diluted earnings per share represents a measure not in accordance with U.S. GAAP and should be viewed in addition to, not instead of, our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. A reconciliation of this non-GAAP measure to reported diluted net income (loss) per share is as follows (in millions, except per share data and percentages):

Three Months Ended September 30, 2022
Non-GAAP
U.S. GAAPAdjustmentsAdjusted
Operating income$590$34$624
Interest income7—7
Interest expense(103)—(103)
Other income (expense)16—16
Income before income taxes51034544
Income tax expense (1)9212104
Net income41822440
Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests10—10
Net income attributable to Aon shareholders$408$22$430
Diluted net income per share attributable to Aon shareholders$1.92$0.10$2.02
Weighted average ordinary shares outstanding - diluted212.6—212.6
Effective tax rates (1)18.0%19.1%
Three Months Ended September 30, 2021
Non-GAAP
U.S. GAAPAdjustmentsAdjusted
Operating income (loss)$(801)$1,399$598
Interest income3—3
Interest expense(80)—(80)
Other income (expense)10—10
Income (loss) before income taxes(868)1,399531
Income tax expense (1)23104127
Net income (loss)(891)1,295404
Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests9—9
Net income (loss) attributable to Aon shareholders$(900)$1,295$395
Diluted net income (loss) per share attributable to Aon shareholders$(3.99)$5.73$1.74
Weighted average ordinary shares outstanding - diluted (2)225.41.5226.9
Effective tax rates (1)(2.6)%23.9%
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2022
Non-GAAP
U.S. GAAPAdjustmentsAdjusted
Operating income$2,657$145$2,802
Interest income15—15
Interest expense(296)—(296)
Other income (expense)71—71
Income before income taxes2,4471452,592
Income tax expense (1)46737504
Net income1,9801082,088
Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests48—48
Net income attributable to Aon shareholders$1,932$108$2,040
Diluted net income per share attributable to Aon shareholders$9.00$0.51$9.51
Weighted average ordinary shares outstanding - diluted214.6—214.6
Effective tax rates (1)19.1%19.4%
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2021
Non-GAAP
U.S. GAAPAdjustmentsAdjusted
Operating income$1,116$1,548$2,664
Interest income9—9
Interest expense(237)—(237)
Other income (expense)7—7
Income before income taxes8951,5482,443
Income tax expense (1)46047507
Net income4351,5011,936
Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests43—43
Net income attributable to Aon shareholders$392$1,501$1,893
Diluted net income per share attributable to Aon shareholders$1.72$6.59$8.31
Weighted average ordinary shares outstanding - diluted (2)227.7—227.7
Effective tax rates (1)51.4%20.8%

(1)Adjusted items are generally taxed at the estimated annual effective tax rate, except for the applicable tax impact associated with certain transaction costs and other charges related to the combination and resulting termination and certain legal and pension settlements, which are adjusted at the related jurisdictional rate. In addition, income tax expense for the nine months ended September 30, 2021 was adjusted to exclude the impact of remeasuring the net deferred tax liabilities in the U.K. as a result of the corporate income tax rate increase enacted in the second quarter of 2021.

(2)The dilutive effect of potentially issuable shares was excluded from the calculation of the U.S. GAAP Weighted average ordinary shares outstanding for the three months ended September 30, 2021 due to the net loss recognized in the period.

Free Cash Flow

We use free cash flow, defined as cash flow provided by operations less capital expenditures, as a non-GAAP measure of our core operating performance and cash-generating capabilities of our business operations. This supplemental information related to free cash flow represents a measure not in accordance with U.S. GAAP and should be viewed in addition to, not instead of, our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. The use of this non-GAAP measure does not imply or represent the residual cash flow for discretionary expenditures. A reconciliation of this non-GAAP measure to the reported Cash provided by operating activities is as follows (in millions):

Nine Months Ended September 30,
20222021
Cash provided by operating activities$2,177$1,251
Capital expenditures(126)(102)
Free cash flow$2,051$1,149

Impact of Foreign Exchange Rate Fluctuations

Because we conduct business in over 120 countries and sovereignties, foreign exchange rate fluctuations may have a significant impact on our business. Foreign exchange rate movements may be significant and may distort true period-to-period comparisons of changes in revenue or pretax income. Therefore, to give financial statement users meaningful information about our operations, we have provided an illustration of the impact of foreign currency exchange rates on our financial results. The methodology used to calculate this impact isolates the impact of the change in currencies between periods by translating the prior year quarter’s revenue, expenses, and net income using the current quarter’s foreign exchange rates.

