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Aon Reports Second Quarter 2019 Results

LONDON, July 26, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- 

Second Quarter Key Metrics From Continuing Operations

  • Total revenue increased 2% to $2.6 billion, with organic revenue growth of 6%
  • Operating margin increased from (0.6)% to 15.8%, and operating margin, adjusted for certain items, increased 240 basis points to 24.4%
  • EPS increased from $0.19 to $1.14, and EPS, adjusted for certain items, increased 9% to $1.87
  • For the first six months of 2019, cash flow from operations decreased 13% to $361 million, and free cash flow decreased 16% to $255 million

Second Quarter Highlights

  • Repurchased 5.8 million Class A Ordinary Shares for approximately $1.05 billion
  • Announced a 10% increase to the quarterly cash dividend
  • Aon's New Ventures Group announced the launch of its global Public Sector Partnership, which is accountable for taking an Aon United approach across solution lines and geographies to consistently bring the best of Aon to governments and leading social sector institutions as clients

Aon plc (NYSE: AON) today reported results for the three months ended June 30, 2019.

Net income from continuing operations attributable to Aon shareholders was $277 million, or $1.14 per share, compared to $47 million, or $0.19 per share, in the prior year period. Net income per share from continuing operations attributable to Aon shareholders, adjusted for certain items, increased 9% to $1.87, including an unfavorable impact of $0.05 per share if the company were to translate prior year period results at current period foreign exchange rates ("foreign currency translation"), compared to $1.71 in the prior year period. Certain items that impacted second 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 10 of this press release.

"Our second quarter results reflect continued progress and momentum from our Aon United initiatives, highlighted by strong organic revenue growth of 6% for the fourth consecutive quarter and substantial operating margin improvement of 240 basis points," said Greg Case, Chief Executive Officer. "The steps we are taking to lead Aon United in response to increasing client demand combined with significant investment in content and capability, is not only amplifying our ability to serve clients, but also our ability to deliver improved operational and financial performance that we believe will unlock significant shareholder value creation over the long-term."

SECOND QUARTER 2019 FINANCIAL SUMMARY
The second quarter 2019 financial results discussed herein represent performance from continuing operations unless otherwise noted.

Total revenue in the second quarter increased 2% to $2.6 billion compared to the prior year period driven by 6% organic revenue growth, partially offset by a 3% unfavorable impact from foreign currency translation and a 1% unfavorable impact from divestitures, net of acquisitions.

Total operating expenses in the second quarter decreased 15% to $2.2 billion compared to the prior year period due primarily to a $176 million decrease from a non-cash impairment charge related to certain assets and liabilities that were classified as held for sale in the prior year period, a $103 million decrease in expense related to legacy litigation, a $74 million favorable impact from foreign currency translation, a $68 million decrease in restructuring charges, $38 million of incremental savings related to restructuring and other operational improvement initiatives, and a $21 million decrease in expenses related to divestitures, net of acquisitions, partially offset by an increase in expense associated with 6% organic revenue growth.

Restructuring expenses were $127 million in the second quarter, primarily driven by workforce reductions and other costs associated with restructuring and separation initiatives. Upon evaluating progress of the restructuring program and identifying additional opportunities in its final year, the Company has increased its total estimated costs of the program by $100 million from $1,425 million to $1,525 million. This includes an increase of $125 million of estimated restructuring charges, partially offset by a $25 million decrease in estimated capital expenditures. Restructuring charges are now expected to be $1,350 million, including $1,250 million of cash charges and $100 million of non-cash charges. All charges associated with the program will be completed by the fourth quarter of 2019. To date, the Company has incurred $1,200 million, or 89%, of the total estimated restructuring charges and $927 million, or 74% of the total estimated cash spend. In addition to the $1,350 million of total restructuring charges, the Company estimates $175 million of incremental capital expenditures associated with the three-year program, of which $116 million, or 66%, has been incurred to date. An analysis of restructuring and related costs by type is detailed on page 15 of this press release.

