Contact Name

UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K

þ         ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF
THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2006

o         TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF
THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from               to              

Commission File Number: 2-17039

NATIONAL WESTERN LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

COLORADO
84-0467208
(State of Incorporation)
(I.R.S. Employer Identification Number)

850 EAST ANDERSON LANE, AUSTIN, TEXAS 78752-1602
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)

(512) 836-1010
(Telephone Number)

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12 (b) of the Act:
None

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12 (g) of the Act:
None
(Title of Class)

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.   Yes o   No þ

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Act.  Yes o   No þ

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the Registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days:  Yes þ   No o

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of Registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. þ

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of “accelerated filer and large accelerated file” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check One)

Large accelerated filer  o     Accelerated filer  þ     Non-accelerated filer   o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).  Yes o   No þ



The aggregate market value of the common stock (based upon the closing price) held by non-affiliates of the Registrant on June 30, 2006 was $540,988,546.

As of March 9, 2007, the number of shares of Registrant's common stock outstanding was:   Class A - 3,420,824 and Class B - 200,000.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

None

2



   
     
     
 
PART I
Page
     
Business
4
Risk Factors
9
Unresolved Staff Comments
11
Properties
12
Legal Proceedings
12
Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders
12
     
 
PART II
 
     
Market for Registrant's Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters
13
Selected Consolidated Financial Data
15
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
16
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
42
Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
42
Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
42
Controls and Procedures
42
Other Information
45
     
 
PART III
 
     
Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant
45
Executive Compensation
48
Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management
65
Certain Relationships and Related Transactions
67
Principal Accountant Fees and Services
68
     
 
PART IV
 
     
Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules
68
     
 
Signatures
129


PART I
ITEM 1. BUSINESS

General

National Western Life Insurance Company (hereinafter referred to as "National Western", "Company", or "Registrant") is a stock life insurance company, chartered in the State of Colorado in 1956, and doing business in forty-nine states, the District of Columbia, and four U.S. territories or possessions. National Western is also licensed in Haiti, and although not otherwise licensed, accepts applications from and issues policies to residents of various countries in Central and South America, the Caribbean, the Pacific Rim, Eastern Europe and Asia. Such policies are underwritten, accepted, and issued in the United States upon applications submitted by independent contractor broker-agents. The Company provides life insurance products for the savings and protection needs of approximately 149,000 policyholders and for the asset accumulation and retirement needs of 124,000 annuity contractholders.

During 2006, the Company's total assets increased 5% to $6.7 billion at December 31, 2006 from $6.4 billion at December 31, 2005. The Company generated revenues of $521.9 million, $441.0 million, and $434.1 million in 2006, 2005, and 2004, respectively. In addition, National Western generated net income of $76.3 million, $77.3 million and $122.2 million (including $54.7 million from a change in accounting principle) in 2006, 2005, and 2004, respectively.

The Company's financial information, including information in this report filed on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, and any amendments to the above reports, are accessible free of charge through the Company's Internet site at www.nationalwesternlife.com or may be viewed at the United States Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. or at the SEC's Internet site at www.sec.gov.

Products

National Western offers a broad portfolio of individual whole life, universal life and term insurance plans, and annuities, including supplementary riders.

Life Products. The Company's life products provide protection for the life of the insured and, in some cases, allow for cash value accumulation on a tax-deferred basis. These product offerings include universal life insurance ("UL"), interest-sensitive whole life, and traditional products such as term insurance coverage. Interest sensitive products such as UL accept premiums that are applied to an account value. Deducted from the account value are cost of insurance charges which vary by age, gender, plan, and class of insurance, as well as various expense charges. Interest is credited to account values at a fixed interest rate generally determined in advance and guaranteed for a policy year at a time, subject to minimum guaranteed rates specified in the policy contract. A slight variation to this general interest crediting practice involves equity-indexed universal life ("EIUL") policies whose credited interest may be linked in part to an outside index such as the S&P 500Ò Composite Stock Price Index ("S&P 500 IndexÒ") at the election of the policyholder. These products offer both flexible and fixed premium modes and provide policyholders with flexibility in the available coverage, the timing and amount of premium payments and the amount of the death benefit, provided there are sufficient policy funds to cover all policy charges for the coming year. Traditional products generally provide for a fixed death benefit payable in exchange for regular premium payments.

