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Aon Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2018 Results

LONDON, Feb. 1, 2019 /PRNewswire/ --

Fourth Quarter Key Metrics as Reported Under U.S. GAAP(1)

  • Total revenue decreased 5% to $2.8 billion, including a decrease of $225 million, or 8%, related to the FASB's new revenue recognition standard
  • Operating margin decreased 270 basis points to 18.0%, including a decrease of 450 basis points related to the FASB's new revenue recognition standard
  • EPS increased to $1.13, including a decrease of $0.53 related to the FASB's new revenue recognition standard

Fourth Quarter Key Metrics as Comparable to Pro Forma Financials and Highlights(1)

  • Total revenue increased 3% to $2.8 billion, including 6% organic revenue growth
  • Operating margin increased 180 basis points to 18.0%, and operating margin, adjusted for certain items, increased 280 basis points to 25.8%
  • EPS increased to $1.13, and EPS, adjusted for certain items, increased 19% to $2.16
  • Repurchased 1.2 million Class A Ordinary Shares for approximately $200 million

Full Year Key Metrics as Reported Under U.S. GAAP(1)

  • Total revenue increased 8% to $10.8 billion, including a decrease of $13 million related to the FASB's new revenue recognition standard
  • Operating margin increased 380 basis points to 14.3%, including a decrease of 20 basis points related to the FASB's new revenue recognition standard
  • EPS increased 180% to $4.29, including a decrease of $0.05 related to the FASB's new revenue recognition standard

Full Year Key Metrics as Comparable to Pro Forma Financials and Highlights(1)

  • Total revenue increased 8% to $10.8 billion, including 5% organic revenue growth
  • Operating margin increased 380 basis points to 14.3%, and operating margin, adjusted for certain items, increased 220 basis points to 25.0%
  • EPS increased to $4.29, and EPS, adjusted for certain items, increased 26% to $8.16
  • Cash flow from operations increased 152% to $1,686 million and free cash flow increased 198% to $1,446 million
  • Repurchased 10.0 million Class A Ordinary Shares for approximately $1.4 billion

"Our results for the quarter reflect both a strong operational and financial performance to finish the year, highlighted by organic revenue growth of 6%, with growth across every solution line, and substantial operating improvement reflected in +280 basis points of margin expansion and 19% growth in adjusted earnings per share. For the full year, we delivered our strongest level of organic revenue growth since 2006 and achieved $8.16 of adjusted earnings per share, fully delivering on our near-term target to exceed $7.97 per share in 2018," said Greg Case, Chief Executive Officer. "Our strong performance reflects initial success from the strategic actions we have progressively taken to drive Aon United, while also absorbing significant investments to support long-term growth initiatives. Our team is excited about the momentum we have heading into 2019 and the firm's outlook for substantial long-term client and shareholder value creation."

Aon plc (NYSE: AON) today reported results for the three and twelve months ended December 31, 2018.

Net income from continuing operations attributable to Aon shareholders in the fourth quarter was $276 million, or $1.13 per share, compared to $10 million, or $0.04 per share, in the prior year period, which includes $(135) million, or $(0.53) per share, of unfavorable impact from adoption of the new revenue recognition standard. Net income per share from continuing operations on a comparable basis, adjusted for certain items, increased 19% to $2.16, including an unfavorable impact of $0.06 per share if the company were to hold foreign currency exchange rates constant, translating prior year period results at current period foreign exchange rates ("foreign currency translation"), compared to $1.82 in the prior year period. Certain items that impacted fourth quarter results and comparisons with the prior year period are detailed in the "Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measures - Operating Income from Continuing Operations and Diluted Earnings Per Share" on page 11 of this press release.

FOURTH QUARTER 2018 FINANCIAL SUMMARY
The fourth quarter financial results discussed herein represent performance from continuing operations unless otherwise noted. Adoption of the FASB's new revenue recognition standard on January 1, 2018 is not reflected in reported 2017 financials. A comparable year-over-year view of reported 2018 results to unaudited pro forma 2017 results incorporating the impact of adoption of the new revenue recognition standard is provided in detail on pages 10-15 of this press release.

Total revenue in the fourth quarter decreased $139 million, or 5%, to $2.8 billion on a reported basis compared to the prior year period, including a decrease of $225 million, or 8%, related to adoption of the new revenue recognition standard. Excluding this impact, revenue on a comparable basis increased $86 million, or 3%, compared to the prior year period driven by 6% organic revenue growth, partially offset by a 2% unfavorable impact from foreign currency translation and a 1% decrease related to divestitures, net of acquisitions.

Total operating expenses in the fourth quarter decreased 2% to $2.3 billion on a reported basis compared to the prior year period, including a decrease of $60 million, or 3%, related to adoption of the new revenue recognition standard. Excluding this impact, expenses on a comparable basis increased $23 million, or 1%, compared to the prior year period driven primarily by a $23 million increase in restructuring costs, and an increase in expense associated with 6% organic revenue growth, partially offset by $52 million of incremental savings related to restructuring and other operational improvement initiatives, a $50 million favorable impact from foreign currency translation, and overall expense discipline.

Restructuring expenses were $119 million in the fourth quarter, primarily driven by costs associated with restructuring and separation initiatives and workforce reductions. Upon evaluating progress of the restructuring program in its final year, the Company has increased its estimated total cash investment by $150 million from $975 million to $1,125 million. In addition, the Company has increased its estimated non-cash spend by $50 million to approximately $100 million of non-cash charges associated with the program. To date, the Company has incurred $982 million, or 80% of the total estimated restructuring charges and $705 million, or 63%, of the total estimated cash spend. In addition to the restructuring charges, the Company continues to estimate $200 million of incremental capital expenditures associated with the three-year program, of which $93 million, or 47%, has been incurred to date. An analysis of restructuring and related costs by type is detailed on page 18 of this press release.

Restructuring savings in the fourth quarter related to restructuring and other operational improvement initiatives are estimated at $108 million, before any potential reinvestment, an increase of $52 million compared to the prior year period. Before any potential reinvestment of savings, restructuring and other operational improvement initiatives are now expected to deliver run-rate savings of $500 million annually in 2019, an increase of $50 million from the previous estimated savings of $450 million. To date, the Company has achieved $360 million, or 72%, of the total estimated annualized savings, before any potential reinvestment.

We do not expect any further adjustments to the total estimated program costs or annualized savings through the remainder of the program, which will be completed in the fourth quarter of 2019.

Foreign currency exchange rates in the fourth quarter had a $10 million, or $0.04 per share, unfavorable impact on reported net income if the Company were to translate prior year quarter results at current quarter foreign exchange rates. On a comparable basis, there was a $16 million, or $0.06 per share, unfavorable impact from foreign currency translation on net income adjusted for certain items and the impact of adoption of the new revenue recognition standard.

Effective tax rate used in our U.S. GAAP financial statements for the fourth quarter was 32.5%, compared to 95.8% in the prior year period. After adjusting for the impact of adoption of the new revenue recognition standard and to exclude the applicable tax impact associated with certain non-GAAP adjustments, the adjusted effective tax rate on a comparable basis for the fourth quarter of 2018 increased to 16.5% compared to 14.7% in the prior year period, primarily driven by changes in the geographical distribution of income and a net unfavorable impact from discrete items. The prior year period included a net favorable impact from certain discrete items. These adjustments are discussed in the "Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measures - Operating Income from Continuing Operations and Diluted Earnings Per Share" on page 11 of this press release.