Currency fluctuations had a favorable impact of $0.04 and an unfavorable impact of $0.24 on net income per diluted share during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2022, respectively, if prior year period results were translated at current period foreign exchange rates. Currency fluctuations had a favorable impact of $0.02 and a favorable impact of $0.13 on net income (loss) per diluted share during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2021, respectively, if 2020 results were translated at 2021 rates.

Currency fluctuations had an unfavorable impact of $0.05 and an unfavorable impact of $0.34 on adjusted diluted earnings per share during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2022, respectively, if prior year period results were translated at current period foreign exchange rates. Currency fluctuations had a favorable impact of $0.02 and a favorable impact of $0.24

on adjusted diluted earnings per share during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2021, respectively, if 2020 results were translated at 2021 rates. These translations are performed for comparative and illustrative purposes only and do not impact the accounting policies or practices for amounts included in our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

LIQUIDITY AND FINANCIAL CONDITION

Liquidity

Executive Summary

We believe that our balance sheet and strong cash flow provide us with adequate liquidity. Our primary sources of liquidity in the near-term include cash flows provided by operations and available cash reserves; primary sources of liquidity in the long-term include cash flows provided by operations, debt capacity available under our credit facilities, and capital markets. Our primary uses of liquidity are operating expenses and investments, capital expenditures, acquisitions, share repurchases, pension obligations, and shareholder dividends. We believe that cash flows from operations, available credit facilities, available cash reserves, and the capital markets will be sufficient to meet our liquidity needs, including principal and interest payments on debt obligations, capital expenditures, pension contributions, and anticipated working capital requirements in the next twelve months and over the long-term. Although there continues to be uncertainties around future economic conditions due to COVID-19, we have largely returned to normal levels of liquidity and will continue to monitor our needs as economic conditions change.

Cash on our balance sheet includes funds available for general corporate purposes, as well as amounts restricted as to their use. Funds held on behalf of clients in a fiduciary capacity are segregated and shown together with uncollected insurance premiums in Fiduciary assets in our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Position, with a corresponding amount in Fiduciary liabilities.

In our capacity as an insurance broker or agent, we collect premiums from insureds and, after deducting our commission, remit the premiums to the respective insurance underwriters. We also collect claims or refunds from underwriters on behalf of insureds, which are then returned to the insureds. Unremitted insurance premiums and claims are held by us in a fiduciary capacity. The levels of funds held on behalf of clients and liabilities can fluctuate significantly depending on when we collect the premiums, claims, and refunds, make payments to underwriters and insureds, and collect funds from clients and make payments on their behalf, and upon the impact of foreign currency movements. Funds held on behalf of clients, because of their nature, are generally invested in very liquid securities with highly rated, credit-worthy financial institutions. Fiduciary assets include funds held on behalf of clients comprised of cash and cash equivalents of $6.5 billion and $6.1 billion at September 30, 2022 and December 31, 2021, respectively, and fiduciary receivables of $8.2 billion and $8.3 billion at September 30, 2022 and December 31, 2021, respectively. While we earn investment income on the funds held in cash and money market funds, the funds cannot be used for general corporate purposes.

We maintain multicurrency cash pools with third-party banks in which various Aon entities participate. Individual Aon entities are permitted to overdraw on their individual accounts provided the overall global balance does not fall below zero. At September 30, 2022, non-U.S. cash balances of one or more entities may have been negative; however, the overall balance was positive.

