PROCENTURY CORPORATION 10-Q
 

 
 
UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
 
FORM 10-Q
(Mark One)
     
þ   QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended June 30, 2006
OR
     
o   TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from                      to                     .
000-50641
(Commission File Number)
 
PROCENTURY CORPORATION
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)
 
     
Ohio   31-1718622
(State or other jurisdiction of   (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
incorporation or organization)    
     
465 Cleveland Avenue    
Westerville, Ohio   43082
(Address of principal executive offices)   (Zip Code)
(614) 895-2000
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
     Indicate by check mark whether registrant: (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such report(s)), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.
YES R  NO £
     Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of “accelerated filer and large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
Large accelerated filer £          Accelerated filer R          Non-accelerated filer £
     Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).
£ Yes  R No
     As of August 7, 2006, the registrant had 13,211,619 outstanding Common Shares, without par value.
 
 

 


 

PROCENTURY CORPORATION
QUARTERLY REPORT ON FORM 10-Q
For the Quarterly Period Ended June 30, 2006
INDEX
         
    Page
       
       
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    33  
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    34  
    34  
    34  
    34  
    34  
    34  
    34  
    36  

2


 

PART I: FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1. Financial Statements
PROCENTURY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Condensed Statements of Operations
(Unaudited)
(In thousands, except per share data)
                                 
    Three Months     Six Months  
    Ended June 30,     Ended June 30,  
    2006     2005     2006     2005  
Premiums earned
  $ 52,565       43,025       101,567       84,545  
Net investment income
    4,689       3,495       9,115       6,654  
Net realized investment losses
    (62 )     (94 )     (41 )     (153 )
 
                       
 
                               
Total revenues
    57,192       46,426       110,641       91,046  
 
                               
Losses and loss expenses
    32,575       26,587       63,014       52,314  
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs
    12,896       10,335       24,962       20,555  
Other operating expenses
    4,075       3,474       7,998       6,539  
Severance expense
                      793  
Interest expense
    567       459       1,110       876  
 
                       
Total expenses
    50,113       40,855       97,084       81,077  
 
                               
Income before income tax
    7,079       5,571       13,557       9,969  
Income tax expense
    2,054       1,572       3,932       2,891  
 
                       
Net income
  $ 5,025       3,999       9,625       7,078  
 
                       
 
                               
Basic net income per share
  $ 0.38       0.31       0.73       0.54  
 
                       
Diluted net income per share
  $ 0.38       0.30       0.73       0.54  
 
                       
 
                               
Weighted average of shares outstanding — basic
    13,114,535       13,052,650       13,107,620       13,049,570  
 
                       
Weighted average of shares outstanding — diluted
    13,247,528       13,121,314       13,224,050       13,127,469  
 
                       
 
                               
Cash dividend per share
  $ 0.035       0.02       0.065       0.04  
 
                       
See accompanying notes to the unaudited consolidated condensed financial statements.

3


 

PROCENTURY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Condensed Balance Sheets
(Unaudited)
(In thousands, except share data)
                 
    June 30,     December 31,  
    2006     2005  
Assets
               
Investments
               
Fixed maturities:
               
Available-for-sale, at fair value (amortized cost 2006, $334,972; 2005, $306,237)
  $ 325,278     $ 302,632  
Held-to-maturity, at amortized cost (fair value 2006, $1,091; 2005, $1,118)
    1,121       1,128  
Equities (available-for-sale):
               
Equity securities, at fair value (cost 2006, $29,383; 2005, $27,521)
    28,447       26,941  
Bond mutual funds, at fair value (cost 2006, $14,367; 2005, $18,516)
    13,797       17,852  
Short-term investments, at amortized cost
    11,621       12,229  
 
           
Total investments
    380,264       360,782  
Cash and cash equivalents
    8,892       5,628  
Premiums in course of collection, net
    15,359       14,849  
Deferred policy acquisition costs
    22,906       20,649  
Prepaid reinsurance premiums
    10,282       10,989  
Reinsurance recoverable on paid losses, net
    8,001       6,422  
Reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses, net
    41,694       37,448  
Deferred federal income tax asset
    12,290       9,151  
Income tax recoverable
    321        
Other assets
    9,706       8,227  
 
           
Total assets
  $ 509,715     $ 474,145  
 
           
 
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
               
Loss and loss expense reserves
  $ 234,951     $ 211,647  
Unearned premiums
    102,277       95,631  
Long term debt
    25,000       25,000  
Accrued expenses and other liabilities
    6,744       6,893  
Reinsurance balances payable
    3,786       2,572  
Collateral held
    10,453       11,014  
Income taxes payable
          185  
 
           
Total liabilities
    383,211       352,942  
 
           
Shareholders’ equity:
               
Common stock, without par value:
               
Common shares — Issued and outstanding 13,211,619 shares at June 30, 2006 and 13,211,019 shares at December 31, 2005
           
Additional paid-in capital
    100,171       100,202  
Retained earnings
    33,611       24,846  
Unearned compensation
          (695 )
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of taxes
    (7,278 )     (3,150 )
 
           
Total shareholders’ equity
    126,504       121,203  
 
           
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
  $ 509,715     $ 474,145  
 
           
See accompanying notes to the unaudited consolidated condensed financial statements.

4


 

PROCENTURY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Condensed Statements of Shareholders’ Equity
and Comprehensive Income
(Unaudited)
(In thousands)
                 
    Six Months Ended June 30,  
    2006     2005  
Shareholders’ Equity
               
Capital stock:
               
Beginning of period
  $        
Stock issued
           
 
           
End of period
           
 
           
Additional paid-in capital:
               
Beginning of period
    100,202       100,103  
Impact of adoption of SFAS 123R
    (695 )      
Shares issued under share compensation plans
    613       63  
Exercise of share options
    6        
Tax benefit on share compensation plans
    45        
 
           
End of period
    100,171       100,166  
 
           
Retained earnings:
               
Beginning of period
    24,846       15,727  
Net income
    9,625       7,078  
Dividends declared (2006, $0.065/share and 2005, $0.04/share)
    (860 )     (528 )
 
           
End of period
    33,611       22,277  
 
           
Unearned share compensation:
               
Beginning of period
    (695 )     (1,413 )
Impact of adoption of SFAS 123R
    695       402  
 
           
End of period
          (1,011 )
 
           
Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income, net of taxes:
               
Beginning of period
    (3,150 )     820  
Unrealized holding (losses) gains arising during the period, net of reclassification adjustment
    (4,128 )     173  
 
           
End of period
    (7,278 )     993  
 
           
Total shareholders’ equity
  $ 126,504       122,425  
 
           
Comprehensive Income
               
Net income
  $ 9,625       7,078  
Other comprehensive (loss) income:
               
Unrealized (losses) gains on securities:
               
Unrealized holding (losses) gains arising during the period:
               
Gross
    (11,238 )     118  
Related federal income tax benefit (expense)
    3,933       (44 )
 
           
Net unrealized (losses) gains
    (7,305 )     74  
 
           
Reclassification adjustment for losses included in net income
               
Gross
    (41 )     (153 )
Related federal income tax benefit
    14       54  
 
           
Net reclassification adjustment
    (27 )     (99 )
 
           
Other comprehensive (loss) income
    (7,278 )     173  
 
           
Total comprehensive income
  $ 2,347       7,251  
 
           
See accompanying notes to the unaudited consolidated condensed financial statements.

5


 

PROCENTURY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Condensed Statements of Cash Flows
(Unaudited)
(In thousands)
                 
    Six Months Ended June 30,  
    2006     2005  
Cash flows provided by operating activities:
               
Net income
  $ 9,625       7,078  
Adjustments:
               
Net realized investment losses
    41       153  
Deferred federal income tax benefit
    (916 )     (1,188 )
Share-based compensation expense
    613       465  
Changes in assets and liabilities:
               
Premiums in course of collection, net
    (510 )     (5,305 )
Deferred policy acquisition costs
    (2,257 )     (1,508 )
Prepaid reinsurance premiums
    707       (512 )
Reinsurance recoverable on paid and unpaid losses, net
    (5,825 )     (7,135 )
Income taxes payable/receivable
    (506 )     (2,912 )
Losses and loss expense reserves
    23,304       30,076  
Unearned premiums
    6,646       6,610  
Other, net
    (491 )     2,383  
 
           
Net cash provided by operating activities
    30,431       28,205  
 
           
Cash flows used in investing activities:
               
Purchases of equity securities
    (6,664 )     (46,712 )
Purchase of fixed maturity securities available-for-sale
    (47,435 )     (62,864 )
Proceeds from sales of equity securities
    8,697       39,141  
Proceeds from sales and maturities of fixed maturities available-for-sale
    17,981       48,154  
Acquisition, net of cash acquired
          (1,002 )
Change in short-term investments
    608       533  
 
           
Net cash used in investing activities
    (26,813 )     (22,750 )
 
           
Cash flows used in financing activities:
               
Dividend paid to shareholders
    (860 )     (528 )
Exercise of share options
    6        
Draw on line of credit
    500       2,300  
Principal payment on line of credit
          (2,300 )
 
           
Net cash used in financing activities
    (354 )     (528 )
 
           
Increase in cash and cash equivalents
    3,264       4,927  
Cash and equivalents at beginning of period
    5,628       7,681  
 
           
Cash and equivalents at end of period
  $ 8,892       12,608  
 
           
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:
               
Interest paid
  $ 1,123       872  
 
           
Federal income taxes paid
  $ 5,300       6,991  
 
           
See accompanying notes to the unaudited consolidated condensed financial statements.

6


 

PROCENTURY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements
June 30, 2006
(Unaudited)
(1)   Basis of Presentation
 
    The accompanying interim unaudited consolidated condensed financial statements and notes include the accounts of ProCentury Corporation (the “Company” or “ProCentury”), and its wholly owned insurance subsidiary, Century Surety Company (“Century”). The interim unaudited consolidated condensed financial statements have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”), for interim financial information and with the instructions to Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, the interim unaudited consolidated condensed financial statements do not include all of the information and notes required by GAAP for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, all adjustments considered necessary for a fair presentation of results for the interim periods have been included. These interim unaudited consolidated condensed financial statements and related notes should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and related notes in the Company’s audited consolidated financial statements, included in the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005. The Company’s results of operations for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the entire year.
 
    In preparing the interim unaudited consolidated condensed financial statements, management was required to make certain estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the interim unaudited consolidated condensed financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses for the reporting period. Actual results could differ significantly from those estimates.
 
    Material estimates that are particularly susceptible to significant change in the near-term relate to the determination of loss and loss expense reserves, the recoverability of deferred policy acquisition costs, the determination of federal income taxes, the net realizable value of reinsurance recoverables and the determination of other-than-temporary declines in the fair value of investments. Although considerable variability is inherent in these estimates, management believes that the amounts provided are reasonable. These estimates are continually reviewed and adjusted as necessary. Such adjustments are reflected in current operations.
 