Weighted average diluted shares outstanding decreased to 245.0 million in the fourth quarter compared to 254.5 million in the prior year period. The Company repurchased 1.2 million Class A Ordinary Shares for approximately $200 million in the fourth quarter. As of December 31, 2018, the Company had $4.0 billion of remaining authorization under its share repurchase program.

CASH FLOW SUMMARY
Cash flow from operations for 2018 increased 152%, or $1,017 million, to $1,686 million compared to the prior year. The prior year included $940 million of cash tax payments related to the divestiture of the outsourcing business. Strong operational improvement and working capital improvements in both receivables and payables contributed to year-over-year growth, partially offset by $145 million of incremental cash restructuring charges and $80 million of accelerated pension contributions.

Free cash flow for 2018, defined as cash flow from operations less capital expenditures, increased 198%, or $960 million, to $1,446 million compared to the prior year, reflecting an increase in cash flow from operations, partially offset by a $57 million increase in capital expenditures, including investments in our operating model. A reconciliation of free cash flow to cash flow from operations can be found on the "Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measures - Organic Revenue Growth and Free Cash Flow" on page 10 of this press release.

Adjusted free cash flow for 2018, defined as free cash flow excluding certain near-term impacts resulting from the divestiture of the outsourcing business, including restructuring initiatives, increased 9%, or $159 million, to $1,937 million compared to the prior year. A reconciliation of free cash flow and adjusted free cash flow to cash flow from operations can be found in "Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measures - Organic Revenue Growth and Free Cash Flow" on page 10 of this press release.

FOURTH QUARTER 2018 REVENUE REVIEW
The fourth quarter revenue reviews provided below include supplemental information related to organic revenue, which is a non-GAAP measure that is described in detail in "Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measures - Organic Revenue Growth and Free Cash Flow" on page 10 of this press release.


Three Months Ended














Dec 31,
2018


Dec 31,
2017


%
Change


Revenue
Recognition


Less:
Currency
Impact


Less:
Fiduciary
Investment
Income


Less:
Acquisitions,
Divestitures 
& Other


Organic
Revenue
Growth

Commercial Risk Solutions

$

1,273


$

1,226


4%


(1)%


(3)%


—%


4%


4%

Reinsurance Solutions

162


359


(55)


(61)


(2)


2


(2)


8

Retirement Solutions

509


489


4



(2)



2


4

Health Solutions

558


538


4


(2)


(2)




8

Data & Analytic Services

271


298


(9)



(2)



(16)


9

Elimination

(3)


(1)


NA


NA


NA


NA


NA


NA

Total revenue

$

2,770


$

2,909


(5)%


(8)%


(2)%


—%


(1)%


6%

Total revenue decreased $139 million, or 5%, on a reported basis, including a decrease of $225 million, or 8%, related to adoption of the new revenue recognition standard. Excluding this impact, revenue on a comparable basis increased $86 million, or 3%, compared to prior year period, including organic revenue growth of 6%, highlighted by strong new business generation and management of the renewal book portfolio globally across our core portfolio.

Commercial Risk Solutions organic revenue growth increased 4% compared to the prior year period driven by solid growth across most major geographies, highlighted by record new business generation in the U.S., as well as strong growth in Latin America, EMEA, and the Asia Pacific regions.

Reinsurance Solutions organic revenue growth increased 8% compared to the prior year period driven by continued net new business generation in treaty, with particular strength in the U.S., as well as strong growth globally in facultative placements. In addition, market impact was modestly favorable on results in the fourth quarter.

Retirement Solutions organic revenue growth increased 4% compared to the prior year period driven by solid growth in core actuarial retirement, as well as solid growth in our talent and rewards practice for compensation benchmarking and consulting services.

Health Solutions organic revenue growth increased 8% compared to the prior year period driven by solid growth globally in health and benefits brokerage, highlighted by particular strength in the U.S. driven by new business generation and double-digit growth in voluntary benefits, as well as double-digit growth in both Asia and the EMEA region. Results also reflect strong growth across the healthcare exchanges primarily driven by net new client wins on both the active and retiree exchanges.

Data & Analytic Services organic revenue growth increased 9% compared to the prior year period driven by growth globally across our Affinity business, with particular strength in the U.S. across both business and consumer solutions.

FOURTH QUARTER 2018 EXPENSE REVIEW


Three Months Ended





(millions)

Dec 31,
2018


Dec 31,
2017


$

Change


%
Change

Expenses








Compensation and benefits

$

1,601


$

1,640


$

(39)


(2)%

Information technology

121


124


(3)


(2)

Premises

87


89


(2)


(2)

Depreciation of fixed assets

50


39


11


28

Amortization and impairment of intangible assets

101


100


1


1

Other general expenses

311


316


(5)


(2)

Total operating expenses

$

2,271


$

2,308


$

(37)


(2)%

Compensation and benefits expense decreased 2%, or $39 million, on a reported basis, including a $72 million decrease related to adoption of the new revenue recognition standard. Excluding this impact, compensation and benefits expense on a comparable basis increased $33 million, or 2%, compared to the prior year period due primarily to an increase in expense associated with  6% organic revenue growth and an $11 million increase in expenses related to acquisitions, net of divestitures, partially offset by $46 million of incremental savings related to restructuring and other operational improvement initiatives, a $35 million favorable impact from foreign currency translation, and an $11 million decrease in restructuring costs.

Information technology expense decreased 2%, or $3 million, compared to the prior year period due primarily to expense discipline as we continue to optimize our IT portfolio and a $2 million favorable impact from foreign currency translation, partially offset by a $6 million increase in restructuring costs.

Premises expense decreased 2%, or $2 million, compared to the prior year period due primarily to $7 million of incremental savings related to restructuring and other operational improvement initiatives and a $3 million favorable impact from foreign currency translation, partially offset by a $4 million increase in restructuring costs.

Depreciation of fixed assets expense increased 28%, or $11 million, compared to the prior year period primarily due to a $2 million increase in restructuring costs and an increase in certain asset write-offs.

Amortization and impairment of intangible assets expense increased 1%, or $1 million, compared to the prior year period.

Other general expenses decreased 2%, or $5 million, on a reported basis, including a $12 million increase related to adoption of the new revenue recognition standard. Excluding this impact, other general expenses on a comparable basis decreased 5%, or $17 million, compared to the prior year period primarily due to overall expense discipline, an $11 million decrease related to divestitures, net of acquisitions, and an $8 million favorable impact from foreign currency translation, partially offset by a $22 million increase in restructuring costs.

FOURTH QUARTER 2018 INCOME SUMMARY
The fourth quarter 2018 financial results discussed herein represent performance from continuing operations unless otherwise noted. Adoption of the FASB's new revenue recognition standard on January 1, 2018 is not reflected in reported 2017 financials. A comparable year-over-year view of reported 2018 results to unaudited pro forma 2017 results incorporating the impact of adoption of the new revenue recognition standard is provided in detail on pages 10-15 of this press release. In addition, certain noteworthy items impacted adjusted operating income and adjusted operating margins in the fourth quarters of 2018 and 2017, which are also described in detail in "Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measures Adjusted for Changes in Accounting Guidance - Operating Income from Continuing Operations and Diluted Earnings Per Share" on page 11 of this press release.