The following table summarizes our Cash and cash equivalents, Short-term investments, and Fiduciary assets as of September 30, 2022 (in millions):

Statement of Financial Position Classification
Asset TypeCash and Cash EquivalentsShort-term InvestmentsFiduciary AssetsTotal
Certificates of deposit, bank deposits, or time deposits$692$—$3,890$4,582
Money market funds—2512,6132,864
Cash, Short-term investments, and funds held on behalf of clients6922516,5037,446
Fiduciary receivables——8,1968,196
Total$692$251$14,699$15,642

Cash and cash equivalents and funds held on behalf of clients increased $550 million in 2022. A summary of our cash flows provided by and used for operating, investing, and financing activities is as follows (in millions):

Nine Months Ended September 30,
20222021
Cash provided by operating activities$2,177$1,251
Cash used for investing activities$(209)$(116)
Cash used for financing activities$(339)$(594)
Effect of exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents and funds held on behalf of clients$(1,079)$(93)

Operating Activities

Net cash provided by operating activities during the nine months ended September 30, 2022 increased $926 million, or 74%, from the prior year period to $2,177 million. This amount represents Net income reported, generally adjusted for the following primary drivers including gains from sales of businesses, losses from sales of businesses, share-based compensation expense, depreciation expense, amortization and impairments, and other non-cash income and expenses, as well as changes in working capital that relate primarily to the timing of payments of accounts payable and accrued liabilities and collection of receivables.

Pension Contributions

Pension contributions were $50 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2022, as compared to $74 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2021. For the remainder of 2022, we expect to contribute approximately $24 million in cash to our pension plans, including contributions to non-U.S. pension plans, which are subject to changes in foreign exchange rates.

Investing Activities

Cash flow used for investing activities was $209 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2022, an increase of $93 million compared to $116 million of Cash flow used for investing activities in the prior year period. Generally, the primary drivers of cash flow used for investing activities are acquisitions of businesses, purchases of short-term investments, capital expenditures, and payments for investments. Generally, the primary drivers of cash flow provided by investing activities are sales of businesses, sales of short-term investments, and proceeds from investments. The gains and losses corresponding to cash flows provided by proceeds from investments and used for payments for investments are primarily recognized in Other income (expense) in our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income.

Short-term Investments

Short-term investments decreased $41 million as compared to December 31, 2021. As disclosed in Note 14 “Fair Value Measurements and Financial Instruments” of our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements contained in Part I, Item 1 of this report, the majority of our investments carried at fair value are money market funds. These money market funds are held throughout the world with various financial institutions. We are not aware of any market liquidity issues that would materially impact the fair value of these investments.

Acquisitions and Dispositions of Businesses

During the first nine months of 2022, we completed four acquisitions for total consideration transferred of $159 million. Cash consideration, net of cash and funds held on behalf of clients acquired was $154 million. During the first nine months of 2022, we completed three dispositions. We had a net cash inflow related to dispositions of $80 million for the first nine months of 2022. The pretax gains recognized in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income related to dispositions were $6 million and $53 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2022, respectively.

During the first nine months of 2021, we completed one acquisition and three businesses were sold. The pretax gains and losses recognized in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income related to dispositions were insignificant related to prior year acquisitions.

Capital Expenditures

Our additions to fixed assets, including capitalized software, which amounted to $126 million and $102 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2022 and 2021, respectively, primarily relate to the refurbishing and modernizing of office facilities, software development costs, and computer equipment purchases, much of which supports our flexible Smart Working strategy.

Financing Activities

Cash flow used for financing activities during the nine months ended September 30, 2022 was $339 million, a decrease of $255 million compared to $594 million of Cash flow used for financing activities in the prior year period. Generally, the primary drivers of cash flow used for financing activities are repayments of debt, share repurchases, issuances of shares for employee benefit plans, dividends paid to shareholders, transactions with noncontrolling interests, and other financing activities, such as collection of or payments for deferred consideration in connection with prior year business acquisitions and divestitures. Generally, the primary drivers of cash flow provided by financing activities are issuances of debt and changes in net fiduciary liabilities.

Share Repurchase Program

We have a share repurchase program authorized by our Board of Directors. The Repurchase Program was established in April 2012 with $5.0 billion in authorized repurchases, and was increased by $5.0 billion in authorized repurchases in each of November 2014, June 2017, and November 2020, and by $7.5 billion in February 2022 for a total of $27.5 billion in repurchase authorizations.