    All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated.
 
    Share Option Accounting
 
    Effective January 1, 2006, the Company adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 123(R), Share-Based Payment (“SFAS No. 123R”), using the modified prospective application transition method. SFAS No. 123R revises SFAS No. 123, Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation (“SFAS No. 123”). The Company previously followed the provisions of Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees (“APB 25”), the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Interpretation No. 44, Accounting for Certain Transactions involving Stock Compensation (an interpretation of APB Opinion No. 25), and other related accounting interpretations for the Company’s share option and restricted common share plans utilizing the “intrinsic value method.” The Company also followed the disclosure provisions of SFAS No. 123, Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation, for the Company’s share option grants, as amended by SFAS No. 148, Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation – Transition and Disclosure; an amendment of FASB Statement No. 123.
 
    Under the modified prospective method, all unvested employee share options and restricted stock are being expensed over the remaining vesting period based on the fair value at the date the options were granted. In addition, SFAS No. 123R requires us to estimate forfeitures in calculating the expense relating to stock-based compensation as opposed to recognizing these forfeitures and the corresponding reduction in expense as they occur. In addition, SFAS No. 123R requires the Company to reflect the tax savings resulting from tax deductions in excess of compensation expense reflected in its financial statements as a cash inflow from financing activities in its statement of cash flows rather than as an operating cash flow as in prior periods.

7


 

    If the Company recorded compensation expense for its share option grants based on the “fair value method” as previously required by SFAS No. 123, the Company’s net income and earnings per share for the three and six months ended June 30, 2005 would have been adjusted to the pro forma amounts as indicated in the following table:
                 
    Three     Six  
    Months     Months  
    Ended June 30,     Ended June 30,  
    2005     2005  
    (In thousands,     (In thousands,  
    except per     except per  
    share data)     share data)  
Net income:
               
As reported
  $ 3,999     $ 7,078  
Add: Share-based employee compensation expense included in reported net income, net of related tax effects
    84       302  
Less: Additional share-based employee compensation expense determined under fair value-based method for all awards, net of related tax effects
    (150 )     (502 )
 
           
Pro forma
  $ 3,933     $ 6,878  
 
           
Basic income per common share:
               
As reported
  $ 0.31     $ 0.54  
 
           
Pro forma
  $ 0.30     $ 0.53  
 
           
Diluted income per common share:
               
As reported
  $ 0.30     $ 0.54  
 
           
Pro forma
  $ 0.30     $ 0.52  
 
           
    The fair values of the share options are estimated on the dates of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following weighted average assumptions:
         
    Three and Six Months Ended
    June 30, 2005
Risk free interest rate
    3.97 %
Dividend yield
    0.76 %
Volatility factor
    23.14 %
Weighted average expected option life
  7 Years
(2)   Income per Common Share
 
    Basic income per share (“EPS”) excludes dilution and is calculated by dividing income available to common shareholders by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted EPS reflects the dilution that could occur if securities or other contracts to issue common shares (common share equivalents) were exercised. When inclusion of common share equivalents increases the EPS or reduces the loss per share, the effect on earnings is antidilutive. Under these circumstances, diluted net income or net loss per share is computed excluding the common share equivalents.
 
    Based on the above and pursuant to disclosure requirements contained in SFAS No. 128, Earnings Per Share, the following information represents a reconciliation of the numerator and denominator of the basic and diluted EPS computations contained in the Company’s interim unaudited consolidated condensed financial statements.

8


 

                         
    Three Months Ended June 30, 2006  
    Income     Shares     Per Share  
    (Numerator)     (Denominator)     Amount  
    (In thousands, except per share data)  
Basic Net Income Per Share
                       
Net income
  $ 5,025       13,114,535       0.38  
Effect of Dilutive Securities
                       
Restricted common shares and share options
          132,993        
 
                 
Diluted EPS
                       
Net income
  $ 5,025       13,247,528       0.38  
 
                 
                         
    Three Months Ended June 30, 2005  
    Income     Shares     Per Share  
    (Numerator)     (Denominator)     Amount  
    (In thousands, except per share data)  
Basic Net Income Per Share
                       
Net income
  $ 3,999       13,052,650       0.31  
Effect of Dilutive Securities
                       
Restricted common shares and share options
          68,664       (0.01 )
 
                 
Diluted EPS
                       
Net income
  $ 3,999       13,121,314       0.30  
 
                 
                         
    Six Months Ended June 30, 2006  
    Income     Shares     Per Share  
    (Numerator)     (Denominator)     Amount  
    (In thousands, except per share data)  
Basic Net Income Per Share
                       
Net income
  $ 9,625       13,107,620       0.73  
Effect of Dilutive Securities
                       
Restricted common shares and share options
          116,430        
 
                 
Diluted EPS
                       
Net income
  $ 9,625       13,224,050       0.73  
 
                 
                         
    Six Months Ended June 30, 2005  
    Income     Shares     Per Share  
    (Numerator)     (Denominator)     Amount  
    (In thousands, except per share data)  
Basic Net Income Per Share
                       
Net income
  $ 7,078       13,049,570       0.54  
Effect of Dilutive Securities
                       
Restricted common shares and share options
          77,899        
 
                 
Diluted EPS
                       
Net income
  $ 7,078       13,127,469       0.54  
 
                 
(3)   Investments
 
    The Company invests primarily in investment-grade fixed maturities. The amortized cost, gross unrealized gains and losses and estimated fair value of fixed maturities classified as held-to-maturity were as follows:

9


 

                                 
    June 30, 2006  
            Gross     Gross     Estimated  
    Amortized     unrealized     unrealized     fair  
    cost     gains     losses     value  
    (In thousands)  
U.S. Treasury securities
  $ 88       7             95  
Agencies not backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government
    1,033             (37 )     996  
 
                       
Total
  $ 1,121       7       (37 )     1,091  
 
                       
                                 
    December 31, 2005  
            Gross     Gross     Estimated  
    Amortized     unrealized     unrealized     fair  
    cost     gains     losses     value  
    (In thousands)  
U.S. Treasury securities
  $ 89       13             102  
Agencies not backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government
    1,039             (23 )     1,016  
 
                       
Total
  $ 1,128       13       (23 )     1,118  
 
                       
    The amortized cost, gross unrealized gains and losses, and estimated fair value of fixed-maturity and equity securities classified as available-for-sale were as follows:

10


 

                                 
    June 30, 2006  
            Gross     Gross     Estimated  
    Amortized     Unrealized     Unrealized     Fair  
    Cost     Gains     Losses     Value  
    (In thousands)  
Fixed maturities:
                               
U.S. Treasury securities
  $ 3,658             (91 )     3,567  
Agencies not backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government
    14,538             (612 )     13,926  
Obligations of states and political subdivisions
    153,058       51       (3,961 )     149,148  
Corporate securities
    35,440       7       (1,345 )     34,102  
Mortgage-backed securities
    38,177       18       (1,809 )     36,386  
Collateralized mortgage obligations
    39,546       22       (1,122 )     38,446  
Asset-backed securities
    50,555       229       (1,081 )     49,703  
 
                       
Total fixed maturities
    334,972       327       (10,021 )     325,278  
 
                       
Equities:
                               
Equity securities
    29,383       143       (1,079 )     28,447  
Bond mutual funds
    14,367       29       (599 )     13,797  
 
                       
Total equities
    43,750       172       (1,678 )     42,244  
 
                       
Total
  $ 378,722       499       (11,699 )     367,522  
 
                       
                                 
    December 31, 2005  
            Gross     Gross     Estimated  
    Amortized     Unrealized     Unrealized     Fair  
    Cost     Gains     Losses     Value  
    (In thousands)  
Fixed maturities:
                               
U.S. Treasury securities
  $ 3,688       1       (53 )     3,636  
Agencies not backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government
    14,526             (230 )     14,296  
Obligations of states and political subdivisions
    142,932       387       (1,037 )     142,282  
Corporate securities
    36,689       40       (876 )     35,853  
Mortgage-backed securities
    40,910       31       (880 )     40,061  
Collateralized mortgage obligations
    27,943       15       (606 )     27,352  
Asset-backed securities
    39,549       238       (635 )     39,152  
 
                       
Total fixed maturities
    306,237       712       (4,317 )     302,632  
 
                       
Equities:
                               
Equity securities
    27,521       215       (795 )     26,941  
Bond mutual funds
    18,516       15       (679 )     17,852  
 
                       
Total equities
    46,037       230       (1,474 )     44,793  
 
                       
Total
  $ 352,274       942       (5,791 )     347,425  
 
                       
    Other-than-temporary impairment losses result in a permanent reduction to the cost basis of the underlying investment and are recorded as a realized loss in the interim unaudited consolidated condensed statements of operations. No other-than-temporary declines were realized during the three or six months ended June 30, 2006. No other-than-temporary declines were realized during the three months ended June 30, 2005. Other-than-temporary losses of $35,000 were included in the net realized investment losses for the six months ended June 30, 2005.
    The fair values and gross unrealized losses for securities classified as held-to-maturity by the Company and assessed as temporarily impaired by management, categorized by the length of time that the individual securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position, as of June 30, 2006 are as follows:

11


 

                                                 
    June 30, 2006  
    Less than 12 months     12 months or longer     Total  
    Estimated     Gross     Estimated     Gross     Estimated     Gross  
    fair     unrealized     fair     unrealized     fair     unrealized  
    value     loss     value     loss     value     loss  
    (In thousands)  
Agencies not backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government
  $             (996 )     (37 )     (996 )     (37 )
 
                                   
Total
  $             (996 )     (37 )     (996 )     (37 )
 
                                   
    The estimated fair value, related gross unrealized losses, and the length of time that the securities have been impaired for available-for-sale securities that are considered temporarily impaired are as follows:
                                                 
    June 30, 2006  
    Less Than 12 Months     12 Months or Longer     Total  
    Estimated     Gross     Estimated     Gross     Estimated     Gross  
    Fair     Unrealized     Fair     Unrealized     Fair     Unrealized  
    Value     Loss     Value     Loss     Value     Loss  
    (In thousands)  
Fixed maturity securities:
                                               
U.S. Treasury securities
  $ 1,821       (32 )     1,746       (59 )     3,567       (91 )
Agencies not backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government
    7,849       (341 )     6,077       (271 )     13,926       (612 )
Obligations of states and political subdivisions
    123,492       (3,136 )     22,447       (825 )     145,939       (3,961 )
Corporate securities
    11,364       (463 )     20,763       (882 )     32,127       (1,345 )
Mortgage-backed securities
    20,629       (988 )     15,319       (821 )     35,948       (1,809 )
Collateralized mortgage obligations
    23,425       (596 )     13,220       (526 )     36,645       (1,122 )
Asset-backed securities
    30,580       (800 )     6,567       (281 )     37,147       (1,081 )
 