AS REPORTED


Three Months Ended



(millions)

Dec 31,
2018


Dec 31,
2017


%

 Change

Revenue

$

2,770


$

2,909


(5)%

Expenses

2,271


2,308


(2)

Operating income - as reported

$

499


$

601


(17)%

Operating margin - as reported

18.0%


20.7%



Operating income decreased $102 million, or 17%, on a reported basis compared to the prior year period, including a decrease of $165 million, or 27%, related to adoption of the new revenue recognition standard. Operating margin decreased 270 basis points on a reported basis compared to the prior year period, including a decrease of 450 basis points related to adoption of the new revenue recognition standard.

AS COMPARABLE TO 2017 UNAUDITED PRO FORMA FINANCIALS


Three Months Ended






(Pro Forma)



(millions)

Dec 31,
2018


Dec 31,
2017


%

 Change

Revenue

$

2,770


$

2,684


3%

Expenses

2,271


2,248


1%

Operating income

$

499


$

436


14%

Operating margin

18.0%


16.2%



Operating income - as adjusted

$

716


$

618


16%

Operating margin - as adjusted

25.8%


23.0%



Adjusting for certain items and the impact of adoption of the new revenue recognition standard detailed on page 11 of this press release, adjusted operating income on a comparable basis increased $98 million, or 16%, and adjusted operating margin on a comparable basis increased 280 basis points to 25.8%, each compared to the prior year period. The increase in adjusted operating margin on a comparable basis was primarily driven by strong organic revenue growth, including strong growth in areas of continued investment across the portfolio, and $52 million, or 190 basis points, of incremental savings from restructuring and other operational initiatives, partially offset by a $19 million, or -10 basis points, unfavorable impact from foreign currency translation. Core operational improvement of $65 million, or 10% of operating income growth, and +100 basis points of operating margin expansion compared to the prior year period also reflects the absorption of near-term investment in client-facing colleagues and capabilities to support long-term Aon United growth initiatives.

Interest income decreased $7 million. The prior year period included additional income earned on the remaining proceeds of the sale of the outsourcing business. Interest expense decreased $1 million to $70 million compared to the prior year period. Other pension income decreased $5 million to $11 million. The prior year period included a $5 million curtailment gain resulting from the divestiture of the outsourcing business. Other expense was an unfavorable impact of $14 million, or $0.05 per share, primarily reflecting losses on certain company-owned life insurance plans and net losses due to the unfavorable impact of exchange rates on the remeasurement of assets and liabilities in non-functional currencies.

DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
Net income from discontinued operations was $69 million, or $0.28 per share, compared to net loss of $29 million, or $(0.11) per share, in the prior year period. Net income from discontinued operations was primarily impacted by tax adjustments related to finalizing the 2017 accounting for U.S. Tax Reform pursuant to SAB118.

2018 FULL YEAR SUMMARY
The full year financial results discussed herein represent performance from continuing operations unless otherwise noted. Adoption of the FASB's new revenue recognition standard on January 1, 2018 is not reflected in reported 2017 financials. A comparable year-over-year view of reported 2018 results to unaudited pro forma 2017 results incorporating the impact of adoption of the new revenue recognition standard is provided in detail on pages 10-15 of this press release.

Total revenue in 2018 increased $772 million, or 8%, to $10.8 billion on a reported basis compared to the prior year, including a decrease of $13 million related to adoption of the new revenue recognition standard. Excluding this impact, revenue on a comparable basis increased $785 million, or 8%, driven by 5% organic revenue growth, a 2% increase related to acquisitions, net of divestitures, and a 1% favorable impact from foreign currency translation.

Net income from continuing operations attributable to Aon shareholders on a reported basis was $1,134 million, or $4.29 per share, compared to $1,226 million, or $1.53 per share, in the prior year, which includes $(13) million, or $(0.05) per share, of unfavorable impact from adoption of the new revenue recognition standard. Net income per share from continuing operations on a comparable basis, adjusted for certain items and the impact of adoption of the new revenue recognition standard, increased 26% to $8.16, compared to $6.47 in the prior year. Certain items that impacted full year results and comparisons against the prior year are detailed in the "Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measures - Operating Income from Continuing Operations and Diluted Earnings Per Share" on page 11 of this press release.

During 2018, the Company repurchased approximately 10 million Class A Ordinary Shares for approximately $1.4 billion at an average price of $143.94 per share.

Conference Call, Presentation Slides and Webcast Details
The Company will host a conference call on Friday, February 1, 2019 at 7:30 a.m., central time. Interested parties can listen to the conference call via a live audio webcast and view the presentation slides at www.aon.com.

About Aon

Aon plc (NYSE:AON) Aon is a leading global professional services firm providing a broad range of risk, retirement and health solutions. Our 50,000 colleagues in 120 countries empower results for clients by using proprietary data and analytics to deliver insights that reduce volatility and improve performance.

Safe Harbor Statement

This communication contains certain statements related to future results, or states our intentions, beliefs and expectations or predictions for the future which are forward-looking statements as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from either historical or anticipated results depending on a variety of factors. These forward-looking statements include information about possible or assumed future results of our operations. All statements, other than statements of historical facts that address activities, events or developments that we expect or anticipate may occur in the future, including such things as our outlook, future capital expenditures, growth in commissions and fees, changes to the composition or level of our revenues, cash flow and liquidity, expected tax rates, business strategies, competitive strengths, goals, the benefits of new initiatives, growth of our business and operations, plans and references to future successes, are forward-looking statements. Also, when we use the words such as "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect", "intend", "plan", "probably", "potential", "looking forward", or similar expressions, we are making forward-looking statements.

The following factors, among others, could cause actual results to differ from those set forth in the forward looking statements:  general economic and political conditions in different countries in which Aon does business around the world; changes in the competitive environment; fluctuations in exchange and interest rates that could influence revenue and expense; changes in global equity and fixed income markets that could affect the return on invested assets; changes in the funding status of Aon's various defined benefit pension plans and the impact of any increased pension funding resulting from those changes; the level of Aon's debt limiting financial flexibility; rating agency actions that could affect Aon's ability to borrow funds; the effect of the change in global headquarters and jurisdiction of incorporation, including differences in the anticipated benefits; changes in estimates or assumptions on our financial statements; limits on Aon's subsidiaries to make dividend and other payments to Aon; the impact of lawsuits and other contingent liabilities and loss contingencies arising from errors and omissions and other claims against Aon; the impact of, and potential challenges in complying with, legislation and regulation in the jurisdictions in which Aon operates, particularly given the global scope of Aon's  businesses and the possibility of conflicting regulatory requirements across jurisdictions in which Aon does business; the impact of any investigations brought by regulatory authorities in the U.S., U.K. and other countries; the impact of any inquiries relating to compliance with the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and non-U.S. anti-corruption laws and with U.S. and non-U.S. trade sanctions regimes; failure to protect intellectual property rights or allegations that we infringe on the intellectual property rights of others; the effects of English law on our operating flexibility and the enforcement of judgments against Aon; the failure to retain and attract qualified personnel; international risks associated with Aon's global operations; the effect or natural or man-made disasters; the potential of a system or network breach or disruption resulting in operational interruption or improper disclosure of personal data; Aon's ability to develop and implement new technology; the damage to our reputation among clients, markets or third parties; the actions taken by third parties that preform aspects of our business operations and client services;  the extent to which Aon manages certain risks created in connection with the various services, including fiduciary and investments and other advisory services and business process outsourcing services, among others, that Aon currently provides, or will provide in the future, to clients; Aon's ability to grow, develop and integrate companies that it acquires or new lines of business; changes in commercial property and casualty markets, commercial premium rates or methods of compensation; changes in the health care system or our relationships with insurance carriers; and Aon's ability to implement initiatives intended to yield cost savings, and the ability to achieve those cost savings.