Annuity Products. Annuity products sold include flexible premium and single premium deferred annuities, equity-indexed annuities, and single premium immediate annuities. These products can be tax qualified or nonqualified annuities. A fixed single premium deferred annuity ("SPDA") provides for a single premium payment at the time of issue, an accumulation period, and an annuity payout period commencing at some future date. A flexible premium deferred annuity ("FPDA") provides the same features but allows, generally with some conditions, additional payments into the contract. Interest is credited to the account value of the annuity initially at a current rate of interest which is guaranteed for a period of time, typically the first year. After this period, the interest credited is subject to change based upon market rates and product profitability subject to a minimum guaranteed rate specified in the contract. Interest accrues during the accumulation period generally on a tax-deferred basis to the contractholder. After a number of years specified in the annuity contract, the owner may elect to have the proceeds paid as a single payment or as a series of payments over a period of time. The owner is permitted at any time during the accumulation period to withdraw all or part of the annuity account balance subject to contract provisions such as surrender charges and market value adjustments. An equity-indexed deferred annuity ("EIA") performs essentially in the same manner as SPDAs and FPDAs with the exception that, in addition to a fixed interest crediting option, the contractholder has the ability to elect an interest crediting mechanism that is linked, in part, to an outside index such as the S&P 500 IndexÒ. A single premium immediate annuity ("SPIA") foregoes the accumulation period and immediately commences an annuity payout period.


Distributions of the Company's direct premium revenues and deposits by product type are provided below.

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Annuities:
             
Single premium deferred
 
$
8,216
   
10,389
   
8,156
 
Flexible premium deferred
   
163,415
   
225,941
   
342,509
 
Equity-indexed deferred
   
303,613
   
298,227
   
512,709
 
Single premium immediate
   
10,750
   
23,383
   
28,653
 
                     
Total annuities
   
485,994
   
557,940
   
892,027
 
                     
Universal life insurance
   
146,742
   
133,579
   
119,554
 
Traditional life and other
   
18,046
   
16,629
   
15,830
 
                     
Total direct premiums and deposits collected
 
$
650,782
   
708,148
   
1,027,411
 

Operating Segments

The Company manages its business between Domestic Insurance Operations and International Insurance Operations. For segment reporting purposes, the Company's annuity business, which is predominantly domestic, is separately identified.

Domestic Insurance Operations. The Company is currently licensed to do business in all states and the District of Columbia, except for New York. Products marketed are annuities, universal life insurance, and traditional life insurance, which include both term and whole life products. The majority of domestic sales are the Company's annuities. National Western markets and distributes its domestic products primarily through independent national marketing organizations ("NMO"). These NMOs assist the Company in recruiting, contracting, and managing independent agents. The Company's agents are independent contractors who are compensated on a commission basis. At December 31, 2006, the Company's NMO relationships had contracted approximately 10,200 independent agents with the Company. Nearly 20% of these contracted agents submitted policy applications to the Company in the past twelve months.

International Insurance Operations. National Western's international operations focus on foreign nationals in upper socioeconomic classes. Insurance products are issued primarily to residents of countries in Central and South America, the Caribbean, the Pacific Rim, Eastern Europe, and Asia. Issuing policies to residents of countries in these different regions provides diversification that helps to minimize large fluctuations that could arise due to various economic, political, and competitive pressures that may occur from one country to another. Products issued to international residents are almost entirely universal life and traditional life insurance products. However, certain annuity and investment contracts are also available. At December 31, 2006, the Company had 68,100 international life insurance policies in force representing nearly $13.3 billion in face amount of coverage.

International applications are submitted by independent contractor broker-agents, many of whom have been submitting policy applications to National Western for 20 or more years. The Company had approximately 4,000 independent international broker-agents contracted at December 31, 2006, nearly 46% of which submitted policy applications to the Company in the past twelve months.

There are some inherent risks of accepting international applications which are not present within the domestic market that are reduced substantially by the Company in several ways. As previously described, the Company accepts applications from foreign nationals in upper socioeconomic classes who have substantial financial resources. This targeted customer base coupled with National Western's conservative underwriting practices have historically resulted in claims experience, due to natural causes, similar to that in the United States. The Company minimizes exposure to foreign currency risks by requiring payment of premiums and claims in United States dollars. Finally, nearly forty years of experience with the international products and the Company's longstanding independent broker-agent relationships further serve to minimize risks.


Geographical Distribution of Business. The following table depicts the distribution of the Company's premium revenues and deposits.