Restructuring savings in the second quarter related to restructuring and other operational improvement initiatives are estimated at $122 million, before any potential reinvestment, an increase of $38 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 $510 million annually in 2019 and run-rate savings of $535 million annually in 2020, a total increase of $35 million of estimated savings. To date, the Company has achieved $443 million, or 87%, of the total estimated annualized savings expected in 2019, before any potential reinvestment.

Foreign currency exchange rates in the second quarter had an $8 million, or $0.03 per share, unfavorable impact on U.S. GAAP net income, and a $12 million, or $0.05 per share, unfavorable impact on adjusted net income if the Company were to translate prior year quarter results at current quarter foreign exchange rates. If currency were to remain stable at today's rates, we would expect an unfavorable impact of approximately $0.02 per share, or approximately $6 million of operating income, in each of the third and fourth quarters of 2019.

Effective tax rate used in our U.S. GAAP financial statements in the second quarter was 16.3%, compared to 165.5% in the prior year period. After adjusting to exclude the applicable tax impact associated with certain non-GAAP adjustments, the adjusted effective tax rate for the second quarter of 2019 increased to 18.0% compared to 14.7% in the prior year quarter. The adjusted effective tax rate in the prior year period included a more significant net favorable impact from certain discrete items. Certain items that impacted second 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 10 of this press release.

Weighted average diluted shares outstanding decreased to 242.8 million in the second quarter compared to 247.4 million in the prior year period. The Company repurchased 5.8 million Class A Ordinary Shares for approximately $1.05 billion in the quarter. As of June 30, 2019, the Company had $2.8 billion of remaining authorization under its share repurchase program.

Year to Date 2019 CASH FLOW SUMMARY
Cash flow from operations for the first six months of 2019 decreased 13%, or $52 million, to $361 million compared to the prior year period. Approximately $85 million of net cash payments in the first quarter related to legacy litigation were partially offset by strong operational improvement and a $26 million decrease in restructuring cash outlays.

Free cash flow, defined as cash flow from operations less capital expenditures, decreased 16%, or $47 million, to $255 million for the first six months of 2019 compared to the prior year period, reflecting a decrease in cash flow from operations, partially offset by a $5 million decrease in capital expenditures.

SECOND QUARTER 2019 REVENUE REVIEW
The second 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 and Free Cash Flow" on page 9 of this press release.



Three Months Ended











(millions)


Jun 30,
2019


Jun 30,
2018


%
Change


Less:
Currency
Impact


Less:
Fiduciary
Investment
Income


Less:
Acquisitions,
Divestitures
 & Other


Organic
Revenue
Growth

Revenue














Commercial Risk Solutions


$

1,167



$

1,166


—%


(3)%


—%


(3)%


6%

Reinsurance Solutions


420



380


11


(2)


1



12

Retirement Solutions


419



431


(3)


(3)



(1)


1

Health Solutions


317



309


3


(5)



2


6

Data & Analytic Services


286



277


3


(4)



3


4

Elimination


(3)



(2)


N/A


N/A


N/A


N/A


N/A

Total revenue


$

2,606



$

2,561


2%


(3)%


—%


(1)%


6%

Total revenue increased $45 million, or 2%, to $2,606 million, compared to the prior year period, including organic revenue growth of 6%, primarily driven by strong new business generation and retention globally across our portfolio. Organic revenue growth of 6% reflects the fourth consecutive quarter of 6% organic growth, driven by consistent improvement in both portfolio mix and return on investment in high-growth areas of client demand.

Commercial Risk Solutions organic revenue growth increased 6% compared to the prior year period driven by solid growth globally, with particular strength in the U.S., EMEA and the Pacific, driven by strong new business generation and management of the renewal book portfolio.

Reinsurance Solutions organic revenue growth increased 12% compared to the prior year period driven by strong net new business generation globally in treaty, as well as strong growth globally in facultative placements and capital markets transactions. In addition, market impact was modestly positive on results in the second quarter.