Any or all of Aon's forward-looking statements may turn out to be inaccurate, and there are no guarantees about Aon's performance.  The factors identified above are not exhaustive.  Aon and its subsidiaries operate in a dynamic business environment in which new risks may emerge frequently.  Further information concerning Aon and its businesses, including factors that potentially could materially affect Aon's financial results, is contained in Aon's filings with the SEC. See Aon's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017 and its Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the quarters ended March 31, 2018, June 30, 2018, and September 30, 2018 for a further discussion of these and other risks and uncertainties applicable to Aon's businesses. These factors may be revised or supplemented in subsequent reports.  Aon is under no obligation, and expressly disclaims any obligation, to update or alter any forward-looking statement that it may make from time to time, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Explanation of Non-GAAP Measures

This communication includes supplemental information related to organic revenue growth, free cash flow, adjusted free cash flow, adjusted operating margin, and adjusted earnings per share for continuing operations that exclude the effects of intangible asset amortization, restructuring, capital expenditures, the implementation of the new revenue recognition standard, and certain other noteworthy items that affected results for the comparable periods. Organic revenue growth includes the impact of intercompany activity and excludes the impact of the adoption of the new revenue recognition standard, foreign exchange rate changes, acquisitions, divestitures, transfers between revenue lines, and fiduciary investment income. The impact of foreign exchange is determined by translating last year's revenue, expense or net income at this year's foreign exchange rates.  Reconciliations to the closest U.S. GAAP measure for each non-GAAP measure presented in this press release are provided in the attached appendices.  Supplemental organic revenue growth information and additional measures that exclude the effects of certain items noted above do not affect net income or any other U.S. GAAP reported amounts.  Free cash flow is cash flow from operating activity less capital expenditures. Adjusted free cash flow is free cash flow excluding certain near-term impacts resulting from the divestiture of the outsourcing businesses, including restructuring initiatives. The effective tax rate, as adjusted, excludes the applicable tax impact associated with expenses for estimated intangible asset amortization, restructuring, and certain other noteworthy items. Management believes that these measures are important to make meaningful period-to-period comparisons and that this supplemental information is helpful to investors.  They should be viewed in addition to, not in lieu of, the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements.  Industry peers provide similar supplemental information regarding their performance, although they may not make identical adjustments.

(1) For additional information regarding the reconciliation of non-GAAP pro forma financials refer to pages 10-15 of this press release

Investor Contact:


Media Contact:

Investor Relations


Donna Mirandola

+1 312-381-3310


Vice President, Global External Communications

investor.relations@aon.com


+1 312-381-1532

 

Aon plc

Consolidated Statements of Income (Unaudited)




Three Months
Ended




Twelve Months
Ended



(millions, except per share data)


Dec 31,
 2018


Dec 31,
 2017


%

Change


Dec 31,
 2018


Dec 31,
 2017


%

Change

Revenue













Total revenue


$

2,770


$

2,909


(5)%


$

10,770


$

9,998


8%

Expenses













Compensation and benefits


1,601


1,640


(2)


6,103


6,003


2

Information technology


121


124


(2)


484


419


16

Premises


87


89


(2)


370


348


6

Depreciation of fixed assets


50


39


28


176


187


(6)

Amortization and impairment of intangible assets


101


100


1


593


704


(16)

Other general expenses


311


316


(2)


1,500


1,272


18

Total operating expenses


2,271


2,308


(2)


9,226


8,933


3

Operating income


499


601


(17)


1,544


1,065


45

Interest income



7


(100)


5


27


(81)

Interest expense


(70)


(71)


(1)


(278)


(282)


(1)

Other income (expense)


(8)


(131)


(94)


(25)


(125)


(80)

Income from continuing operations before income taxes


421


406


4


1,246


685


82

Income taxes (1)


137


389


(65)


146


250


(42)

Net income from continuing operations


284


17


1,571


1,100


435


153

Net income (loss) from discontinued operations


69


(29)


(338)


74


828


(91)

Net income


353


(12)


(3,042)


1,174


1,263


(7)

Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests


8


7


14


40


37


8

Net income attributable to Aon shareholders


$

345


$

(19)


(1,916)%


$

1,134


$

1,226


(8)%














Basic net income per share attributable to Aon shareholders

Continuing operations


$

1.14


$

0.04


2,750%


$

4.32


$

1.54


181%

Discontinued operations (2)


0.28


(0.12)


(333)


0.30


3.20


(91)

Net income


$

1.42


$

(0.08)


(1,875)%


$

4.62


$

4.74


(3)%

Diluted net income per share attributable to Aon shareholders

Continuing operations


$

1.13


$

0.04


2,725%


$

4.29


$

1.53


180%

Discontinued operations (2)


0.28


(0.11)


(355)


0.30


3.17


(91)

Net income


$

1.41


$

(0.07)


(2,114)%


$

4.59


$

4.70


(2)%

Weighted average ordinary shares outstanding - basic


242.4


251.3


(4)%


245.2


258.5


(5)%

Weighted average ordinary shares outstanding - diluted


245.0


254.5


(4)%


247.0


260.7


(5)%



(1)

The effective tax rate from continuing operations was 32.5% and 95.8% for the three months ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively, and 11.7% and 36.5% for the twelve months ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

(2)

Upon triggering held for sale criteria in February 2017, Aon ceased depreciating and amortizing all long-lived assets included in discontinued operations. Total operating expenses for 2017 include $8 million of depreciation of fixed assets and $11 million of intangible asset amortization.


 

Aon plc

Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measures - Organic Revenue Growth and Free Cash Flow (Unaudited)


Organic Revenue Growth From Continuing Operations (Unaudited)




Three Months Ended













(millions)


Dec 31,
2018


Dec 31,
2017


%
Change


Revenue
Recognition(1)


Less:
Currency
Impact (2)


Less:
Fiduciary
Investment
Income (3)


Less:
Acquisitions,
Divestitures &
Other


Organic
Revenue
Growth (4)

Commercial Risk Solutions


$

1,273


$

1,226


4%


(1)%


(3)%


—%


4%


4%

Reinsurance Solutions


162


359


(55)


(61)


(2)


2


(2)


8

Retirement Solutions


509


489


4



(2)



2


4

Health Solutions


558


538


4


(2)


(2)




8

Data & Analytic Services


271


298


(9)



(2)



(16)


9

Elimination


(3)


(1)


NA


NA


NA


NA


NA


NA

Total revenue


$

2,770


$

2,909


(5)%


(8)%


(2)%


—%


(1)%


6%




Twelve Months Ended













(millions)


Dec 31,
2018


Dec 31,
2017


%
Change


Revenue
Recognition(1)


Less:
Currency
Impact (2)


Less:
Fiduciary
Investment
Income (3)


Less:
Acquisitions,
Divestitures &
Other


Organic
Revenue
Growth (4)

Commercial Risk Solutions


$

4,652


$

4,169


12%


—%


1%


—%


5%


6%

Reinsurance Solutions


1,563


1,429


9


(1)


2


1



7

Retirement Solutions


1,865


1,755


6



1



3


2

Health Solutions


1,596


1,515


5


(1)




1


5

Data & Analytic Services


1,105


1,140


(3)





(6)


3

Elimination


(11)


(10)


NA


NA


NA


NA


NA


NA

Total revenue


$

10,770


$

9,998


8%



1%


—%


2%


5%



(1)

Revenue Recognition represents the impact of Aon's adoption of the new revenue recognition standard, effective for Aon in the first quarter of 2018.