The following table summarizes our share repurchase activity (in millions, except per share data):

Three Months Ended September 30,Nine Months Ended September 30,
2022202120222021
Shares repurchased4.24.48.75.7
Average price per share$284.39$283.38$289.14$272.11
Repurchase costs recorded to accumulated deficit$1,200$1,251$2,528$1,543

At September 30, 2022, the remaining authorized amount for share repurchases under the Repurchase Program was approximately $6.7 billion. Under the Repurchase Program, the Company has repurchased a total of 158.4 million shares for an aggregate cost of approximately $20.8 billion. For further information regarding the Repurchase Program, see Part II, Item 2 of this report.

Borrowings

Total debt at September 30, 2022 was $10.8 billion, an increase of $1.4 billion compared to December 31, 2021. Further, commercial paper activity during the nine months ended September 30, 2022 and 2021 is as follows (in millions):

Three Months Ended September 30,Nine Months Ended September 30,
2022202120222021
Total issuances (1)$2,979$1,074$10,680$2,174
Total repayments(2,996)(924)(11,106)(2,024)
Net repayments$(17)$150$(426)$150

(1)The proceeds of the commercial paper issuances are generally used for short-term working capital needs.

On September 12, 2022, Aon Corporation, a Delaware corporation, and Aon Global Holdings plc, a public limited company formed under the laws of England and Wales, both wholly owned subsidiaries of the Company, co-issued $500 million of 5.00% Senior Notes due September 2032. The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the offering for general corporate purposes.

On February 28, 2022, Aon Corporation and Aon Global Holdings plc co-issued $600 million of 2.85% Senior Notes due May 2027 and $900 million of 3.90% Senior Notes due February 2052. The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the offering for general corporate purposes.

On December 2, 2021, Aon Corporation and Aon Global Holdings plc co-issued $500 million aggregate principal amount of 2.60% Senior Notes due December 2031. The Company intends to use the net proceeds of the offering for general corporate purposes.

In November 2021, the Company’s $500 million 2.20% Senior Notes due November 2022 were classified as Short-term debt and current portion of long-term debt in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Position as the date of maturity was within one year.

On August 23, 2021, Aon Corporation and Aon Global Holdings plc co-issued $400 million of 2.05% Senior Notes due August 2031 and $600 million of 2.90% Senior Notes due August 2051. The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the offering for general corporate purposes.

On January 13, 2021, Aon Global Limited issued an irrevocable notice of redemption to holders of its 2.80% Senior Notes for the redemption of all $400 million outstanding aggregate principal amount of the notes, which were set to mature in March 2021 and classified as Short-term debt and current portion of long-term debt as of December 31, 2020. The redemption date was on February 16, 2021 and resulted in an insignificant loss due to extinguishment.

Other Liquidity Matters

Distributable Profits

We are required under Irish law to have available “distributable profits” to make share repurchases or pay dividends to shareholders. Distributable profits are created through the earnings of the Irish parent company and, among other methods, through intercompany dividends or a reduction in share capital approved by the High Court of Ireland. Distributable profits are not linked to a U.S. GAAP reported amount (e.g., Retained earnings (accumulated deficit)). As of September 30, 2022 and December 31, 2021, we had distributable profits in excess of $29.8 billion and $32.7 billion, respectively. We believe that we will have sufficient distributable profits for the foreseeable future.

Credit Facilities

We expect cash generated by operations for 2022 to be sufficient to service our debt and contractual obligations, finance capital expenditures, and continue to pay dividends to our shareholders. Although cash from operations is expected to be sufficient to service these activities, we have the ability to access the commercial paper markets or borrow under our credit facilities to accommodate any timing differences in cash flows. Additionally, under current market conditions, we believe that we could access capital markets to obtain debt financing for longer-term funding, if needed.

As of September 30, 2022, we had two primary committed credit facilities outstanding: our $1.0 billion multi-currency U.S. credit facility expiring in September 2026 and our $750 million multi-currency U.S. credit facility expiring in October 2023. In aggregate, these two facilities provide approximately $1.8 billion in available credit. Effective October 19, 2022, the expiration date of the $750 million multi-currency U.S. credit facility was extended one year to October 2024.

Each of these primary committed credit facilities includes customary representations, warranties, and covenants, including financial covenants that require us to maintain specified ratios of adjusted consolidated EBITDA to consolidated interest expense and consolidated debt to consolidated adjusted EBITDA, tested quarterly. At September 30, 2022, we did not have borrowings under either facility, and we were in compliance with the financial covenants and all other covenants contained therein during the rolling 12 months ended September 30, 2022.