Retirement Solutions organic revenue growth increased 1% compared to the prior year period driven by solid growth in delegated investment management and in our rewards and assessment businesses within the Human Capital practice. Results were partially offset by an unfavorable impact from certain businesses that were divested within the quarter, as well as the timing of certain revenue in the actuarial business and from performance fees in the delegated investment management business.

Health Solutions organic revenue growth increased 6% compared to the prior year period driven by solid growth globally in health and benefits brokerage, highlighted by particular strength internationally in Asia and continental Europe, as well as growth in the active healthcare exchange business for off-cycle enrollments.

Data & Analytic Services organic revenue growth increased 4% compared to the prior year period driven by growth globally across our Affinity business, with particular strength across both business and consumer solutions in the U.S.

SECOND QUARTER 2019 EXPENSE REVIEW



Three Months Ended





(millions)


Jun 30, 2019


Jun 30, 2018


$

Change


%

Change

Expenses









Compensation and benefits


$

1,501



$

1,494


$

7


—%

Information technology


126



123


3


2

Premises


85



96


(11)


(11)

Depreciation of fixed assets


40



47


(7)


(15)

Amortization and impairment of intangible assets


97



282


(185)


(66)

Other general expenses


344



535


(191)


(36)

Total operating expenses


$

2,193



$

2,577


$

(384)


(15)%

Compensation and benefits expense increased $7 million compared to the prior year period due primarily to a $45 million increase in restructuring charges and an increase in expense associated with 6% organic revenue growth, partially offset by a $53 million favorable impact from foreign currency translation, $19 million of incremental savings related to restructuring and other operational improvement initiatives and an $11 million decrease in expenses related to divestitures, net of acquisitions.

Information technology expense increased $3 million, or 2%, compared to the prior year period due primarily to an increase in investments supporting growth initiatives and an increase in expense associated with 6% organic revenue growth, partially offset by a $4 million decrease in restructuring charges.

Premises expense decreased $11 million, or 11%, compared to the prior year period due primarily to a $6 million decrease in restructuring charges, $5 million of incremental savings related to restructuring and other operational improvement initiatives and a $4 million favorable impact from foreign currency translation.

Depreciation of fixed assets decreased $7 million, or 15%, compared to the prior year period due primarily to a $6 million decrease in restructuring charges.

Amortization and impairment of intangible assets decreased $185 million, or 66%, compared to the prior year period. The prior year period included a $176 million non-cash impairment charge related to certain assets and liabilities that were classified as held for sale.

Other general expenses decreased $191 million, or 36%, compared to the prior year period due primarily to a $103 million decrease in expense related to legacy litigation, a $97 million decrease in restructuring charges, $19 million of incremental savings related to restructuring and other operational improvement initiatives, and an $11 million favorable impact related to foreign currency translation, partially offset by an increase in expense associated with 6% organic revenue growth.

SECOND QUARTER 2019 INCOME SUMMARY
The second quarter 2019 financial results discussed herein represent performance from continuing operations unless otherwise noted. In addition, certain noteworthy items impacted adjusted operating income and adjusted operating margins in the second quarters of 2019 and 2018, which are also described in detail in "Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measures - Operating Income from Continuing Operations and Diluted Earnings Per Share" on page 10 of this press release.



Three Months Ended



(millions)


Jun 30,

2019


Jun 30,

2018


%

 Change

Revenue


$

2,606


$

2,561


2%

Expenses


2,193


2,577


(15)

Operating income (loss)


$

413


$

(16)


2,681%

Operating margin


15.8%


(0.6)%



Operating income - as adjusted


$

637


$

564


13%

Operating margin - as adjusted


24.4%


22.0%



Operating income (loss) increased from $(16) million to $413 million, compared to the prior year period. Adjusting for certain items detailed on page 10 of this press release, operating income increased $73 million, or 13%, and operating margin increased +240 basis points to 24.4%, each compared to the prior year period. Adjusted operating income and margin primarily includes a favorable impact from strong organic revenue growth of 6% and incremental savings from restructuring and other operational improvements of $38 million, or +150 basis points, partially offset by an unfavorable impact from foreign currency translation of $14 million. Operating income growth and operating margin expansion compared to the prior year period also reflect the absorption of near-term reinvestment of restructuring savings in client-facing colleagues and capabilities to support long-term Aon United growth initiatives.