(2)

Currency impact is determined by translating last year's revenue at this year's foreign exchange rates.

(3)

Fiduciary Investment Income for the three months ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively, was $16 million and $9 million. Fiduciary Investment Income for the twelve months ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively, was $53 million and $32 million.

(4)

Organic revenue growth includes the impact of intercompany activity and excludes the impact of  the adoption of the new revenue recognition standard, changes in foreign exchange rate changes, acquisitions, divestitures, transfers between revenue lines, and fiduciary investment income.

 

Free Cash Flow from Continuing Operations (Unaudited)




Twelve Months Ended



(millions)


Dec 31,
2018


Dec 31,
2017


%
Change

Cash Provided By Continuing Operating Activities


$

1,686


$

669


152%

Capital Expenditures Used for Continuing Operations


(240)


(183)


31

Free Cash Flow Provided by Continuing Operations (1)


$

1,446


$

486


198%








Adjustments:







Transaction costs associated with the divested business



45


(100)%

Income taxes on sale of the divested business



940


(100)

Restructuring plan initiatives (2)


491


307


60%

Free cash flow provided by continuing operations - as adjusted (3)


$

1,937


$

1,778


9%



(1)

Free cash flow is defined as cash flow from operations less capital expenditures. This non-GAAP measure does not imply or represent a precise calculation of residual cash flow available for discretionary expenditures.

(2)

Restructuring plan cash payments include cash used to settle restructuring liabilities as well as payments made on capital expenditures under the program.

(3)

Certain noteworthy items impacting free cash flow from operating activities in 2018 and 2017 are described in this schedule. This non-GAAP measure does not imply or represent a precise calculation of residual cash flow available for discretionary expenditures.

 

Aon plc

Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measures - Operating Income from Continuing Operations and Diluted Earnings Per Share (Unaudited) (1)




Three Months Ended




Twelve Months Ended



(millions, except percentages)


Dec 31,
2018


Dec 31,
2017(2)


%
Change


Dec 31,
2018


Dec 31,
2017(2)


%
Change

Revenue from continuing operations


$

2,770


$

2,684


3%


$

10,770


$

9,985


8%














Operating income from continuing operations - as reported


$

499


$

436


14%


$

1,544


$

1,048


47%

Amortization and impairment of intangible assets(3)


101


100




593


704



Restructuring


119


96




485


497



Legacy Litigation


(3)





75




Regulatory and compliance matters



(14)





28



Operating income from continuing operations - as adjusted


$

716


$

618


16%


$

2,697


$

2,277


18%

Operating margin from continuing operations - as reported


18.0%


16.2%




14.3%


10.5%



Operating margin from continuing operations - as adjusted


25.8%


23.0%




25.0%


22.8%






Three Months Ended




Twelve Months Ended



(millions, except per share data)


Dec 31,
2018


Dec 31,
2017(2)


%
Change


Dec 31,
2018


Dec 31,
2017(2)


%
Change

Operating income from continuing operations - as adjusted


$

716


$

618


16%


$

2,697


$

2,277


18%

Interest income



7


(100)


5


27


(81)

Interest expense


(70)


(71)


(1)


(278)


(282)


(1)

Other income (expense):













Other income (expense) - pensions - as adjusted


11


16


(31)


38


42


(10)

Other income (expense) - other


(14)


(19)


(26)


(26)


(39)


(33)

Total Other income (expense) - as adjusted (4)


(3)


(3)



12


3


300

Income before income taxes from continuing operations - as adjusted


643


551


17


2,436


2,025


20

Income taxes - as adjusted (5)


106


81


31


379


301


26

Net income from continuing operations - as adjusted


537


470


14


2,057


1,724


19

Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests


8


7


14


40


37


8

Net income attributable to Aon shareholders from continuing operations - as adjusted


$

529


$

463


14%


$

2,017


$

1,687


20%

Net income (loss) from discontinued operations - as adjusted(6)


$

(4)


$

(4)


—%


$

(8)


$

56


(114)%

Net income - as adjusted


$

525


$

459


14%


$

2,009


$

1,743


15%

Diluted net income (loss) per share attributable to Aon shareholders

Continuing operations - as adjusted


$

2.16


$

1.82


19%


$

8.16


$

6.47


26%

Discontinued operations - as adjusted


(0.02)


(0.02)



(0.03)


0.22


(114)

Net income - as adjusted


$

2.14


$

1.80


19%


$

8.13


$

6.69


22%

Weighted average ordinary shares outstanding - diluted


245.0


254.5


(4)%


247.0


260.7


(5)%

Effective Tax Rates (5)













Continuing Operations - U.S. GAAP


32.5%


95.8%




11.7%


36.5%



Continuing Operations - Non-GAAP


16.5%


14.7%




15.6%


14.9%



Discontinued Operations - U.S. GAAP


1,437.2%


17.7%




15,949.3%


58.9%



Discontinued Operations - Non-GAAP (6)


20.1%


72.9%




29.7%


11.7%





(1)

Certain noteworthy items impacting operating income in 2018 and 2017 are described in this schedule. The items shown with the caption "as adjusted" are non-GAAP measures. In the first quarter of 2018, Aon adopted new accounting guidance related to the treatment of revenue from contracts with customers that was applied prospectively on its U.S. GAAP financial statements in accordance with FASB standards, and therefore comparable prior periods were not restated.  On pages 11 through 15 of this press release, the Company has included unaudited pro forma consolidated results that present the retrospective impact of the new standard as if it were in effect for the comparable periods ended September 30, 2017.  We use this supplemental information to help us and our investors evaluate business growth from core operations.  Please see the U.S. GAAP financial statements included as Exhibit 99.2 to the Company's Form 8-K filed on October 26, 2018 for a reconciliation in accordance with FASB standards.

(2)

The historical period presented above has been adjusted retrospectively to reflect changes in accounting guidance related to revenue recognition, effective for Aon in the first quarter of 2018.

(3)

Included in the twelve months ended December 30, 2018 was a $176 million non-cash impairment charges taken on certain assets and liabilities held for sale. Included in the twelve months ended December 31, 2017 was a $380 million non-cash impairment charge taken on indefinite-lived tradenames.

(4)

Adjusted Other income (expense) excludes Pension settlement charges of $5 million and $37 million for three and twelve months ended December 31, 2018, respectively. Adjusted Other income (expense) excludes Pension settlement charges of $128 million for three and twelve months ended December 31, 2017.

(5)

Adjusted items are generally taxed at the estimated annual effective tax rate, except for the applicable tax impact associated with estimated restructuring plan expenses, legacy litigation, accelerated tradename amortization, impairment charges, and non-cash pension settlement charges, which are adjusted at the related jurisdictional rate. In addition, tax expense excludes the tax impacts of the sale of certain assets and liabilities previously classified as held for sale, as well as the tax adjustments to finalize the 2017 accounting for the impact of US Tax Reform recorded pursuant to SAB 118.