                                   
Total
    219,160       (6,356 )     86,139       (3,665 )     305,299       (10,021 )
 
                                   
Equities:
                                               
Equity securities
    21,140       (813 )     3,774       (266 )     24,914       (1,079 )
Bond mutual funds
    8,158       (321 )     5,174       (278 )     13,332       (599 )
 
                                   
Total
    29,298       (1,134 )     8,948       (544 )     38,246       (1,678 )
 
                                   
Grand Total
  $ 248,458       (7,490 )     95,087       (4,209 )     343,545       (11,699 )
 
                                   
At June 30, 2006, the Company had 121 fixed income securities and 13 equity securities that have been in an unrealized loss position for one year or longer. Of the fixed income securities, 117 are investment grade, of which 115 of these securities are rated A1/A or better (including 77 securities which are rated AAA). The four remaining non-investment grade fixed income securities have an aggregate fair value equal to 95.6% of their book value as of June 30, 2006. One of the equity securities that has been in an unrealized loss position for one year or longer relates to a closed end preferred stock fund and one of the equity securities relates to a closed end bond fund, each of which continues to pay its regular dividend on a monthly basis and also has an underlying net asset value per share that exceeds its respective price per share as of June 30, 2006. Two of the equity securities relate to investments in open end high quality short duration bond funds, both of which the underlying assets are all rated AAA. Finally, the nine remaining equity securities that have been in an unrealized loss position for one year or longer relate to preferred share investments in issuers each of which has shown an improved financial performance during the past twelve months. In addition, these nine equity securities have an aggregate fair market value equal to 95.0% of their book value as of June 30, 2006. All 121 of the fixed income securities are current on interest and principal and all 13 of the equity securities continue to pay dividends at a level consistent with the prior year. Management

12


 

believes that it is probable that all contract terms of the security will be satisfied. The unrealized loss position is due to the changes in the interest rate environment and the Company has positive intent and the ability to hold the securities until they mature or recover in value.
(4)   Loss and Loss Expense Reserves
 
    Liability for losses and loss expenses represents the Company’s best estimate of the ultimate amounts needed to pay both reported and unreported claims. These estimates are based on quarterly internal actuarial studies and certified on an annual basis by an independent actuary. The Company continually reviews these estimates and, based on new developments and information, the Company includes adjustments of the probable ultimate liability in the operating results for the periods in which the adjustments are made.
 
    Net loss and loss expenses incurred were $32.6 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2006, compared to $26.6 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2005. In the second quarter of 2006, the Company recorded $31.7 million of incurred losses and loss expenses attributable to the 2006 accident year and $886,000 attributable to events of prior years. In the second quarter of 2005, the Company recorded $24.9 million of incurred losses and loss expenses attributable to the 2005 accident year and $1.7 million attributable to events of prior years.
 
    Net loss and loss expenses incurred were $63.0 million for the six months ended June 30, 2006, compared to $52.3 million for the six months ended June 30, 2005. In the first six months of 2006, the Company recorded $61.4 million of incurred losses and loss expenses attributable to the 2006 accident year and $1.6 million attributable to events of prior years. In the first six months of 2005, the Company recorded $48.7 million of incurred losses and loss expenses attributable to the 2005 accident year and $3.6 million attributable to events of prior years.
 
    In the aggregate, the Company recorded $886,000 and $1.6 million of unfavorable reserve development related to prior accident years for the three and six months ended June 30, 2006, respectively. For the six months ended June 30, 2006, within the property line, the Company experienced favorable non-catastrophe case reserve development producing a reduction in ultimate loss and loss expenses for the 2004 and 2005 accident years by $4.0 million. The Company also changed its estimates during such six month period on catastrophe losses by reducing its estimates on Hurricane Wilma by $1.1 million due to actual incurred losses being lower than original estimates. This favorable development was offset by an increase of $4.1 million in casualty reserves during such six month period as a result of a refinement to the internal actuarial reserving technique concerning the weighting of reserve indications and supplemental information concerning claims severities. The Company’s reserves moved to a higher point on the range of loss and loss expense reserve estimate, despite the fact that overall, the Company’s casualty book of business performed within the range of expectations for the quarter and six months ended June 30, 2006. The Company also incurred approximately $1.2 million of adverse development during the six months ended June 30, 2006 due to an increase in legal severities on construction defect claims. Additionally, the Company recorded approximately $1.4 million of unfavorable development during the six months ended June 30, 2006 related to estimated costs associated with possible reinsurance collection issues on two separate casualty claims.
 
    The prior year development increases for the quarter and six months ended June 30, 2005 resulted principally from construction defect claims within the other liability line of the property and casualty segment. During the first and second quarter of 2005, the Company established reserves for several contribution action settlements. This development was slightly offset by favorable claim count development, while claim severities continued to be within the Company’s expectations. Prior year development for construction defect claims was $1.7 million and $3.1 million for the three and six months ended June 30, 2005, respectively. The prior year increases related to construction defect claims was partially offset by positive development in the Company’s property line and supplemented by additional development in the casualty line.
 
    Management believes the loss and loss expense reserves make a reasonable provision for expected losses, however, ultimate settlement of these amounts could vary significantly from the amounts recorded.

13


 

(5)   Reinsurance
 
    In the ordinary course of business, Century assumes and cedes reinsurance with other insurers and reinsurers. These arrangements provide greater diversification of business and limit the maximum net loss potential on large risks. There have been no significant changes in the Company’s reinsurance program except for the fact that the Company is now retaining 50% of the $500,000 excess of $500,000 layer of the 2006 casualty treaty. This layer was ceded 100% to reinsurers in 2005. The amounts of ceded loss and loss expense reserves and ceded unearned premiums would represent a liability of the Company in the event that its reinsurers would be unable to meet existing obligations under reinsurance agreements.

14


 

    The effects of assumed and ceded reinsurance on premiums written, premiums earned and loss and loss expenses incurred were as follows:
                                 
    For the Three Months     For the Six Months  
    Ended June 30,     Ended June 30,  
    2006     2005     2006     2005  
    (In thousands)  
Premiums written:
                               
Direct
  $ 64,488       54,635       121,763       101,953  
Assumed
    1,192       638       1,946       952  
Ceded
    (7,191 )     (6,916 )     (14,788 )     (12,262 )
 
                       
Net premiums written
  $ 58,489       48,357       108,921       90,643  
 
                       
Premiums earned:
                               
Direct
    59,061       48,919       115,146       95,882  
Assumed
    1,105       198       1,917       413  
Ceded
    (7,601 )     (6,092 )     (15,496 )     (11,750 )
 
                       
Net premiums earned
  $ 52,565       43,025       101,567       84,545  
 
                       
Losses and loss expenses incurred:
                               
Direct
    38,566       31,777       72,860       63,671  
Assumed
    253       (142 )     357       (412 )
Ceded
    (6,244 )     (5,048 )     (10,203 )     (10,945 )
 
                       
Net losses and loss expenses incurred
  $ 32,575       26,587       63,014       52,314  
 
                       
    In 1998 and 1999, the Company had quota share and excess of loss reinsurance agreements with three reinsurance companies for the workers’ compensation line of business. These agreements were entered into through an intermediary, which was ordered into liquidation in 2000. Since that time, the Company attempted to collect the losses directly from one of the reinsurers. On March 22, 2006, the Company’s effort to vacate an adverse award received in arbitration related to this reinsurer proved unsuccessful. As such, the Company is currently in the process of turning the claims over to the liquidator of the intermediary. At June 30, 2006, the Company has a reserve of $1.5 million in the event it is unable to fully collect the amounts due. As of June 30, 2006, the Company had approximately $2.9 million of recoverables related to these reinsurance agreements, of which $1.1 million related to the quota share agreements and $1.8 million related to the excess of loss agreements.
 
    In addition, in the second quarter of 2006, the Company increased its reserves for uncollectible reinsurance to $1.4 million from $250,000 related to disputes with three reinsurers on 1997 and 2000 accident year casualty claims. The total amount in dispute is approximately $4.0 million. During the second quarter of 2006, the Company was unsuccessful on appeal on the 1997 accident year claim for which it is anticipated that one of the reinsures may deny indemnification. In addition, the Company has filed a notice of arbitration against one of its reinsurers related to the 2000 accident year claim for which a $250,000 provision was established in the first quarter of 2006. In the second quarter of 2006, the Company recorded an additional provision of $220,000 for the 2000 accident year claim as the Company may file for arbitration if current negotiations are not successful.
 
    Management believes that the reserves for uncollectible reinsurance constitute a reasonable provision for expected costs and recoveries related to the collection of the recoverables on these claims, however, actual legal costs and settlement of these claims could vary significantly from the current estimates recorded.
 
(6)   Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs
 
    The following reflects the amounts of policy acquisition costs deferred and amortized:

15


 

                                 
    For the Three Months     For the Six Months  
    Ended June 30,     Ended June 30,  
    2006     2005     2006     2005  
            (In thousands)          
Balance at beginning of period
  $ 21,418       17,506       20,649       17,411  
Policy acquisition costs deferred
    14,384       11,748       27,219       22,063  
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs
    (12,896 )     (10,335 )     (24,962 )     (20,555 )
 
                       
Balance at end of period
  $ 22,906       18,919       22,906       18,919  
 
                       
(7)   Federal Income Taxes
 
    The income tax provision for the three and six months ended June 30, 2006 and 2005 has been computed based on our estimated annual effective tax rate of 29.0%, which differs from the federal income tax rate of 35% principally because of tax-exempt investment income.
 
(8)   Commitments and Contingencies
 
    The Company is party to lawsuits, arbitration and other proceedings that arise in the normal course of our business. Many of such lawsuits, arbitrations and other proceedings involve claims under policies that the Company underwrites as an insurer, the liabilities for which the Company believes have been adequately included in its loss and loss adjustment expense (LAE) reserves. Also, from time to time, the Company is party to lawsuits, arbitrations and other proceedings that relate to disputes over contractual relationships with third parties, or that involve alleged errors and omissions on the part of our insurance subsidiaries. The Company provides accruals for these items to the extent it deems the losses probable and reasonably estimable.
 
    The outcome of litigation is subject to numerous uncertainties. Although the ultimate outcome of pending matters cannot be determined at this time, based on present information, the Company believes the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on its financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
 
(9)   Employee Benefits
 
    During 2004, the Company adopted and the shareholders approved a stock option plan (the plan) that provided tax-favored incentive stock options (qualified options), non-qualified share options to employees and qualified board members that do not qualify as tax-favored incentive share options (non-qualified options), time-based restricted shares that vest solely on service provided and restricted shares that vest based on achieved performance metrics. Compensation cost is recorded in the same financial statement caption as the salary expense of the employee (i.e. the compensation cost for the Chief Investment Officer is recorded in net investment income).
 