Interest income was flat at $1 million. Interest expense increased $8 million to $77 million compared to the prior year period reflecting higher outstanding debt. The Company expects approximately $81 million of interest expense per quarter going forward, reflecting both the issuance of $750 million of term debt on May 2, 2019 and higher average debt balances compared to the second quarter.  Other pension income decreased $4 million to $5 million. Other income of $1 million primarily reflects net gains due to the favorable impact of exchange rates on the remeasurement of assets and liabilities in non-functional currencies and gains on the sale of a certain business, partially offset by losses primarily related to certain company-owned life insurance plans.

DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
Net income from discontinued operations was $0 million compared to $1 million in the prior year period.

Conference Call, Presentation Slides and Webcast Details
The Company will host a conference call on Friday, July 26, 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, including the U.K.'s expected withdrawal from the European Union; 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 or increasing borrowing costs; rating agency actions that could affect Aon's ability to borrow funds; volatility in our tax rate due to a variety of different factors, including U.S. tax reform; 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 of 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 perform 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 continue, and the costs and the costs and risks associated with, growing, developing and integrating 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; Aon's ability to implement initiatives intended to yield cost savings, and the ability to achieve those cost savings; risks and uncertainties in connection with the sale of our divested business; and our ability to realize the expected benefits from our restructuring plan.

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, 2018 and its Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the quarters ended March 31, 2019 and June 30, 2019 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 operating margin, and adjusted earnings per share for continuing operations that exclude the effects of intangible asset amortization, restructuring, capital expenditures, and certain other noteworthy items that affected results for the comparable periods. Organic revenue growth includes the impact of intercompany activity and excludes foreign exchange rate changes, acquisitions, divestitures, transfers between revenue lines, fiduciary investment income, and gains or losses on derivatives accounted for as hedges. 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. 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.

Investor Contact:


Media Contact:

Investor Relations


Will Dunn

312-381-3310


212-441-1819

investor.relations@aon.com


will.dunn@aon.com

 

Aon plc

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income (Unaudited)




Three Months Ended




 

Six Months Ended



(millions, except per share data)


Jun 30,
2019


Jun 30,
2018


%
Change


Jun 30,
2019


Jun 30,
2018


%

Change

Revenue













Total revenue


$

2,606


$

2,561


2%


$

5,749


$

5,651


2%

Expenses













Compensation and benefits


1,501


1,494


—%


3,085


3,110


(1)%

Information technology


126


123


2%


243


238


2%

Premises


85


96


(11)%


172


189


(9)%

Depreciation of fixed assets


40


47


(15)%


80


86


(7)%

Amortization and impairment of intangible assets


97


282


(66)%


194


392


(51)%

Other general expenses


344


535


(36)%


690


853


(19)%

Total operating expenses


2,193


2,577


(15)%


4,464


4,868


(8)%

Operating income (loss)


413


(16)


2,681%


1,285


783


64%

Interest income


1


1


—%


3


5


(40)%

Interest expense


(77)


(69)


12%


(149)


(139)


7%

Other income (expense)


6


(3)


300%


6


(18)


133%

Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes


343


(87)


494%


1,145


631


81%

Income tax expense (benefit) (1)


56


(144)


139%


182


(30)


707%

Net income from continuing operations


287


57


404%


963


661


46%

Net income from discontinued operations



1


(100)%



7


(100)%

Net income


287


58


395%


963


668


44%

Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests


10


10


—%


27


26


4%

Net income attributable to Aon shareholders


$

277


$

48


477%


$

936


$

642


46%














Basic net income per share attributable to Aon shareholders













Continuing operations


$

1.15


$

0.19


505%


$

3.88


$

2.57


51%

Discontinued operations



0.01


(100)%



0.03


(100)%

Net income


$

1.15


$

0.20


475%


$

3.88


$

2.60


49%

Diluted net income per share attributable to Aon shareholders













Continuing operations


$

1.14


$

0.19


500%


$

3.85


$

2.55


51%

Discontinued operations




—%



0.03


(100)%

Net income


$

1.14


$

0.19


500%


$

3.85


$

2.58


49%

Weighted average ordinary shares outstanding - basic


240.6


246.0


(2)%


241.4


247.2


(2)%

Weighted average ordinary shares outstanding - diluted


242.8


247.4


(2)%


243.2


248.8


(2)%



(1)