(6)

Adjusted net income from discontinued operations excludes the gain on sale of discontinued operations of $73 million and $82 million for the three and twelve months ended December 31, 2018, respectively. Net income from discontinued operations was primarily driven by tax adjustments related to finalizing the 2017 accounting for US Tax Reform pursuant to SAB 118. Adjusted net income from discontinued operations excludes a reduction to the gain on sale of discontinued operations of $24 million and a gain on sale of discontinued operations of $779 million and $0 million and $11 million of intangible asset amortization for the three and twelve months ended December 31, 2017, respectively. The effective tax rate was further adjusted for the applicable tax impact associated with the gain on sale and intangible asset amortization, as applicable.


 

Aon plc

Pro Forma Historical Reconciliation of Reported Non-GAAP Measures to Non-GAAP Measures Adjusted for Changes in Accounting Guidance (Unaudited)(1)(2)




Three months ended December 31, 2017


Twelve months ended December 31, 2017

(millions, except per share data)


As

Reported(3)

Revenue

Recognition

Pro Forma


As

Reported(3)

Revenue

Recognition

Pro Forma

Revenue









Commercial Risk Solutions


$

1,226

$

(8)

$

1,218


$

4,169

$

(6)

$

4,163

Reinsurance Solutions


359

(206)

153


1,429

(3)

1,426

Retirement Solutions


489

489


1,755

(1)

1,754

Health Solutions


538

(12)

526


1,515

(3)

1,512

Data & Analytic Services


298

1

299


1,140

1,140

Elimination


(1)

(1)


(10)

(10)

Total revenue


2,909

(225)

2,684


9,998

(13)

9,985

Expenses









Compensation and benefits


1,640

(72)

1,568


6,003

4

6,007

Information technology


124

124


419

419

Premises


89

89


348

348

Depreciation of fixed assets


39

39


187

187

Amortization and impairment of intangible assets


100

100


704

704

Other general expenses


316

12

328


1,272

1,272

Total operating expenses


2,308

(60)

2,248


8,933

4

8,937

Operating income


601

(165)

436


1,065

(17)

1,048

Amortization and impairment of intangible assets


100

100


704

704

Restructuring


96

96


497

497

Regulatory and compliance matters


(14)

(14)


28

28

Transaction costs



Operating income - as adjusted


783

(165)

618


2,294

(17)

2,277

Operating margin from continuing operations - as adjusted


26.9%


23.0%


22.9%


22.8%

Interest income


7

7


27

27

Interest expense


(71)

(71)


(282)

(282)

Other income (expense):









Other income (expense) - pensions - as adjusted (4)


16

16


42

42

Other income (expense) - other(5)


(19)

(19)


(39)

(39)

Total Other income (expense) - as adjusted


(3)

(3)


3

3

Income before income taxes from continuing operations - as adjusted


716

(165)

551


2,042

(17)

2,025

Income taxes - as adjusted(6)


111

(30)

81


305

(4)

301

Income from continuing operations - as adjusted


605

(135)

470


1,737

(13)

1,724

Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests


7

7


37

37

Net income from continuing operations attributable to Aon shareholders - as adjusted


$

598

$

(135)

$

463


$

1,700

$

(13)

$

1,687

Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations - as adjusted


$

2.35

$

(0.53)

$

1.82


$

6.52

$

(0.05)

$

6.47

Weighted average ordinary shares outstanding - diluted


254.5

254.5

254.5


260.7

260.7

260.7



(1)

Certain noteworthy items impacting operating income in 2017 and 2018 are described in this schedule. The items shown with the caption "as adjusted" are non-GAAP measures.

(2)

The historical periods presented above have been adjusted retrospectively to reflect Aon's adoption of the new revenue recognition standard in the first quarter of 2018.

(3)

Reported results above reflect the retrospective adoption of the new pension accounting guidance effective for Aon in the first quarter of 2018.

(4)

Other income (expense) is adjusted to exclude the pension settlement charge taken within the period. The adjustment was previously taken within operating income prior to the adoption of the new pension guidance.  Adjusted Other income (expense) excludes Pension settlement charges of $128 million for three and twelve months ended December 31, 2017.

(5)

For illustrative purposes, the impact of the total foreign currency related to the new revenue accounting guidance is excluded from the Pro Forma financial statements. Had the Company included it, Other income (expense) in the Revenue Recognition column would have been $1 million and (11) million, respectively, for the three and twelve months ended December 31, 2017.

(6)

The non-GAAP effective tax rate reported was 15.5% and 14.9%, respectively, for the three and twelve months ended December 31, 2017. Adjusted items are generally taxed at the estimated annual effective tax rate, except for the applicable tax impact associated with estimated restructuring charges, accelerated tradename amortization, impairment charges, regulatory and compliance provisions, and non-cash pension settlement charges, which are adjusted at the related jurisdictional rate. In addition, tax expense excludes the provisional estimates of the impact of U.S. Tax Reform recorded pursuant to SAB 118. The non-GAAP effective tax rate for continuing operations, adjusted for the change in accounting guidance was 14.7% and 14.9%, respectively, for the three and twelve months ended December 31, 2017.

 

Organic Revenue Growth From Continuing Operations (Unaudited)




Three Months Ended











(millions)


Dec 31,
2017


Dec 31,
2016


%
Change


Less:

Currency

Impact (1)


Less: Fiduciary
Investment
Income


Less:
Acquisitions,
Divestitures &
Other


Organic

Revenue

Growth (2)

Commercial Risk Solutions


$

1,218


$

1,088


12%


3%


—%


4%


5%

Reinsurance Solutions


153


131


17%


(3)%


1%


(1)%


20%

Retirement Solutions


489


441


11%


3%


—%


4%


4%

Health Solutions


526


522


1%


1%


—%


(6)%


6%

Data & Analytic Services


299


256


17%


2%


—%


3%


12%

Elimination


(1)


(2)


N/A


N/A


N/A


N/A


N/A

Total revenue


$

2,684


$

2,436


10%


2%


—%


1%


7%




Twelve Months Ended











(millions)


Dec 31,
2017


Dec 31,
2016


%
Change


Less:

Currency

Impact (1)


Less: Fiduciary
Investment
Income


Less:
Acquisitions,

Divestitures &
Other


Organic

Revenue

Growth (2)

Commercial Risk Solutions


$

4,163


$

3,931


6%


—%


—%


4%


2%

Reinsurance Solutions


1,426


1,367


4%


(2)%


—%


—%


6%

Retirement Solutions


1,754


1,707


3%


(1)%


—%


1%


3%

Health Solutions


1,512


1,358


11%


—%


—%


4%


7%

Data & Analytic Services


1,140


1,050


9%


—%


—%


4%


5%

Elimination


(10)


(8)


N/A


N/A


N/A


N/A


N/A

Total revenue


$

9,985


$

9,405


6%


—%


—%


2%


4%



(1)

Currency impact is determined by translating last year's revenue at this year's foreign exchange rates.

(2)

Organic revenue growth includes the impact of intercompany activity and excludes the impact of foreign exchange rate changes, acquisitions, divestitures, transfers between revenue lines, and fiduciary investment income.