    With respect to qualified options, an employee may be granted an option to purchase shares at the grant date fair market value, payable as determined by the Company’s board of directors. An optionee must exercise an option within 10 years from the grant date. Full vesting of options granted occurs at the end of four years.
 
    With respect to non-qualified options, an employee or a board member may be granted an option to purchase shares at the grant date fair market value, payable as determined by the Company’s board of directors. An optionee must exercise an option within 10 years from the grant date. Full vesting of options granted occurs at the end of three years.
 
    For both non-qualified and qualified options, the option exercise price equals the stock’s fair market value on the date of the grant. In accordance with SFAS No. 123R, compensation expense is recorded over the service period based on the grant date fair market value of the options. The fair market value is determined by the Company using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. Prior to the adoption of SFAS 123R, in accordance with APB No. 25, no compensation expense was recorded for the qualified and non-qualified share options as the market value on the grant dates equaled the exercise price.
 
    The time-based restricted shares are granted to key executives and vest in equal installments upon the lapse of a period of time, typically over four and five-year periods and include both monthly and annual vesting periods. Compensation expense for time-

16


 

    based restricted shares is measured on the grant date at the current market value and then recognized over the respective service period, which typically matches the vesting period.
 
    The performance-based restricted shares are granted to key executives and vest annually over a four-year period based on achieved specified performance metrics. In accordance with SFAS 123R, compensation cost is measured on the grant date at the grant date market value and recorded over the service period. Prior to the adoption of SFAS 123R, compensation expense for performance-based restricted share awards was recognized based on the fair value of the awards at the end of the period.
 
    The Company may grant options for up to 1.2 million shares under the plan. Through December 31, 2005, the Company had granted 287,000 non-qualified options, 95,000 qualified options, 156,000 time-based restricted shares and 55,024 performance-based restricted shares under the share plan. On January 3, 2006 and June 1, 2006, the Company granted an additional 112,500 qualified options and an additional 12,000 non-qualified options.
 
    A summary of the status of the option plan for the six months ended June 30, 2006 and for the year ended December 31, 2005 are presented in the following table:
                                 
    June 30, 2006     December 31, 2005  
            Weighted-             Weighted-  
    Number of     Average     Number of     Average  
    Shares     Exercise Price     Shares     Exercise Price  
Outstanding at beginning of period
    382,000     $ 10.49       364,000     $ 10.50  
Granted
    124,500       10.87       18,000       10.30  
Exercised
    (600 )                  
Forfeited
                       
 
                       
Outstanding at end of period
    505,900     $ 10.58       382,000     $ 10.49  
 
                       
Exercisable at end of period
    290,259     $ 10.53       217,393     $ 10.50  
 
                       
Weighted-average fair value of options granted during year
          $ 3.18             $ 2.99  
 
                           

17


 

The fair market value of each option grant is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following weighted-average assumptions used for grants in 2006 and 2005:
                 
    Six Months    
    Ended   Year Ended
    June 30,   December 31
    2006   2005
Risk free interest rate
    4.07 %     4.03 %
Dividend yield
    0.93 %     0.76 %
Volatility factor
    23.11 %     23.14 %
Weighted average expected option life
  7 Years   7 Years
Information on the range of exercise prices for options outstanding as of June 30, 2006, is as follows:
                                         
    Options Outstanding   Options Excercisable
            Weighted                
            Average   Weighted           Weighted
            Remaining   Average   Exercisable   Average
    Outstanding   Contract   Exercise   as of   Exercise
Price Range   Options   Life   Price   June 30, 2006   Price
$10.20
    12,000       8.9     $ 10.20       4,332     $ 10.20  
$10.50
    369,400       7.8     $ 10.50       270,619     $ 10.50  
$10.64
    112,500       9.5     $ 10.64       15,572     $ 10.64  
$13.04
    12,000       9.9     $ 13.04       336     $ 13.04  
A summary of all employee time-based restricted share activity during the six months ended June 30, 2006 and the year ended December 31, 2005 are as follows:
                                 
    2006     2005  
            Weighted             Weighted  
    Number of     Average     Number of     Average  
    Shares     Grant Price     Shares     Grant Price  
Beginning of year
    68,033     $ 10.22       137,049     $ 10.31  
Add (deduct):
                               
Granted
                       
Vested
    (7,472 )     10.58       (31,593 )     10.28  
Cancelled
                (37,423 )     10.50  
 
                       
End of year
    60,561     $ 10.20       68,033     $ 10.22  
 
                       
In January 2005 and September 2005, the Company modified two executives’ time-based restricted share awards in connection with the termination of their employment to accelerate the vesting period. As such, the Company accounted for the modifications as cancellations of a fixed award and a grant of a variable award, which are valued at the fair market value on the monthly vesting date. During 2005, the Company recorded $231,924 of compensation expense related to the January modification and $42,617 related to the September modification. During the six months ended June 30, 2006, the Company recorded no compensation expense related to the January modification and $163,579 related to the September modification, as all shares related to the January modification have vested as of December 31, 2005 and 4,085 shares related to the September modification remain unvested at June 30, 2006.
A summary of all employee performance-based restricted share activity for the six months ended June 30, 2006 and 2005 is as follows:

18


 

                                 
    2006     2005  
            Weighted             Weighted  
    Number of     Average     Number of     Average  
    Shares     Grant Price     Shares     Grant Price  
Beginning of year
    37,365     $ 10.50           $  
Add (deduct):
                               
Granted
                55,024       10.50  
Vested
    (9,341 )     10.50              
Cancelled
                (17,659 )     10.50  
 
                       
End of year
    28,024     $ 10.50       37,365     $ 10.50  
 
                       
    Of the performance-based restricted share awards granted in March of 2005, an award for 17,659 shares was modified in accordance with the agreement entered into in connection with the termination of an executive officer’s employment in September 2005. As such, the award was treated as cancelled on September 30, 2005 due to a modification of the award to accelerate the vesting of the shares, change the vesting from annual vesting to monthly vesting and remove the performance based restrictions. As such, the award is treated as a variable award which is valued at the fair market value on the monthly vesting date. During 2005, the Company recorded $46,058 compensation expense related to the restricted shares. During the six months ended June 30, 2006, the Company recorded $74,234 compensation expense related to the restricted shares and 4,414 shares remain unvested at June 30, 2006.
 
(10)   Segment Reporting Disclosures
 
    The Company operates in the Property and Casualty Lines (“P/C”) (including general liability, multi-peril, commercial property and garage liability).
 
    The Company’s Other (including exited lines) include the surety business and the Company’s exited lines, such as workers’ compensation and commercial auto/trucking. A limited amount of surety business is written in order to maintain Century’s U.S. Treasury listing.
 
    All investment activities are included in the Investing operating segment.
 
    The Company considers many factors, including economic similarity, the nature of the underwriting unit’s insurance products, production sources, distribution strategies and regulatory environment in determining how to aggregate operating segments.
 
    Segment profit or loss for each of the Company’s segments is measured by underwriting profit or loss. The property and casualty insurance industry commonly defines underwriting profit or loss as earned premium net of loss and loss expenses and underwriting, acquisition and insurance expenses. Underwriting profit or loss does not replace operating income or net income computed in accordance with GAAP as a measure of profitability. Segment profit for the Investing operating segment is measured by net investment income and net realized gains or losses. The Company does not allocate assets, including goodwill, to the P/C and Other operating segments for management reporting purposes. The total investment portfolio and cash are allocated to the Investing operating segment.
 
    Following is a summary of segment disclosures:

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    For the Three Months     For the Six Months  
    Ended June 30,     Ended June 30,  
    2006     2005     2006     2005  
            (In thousands)          
Segment revenue:
                               
P/C
  $ 51,618       42,927       99,961       84,440  
Investing
    4,627       3,401       9,074       6,501  
Other (including exited lines)
    947       98       1,606       105  
 
                       
Segment revenue
  $ 57,192       46,426       110,641       91,046  
 
                       
 
                               
Segment profit:
                               
P/C
    2,844       2,275       5,132       5,213  
Investing
    4,627       3,401       9,074       6,501  
Other (including exited lines)
    341       481       718       (80 )
 
                       
Segment profit
  $ 7,812       6,157       14,924       11,634  
 
                       
 
                               
Segment assets:
                               
Investing
    380,264       328,727       380,264       328,727  
Assets not allocated
    129,451       111,109       129,451       111,109  
 
                       
Total consolidated assets
  $ 509,715       439,836       509,715       439,836  
 
                       
The following summary reconciles significant segment items to the Company’s interim unaudited consolidated condensed financial statements:
                                 
    For the Three Months     For the Six Months  
    Ended June 30,     Ended June 30,  
    2006     2005     2006     2005  
    (In thousands)  
Income before income taxes:
                               
Segment profit
  $ 7,812       6,157       14,924       11,634  
Unallocated amounts:
                               
Corporate expenses
    (166 )     (127 )     (257 )     (789 )
Interest expense
    (567 )     (459 )     (1,110 )     (876 )
 
                       
Income before income taxes
  $ 7,079       5,571       13,557       9,969  
 
                       

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    The following is a summary of segment earned premium by group of products:
                                 
    Property     Casualty     Other     Consolidated  
            (In thousands)          
Three Months Ended June 30, 2006
                               
P/C
  $ 15,039       36,579             51,618  
Other (including exited lines)
                947       947  
 
                       
Earned premiums
  $ 15,039       36,579       947       52,565  
 
                       
 
                               
Three Months Ended June 30, 2005
                               
P/C
  $ 13,930       28,997             42,927  
Other (including exited lines)
                98       98  
 
                       
Earned premiums
  $ 13,930       28,997       98       43,025  
 
                       
 
                               
Six Months Ended June 30, 2006
                               
P/C
  $ 29,472       70,489               99,961  
Other (including exited lines)
                    1,606       1,606  
 
                       
Earned premiums
  $ 29,472       70,489       1,606       101,567  
 
                       
 
                               
Six Months Ended June 30, 2005
                               
P/C
  $ 28,346       56,094             84,440  
Other (including exited lines)
                105       105  
 
                       
Earned premiums
  $ 28,346       56,094       105       84,545  
 
                       
    The Company does not manage property and casualty products at this level of detail.
 
(11)   Dividends to Common Shareholders
 
    On March 13, 2006, the Board of Directors declared a dividend of $0.03 per common share that was paid on April 17, 2006 to shareholders of record as of March 27, 2006. On May 15, 2006, the Board of Directors declared a dividend of $0.035 per common share that was paid on June 7, 2006 to shareholders of record as of May 24, 2006.
 
(12)   Line of Credit
 
    The Company has a $5.0 million line of credit with a maturity date of September 8, 2006, and interest only payments due quarterly based on LIBOR plus 2.5% of the outstanding balance. All of the outstanding shares of Century are pledged as collateral. In June 2006, the Company made a $500,000 draw on the line of credit for general corporate purposes. Interest expense on the line of credit for the quarter ended June 30, 2006 was approximately $1,800. The outstanding balance at June 30, 2006 of $500,000 is included in the caption accrued expenses and other liabilities in the accompanying unaudited consolidated condensed balance sheets The Company also made an additional draw of $500,000 on the line of credit in July 2006.
 