The effective tax rate was 16.3% and 165.5% for the three months ended June 30, 2019 and 2018, respectively, and 15.9% and (4.8)% for the six months ended June 30, 2019 and 2018, respectively.

 

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)


Jun 30,
2019


Jun 30,
2018


%
Change


Less:
Currency
Impact (1)


Less:
Fiduciary
Investment
Income (2)


Less:
Acquisitions,
Divestitures 
& Other


Organic
Revenue
Growth (3)

Revenue















Commercial Risk Solutions


$

1,167


$

1,166


—%


(3)%


—%


(3)%


6%

Reinsurance Solutions


420


380


11


(2)


1



12

Retirement Solutions


419


431


(3)


(3)



(1)


1

Health Solutions


317


309


3


(5)



2


6

Data & Analytic Services


286


277


3


(4)



3


4

Elimination


(3)


(2)


N/A


N/A


N/A


N/A


N/A

Total revenue


$

2,606


$

2,561


2%


(3)%


—%


(1)%


6%
















Six Months Ended











(millions)


Jun 30,
2019


Jun 30,

 2018


%
Change


Less:
Currency
Impact (1)


Less:
Fiduciary
Investment
Income (2)


Less:
Acquisitions,
Divestitures 
& Other


Organic
Revenue
Growth (3)

Revenue















Commercial Risk Solutions


$

2,285


$

2,350


(3)%


(4)%


—%


(5)%


6%

Reinsurance Solutions


1,208


1,122


8


(2)


1


(1)


10

Retirement Solutions


839


855


(2)


(3)




1

Health Solutions


803


760


6


(5)



6


5

Data & Analytic Services


622


571


9


(4)



9


4

Elimination


(8)


(7)


N/A


N/A


N/A


N/A


N/A

Total revenue


$

5,749


$

5,651


2%


(4)%


—%


—%


6%



(1)

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

(2)

Fiduciary investment income for the three months ended June 30, 2019 and 2018 was $18 million and $12 million, respectively. Fiduciary investment income for the six months ended June 30, 2019 and 2018 was $37 million and $22 million, respectively.

(3)

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

 

Free Cash Flow from Operations (Unaudited)




Six Months Ended




(millions)


Jun 30, 2019



Jun 30, 2018



%
Change

Cash Provided by Operating Activities


$

361



$

413



(13)%

Capital Expenditures Used for Operations


(106)



(111)



(5)

Free Cash Flow Provided by Operations (1)


$

255



$

302



(16)%



(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.

 

Aon plc

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




Three Months Ended




Six Months Ended

(millions, except percentages)


Jun 30,
2019


Jun 30,
2018


%

Change


Jun 30,
2019


Jun 30,
2018


%

Change

Revenue from continuing operations


$

2,606


$

2,561


2%


$

5,749


$

5,651


2%














Operating income from continuing operations


$

413


$

(16)


2,681%


$

1,285


$

783


64%

Amortization and impairment of intangible assets (2)


97


282




194


392



Restructuring


127


195




218


269



Legacy Litigation



103





103



Operating income from continuing operations - as adjusted


$

637


$

564


13%


$

1,697


$

1,547


10%

Operating margin from continuing operations


15.8%


(0.6)%




22.4%


13.9%



Operating margin from continuing operations - as adjusted


24.4%


22.0%




29.5%


27.4%






Three Months Ended




Six Months Ended

(millions, except percentages)