 

Aon plc

Pro Forma Historical Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measures - Operating Income and Diluted Earnings Per Share from Continuing Operations as Adjusted for Changes in Accounting Guidance (Unaudited) (1)(2)




Pro Forma Periods


Reported Period



Three Months Ended (5)


Full


Three Months Ended (6)


Full


Three Months Ended (7)

Full

(millions, except per share data)


Mar 31,
2016


Jun 30,
2016


Sep 30,
2016


Dec 31,
2016


Year
2016 (5)


Mar 31,
2017


Jun 30,
2017


Sep 30,
2017


Dec 31,
2017


Year
2017 (6)


Mar 31,
2018

Jun 30,
2018

Sep 30,
2018

Dec 30,
2018

Year
2018

Revenue










































Commercial Risk Solutions


$

969


$

990


$

884


$

1,088


$

3,931


$

989


$

1,041


$

915


$

1,218


$

4,163


$

1,184

$

1,166

$

1,029

$

1,273

$

4,652

Reinsurance Solutions


667


335


234


131


1,367


671


345


257


153


1,426


742

380

279

162

1,563

Retirement Solutions


396


405


465


441


1,707


385


388


492


489


1,754


424

431

501

509

1,865

Health Solutions


338


253


245


522


1,358


428


281


277


526


1,512


451

309

278

558

1,596

Data & Analytic Services


263


271


260


256


1,050


273


281


287


299


1,140


294

277

263

271

1,105

Elimination


(2)


(1)


(3)


(2)


(8)



(4)


(5)


(1)


(10)


(5)

(2)

(1)

(3)

(11)

Total revenue


$

2,631


$

2,253


$

2,085


$

2,436


$

9,405


$

2,746


$

2,332


$

2,223


$

2,684


$

9,985


$

3,090

$

2,561

$

2,349

$

2,770

$

10,770

Expenses




























Compensation and benefits


1,444


1,372


1,293


1,417


5,526


1,548


1,471


1,420


1,568


6,007


1,616

1,494

1,392

1,601

6,103

Information technology


83


99


99


105


386


88


98


109


124


419


115

123

125

121

484

Premises


82


89


86


86


343


84


86


89


89


348


93

96

94

87

370

Depreciation of fixed assets


38


41


39


44


162


54


54


40


39


187


39

47

40

50

176

Amortization of intangible assets


37


38


42


40


157


43


460


101


100


704


110

282

100

101

593

Other general expenses


270


230


257


279


1,036


307


330


307


328


1,272


318

535

336

311

$

1,500

Total operating expenses


1,954


1,869


1,816


1,971


7,610


2,124


2,499


2,066


2,248


8,937


2,291

2,577

2,087

2,271

9,226

Operating income


677


384


269


465


1,795


622


(167)


157


436


1,048


799

(16)

262

499

1,544

Amortization of intangible assets


37


38


42


40


157


43


460


101


100


704


110

282

100

101

593

Restructuring







144


155


102


96


497


74

195

97

119

485

Legacy Litigation












103

(25)

(3)

75

Regulatory and compliance matters








34


8


(14)


28


Transaction costs





15


15







Operating income - as adjusted


714


422


311


520


1,967


809


482


368


618


2,277


983

564

434

716

2,697

Operating margin from continuing operations - as adjusted


27.1%


18.7%


14.9%


21.3%


20.9%


29.5%


20.7%


16.6%


23.0%


22.8%


31.8%

22.0%

18.5%

25.8%

25.0%

Interest income


2


3


1


3


9


2


8


10


7


27


4

1

5

Interest expense


(69)


(73)


(70)


(70)


(282)


(70)


(71)


(70)


(71)


(282)


(70)

(69)

(69)

(70)

(278)

Other income (expense):




























Other income (expense) - pensions - as adjusted (3)


11


11


12


13


47


8


9


9


16


42


9

9

9

11

38

Other income (expense) - other - as adjusted (4)


18


(1)


10


9


36


(10)


(5)


(5)


(19)


(39)


(17)

4

1

(14)

(26)

Total Other income (expense) - as adjusted (3)(4)


29


10


22


22


83


(2)


4


4


(3)


3


(8)

13

10

(3)

12

Income before income taxes from continuing operations - as adjusted


676


362


264


475


1,777


739


423


312


551


2,025


909

509

375

643

2,436

Income taxes


107


53


35


49


244


98


68


54


81


301


150

75

48

106

$

379

Income from continuing operations - as adjusted


569


309


229


426


1,533


641


355


258


470


1,724


759

434

327

537

2,057

Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests


12


8


7


7


34


14


9


7


7


37


16

10

6

8

$

40

Net income attributable to Aon shareholders from continuing operations - as adjusted


$

557


$

301


$

222


$

419


$

1,499


$

627


$

346


$

251


$

463


$

1,687


$

743

$

424

$

321

529

2,017

Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations - as adjusted


$

2.04


$

1.12


$

0.82


$

1.56


$

5.55


$

2.35


$

1.31


$

0.98


$

1.82


$

6.47


$

2.97

$

1.71

$

1.31

$

2.16

$

8.16

Weighted average ordinary shares outstanding - diluted


273.7


269.8


269.6


268.3


270.3


267.0


264.3


257.3


254.5


260.7


250.2

247.4

245.6

245.0

247.0


Notes

(1)

Certain noteworthy items impacting operating income in 2016 and 2017 are described in this schedule. The items shown with the caption "as adjusted" are non-GAAP measures.

(2)

The historical periods presented above have been adjusted retrospectively to reflect Aon's adoption of the new revenue recognition standard in the first quarter of 2018. For a complete reconciliation of prior period reported balances to the pro forma adjusted balances above, please refer to our press release issued on February 2, 2018.

(3)

Adjusted Other income (expense) excludes pension settlement charges taken within each respective period. Pension settlement charges were $62 million for the three months ended June 30, 2016, and $158 million and $220 million for the three and twelve months ended December 31, 2016, respectively. Pension settlement charges were $128 million for the three and twelve months ended December 31, 2017. Pension settlement chargers were $7 million, $16 million, $9 million, and $5 million, respectively, for the three months ended March 31, 2018, June 30, 2018, September 30, 2018, and December 31, 2018, and $37 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2018.

(4)

For illustrative purposes, the impact of the total foreign currency related to the new revenue accounting guidance is excluded from the Pro Forma financial statements. The impact on Other income (expense) of foreign currency due to this new guidance was $(3) million, $5 million, $1 million, and $4 million, respectively, for the three months ended March 31, 2016, June 30, 2016, September 30, 2016, and December 31, 2016 and $7 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2016. The impact on Other income (expense) of foreign currency due to this new guidance was $(2) million, $(4) million, $(6) million, and $1 million, respectively, for the three months ended March 31, 2017, June 30, 2017, September 30, 2017, and December 31, 2017, and $(11) million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2017.

(5)

The non-GAAP effective tax rates reported were 15.7%, 14.9%, 14.2%, and 12.0%, respectively, for the three months ended March 31, 2016, June 30, 2016, September 30, 2016, and December 31, 2016 and 13.9% for the twelve months ended December 31, 2016. Adjusted items are generally taxed at the estimated annual effective tax rate, except for the applicable tax impact associated with non-cash pension settlements and transaction costs which are adjusted at the related jurisdictional rate. The non-GAAP effective tax rates for continuing operations, adjusted for the change in accounting guidance were 15.8%, 14.6%, 13.3%, and 10.3% for the three months ended March 31, 2016, June 30, 2016, September 30, 2016, and December 31, 2016, and 13.7% for the twelve months ended December 31, 2016.