    There was no outstanding balance at June 30, 2005; however, in April 2005, the Company made a $2.3 million draw on the line of credit for general corporate purposes. The $2.3 million draw was paid off on May 17, 2005. Interest paid on the line of credit for the period which the draw was outstanding was $5,000 for the quarter ended June 30, 2005.
Item 2. Management’s Discussion And Analysis Of Financial Condition And Results Of Operations
     The following discussion of our financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with our interim unaudited consolidated condensed financial statements and the notes to those statements included in this Form 10-Q. Some of the statements in this report, including those set forth in the discussion and analysis below, are “forward-looking statements” as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are derived from information that we currently have and assumptions that we make and may be identified by words such as “believes,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “plans,” “should,” “estimates” and similar expressions. We cannot assure you that anticipated results will be achieved, since actual results may differ

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materially because of both known and unknown risks and uncertainties we face. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from our forward-looking statements are described under the heading “Risks Related to Our Business and Industry” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and elsewhere in this report, and include, but are not limited to, the following factors:
    our actual incurred losses may be greater than our loss and loss expense reserves, which could cause our future earnings, liquidity and financial rating to decline;
 
    a decline in our financial rating assigned by A.M. Best may result in a reduction of new or renewal business;
 
    we are subject to extensive regulation and judicial decisions affecting insurance and tort law, which may adversely affect our ability to achieve our business objectives. In addition, if we fail to comply with certain regulations, we may be subject to penalties, including fines and suspensions, which may adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations;
 
    our general agents may exceed their authority and bind us to policies outside our underwriting guidelines, and until we effect a cancellation, we may incur loss and loss expenses related to those policies;
 
    if we lose key personnel or are unable to recruit qualified personnel, our ability to implement our business strategies could be delayed or hindered;
 
    our investment results and, therefore, our financial condition may be impacted by changes in the business, financial condition or operating results of the entities in which we invest, as well as changes in government monetary policies, general economic conditions and overall market conditions, all of which impact interest rates;
 
    we distribute our products through a select group of general agents, five of which account for a significant part of our business, and such relationships could be discontinued or cease to be profitable;
 
    our reinsurers may not pay claims made by us on losses in a timely fashion or may not pay some or all of these claims, in each case causing our costs to increase and our revenues to decline;
 
    if we are not able to renew our existing reinsurance or obtain new reinsurance, either our net exposure would increase or we would have to reduce the level of our underwriting commitment;
 
    our business is cyclical in nature, which will affect our financial performance and may affect the price of our common shares;
 
    if we are unable to compete effectively with the large number of companies in the insurance industry for underwriting revenues, we may incur increased costs and our underwriting revenues and net income may decline;
 
    severe weather conditions and other catastrophes may result in an increase in the number and amount of claims experienced by our insureds; and
 
    as a holding company, we are dependent on the results of operations of our insurance subsidiary and the regulatory and contractual capacity of our subsidiary to pay dividends to us. Some states limit the aggregate amount of dividends our subsidiary may pay to us in any twelve-month period, thereby limiting our funds to pay expenses and dividends.
     You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which speak only as of their respective dates.
Overview
     ProCentury is a holding company that underwrites selected property and casualty and surety insurance through its subsidiaries collectively known as the Century Insurance Group®. As a “niche” company, we offer specialty insurance products designed to meet specific insurance needs of targeted insured groups. The excess and surplus lines market provides an alternative market for customers with hard-to-place risks and risks that insurance companies licensed by the state in which the insurance policy is sold, which are also referred to as “admitted insurers,” specifically refuse to write. When we underwrite within the excess and surplus lines market, we are

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selective in the lines of business and types of risks we choose to write. Typically, the development of these specialty insurance products is generated through proposals brought to us by an agent or broker seeking coverage for a specific group of clients.
     We evaluate our insurance operations by monitoring key measures of growth and profitability. We measure our growth by examining gross written premiums. We generally measure our operating results by examining our net income, return on equity and loss, expense and combined ratios. The following provides further explanation of the key measures that we use to evaluate our results:
     Gross Written Premiums. Gross written premiums are the sum of direct written premiums and assumed written premiums. We use gross written premiums, which excludes the impact of premiums ceded to reinsurers, as a measure of the underlying growth of our insurance business from period to period.
     Net Written Premiums. Net written premiums are the sum of direct written premiums and assumed written premiums less ceded written premiums. We use net written premiums, primarily in relation to gross written premiums, to measure the amount of business retained after cessions to reinsurers.
     Earned Premiums. Earned premiums are the portion of a premium paid by an insured that has been allocated to our revenue, loss experience, expenses, and year to date profit.
     Loss Ratio. Loss ratio is the ratio (expressed as a percentage) of losses and loss expenses incurred to premiums earned. Loss ratio generally is measured on both a gross (direct and assumed) and net (gross less ceded) basis. We use the gross loss ratio as a measure of the overall underwriting profitability of the insurance business we write and to assess the adequacy of our pricing. Our net loss ratio, which is net of ceded reinsurance, is meaningful in evaluating our financial results, as reflected in our consolidated financial statements.
     Expense Ratio. Expense ratio is the ratio (expressed as a percentage) of net operating expenses to premiums earned and measures a company’s operational efficiency in producing, underwriting and administering its insurance business. We reduce our operating expenses by ancillary income (excluding net investment income and realized gains (losses) on securities) to calculate our net operating expenses. Due to our historically high levels of reinsurance, we calculate our expense ratio on both a gross basis (before the effect of ceded reinsurance) and a net basis (after the effect of ceded reinsurance). Although the net basis is meaningful in evaluating our financial results that are net of ceded reinsurance, as reflected in our consolidated financial statements, we believe the gross expense ratio better reflects the operational efficiency of the underlying business and is a better measure of future trends. Interest expense is not included in the calculation of the expense ratio.
     Combined Ratio. Combined ratio is the sum of the loss ratio and the expense ratio and measures a company’s overall underwriting profit. If the combined ratio is at or above 100, an insurance company cannot be profitable without investment income (and may not be profitable if investment income is insufficient). We use the combined ratio in evaluating our overall underwriting profitability and as a measure for comparing our profitability relative to the profitability of our competitors.
Critical Accounting Policies
     It is important to understand our accounting policies in order to understand our financial statements. Management considers certain of these policies to be critical to the presentation of our financial results, since they require management to make estimates and assumptions. These estimates and assumptions affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues, expenses and related disclosures at the financial reporting date and throughout the period being reported upon. Certain of the estimates result from judgments that can be subjective and complex and consequently actual results may differ from these estimates, which would be reflected in future periods.
     Our most critical accounting policies involve the reporting of loss and loss expense reserves (including losses that have occurred but were not reported to us by the financial reporting date), reinsurance recoverables, the impairment of investments, deferred policy acquisition costs and federal income taxes.
     Loss and Loss Expense Reserves. Loss and loss expense reserves represent an estimate of the expected cost of the ultimate settlement and administration of losses, based on facts and circumstances then known. We use actuarial methodologies to assist us in establishing these estimates, including judgments relative to estimates of future claims severity and frequency, length of time to develop to ultimate resolution, the effect of changes in the law or unexpected judicial and other third-party factors that are often beyond our control. Due to the inherent uncertainty associated with the cost of unsettled and unreported claims, the ultimate liability

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may be different from the original estimate. Such estimates are regularly reviewed and updated and any resulting adjustments are included in the current period’s results. See Note 4 to our interim unaudited consolidated condensed financial statements included in this Form 10-Q.
     Reinsurance Recoverables. Reinsurance recoverables on paid and unpaid losses, net, are established for the portion of our loss and loss expense reserves that are ceded to reinsurers. Reinsurance recoverables are determined based in part on the terms and conditions of reinsurance contracts which could be subject to interpretations that differ from our own based on judicial theories of liability. In addition, we bear credit risk with respect to our reinsurers which can be significant considering that certain of the reserves remain outstanding for an extended period of time. We are required to pay losses even if a reinsurer fails to meet its obligations under the applicable reinsurance agreement. See Note 5 to our interim unaudited consolidated condensed financial statements included in this Form 10-Q.
     Impairment of Investments. Impairment of investment securities results in a charge to operations when a market decline below cost is deemed to be other-than-temporary. Under the Company’s accounting policy for equity securities and fixed-maturity securities, an impairment is deemed to be other-than-temporary unless the Company has both the ability and intent to hold the investment for a reasonable period until the security’s forecasted recovery and evidence exists indicating that recovery will occur in a reasonable period of time.
     For other fixed-maturity and equity securities, an other-than-temporary impairment charge is taken when the Company does not have the ability and intent to hold the security until the forecasted recovery or if it is no longer probable that the Company will recover all amounts due under the contractual terms of the security. Many criteria are considered during this process including, but not limited to, the current fair value as compared to amortized cost or cost, as appropriate, of the security; the amount and length of time a security’s fair value has been below amortized cost or cost; specific credit issues and financial prospects related to the issuer; the Company’s ability and intent to hold or dispose of the security; and current economic conditions. Other-than-temporary impairment losses result in a permanent reduction to the cost basis of the underlying investment.
     Additionally, for certain securitized financial assets with contractual cash flows (including asset-backed securities), FASB Emerging Task Force (EITF) 99-20, “Recognition of Interest Income and Impairment on Purchased and Retained Beneficial Interests in Securitized Financial Assets”, requires us to periodically update our best estimate of cash flows over the life of the security. If management determines that the fair value of a securitized financial asset is less than its carrying amount and there has been a decrease in the present value of the estimated cash flows since the last revised estimate, considering both timing and amount, then an other-than-temporary impairment is recognized.
     For additional detail regarding our investment portfolio at June 30, 2006 and December 31, 2005, including disclosures regarding other-than-temporary declines in investment value, see Note 3 to our interim unaudited consolidated condensed financial statements included in this Form 10-Q.
     Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs. We defer commissions, premium taxes and certain other costs that vary with and are primarily related to the acquisition of insurance contracts. These costs are capitalized and charged to expense in proportion to premium revenue recognized. The method followed in computing deferred policy acquisition costs limits the amount of such deferred costs to their estimated realizable value, which gives effect to the premium to be earned, related investment income, anticipated losses and settlement expenses and certain other costs expected to be incurred as the premium is earned. Judgments as to ultimate recoverability of such deferred costs are highly dependent upon estimated future loss costs associated with the written premiums. See Note 6 to our interim unaudited consolidated condensed financial statements included in this Form 10-Q.
     Federal Income Taxes. The Company provides for federal income taxes based on amounts the Company believes it ultimately will owe. Inherent in the provision for federal income taxes are estimates regarding the deductibility of certain items and the realization of certain tax credits. In the event the ultimate deductibility of certain items or the realization of certain tax credits differs from estimates, the Company may be required to significantly change the provision for federal income taxes recorded in the consolidated financial statements. Any such change could significantly affect the amounts reported in the consolidated statements of operations.
     We utilize the asset and liability method of accounting for income taxes. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and operating loss and tax credit carry-forwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in

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the period that includes the enactment date. Valuation allowances are established when necessary to reduce the deferred tax assets to the amounts more likely than not to be realized. See Note 7 to our interim unaudited consolidated condensed financial statements included in this Form 10-Q.
Results of Operations
     The table below summarizes certain operating results and key measures we use in monitoring and evaluating operations. The information is intended to summarize and supplement information contained in the interim unaudited consolidated condensed financial statements and to assist the reader in gaining a better understanding of results of operations.
                                 