Shelf Registration Statement

On May 12, 2020, we filed a shelf registration statement with the SEC, registering the offer and sale from time to time of an indeterminate amount of, among other securities, debt securities, preference shares, class A ordinary shares and convertible securities. Our ability to access the market as a source of liquidity is dependent on investor demand, market conditions, and other factors.

Rating Agency Ratings

The major rating agencies’ ratings of our debt at October 28, 2022 appear in the table below.

Ratings
Senior Long-term DebtCommercial PaperOutlook
Standard & Poor’sA-A-2Stable
Moody’s Investor ServicesBaa2P-2Stable
Fitch, Inc.BBB+F-2Stable

Letters of Credit and Other Guarantees

We have entered into a number of arrangements whereby our performance on certain obligations is guaranteed by a third party through the issuance of a letter of credit. We had total LOCs outstanding of approximately $69 million at September 30, 2022, compared to $75 million at December 31, 2021. These LOCs cover the beneficiaries related to certain of our U.S. and Canadian non-qualified pension plan schemes and secure deductible retentions for our own workers compensation program. We

also have obtained LOCs to cover contingent payments for taxes and other business obligations to third parties, and other guarantees for miscellaneous purposes at our international subsidiaries.

We have certain contractual contingent guarantees for premium payments owed by clients to certain insurance companies. The maximum exposure with respect to such contractual contingent guarantees was approximately $132 million at September 30, 2022, compared to $153 million at December 31, 2021.

Guarantee of Registered Securities

In connection with the Ireland Reorganization, on April 1, 2020 Aon plc and Aon Global Holdings plc entered into various agreements pursuant to which they agreed to guarantee the obligations of Aon Corporation arising under issued and outstanding debt securities, which were previously guaranteed solely by Aon Global Limited and the obligations of Aon Global Limited arising under issued and outstanding debt securities, which were previously guaranteed solely by Aon Corporation. Those agreements included: (1) Second Amended and Restated Indenture, dated April 1, 2020, among Aon Corporation, Aon Global Limited, Aon plc, and Aon Global Holdings plc and the Trustee (amending and restating the Amended and Restated Indenture, dated April 2, 2012, among Aon Corporation, Aon Global Limited and the Trustee); (2) Amended and Restated Indenture, dated April 1, 2020, among Aon Corporation, Aon Global Limited, Aon plc, Aon Global Holdings plc and the Trustee (amending and restating the Indenture, dated December 12, 2012, among Aon Corporation, Aon Global Limited plc and the Trustee); (3) Second Amended and Restated Indenture, dated April 1, 2020, among Aon Corporation, Aon Global Limited, Aon plc, Aon Global Holdings plc and the Trustee (amending and restating the Amended and Restated Indenture, dated May 20, 2015, among Aon Corporation, Aon Global Limited and the Trustee); (4) Amended and Restated Indenture, dated April 1, 2020, among Aon Corporation, Aon Global Limited, Aon plc, Aon Global Holdings plc and the Trustee (amending and restating the Indenture, dated November 13, 2015, among Aon Corporation, Aon Global Limited and the Trustee); and (5) Amended and Restated Indenture, dated April 1, 2020, among Aon Corporation, Aon Global Limited, Aon plc, Aon Global Holdings plc and the Trustee (amending and restating the Indenture, dated December 3, 2018, among Aon Corporation, Aon Global Limited and the Trustee).

After the Ireland Reorganization, newly issued and outstanding debt securities by Aon Corporation are guaranteed by Aon Global Limited, Aon plc, and Aon Global Holdings plc, and include the following (collectively, the “Aon Corporation Notes”):

Aon Corporation Notes
2.20% Senior Notes due November 2022
8.205% Junior Subordinated Notes due January 2027
4.50% Senior Notes due December 2028
3.75% Senior Notes due May 2029
2.80% Senior Notes due May 2030
6.25% Senior Notes due September 2040

All guarantees of Aon plc, Aon Global Limited, and Aon Global Holdings plc of the Aon Corporation Notes are joint and several as well as full and unconditional. Senior Notes rank pari passu in right of payment with all other present and future unsecured debt which is not expressed to be subordinate or junior in rank to any other unsecured debt of Aon Corporation. There are no subsidiaries other than those listed above that guarantee the Aon Corporation Notes.