(6)

The non-GAAP effective tax rates reported were 11.1%, 15.6%, 17.5%, and 15.5%, respectively, for the three months ended March 31, 2017, June 30, 2017, September 30, 2017, and December 31, 2017, and 14.9% for the twelve months ended December 31, 2017. Adjusted items are generally taxed at the estimated annual effective tax rate, except for the applicable tax impact associated with estimated restructuring expenses, accelerated tradename amortization, impairment charges, regulatory and compliance provisions, and non-cash pension settlements, which are adjusted at the related jurisdictional rate. In addition, tax expense excludes the provisional estimates of the impact of U.S. Tax Reform recorded pursuant to SAB 118. The non-GAAP effective tax rates for continuing operations, adjusted for the change in accounting guidance were 13.3%, 16.1%, 17.3%, and 14.7% for the three months ended March 31, 2017, June 30, 2017, September 30, 2017, and December 31, 2017, and 14.9% for the twelve months ended December 31, 2017.

(7)

The non-GAAP effective tax rates reported were 16.5%, 14.7%, 12.8%, and 16.5% respectively, for the three months ended March 31, 2018, June 30, 2018, September 30, 2018, and December 31, 2018 and 15.6% for the twelve months ended December 31, 2018. Adjusted items are generally taxed at the estimated annual effective tax rate, except for the applicable tax impact associated with estimated restructuring expenses, legacy litigation, accelerated tradename amortization, impairment charges, and non-cash pension settlement charges, which are adjusted at the related jurisdictional rate. In addition, tax expense excludes the tax impacts of the sale of certain assets and liabilities previously classified as held for sale, as well as the tax adjustments to finalize the 2017 accounting for the impact of US Tax Reform recorded pursuant to SAB 118.


 

Aon plc

Consolidated Statements of Financial Position (Unaudited)




As of

(millions)


December 31, 2018


December 31, 2017

Assets





Current Assets





Cash and cash equivalents


$

656


$

756

Short-term investments


172


529

Receivables, net


2,760


2,478

Fiduciary assets (1)


10,166


9,625

Other current assets


618


289

Total Current Assets


14,372


13,677

Goodwill


8,171


8,358

Intangible assets, net


1,149


1,733

Fixed assets, net


588


564

Deferred tax assets


561


389

Prepaid pension


1,133


1,060

Other non-current assets


448


307

Total Assets


$

26,422


$

26,088






Liabilities and equity





Liabilities





Current Liabilities





Accounts payable and accrued liabilities


$

1,943


$

1,961

Short-term debt and current portion of long-term debt


251


299

Fiduciary liabilities


10,166


9,625

Other current liabilities


936


870

Total Current Liabilities


13,296


12,755

Long-term debt


5,993


5,667

Deferred tax liabilities


181


127

Pension, other postretirement, and postemployment liabilities


1,636


1,789

Other non-current liabilities


1,097


1,102

Total Liabilities


22,203


21,440






Equity





Ordinary shares - $0.01 nominal value


2


2

Additional paid-in capital


5,965


5,775

Retained earnings


2,093


2,302

Accumulated other comprehensive loss


(3,909)


(3,496)

Total Aon Shareholders' Equity


4,151


4,583

Noncontrolling interests


68


65

Total Equity


4,219


4,648

Total liabilities and equity


$

26,422


$

26,088



(1)

Includes cash and short-term investments of $3,866 million and $3,743 million for the periods ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.


 

Aon plc

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited)




Year ended December 31

(millions)


2018


2017

Cash flows from operating activities





Net income


$

1,174


$

1,263

Less: Income from discontinued operations, net of income taxes


74


828

Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash provided by operating activities:





Loss (gain) from sales of businesses and investments, net


6


16

Depreciation of fixed assets


176


187

Amortization and impairment of intangible assets


593


704

Share-based compensation expense


338


319

Deferred income taxes


(225)


(18)

Change in assets and liabilities:





Fiduciary receivables


(679)


171

Short-term investments — funds held on behalf of clients


(320)


(135)

Fiduciary liabilities


999


(36)

Receivables, net


(127)


(254)

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities


25


96

Restructuring reserves


19


172

Current income taxes


34


(914)

Pension, other postretirement and other postemployment liabilities


(259)


(66)

Other assets and liabilities


2


(8)

Cash provided by operating activities - continuing operations


1,686


669

Cash provided by operating activities - discontinued operations



65

Cash provided by operating activities


1,686


734






Cash flows from investing activities





Proceeds from investments


71


68

Payments for investments


(80)


(64)

Net sales (purchases) of short-term investments — non-fiduciary


348


(232)

Acquisition of businesses, net of cash acquired


(58)


(1,029)

Sale of businesses, net of cash sold


(10)


4,246

Capital expenditures


(240)


(183)

Cash provided by investing activities - continuing operations


31


2,806

Cash used for investing activities - discontinued operations



(19)

Cash provided by investing activities


31


2,787






Cash flows from financing activities





Share repurchase


(1,470)


(2,399)

Issuance of shares for employee benefit plans


(149)


(121)

Issuance of debt


5,754


1,654

Repayment of debt


(5,417)


(1,999)

Cash dividends to shareholders


(382)


(364)

Noncontrolling interests and other financing activities


(35)


(36)

Cash provided by financing activities - continuing operations


(1,699)


(3,265)

Cash provided by financing activities - discontinued operations



Cash provided by financing activities


(1,699)


(3,265)






Effect of exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents


(118)


69

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents


(100)


325

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period


756


431

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year(1)


$

656


$

756



(1)

Includes $0 million and $0 million of discontinued operations at December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.


 

Aon plc

Restructuring Plan (Unaudited) (1)




Three months ended
December 31, 2018


Twelve months ended
December 31, 2018


Inception to Date


Estimated
Remaining Costs


Estimated Total
Cost (2)

Workforce reduction


$

31


$

115


$

414


$

36


$

450

Technology rationalization


17


47


80


50


130

Lease consolidation


4


28


36


29


65

Asset impairments


2


13


39


11


50

Other costs associated with restructuring and separation (3)


65


282


413


117


530

Total restructuring and related expenses


$

119


$

485


$

982


$

243


$

1,225



(1)

In the Consolidated Statements of Income, Workforce reductions are included in "Compensation and benefits," Technology rationalization is included in "Information technology," Lease consolidations are included in "Premises," Asset impairments are included in "Depreciation of fixed assets," and Other costs associated with restructuring and separation are included in "Other general expenses" depending on the nature of the expense.



(2)

Actual costs, when incurred, may vary due to changes in the assumptions built into the plan. Significant assumptions that may change when plans are finalized and implemented include, but are not limited to, changes in severance calculations, changes in assumptions underlying sublease loss calculation due to changing market conditions, and changes in the overall analysis that might cause the Company to add or cancel component initiatives. Estimated allocations between categories may be revised in future periods as these assumptions are updated.



(3)

Other costs associated with the Restructuring Plan include those to separate the Divested Business, as well as moving costs, and consulting and legal fees. These costs are generally recognized when incurred.

 

SOURCE Aon plc

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