Jun 30,
2019


Jun 30,
2018


%

Change


Jun 30,
2019


Jun 30,
2018


%

Change

Operating income from continuing operations - as adjusted


$

637


$

564


13%


$

1,697


$

1,547


10%

Interest income


1


1


—%


3


5


(40)%

Interest expense


(77)


(69)


12%


(149)


(139)


7%

Other income (expense):













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


5


9


(44)%


9


18


(50)%

Other income (expense) - other


1


4


(75)%


(3)


(13)


(77)%

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


6


13


(54)%


6


5


20%

Income before income taxes from continuing operations - as adjusted


567


509


11%


1,557


1,418


10%

Income tax expense (4)


102


75


36%


269


225


20%

Net income from continuing operations - as adjusted


465


434


7%


1,288


1,193


8%

Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests


10


10


—%


27


26


4%

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


455


424


7%


1,261


1,167


8%

Net income (loss) from discontinued operations - as adjusted (5)




—%



(2)


(100)%

Net income attributable to Aon shareholders - as adjusted


$

455


$

424


7%


$

1,261


$

1,165


8%

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













Continuing operations - as adjusted


$

1.87


$

1.71


9%


$

5.19


$

4.69


11%

Discontinued operations - as adjusted




—%



(0.01)


(100)%

Net income attributable to Aon shareholders - as adjusted


$

1.87


$

1.71


9%


$

5.19


$

4.68


11%

Weighted average ordinary shares outstanding - diluted


242.8


247.4


(2)%


243.2


248.8


(2)%

Effective Tax Rates (3)













Continuing Operations - U.S. GAAP


16.3%


165.5%




15.9%


(4.8)%



Continuing Operations - Non-GAAP


18.0%


14.7%




17.3%


15.9%



Discontinued Operations - U.S. GAAP


58.5%


1.7%




58.5%


14.7%



Discontinued Operations - Non-GAAP


58.5%


63.7%




58.5%


49.3%





(1)

Certain noteworthy items impacting operating income in 2019 and 2018 are described in this schedule. The items shown with the caption "as adjusted" are non-GAAP measures.

(2)

Included in the three and six months ended June 30, 2018 was a $176 million non-cash impairment charge taken on certain assets and liabilities held for sale.

(3)

Adjusted Other income (expense) excludes Pension settlement charges of $16 million and $23 million for three and six months ended June 30, 2018, respectively.

(4)

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 the disposal group and enactment date impacts of U.S. Tax Reform.

(5)

Adjusted income from discontinued operations, net of tax, excludes the gain on sale of discontinued operations of $1 million and $9 million for the three and six months ended June 30, 2018, respectively. The effective tax rate was further adjusted for the applicable tax impact associated with the gain on sale, as applicable.

 

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 Periods


Three Months Ended (5)



Three Months Ended (6)


Three Months Ended (7)

(millions, except per share data)

Mar 31, 2017

Jun 30, 2017

Sep 30, 2017

Dec 31, 2017

Full Year

2017 (6)


Mar 31, 2018

Jun 30, 2018

Sep 30, 2018

Dec 31, 2018

Full Year

2018 (7)

Mar 31, 2019

Jun 30, 2019

Revenue














  Commercial Risk Solutions

$

989

$

1,041

$

915

$

1,218

$

4,163


$

1,184

$

1,166

$

1,029

$

1,273

$

4,652

$

1,118

$

1,167

Reinsurance Solutions

671

345

257

153

1,426


742

380

279

162

1,563

788

420

Retirement Solutions

385

388

492

489

1,754


424

431

501

509

1,865

420

419

Health Solutions

428

281

277

526

1,512


451

309

278

558

1,596

486

317

Data & Analytic Services

273

281

287

299

1,140


294

277

263

271

1,105

336

286

Elimination

(4)

(5)

(1)

(10)


(5)

(2)

(1)

(3)

(11)

(5)

(3)