    For the Three Months     For the Six Months  
    Ended June 30,     Ended June 30,  
    2006     2005     2006     2005  
    (In thousands)     (In thousands)  
Selected Financial Data:
                               
Gross written premiums
  $ 65,680       55,273       123,709       102,905  
Premiums earned
    52,565       43,025       101,567       84,545  
Net investment income
    4,689       3,495       9,115       6,654  
Net realized investment losses
    (62 )     (94 )     (41 )     (153 )
Total revenues
    57,192       46,426       110,641       91,046  
Total expenses
    50,113       40,855       97,084       81,077  
Net income
    5,025       3,999       9,625       7,078  
Key Financial Ratios:
                               
Loss and loss expense ratio
    62.0 %     61.8 %     62.0 %     61.9 %
Expense ratio
    32.3 %     32.1 %     32.5 %     33.0 %
 
                       
Combined ratio
    94.3 %     93.9 %     94.5 %     94.9 %
 
                       

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Overview of Operating Results
     Net income increased to $5.0 million for the three months ended June 30, 2006 from $4.0 million for the three months ended June 30, 2005. For the six months ended June 30, 2006, net income increased to $9.6 million from $7.1 million for the six months ended June 30, 2005.
     The increase in net income for the three and six months ended June 30, 2006 was primarily attributable to an increase in total revenue, which was directly related to an increase in net earned premium and net investment income. The increase in net earned premium resulted principally from an increase in the volume of business which was offset by slight rate declines in both the property and casualty lines of business. The increase in the volume of business is a result of growth from our program division and continued growth in contractors business that is written on a claims made form. In addition, due to continued favorable cash flows from operations during the six months ended June 30, 2006 and higher investment yields, our net investment income increased 37.0% over the same period in 2005. Our taxable equivalent yield for the six months ended June 30, 2006 and 2005 was 5.70% and 5.13%, respectively.
     The increase in total revenue was offset by higher expenses that resulted from an increase in net loss and loss expenses and amortization of deferred acquisition costs. For the quarters ended June 30, 2006 and 2005, the loss and loss expense ratio was 62.0% and 61.8%, respectively. The loss and loss expense ratio for the six months ended June 30, 2006 and 2005 was 62.0% and 61.9%, respectively. The increase in the loss and loss expense ratio for the three and six months ended June 30, 2006 reflects higher current accident year ultimate loss and loss expense ratios driven by the decreasing premium rate environment throughout 2005 and into 2006. The expense ratio for the three months ended June 30, 2006 and 2005 was 32.3% and 32.1%, respectively. The increase in the expense ratio for the quarter is directly attributable to an increase in amortization of deferred acquisition costs as a result of a higher mix of binding premium compared to brokerage premium that has a higher commission rate. The expense ratio for the six months ended June 30, 2006 and 2005 was 32.5% and 33.0%, respectively. In addition, the decrease in the expense ratio for the year is a direct result of $793,000 of severance expense that was recorded in the first quarter of 2005. No severance expense was recorded in 2006.
Revenues
     Premiums
     Premiums include insurance premiums underwritten by Century (which are referred to as direct premiums) and insurance premiums assumed from other insurers generally in states where Century is not licensed (which are referred to as assumed premiums). We refer to direct and assumed premiums together as gross premiums.
     Written premiums are the total amount of premiums billed to the policyholder less the amount of premiums returned, generally as a result of cancellations, during a given period. Written premiums become premiums earned over the policy period. Barring premium changes, if an insurance company writes the same mix of business each year, written premiums and premiums earned will be equal, and the unearned premium reserve will remain constant. During periods of growth, the unearned premium reserve will increase, causing premiums earned to be less than written premiums. Conversely, during periods of decline in written premiums, the unearned premium reserve will decrease, causing premiums earned to be greater than written premiums.
     We have historically relied on quota share, excess of loss, and catastrophe reinsurance primarily to manage our regulatory capital requirements and also to limit our exposure to loss. Generally, we have ceded a significant portion of our premiums to unaffiliated reinsurers in order to maintain a net written premiums to statutory surplus ratio of less than 2-to-1.
     Our underwriting business is currently divided into two primary segments:
    property/casualty; and
 
    other (including exited lines).
     Our property/casualty segment primarily includes general liability, commercial property, multi-peril and garage liability insurance for small and mid-sized businesses. The other (including exited lines) segment primarily includes our surety business, including landfill and specialty surety that is written in order to maintain Century’s U.S. Treasury listing, workers’ compensation, which was exited in January 2002, and commercial auto/trucking, which was exited in May 2000.

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     The following table presents our gross written premiums in our primary segments and provides a summary of gross, ceded and net written premiums and net premiums earned for the periods indicated.
                                 
    For the Three Months     For the Six Months  
    Ended June 30,     Ended June 30,  
    2006     2005     2006     2005  
    (In thousands)     (In thousands)  
Gross written premiums
                               
Property/casualty
  $ 64,790       54,564       121,880       102,139  
Other (including exited lines)
    890       709       1,829       766  
 
                       
Total gross written premiums
  $ 65,680       55,273       123,709       102,905  
Ceded written premiums
    7,191       6,916       14,788       12,262  
 
                       
Net written premiums
  $ 58,489       48,357       108,921       90,643  
 
                       
 
                               
Premiums earned
  $ 52,565       43,025       101,567       84,545  
 
                       
 
                               
Net to gross written premiums
    89.1 %     87.5 %     88.0 %     88.1 %
Earned to net written premiums
    89.9 %     89.0 %     93.2 %     93.3 %
Net writings ratio (1)
    1.8       1.6       1.7       1.5  
 
(1)   The ratio of net written premiums to our insurance subsidiaries’ combined statutory surplus. Management believes this measure is useful in gauging our exposure to pricing errors in the current book of business. It may not be comparable to the definition of net writings ratio used by other companies.
     Gross Written Premiums
     Gross written premiums increased 18.8% and 20.2% for the quarter and six months ended June 30, 2006, respectively compared to the same periods in 2005. This fluctuation for the quarter and year-to-date was primarily due to an increase in volume from our specialty program unit and an increase in our casualty book of business as a result of growth in contractor business written on a claims made form. Our program unit introduced an auto physical damage program in mid-2005 which has increased our property business by $6.2 million throughout 2006. In addition, in January 2005, we stopped writing contractors business written on an occurrence form and began to offer contractors liability coverage on a claims made basis. The claims made contractors’ coverage has a significantly shorter claim reporting period which should result in less reserve variability and more predictable results. The initial impact of ceasing to write contractors on an occurrence form caused a decrease in premium writings on our contractors book in 2005. The market for contractors written on a claims made form did, however, begin to improve late in 2005 and into 2006 causing an increase in our casualty book of $5.0 million during 2006. The growth in our property/casualty segment was slightly offset by minimal rate declines across our book of business. Our property gross written premiums for the quarter ended June 30, 2006 increased 35.4% over the quarter ended June 30, 2005. The increase in property gross written premiums for the six months ended 2006 compared to 2005 was 35.3%. Gross written premiums for our casualty line of business increased 11.8% and 12.3%, respectively for the quarter and six months ended June 30, 2006 compared to the same periods in 2005.
     Net Written Premiums and Premiums Earned
     Net written premiums increased by 21.0% and 20.2% for the three months and six months ended June 30, 2006, respectively, compared to the same period in 2005 due to the growth in gross written premiums. Net written premiums represented 89.1% of gross written premiums for the three months ended June 30, 2006. This is higher than the relationship of net written premiums to gross written premiums for the three months ended June 30, 2005, reflecting a decrease in ceded premium rate in the current year resulting from the fact that effective January 1, 2006 we began to retain 50% of the $500,000 in excess of $500,000 layer of our casualty reinsurance treaty. In 2005, we ceded the entire $500,000 in excess of $500,000 layer of our casualty reinsurance treaty to outside reinsurers.
     Premiums earned increased by 22.2% and 20.1% for the three and six months ended June 30, 2006, respectively compared to the same period of 2005. This represents 89.9% and 93.2% of net written premiums for the three and six months ended June 30, 2006, respectively. The relationship of premiums earned to net written premiums during the quarter ended June 30, 2006 was lower, reflecting an increase in the growth rate of premiums in the second quarter of 2006 compared to the second of 2005.

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     Net Investment Income
     Our investment portfolio generally consists of liquid, readily marketable and investment-grade fixed-maturity and equity securities. Net investment income is comprised of interest and dividends earned on these securities, net of related investment expenses.
     Net investment income was $4.7 million for the three months ended June 30, 2006, compared to $3.5 million for the same period in 2005. For the six months ended June 30, 2006, net investment income increased to $9.1 million compared to $6.7 million for the same period in 2005. The increase was due to an increase in invested assets, including cash, and higher investment yields. Invested assets, including cash, increased by $22.8 million to $389.2 million as of June 30, 2006 from $366.4 million as of December 31, 2005. The pre-tax investment yield for the three months ended June 30, 2006 was 5.1%, compared to 4.7% for the same period in 2005. For the six months ended June 30, 2006 and 2005, the pre-tax investment yield was 5.0% and 4.5%, respectively. Our taxable equivalent yield for the second quarter of 2006 increased to 5.8% from 5.3% for the same quarter in 2005. For the six months ended June 30, 2006 and 2005, the taxable equivalent yield was 5.7% and 5.1%, respectively.
     Net Realized Investment Losses
     Realized gains and losses on securities are principally affected by changes in interest rates, the timing of sales of investments and changes in credit quality of the securities we hold as investments.
     We realized net investment losses of $62,000 on the sale of securities for the quarter ended June 30, 2006 compared to $94,000 of net investment losses for the quarter ended June 30, 2005. For the six months ended June 30, 2006 and 2005, we realized net investment losses of $41,000 and $153,000 on the sale of securities, respectively. No other-than-temporary declines were realized during the three or six months ended June 30, 2006. No other-than-temporary declines were realized during the three months ended June 30, 2005. Other-than-temporary losses of $35,000 were included in the net realized investment losses for the six months ended June 30, 2005.
Expenses
     Losses and Loss Expenses
     Losses and loss expenses represent our largest expense item and include (1) payments made to settle claims, (2) estimates for future claim payments and changes in those estimates for current and prior periods, and (3) costs associated with settling claims. The items that influence the incurred losses and loss expenses for a given period include, but are not limited to, the following:
    the number of exposures covered in the current year;
 
    trends in claim frequency and claim severity;
 
    changes in the cost of adjusting claims;
 
    changes in the legal environment relating to coverage interpretation, theories of liability and jury determinations; and
 
    the re-estimation of prior years’ reserves in the current year.
     We establish or adjust (for prior accident quarters) our best estimate of the ultimate incurred losses and loss expenses to reflect loss development information and trends that have been updated for the most recent quarter’s activity through quarterly internal actuarial analysis. As of December 31 of each year, we have an independent actuarial analysis performed of the adequacy of our reserves. Our estimate of ultimate loss and loss expenses is evaluated and re-evaluated by accident year and by major coverage grouping and changes in estimates are reflected in the period the additional information becomes known.
     Our reinsurance program significantly influences our net retained losses. In exchange for premiums ceded to reinsurers under quota share and excess of loss reinsurance agreements, our reinsurers assume a portion of the losses and loss expenses incurred. We remain obligated for amounts ceded in the event that the reinsurers do not meet their obligations under the agreements (due to, for example, disputes with the reinsurer or the reinsurer’s insolvency).

