Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The estimated combined risk-based capital (RBC) ratio was between 405% and 425%, within the target range of 400% to 450% in normal market conditions [7][14] - Total adjusted capital (TAC) increased to approximately $5.6 billion at June 30, compared to approximately $5.5 billion at March 31 [14] - Adjusted earnings for the quarter were $198 million or $3.43 per share, down from $245 million in the previous quarter and $346 million in the same quarter of 2024 [17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total annuity sales were $2.6 billion, a 16% sequential increase and an 8% increase compared to 2024 [9] - Shield sales totaled $1.9 billion in the quarter, with year-to-date Shield sales at $3.9 billion, consistent with the same period last year [10] - Life insurance sales in the second quarter were $33 million, contributing to record year-to-date life insurance sales of $69 million, a 21% increase compared to the same period in 2024 [10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company received $176 million in deposits through BlackRock's LifePath Paycheck product in the second quarter, indicating strong market engagement [10] - The company noted increased competition in the marketplace, particularly affecting Shield sales, which saw a decline for the first time in several years [49] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on capital efficiency and maintaining a strong capital position at its insurance subsidiaries [6] - A strategic initiative includes separating the management of the Shield and variable annuity (VA) books to improve risk management and transparency [27][28] - The company aims to continue innovating with respect to products and maintaining pricing discipline despite competitive pressures [52][54] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to manage its legacy liabilities and maintain operational capabilities [46] - The company is committed to protecting its statutory balance sheet under adverse market conditions and expects to see less volatility in results over time [20][29] - Management indicated that the transition to a revised hedging strategy is expected to be completed by the end of the third quarter [28] Other Important Information - Corporate expenses for the second quarter were $200 million, down from $239 million in the first quarter [11] - The company returned $43 million to shareholders through common stock repurchases in the second quarter, with a total of $102 million year-to-date [11] Q&A Session Summary Question: Concerns about actuarial review for 3Q and 4Q - Management stated that the actuarial review is ongoing and no updates are available at this time [22][23] Question: Buyback plans and capital preservation - Management confirmed that buybacks are part of the normal plan but noted that the recent program expired in May [41][42] Question: Impact of competition on Shield sales - Management acknowledged increased competition but emphasized that they remain pleased with their performance and pricing discipline [49][52] Question: Clarification on unassigned surplus and cash flow - Management explained that the negative unassigned surplus is a technical consideration and does not fundamentally impact capital [58][61] Question: Long-term free cash flow projections - Management indicated that they need to complete ongoing initiatives before providing an outlook for future results [117]