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
   
(In thousands)
 
               
United States domestic products:
             
Annuities
 
$
475,867
   
548,967
   
882,530
 
Life insurance
   
35,780
   
36,594
   
31,501
 
                     
Total domestic products
   
511,647
   
585,561
   
914,031
 
                     
International products:
                   
Annuities
   
10,127
   
8,973
   
9,497
 
Life insurance
   
129,008
   
113,614
   
103,883
 
                     
Total international products
   
139,135
   
122,587
   
113,380
 
                     
Total direct premiums and deposits collected
 
$
650,782
   
708,148
   
1,027,411
 

Although many agents sell National Western's products, the Company's annuity sales in any year typically reflect one or two NMOs whose agents sold 10% or more of the Company’s total annuity sales. In 2006, there were two such NMOs who accounted for 22.1% and 12.2% of total annuity sales, respectively. Similarly, domestic life insurance sales in any year may include one or two NMOs who accounted for 10% or more of total domestic life insurance sales. In 2006, there were two NMOs who generated 22.8% and 13.3%, respectively, of total domestic life insurance sales. These NMOs were not the same NMOs who produced more than 10% of total annuity sales. International life insurance sales are much more diversified by agency and in 2006 were geographically attributed to Latin America (75%), the Pacific Rim (13%), and Eastern Europe (12%).

Segment Financial Information. A summary of financial information for the Company's segments is as follows:

   
Domestic
 
International
             
   
Life
 
Life
     
All
     
   
Insurance
 
Insurance
 
Annuities
 
Others
 
Totals
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Revenues, excluding
                 
realized gains (losses):
                 
2006
 
$
43,222
   
106,613
   
350,665
   
18,697
   
519,197
 
2005
   
42,165
   
93,577
   
277,889
   
17,528
   
431,159
 
2004
   
44,116
   
87,850
   
283,827
   
14,847
   
430,640
 
                               
Segment earnings: (A)
                               
2006
 
$
297
   
12,191
   
56,559
   
5,566
   
74,613
 
2005
   
2,809
   
13,559
   
47,915
   
6,559
   
70,842
 
2004
   
2,522
   
12,133
   
45,473
   
5,066
   
65,194
 
                               
Segment assets: (B)
                               
2006
 
$
381,490
   
715,064
   
5,467,733
   
103,087
   
6,667,374
 
2005
   
366,939
   
631,477
   
5,256,146
   
94,064
   
6,348,626
 
2004
   
361,176
   
568,723
   
4,960,837
   
84,481
   
5,975,217
 

Notes to Table:

(A) Amounts exclude realized gains and losses on investments, net of taxes.
(B) Amounts exclude other unallocated assets.


Additional information concerning these industry segments is included in Note 13, Segment and Other Operating Information, of the accompanying consolidated financial statements.

Competition and Ratings

National Western competes with over 400 life and health insurance company groups in the United States consisting of approximately 2,000 companies, as well as other financial intermediaries such as banks and securities firms who market insurance products. Competitive factors are primarily the breadth and quality of products offered, established positions in niche markets, pricing, relationships with distribution, commission structures, perceived stability of the insurer, quality of underwriting and customer service, and cost efficiency. Operating results of life insurers are subject to fluctuations not only from this competitive environment but also due to economic conditions, interest rate levels and changes, performance of investments, and the maintenance of strong insurance ratings from independent rating agencies.

In order to compete successfully, life insurers have turned their attention toward distribution, technology, defined end market targets, speed to the market in terms of product development, and customer relationship management as ways of gaining a competitive edge. The Company's management believes that it competes primarily on the basis of its longstanding reputation for commitment in serving international markets, its financial strength and stability, and its ability to attract and retain distribution based upon product and compensation.

Ratings with respect to financial strength are an important factor in establishing the competitive position of insurance companies. Ratings are important to maintaining public confidence and impact the ability to market products. The following summarizes the Company's financial strength ratings.

Rating Agency
Rating
   
Standard & Poor's
A (Strong)
   
A.M. Best
A- (Excellent)

A.M. Best and Standard & Poor’s ratings are a consideration of the Company’s claims paying ability and are not a rating of the Company’s investment worthiness. The rating agencies generally review the Company's rating on an annual basis during the second calendar quarter of the year. The above ratings were assigned with a stable outlook during 2006. However, there is no assurance that the Company's ratings will continue for a certain period of time or that they will not be changed. In the event the Company's ratings are downgraded, the Company's business may be negatively impacted.