Total revenue

$

2,746

$

2,332

$

2,223

$

2,684

$

9,985


$

3,090

$

2,561

$

2,349

$

2,770

$10,770

$

3,143

$

2,606

Expenses















Compensation and benefits

1,548

1,471

1,420

1,568

6,007


1,616

1,494

1,392

1,601

6,103

1,584

1,501

Information technology

88

98

109

124

419


115

123

125

121

484

117

126

Premises

84

86

89

89

348


93

96

94

87

370

87

85

Depreciation of fixed assets

54

54

40

39

187


39

47

40

50

176

40

40

Amortization of intangible assets

43

460

101

100

704


110

282

100

101

593

97

97

Other general expenses

307

330

307

328

1,272


318

535

336

311

1,500

346

344

Total operating expenses

2,124

2,499

2,066

2,248

8,937


2,291

2,577

2,087

2,271

9,226

2,271

2,193

Operating income

622

(167)

157

436

1,048


799

(16)

262

499

1,544

872

413

Amortization of intangible assets

43

460

101

100

704


110

282

100

101

593

97

97

Restructuring

144

155

102

96

497


74

195

97

119

485

91

127

Legacy Litigation


103

(25)

(3)

75

Regulatory and compliance matters

34

8

(14)

28


Operating income - as adjusted

809

482

368

618

2,277


983

564

434

716

2,697

1,060

637

Operating margin from continuing operations - as adjusted

29.5%

20.7%

16.6%

23.0%

22.8%


31.8%

22.0%

18.5%

25.8%

25.0%

33.7%

24.4%

Interest income

2

8

10

7

27


4

1

5

2

1

Interest expense

(70)

(71)

(70)

(71)

(282)


(70)

(69)

(69)

(70)

(278)

(72)

(77)

Other income (expense):














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

8

9

9

16

42


9

9

9

11

38

4

5

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

(10)

(5)

(5)

(19)

(39)


(17)

4

1

(14)

(26)

(4)

1

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

(2)

4

4

(3)

3


(8)

13

10

(3)

12

6

Income before income taxes from continuing operations - as adjusted

739

423

312

551

2,025


909

509

375

643

2,436

990

567

Income taxes

98

68

54

81

301


150

75

48

106

379

167

102

Income from continuing operations - as adjusted

641

355

258

470

1,724


759

434

327

537

2,057

823

465

Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests

14

9

7

7

37


16

10

6

8

40

17

10

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

$

627

$

346

$

251

$

463

$

1,687


$

743

$

424

$

321

$

529

$

2,017

$

806

$

455

Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations - as adjusted

$

2.35

$

1.31

$

0.98

$

1.82

$

6.47


$

2.97

$

1.71

$

1.31

$

2.16

$

8.16

$

3.31

$

1.87

Weighted average ordinary shares outstanding - diluted

267.0

264.3

257.3

254.5

260.7


250.2

247.4

245.6

245.0

247.0

243.7

242.8


Notes

(1)

Certain noteworthy items impacting operating income in 2017, 2018, and 2019, are described in this schedule. The items shown with the caption "as adjusted" are non-GAAP measures.

(2)

The 2017 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 $128 million for the three and twelve months ended December 31, 2017. Pension settlement charges 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 $(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 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. 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.

(6)

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 enactment date impacts of US Tax Reform.

(7)

The non-GAAP effective tax rates reported were 16.9% and 18.0%, respectively, for the three months ended March 31, 2019 and June 30, 2019, and 17.3% for the six months ended June 30, 2019. Adjusted items are generally taxed at the estimated annual effective tax rate, except for the applicable tax impact associated with estimated restructuring expenses and accelerated tradename amortization, which are adjusted at the related jurisdictional rate. In addition, the tax expense excludes the tax impacts of payment of certain legacy litigation and enactment date impacts of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017.