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Net loss and loss expenses incurred were $32.6 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2006, compared to $26.6 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2005. In the second quarter of 2006, we recorded $31.7 million of incurred losses and loss expenses attributable to the 2006 accident year and $886,000 attributable to events of prior years. In the second quarter of 2005, we recorded $24.9 million of incurred losses and loss expenses attributable to the 2005 accident year and $1.7 million attributable to events of prior years.
Net loss and loss expenses incurred were $63.0 million for the six months ended June 30, 2006, compared to $52.3 million for the six months ended June 30, 2005. In the first six months of 2006, we recorded $61.4 million of incurred losses and loss expenses attributable to the 2006 accident year and $1.6 million, respectively attributable to events of prior years. In the first six months of 2005, we recorded $48.7 million of incurred losses and loss expenses attributable to the 2005 accident year and $3.6 million attributable to events of prior years.
     Our reserve for losses and loss expenses at June 30, 2006 was $235.0 million (before the effects of reinsurance) and $193.3 million (after the effects of reinsurance), as estimated through our actuarial analysis. For the second quarter of 2006 and the first six months of 2006, we concluded through our actuarial analysis that the December 31, 2005 reserve for losses and loss expenses of $174.2 million (after the effects of reinsurance) was deficient by $886,000 and $1.6 million, respectively, primarily in our casualty business, which was partially offset by favorable development in our property reserves.
     Our reserve for losses and loss expenses (net of the effects of reinsurance) at June 30, 2006 and December 31, 2005 by line is summarized as follows:
                 
    June 30,     December 31,  
    2006     2005  
    (In thousands)  
Property/casualty:
               
Casualty
  $ 167,197       142,451  
Property
    22,423       27,972  
Other (including exited lines):
               
Commercial auto
    588       936  
Workers’ compensation
    2,635       2,657  
Other
    414       183  
 
           
Net reserves for losses and loss expenses
    193,257       174,199  
Plus reinsurance recoverables on unpaid losses at end of period
    41,694       37,448  
 
           
Gross reserves for losses and loss expenses
  $ 234,951       211,647  
 
           
     The increase in net loss and loss expense reserves during the first six months of 2006 is primarily attributable to our continued growth, and an increase in the cost to settle claims experienced throughout 2005 and into 2006.
     In the aggregate, we recorded $886,000 and $1.6 million of unfavorable reserve development related to prior accident years for the three and six months ended June 30, 2006, respectively. For the six months ended June 30, 2006, within the property line, we experienced favorable non-catastrophe case reserve development producing a reduction in ultimate loss and loss expenses for the 2004 and 2005 accident years by $4.0 million. We also changed our estimates during such six month period on catastrophe losses by reducing our estimates on Hurricane Wilma by $1.1 million due to actual incurred losses being lower than original estimates. This favorable development was offset by an increase of $4.1 million in casualty reserves during such six month period as a result of a refinement to the internal actuarial reserving technique concerning the weighting of reserve indications and supplemental information concerning claims severities. Our reserves moved to a higher point on the range of loss and loss expense reserve estimate, despite the fact that overall, our casualty book of business performed within the range of expectations for the quarter and six months ended June 30, 2006. We also incurred approximately $1.2 million of adverse development during the six months ended June 30, 2006 due to an increase in legal severities on construction defect claims. Additionally, we recorded approximately $1.4 million of unfavorable development during the six months ended June 30, 2006 related to estimated costs associated with possible reinsurance collection issues on two separate casualty claims.
     The prior year development increases for the quarter and six months ended June 30, 2005 resulted principally from construction defect claims within the other liability line of the property and casualty segment. During the first and second quarter of 2005, we

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established reserves for several contribution action settlements. This development was slightly offset by favorable claim count development, while claim severities continued to be within our expectations. Prior year development for construction defect claims was $1.7 million and $3.1 million for the three and six months ended June 30, 2005, respectively. The prior year increases related to construction defect claims was partially offset by positive development in our property line and supplemented by additional development in the casualty line.
     Operating Expenses
     Operating expenses include the costs to acquire a policy (included in amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs), other operating expenses (including corporate expenses) and interest expense. The following table presents our amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs, other operating expenses and related ratios and interest expense for the periods indicated:
                                 
    For the Three Months     For the Six Months  
    Ended June 30,     Ended June 30,  
    2006     2005     2006     2005  
            (In thousands)          
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs (“ADAC”)
  $ 12,896       10,335       24,962       20,555  
Other operating expenses
    4,075       3,474       7,998       6,539  
Severance expense
                      793  
 
                       
ADAC and other operating expenses
    16,971       13,809       32,960       27,887  
Interest expense
    567       459       1,110       876  
 
                       
Total operating expenses
  $ 17,538       14,268       34,070       28,763  
 
                       
 
                               
Expense ratio:
                               
ADAC
    24.5 %     24.0 %     24.6 %     24.3 %
Other operating expenses
    7.8 %     8.1 %     7.9 %     7.7 %
Severance
    %     %     %     1.0 %
 
                       
Total expense ratio (1)
    32.3 %     32.1 %     32.5 %     33.0 %
 
                       
 
(1)   Interest expense is not included in the calculation of the expense ratio.
     Operating expenses increased compared to the same periods in 2005 by 22.9% and 18.5% for the three and six months ended June 30, 2006, respectively. The overall expense ratio for the three months ended June 30, 2006 and 2005 was 32.3%, and 32.1%. The overall expense ratio was 32.5% for the six months ended June 30, 2006 and 33.0% for the six months ended June 30, 2005, respectively. The increase in expenses and the expense ratio for the three months ended June 30, 2006 and the increase in expenses for the six months ended June 30, 2006 compared to the same periods of 2005, is primarily due to an increase in ADAC as a result of an increase in the volume of insurance written. In addition, we have experienced a slight increase in our ADAC portion of the expense ratio due to an increase in the volume of our binding premium, which has a higher commission rate compared to our brokerage business. The other operating expense ratio for the three and six months ended June 30, 2006 compared to the three and six months ended June 30, 2005 remained relatively stable. The decrease in the expense ratio for the six months ended June 30, 2006 when compared to the six months ended June 30, 2005 primarily resulted from the severance expense recorded in the first quarter of 2005.
     Interest expense continues to increase based on the increase in interest rates on our Trust Preferred securities, due to the increasing interest rate environment.
Income Taxes
     The income tax provision for the three and six months ended June 30, 2006 and 2005, has been computed based on our estimated annual effective tax rate of 29%, which differs from the federal income tax rate of 35% principally because of tax-exempt investment income.

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Liquidity and Capital Resources
     ProCentury is a holding company, the principal asset of which is the common shares of Century. Although we have the capacity to generate cash through loans from banks and issuances of equity securities, our primary source of funds to meet our short-term liquidity needs, including the payment of dividends to our shareholders and corporate expenses, is dividends from Century. Century’s principal sources of funds are underwriting operations, investment income and proceeds from sales and maturities of investments. Century’s primary use of funds is to pay claims and operating expenses, to purchase investments and to make dividend payments to us. ProCentury’s future liquidity is dependent on the ability of Century to pay dividends.
     Century is restricted by statute as to the amount of dividends it may pay without the prior approval of regulatory authorities. Century may pay dividends to ProCentury without advance regulatory approval only from unassigned surplus and only to the extent that all dividends in the current twelve months do not exceed the greater of 10% of total statutory surplus as of the end of the prior fiscal year or statutory net income for the prior year. Using these criteria, the available ordinary dividend payable by Century to ProCentury in 2006 is $12.1 million. Century paid ordinary dividends for the three and six months ended June 30, 2006 of $1.3 million and $2.6 million, respectively. Century did not pay ProCentury any dividends in the first six months of 2005.
     Century is required by law to maintain a certain minimum level of surplus on a statutory basis. Surplus is calculated by subtracting total liabilities form total admitted assets. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (“NAIC”) has a risk-based capital standard designed to identify property and casualty insurers that may be inadequately capitalized based on inherent risks of each insurer’s assets and liabilities and its mix of net written premiums. Insurers falling below a calculated threshold may be subject to varying degrees of regulatory action. At December 31, 2005, the statutory surplus of Century was in excess of the prescribed risk-based capital requirements that correspond to any level of regulatory action. Century’s statutory surplus at December 31, 2005 was $121.8 million and the authorized control level was $33.6 million. Century’s statutory surplus at June 30, 2006 was $126.8 million.
     Consolidated net cash provided by operating activities was $30.4 million for the first six months of 2006, compared to $28.2 million for the same period in 2005. The increase is a direct result of the current year growth in premiums, partially offset by the related expenses.
     Consolidated net cash used by investing activities was $26.8 million for the first six months of 2006, compared to $22.8 million for the same period in 2005. The increase resulted from our ability to invest the continued increase in net cash provided by operating activities.
     Consolidated net cash used in financing activities was $354,000 for the first six months of 2006, compared to net cash used in financing activities of $528,000 for the same period in 2005. This decrease is the result of an increase in dividends of $0.065 per share during the six months ended June 30, 2006 compared to $0.04 per share during the six months ended June 30, 2005, partially offset by a $500,000 cash draw on the line of credit.
     Interest on our debt issued to a related party trust is variable and resets quarterly based on a spread over three-month London Interbank Offered Rates (“LIBOR”). As part of our asset/liability matching program, we have short-term investments, investments in bond mutual funds, as well as available cash balances from operations and investment maturities, that are available for reinvestment during periods of rising or falling interest rates.
     We have a $5.0 million line of credit with a maturity date of September 8, 2006, and interest only payments due quarterly based on LIBOR plus 2.5% of the outstanding balance. All of the outstanding shares of Century are pledged as collateral. In June 2006, the Company made a $500,000 draw on the line of credit for general corporate purposes. Interest expense on the line of credit for the quarter ended June 30, 2006 was approximately $1,800. We also made an additional draw of $500,000 on the line of credit in July 2006.
     There was no outstanding balance at June 30, 2005; however, in April 2005, we made a $2.3 million draw on the line of credit for general corporate purposes. The $2.3 million draw was paid off on May 17, 2005. Interest paid on the line of credit for the period during which the draw was outstanding was $5,000 for the quarter ended June 30, 2005.
     Our contractual obligations and commercial commitments have not materially changed from that reported in our most recent Form 10-K.