Risk Management

The Company's product designs, underwriting standards and risk management techniques are utilized to protect against disintermediation risk and greater than expected mortality and morbidity risk. Disintermediation risk is limited through the use of surrender charges, certain provisions not allowing surrender of the policy, and market value adjustment features. Investment guidelines including duration targets, asset allocation tolerances and return objectives help to ensure that disintermediation risk is managed within the constraints of profitability criteria. Prudent underwriting is applied to select and price insurance risks and the Company regularly monitors mortality experience relative to its product pricing assumptions. Enforcement of disciplined claims management serves to further protect against greater than expected mortality.

A significant aspect of the Company’s business is managing the linkage of its asset characteristics with the anticipated behavior of its policy obligations and liabilities, a process commonly referred to as asset-liability matching. The Company maintains an Asset-Liability Committee (“ALCO”) consisting of senior level members of the Company who assist and advise the Company’s Board of Directors in monitoring the level of risk the Company is exposed to in managing its assets and liabilities in order to attain the risk-return profile desired. Certain members of the ALCO meet as frequently as necessary, to review and recommend for board of director ratification, current period interest crediting rates to policyholders based upon existing and anticipated investment opportunities. These rates apply to new sales and to products after an initial guaranteed period, if applicable. Rates are established after the initial guaranteed period based upon asset portfolio yields and each product’s required interest spread, taking into consideration current competitive market conditions.


Substantially all international products contain a currency clause stating that premium and claim "dollars" refer to lawful currency of the United States. Policy applications submitted by international insurance brokers are generally associated with individuals in upper socioeconomic classes who desire the stability and inflationary hedge of dollar denominated insurance products issued by the Company. The favorable demographics of this group typically results in a higher average policy size, and persistency and claims experience (from natural causes) similar to that in the United States. By accepting applications submitted on residents outside the United States, the Company is able to further diversify its revenue, earnings, and insurance risk.

The Company follows the industry practice of reinsuring (ceding) portions of its insurance risks with a variety of reinsurance companies. The use of reinsurance allows the Company to underwrite policies larger than the risk it is willing to retain on any single life and to continue writing a larger volume of new business. The maximum amount of life insurance the Company normally retains is $250,000 on any one life subject to a minimum reinsurance session of $50,000. However, the use of reinsurance does not relieve the Company of its primary liability to pay the full amount of the insurance benefit in the event of the failure of a reinsurer to honor its contractual obligation. Consequently, the Company avoids concentrating reinsurance risk with any one reinsurer and only participates in reinsurance treaties with reputable carriers.

The Company maintains a system of disclosure controls and procedures, including internal controls designed to provide reasonable assurance that assets are safeguarded and transactions are properly authorized, executed and recorded. The Company recognizes the importance of full and open presentation of its financial position and operating results and to this end maintains a Disclosure Controls and Procedures Committee comprised of senior executives who possess comprehensive knowledge of the Company's business and operations. This Committee is responsible for evaluating disclosure controls and procedures and for the gathering, analyzing, and disclosing of information as required to be disclosed under the securities laws. It assists the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer in their responsibilities of making the certifications required under the securities laws regarding the Company's disclosure controls and procedures. It ensures that material financial information is properly communicated up the Company's hierarchy to the appropriate person or persons and that all disclosures are made in a timely fashion. This Committee reports directly to the Audit Committee of the Company.

Regulatory and Other Issues

Regulation. The Company's insurance business is subject to comprehensive state regulation in each of the states it is licensed to conduct business. The laws enforced by the various state insurance departments provide broad administrative powers with respect to licensing to transact business, licensing and appointing agents, approving policy forms, regulating unfair trade and claims practices, establishing solvency standards, fixing minimum interest rates for the accumulation of surrender values, and regulating the type, amounts, and valuations of permitted investments, among other things. The Company is required to file detailed annual statements with each of the state insurance supervisory departments in which it does business. The Company's operations and financial records are subject to examination by these departments at regular intervals. Statutory financial statements are prepared in accordance with accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the Colorado Division of Insurance, the Company's principal insurance regulator. Prescribed statutory accounting practices are largely dictated by the Statutory Accounting Principles adopted by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners ("NAIC").