 

Aon plc

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Position (Unaudited)




As of

(millions)


June 30,

2019


December 31,

2018

ASSETS





Current assets





Cash and cash equivalents


$

581



$

656


Short-term investments


235



172


Receivables, net


3,227



2,760


Fiduciary assets (1)


12,071



10,166


Other current assets


631



618


Total current assets


16,745



14,372


Goodwill


8,198



8,171


Intangible assets, net


973



1,149


Fixed assets, net


599



588


Operating lease right-of-use assets


959




Deferred tax assets


599



561


Prepaid pension


1,213



1,133


Other non-current assets


521



448


Total assets


$

29,807



$

26,422







Liabilities and equity





Liabilities





Current liabilities





Accounts payable and accrued liabilities


$

1,369



$

1,943


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


844



251


Fiduciary liabilities


12,071



10,166


Other current liabilities


1,197



936


Total current liabilities


15,481



13,296


Long-term debt


6,740



5,993


Non-current operating lease liabilities


962




Deferred tax liabilities


211



181


Pension, other postretirement, and postemployment liabilities


1,576



1,636


Other non-current liabilities


924



1,097


Total liabilities


25,894



22,203







Equity





Ordinary shares - $0.01 nominal value


2



2


Additional paid-in capital


6,002



5,965


Retained earnings


1,669



2,093


Accumulated other comprehensive loss


(3,837)



(3,909)


Total Aon shareholders' equity


3,836



4,151


Noncontrolling interests


77



68


Total equity


3,913



4,219


Total liabilities and equity


$

29,807



$

26,422




(1)

Includes cash and short-term investments of $4,840 million and $3,866 million for the periods ended June 30, 2019 and December 31, 2018, respectively.

 

Aon plc

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited)




Six Months Ended

(millions)


June 30,
2019


June 30,
2018

Cash flows from operating activities





Net income


$

963



$

668


Less: Net income from discontinued operations




7


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





(Gain) loss from sales of businesses, net


(7)



1


Depreciation of fixed assets


80



86


Amortization and impairment of intangible assets


194



392


Share-based compensation expense


180



147


Deferred income taxes


(25)



(93)


Change in assets and liabilities:





Fiduciary receivables


(926)



(883)


Short-term investments — funds held on behalf of clients


(961)



(154)


Fiduciary liabilities


1,887



1,037


Receivables, net


(477)



(371)


Accounts payable and accrued liabilities


(579)



(495)


Restructuring reserves


(18)



12


Current income taxes


10



(144)


Pension, other postretirement and postemployment liabilities


(92)



(84)


Other assets and liabilities


132



301


Cash provided by operating activities


361



413


Cash flows from investing activities





Proceeds from investments


14



23


Payments for investments


(60)



(36)


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


(62)



352


Acquisition of businesses, net of cash acquired


(15)



(50)


Sale of businesses, net of cash sold


7



1


Capital expenditures


(106)



(111)


Cash provided by (used for) investing activities


(222)



179


Cash flows from financing activities





Share repurchase


(1,155)



(971)


Issuance of shares for employee benefit plans


(144)



(150)


Issuance of debt


3,559



2,552


Repayment of debt


(2,228)



(2,027)


Cash dividends to shareholders


(203)



(187)


Noncontrolling interests and other financing activities


(61)



(15)


Cash used for financing activities


(232)



(798)


Effect of exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents


18



(63)


Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents


(75)



(269)


Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period


656



756


Cash and cash equivalents at end of period


$

581



$

487


 

Aon plc

Restructuring Plan (Unaudited) (1)




Three Months Ended
June 30, 2019


Six Months Ended
June 30, 2019


Inception
to Date


Estimated
Remaining Costs


Estimated
Total Cost (2)

Workforce reduction


$

78



$

102



$

516



$

14



$

530


Technology rationalization


4



15



95



35



130


Lease consolidation


5



14



50



30



80


Asset impairments


2



2



41



4



45


Other costs associated with restructuring and separation (3)


38



85



498



67



565


Total restructuring and related expenses


$

127



$

218



1,200



$

150



$

1,350




(1)

In the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income, workforce reductions are included in "Compensation and benefits," IT 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 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 this plan. Significant assumptions that may change when plans are finalized and implemented include, but are not limited to, changes in severance calculations, changes in the assumptions underlying sublease loss calculations 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 expense categories may be revised in future periods as these assumptions are updated. Estimated Total Cost includes $100 million of non-cash charges.

(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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