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     Given our historical cash flow, we believe cash flow from operating activities in 2006 will provide sufficient liquidity for our operations, as well as to satisfy debt service obligations and to pay other operating expenses. Although we anticipate that we will be able to meet our cash requirements, we cannot give assurances in this regard.
Investment Portfolio
     Our investment strategy is designed to capitalize on our ability to generate positive cash flow from our underwriting activities. Preservation of capital is our first priority, with a secondary focus on maximizing appropriate risk adjusted return. We seek to maintain sufficient liquidity from operations, investing and financing activities to meet our anticipated insurance obligations and operating and capital expenditure needs. The majority of our fixed-maturity portfolio is rated investment grade to protect investments. Our investment portfolio is managed by three outside independent investment managers that operate under investment guidelines approved by Century’s investment committee. Century’s investment committee meets at least quarterly and reports to ProCentury’s board of directors. In addition, we employ stringent diversification rules and balance our investment credit risk and related underwriting risks to minimize total potential exposure to any one security or type of security. In limited circumstances, we will invest in non-investment grade fixed-maturity securities that have an appropriate risk adjusted return, subject to satisfactory credit analysis performed by us and our investment managers.
     Our cash and investment portfolio increased to $389.2 million at June 30, 2006 from $366.4 million at December 31, 2005 and is summarized by type of investment in Note 3 to the interim unaudited consolidated condensed financial statements included in this Form 10-Q filing. Our taxable equivalent yield increased to 5.8% at June 30, 2006 from 5.2% at December 31, 2005. The increase in the taxable equivalent yield during the first six months of 2006 was a result of the investment of proceeds from maturities and operating cash flows at higher interest rates, which were partially driven by the overall rise in market interest rates. The fair value of our fixed maturities at June 30, 2006 increased to $326.4 million from $303.7 million at December 31, 2005. The fair value of our equity securities decreased to $42.2 million at June 30, 2006 from $44.8 million at December 31, 2005. As of June 30, 2006, the duration of the fixed income portfolio was 4.3 years, slightly shorter than at December 31, 2005. The overall credit quality of the portfolio remained investment grade.
Accounting Standards
     In July 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) released FASB Interpretation No. (FIN) 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes, an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109”. FIN 48 clarifies the accounting for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in the financial statements in accordance with SFAS 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes.” The Interpretation prescribes a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. It also provides guidance on derecognition, classification, interest and penalties, accounting for interim periods, disclosure and transition. FIN 48 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2006. We are currently evaluating the impact of this Interpretation.
     In September 2005, the Accounting Standards Executive Committee of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) issued Statement of Position (“SOP”) 05-1, “Accounting by Insurance Enterprises for Deferred Acquisition Costs in Connection with Modifications or Exchanges of Insurance Contracts(SOP 05-1). SOP 05-1 provides guidance on accounting by insurance enterprises for deferred acquisition costs on internal replacements of insurance and investment contracts other than those specifically described in SFAS No. 97, “Accounting and Reporting by Insurance Enterprises for Certain Long-Duration Contracts and for Realized Gains and Losses from the Sale of Investments” , issued by the FASB. SOP 05-1 defines an internal replacement as a modification in product benefits, features, rights or coverages that occurs as a result of the exchange of a contract for a new contract, or by amendment, endorsement or rider to a contract, or by the election of a new feature or coverage within a contract. SOP 05-1 is effective for internal replacements occurring in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2006, with earlier adoption encouraged. Retrospective application of SOP 05-1 to previously issued financial statements is not permitted. Initial application of SOP 05-1 is required as of the beginning of an entity’s fiscal year. We will adopt SOP 05-1 effective January 1, 2007. We are currently evaluating the impact of the SOP.

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     In February 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued statement No. 155, “Accounting for Certain Hybrid Financial Instruments” (“SFAS No. 155”). Under current generally accepted accounting principles an entity that holds a financial instrument with an embedded derivative must bifurcate the financial instrument, resulting in the host and the embedded derivative being accounted for separately. SFAS No. 155 permits, but does not require, entities to account for financial instruments with an embedded derivative at fair value thus negating the need to bifurcate the instrument between its host and the embedded derivative. SFAS No. 155 is effective as of the beginning of the first annual reporting period that begins after September 15, 2006. We expect that SFAS No. 155 will not have a material effect on our consolidated financial condition or results of operations.
     In March 2006, the FASB issued statement No. 156, “Accounting for Servicing of Financial Assets” (“SFAS No. 156”). SFAS No. 156 amends FASB Statement No. 140, Accounting for Transfers and Servicing of Financial Assets and Extinguishments of Liabilities, to require that all separately recognized servicing assets and servicing liabilities be initially measured at fair value, if practicable. SFAS No. 156 permits, but does not require, the subsequent measurement of separately recognized servicing assets and servicing liabilities at fair value. An entity that uses derivative instruments to mitigate the risks inherent in servicing assets and servicing liabilities is required to account for those derivative instruments at fair value. SFAS No. 156 is effective as of the beginning of the first annual reporting period that begins after September 15, 2006. We expect that SFAS No. 156 will not have a material effect on our financial condition or results of operations.
Item 3. Quantitative And Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
     The Company is exposed to market risk, which is the potential economic loss principally arising from adverse changes in the fair value of financial instruments. The major components of market risk affecting us are credit risk, equity price risk and interest rate risk.
     As of June 30, 2006, there had not been a material change in any of the market risk information disclosed by the Company under Item 7A. “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk” in its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005.
Item 4. Controls And Procedures
     As of the end of the period covered by this quarterly report, the Company carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s management, including the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) and the Chief Financial Officer (“CFO”) and Treasurer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures pursuant to Securities Exchange Act Rule 13a-15 (“Disclosure Controls”).
     The Company’s management, including the CEO and CFO, does not expect that its Disclosure Controls will prevent all errors and all fraud. A control system, no matter how well conceived and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the control system are met. Further, the design of a control system must reflect the fact that there are resource constraints, and the benefits of controls must be considered relative to their costs. Because of the inherent limitations in all control systems, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, within the Company have been detected. These inherent limitations include the realities that judgments in decision-making can be faulty, and that breakdowns can occur because of simple error or mistake. The design of any system of controls also is based in part upon certain assumptions about the likelihood of future events, and there can be no assurance that any design will succeed in achieving its stated goals under all potential future conditions.
     Based on management’s evaluation of the Company’s Disclosure Controls as of June 30, 2006, management concluded that they provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed by the Company in its periodic reports is accumulated and communicated to management, including the CEO and CFO, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding disclosure and is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms.
     There were no changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting during the Company’s most recent fiscal quarter that materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

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PART II: OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1. Legal Proceedings
     We are party to lawsuits, arbitration and other proceedings that arise in the normal course of our business. Many of such lawsuits, arbitrations and other proceedings involve claims under policies that we underwrite as an insurer, the liabilities for which we believe have been adequately included in our loss and LAE reserves. Also, from time to time, we are party to lawsuits, arbitrations and other proceedings that relate to disputes over contractual relationships with third parties, or that involve alleged errors and omissions on the part of our insurance subsidiaries. We provide accruals for these items to the extent we deem the losses probable and reasonably estimable.
     The outcome of litigation is subject to numerous uncertainties. Although the ultimate outcome of pending matters cannot be determined at this time, based on present information, we believe the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
Item 1A. Risk Factors
     The risks related to our business and industry have not materially changed from those identified in the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005.
Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
     Not applicable.
Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities
     Not applicable.
Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders
     The Company’s annual meeting of shareholders was held on May 15, 2006. The following matter was brought before the shareholders for vote at this meeting:
     The election of the following three Class II Directors, each to serve until the 2009 annual meeting of shareholders and until a successor has been duly elected and qualified:
         
    For   Against/Withheld
Robert F. Fix
  12,266,104   322,419
Christopher J. Timm
  12,433,208   155,315
Robert J. Woodward, Jr.
  12,216,460   372,063
Item 5. Other Information
     Not applicable.
Item 6. Exhibits
     
3.1
  Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation of ProCentury (Incorporated by reference from the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 31, 2004, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission “SEC” on September 4, 2004.)
 
   
3.2
  Amended and Restated Code of Regulations of ProCentury (Incorporated by reference from the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 31, 2004, filed with the SEC on September 4, 2004.)
 
   
31.1
  Certification of Principal Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) of the Exchange Act
 
   
31.2
  Certification of Principal Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) of the Exchange Act
 
   
32.1
  Certification of Principal Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(b) of the Exchange Act and 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as

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  adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (1)
 
   
32.2
  Certification of Principal Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(b) of the Exchange Act and 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (1)
 
(1)   These certifications are not deemed to be “filed” for purposes of Section 18 of the Exchange Act, or otherwise subject to the liability of that section. These certifications will not be deemed to be incorporated by reference into any filing under the Securities Act or the Exchange Act, except to the extent that the registrant specifically incorporates them by reference.

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SIGNATURE
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf of the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
         
  PROCENTURY CORPORATION
 
 
Date August 7, 2006  By:   /s/ Erin E. West    
    Erin E. West   
    Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer
(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) 
 

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EXHIBIT INDEX
     
3.1
  Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation of ProCentury (Incorporated by reference from the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 31, 2004, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on September 4, 2004.)
 
   
3.2
  Amended and Restated Code of Regulations of ProCentury (Incorporated by reference from the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 31, 2004, filed with the SEC on September 4, 2004.)
 
   
31.1
  Certification of Principal Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) of the Exchange Act
 
   
31.2
  Certification of Principal Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) of the Exchange Act
 
   
32.1
  Certification of Principal Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(b) of the Exchange Act and 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (1)
 
   
32.2
  Certification of Principal Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(b) of the Exchange Act and 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (1)
 
(1)   These certifications are not deemed to be “filed” for purposes of Section 18 of the Exchange Act, or otherwise subject to the liability of that section. These certifications will not be deemed to be incorporated by reference into any filing under the Securities Act or the Exchange Act, except to the extent that the registrant specifically incorporates them by reference.

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