After the Ireland Reorganization, newly issued and outstanding debt securities by Aon Global Limited are guaranteed by Aon plc, Aon Global Holdings plc, and Aon Corporation, and include the following (collectively, the “Aon Global Limited Notes”):

Aon Global Limited Notes
4.00% Senior Notes due November 2023
3.50% Senior Notes due June 2024
3.875% Senior Notes due December 2025
2.875% Senior Notes due May 2026
4.25% Senior Notes due December 2042
4.45% Senior Notes due May 2043
4.60% Senior Notes due June 2044
4.75% Senior Notes due May 2045

All guarantees of Aon plc, Aon Global Holdings plc, and Aon Corporation of the Aon Global Limited Notes are joint and several as well as full and unconditional. Senior Notes rank pari passu in right of payment with all other present and future unsecured debt which is not expressed to be subordinate or junior in rank to any other unsecured debt of Aon Global Limited. There are no subsidiaries other than those listed above that guarantee the Aon Global Limited Notes.

Newly co-issued and outstanding debt securities by Aon Corporation and Aon Global Holdings plc (together, the “Co-Issuers”) are guaranteed by Aon plc and Aon Global Limited and include the following (collectively, the “Co-Issued Notes”):

Co-Issued Notes - Aon Corporation and Aon Global Holdings plc
2.85% Senior Notes due May 2027
2.05% Senior Notes due August 2031
2.60% Senior Notes due December 2031
5.00% Senior Notes due September 2032
2.90% Senior Notes due August 2051
3.90% Senior Notes due February 2052

All guarantees of Aon plc and Aon Global Limited of the Co-Issued Notes are joint and several as well as full and unconditional. Senior Notes rank pari passu in right of payment with all other present and future unsecured debt which is not expressed to be subordinate or junior in rank to any other unsecured debt of the Co-Issuers. There are no subsidiaries other than those listed above that guarantee the Co-Issued Notes.

Aon Corporation, Aon Global Limited, and Aon Global Holdings plc are indirect wholly owned subsidiaries of Aon plc. Aon plc, Aon Global Limited, Aon Global Holdings plc, and Aon Corporation together comprise the “Obligor group”. The following tables set forth summarized financial information for the Obligor group.

Adjustments are made to the tables to eliminate intercompany balances and transactions between the Obligor group. Intercompany balances and transactions between the Obligor group and non-guarantor subsidiaries are presented as separate line items within the summarized financial information. These balances are presented on a net presentation basis, rather than a gross basis, as this better reflects the nature of the intercompany positions and presents the funding or funded position that is to be received or owed. No balances or transactions of non-guarantor subsidiaries are presented in the summarized financial information, including investments of the Obligor group in non-guarantor subsidiaries.

Obligor Group
Summarized Statement of Income Information
Nine Months Ended
(millions)September 30, 2022
Revenue$—
Operating loss$(79)
Expense from non-guarantor subsidiaries before income taxes$(597)
Net loss$(827)
Net loss attributable to Aon shareholders$(827)
Obligor Group
Summarized Statement of Financial Position Information
As ofAs of
(millions)September 30, 2022December 31, 2021
Receivables due from non-guarantor subsidiaries$4,609$1,646
Other current assets8757
Total current assets$4,696$1,703
Non-current receivables due from non-guarantor subsidiaries$462$498
Other non-current assets938882
Total non-current assets$1,400$1,380
Payables to non-guarantor subsidiaries$22,476$13,509
Other current liabilities5,9352,013
Total current liabilities$28,411$15,522
Non-current payables to non-guarantor subsidiaries$2,340$7,139
Other non-current liabilities11,3269,512
Total non-current liabilities$13,666$16,651

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES

There have been no changes in our critical accounting policies, which include revenue recognition, pensions, goodwill and other intangible assets, contingencies, share-based payments, and income taxes, as discussed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021.

NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

As described in Note 2 “Accounting Principles and Practices” to our Financial Statements contained in Part I, Item 1, all issued, but not yet effective, guidance has been deemed not applicable or not significant to the Financial Statements.

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