The NAIC, as well as state regulators, continually evaluates existing laws and regulations pertaining to the operations of life insurers. To the extent that initiatives result as a part of this process, they may be adopted in the various states in which the Company is licensed to do business. It is not possible to predict the ultimate content and timing of new statutes and regulations adopted by state insurance departments and the related impact upon the Company's operations although it is conceivable that they may be more restrictive.

Although the federal government does not directly regulate the life insurance industry, federal measures previously considered or enacted by Congress, if revisited, could affect the insurance industry and the Company's business. These measures include the tax treatment of life insurance companies and life insurance products, as well as changes in individual income tax structures and rates. Even though the ultimate impact of any of these changes, if implemented, is uncertain, the persistency of the Company's existing products and the ability to sell products could be materially affected.


Risk-Based Capital Requirements. The NAIC established risk-based capital ("RBC") requirements to help state regulators monitor the financial strength and stability of life insurers by identifying those companies that may be inadequately capitalized. Under the NAIC's requirements, each insurer must maintain its total capital above a calculated threshold or take corrective measures to achieve the threshold. The threshold of adequate capital is based on a formula that takes into account the amount of risk each company faces on its products and investments. The RBC formula takes into consideration four major areas of risk which are: (i) asset risk which primarily focuses on the quality of investments; (ii) insurance risk which encompasses mortality and morbidity risk; (iii) interest rate risk which involves asset-liability matching issues; and (iv) other business risks. For each category, the RBC requirements are determined by applying specified factors to various assets, premiums, reserves, and other items, with the factor being higher for items with greater underlying risk and lower for items with less risk. The Company's statutory capital and surplus at December 31, 2006, was significantly in excess of the threshold RBC requirements.

Effects of Inflation. The rate of inflation as measured by the change in the average consumer price index has not had a material effect on the revenues or operating results of the Company during the three most recent fiscal years.

Employees. The Company had approximately 273 employees as of December 31, 2006 substantially all of which worked in the Company’s home office in Austin, Texas.


ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS

Company performance is subject to varying risk factors. If any of the following risks manifests into actual occurrences, the Company’s operations, financial position or financial performance could be negatively impacted.

We are subject to changing interest rates, market volatility, and general economic conditions which may affect the risk and returns on both our investment portfolio and our products.

We are exposed to significant capital market risk related to changes in interest rates. Substantial and sustained changes, up or down, in market interest rate levels can materially affect the profitability of our products, the market value of our investments, and ultimately the reported amount of stockholders’ equity.

A rise in interest rates will increase the net unrealized loss position of our investment portfolio and may subject the Company to disintermediation risk. Disintermediation risk is the risk that policyholders may surrender their contracts in a rising interest rate environment, requiring the Company to liquidate investments in an unrealized loss position (i.e. the market value less than the carrying value of the investments). With respect to fixed income security investments the Company maintains in an “Available for Sale” category, rising interest rates will cause declines in the market value of these securities. These declines are reported in our financial statements as an unrealized investment loss and a reduction of stockholders’ equity.

A decline in interest rates could expose the Company to reduced profitability due to minimum interest rate guarantees that are required in our products by regulation. A key component of profitability is investment spread, or the difference between the yield on our investments and the rates we credit to policyholders on our products. A narrowing of investment spreads could negatively affect operating results. Although the Company has the ability to adjust the rates credited on products in order to maintain our required investment spread, a significant decline in interest rate levels could affect investment yields to the point where the investment spread is compromised due to minimum interest rate guarantees. In addition, the potential for increased policy surrenders and cash withdrawals, competitor activities, and other factors could further limit the Company’s ability to maintain crediting rates on its products at levels necessary to avoid sacrificing investment spread.

We are subject to general domestic and international economic conditions that may be less favorable than currently exists or is anticipated.

The demand for financial and insurance products is subject to factors such as consumer sentiment and behavior, business investment and government spending, the volatility and strength of capital markets, inflation, and overall economic climate. Further, since we accept applications from residents in North America, Latin America, Eastern Europe and the Pacific Rim, we are exposed to economic conditions in multiple geographic locations. Economic downturns in any of these geographic locations characterized by political, social or economic instability, higher unemployment, lower family income or consumer spending could negatively affect the demand for the Company’s products. Accordingly, the Company’s overall success depends, in part, upon the ability to succeed despite these differing and dynamic conditions.


Our investment portfolio is subject to credit quality risks which may lessen the value of invested assets and the Company’s book value per share.

The Company substantially invests monies received in investment grade, fixed income investment securities in order to meet its obligations to policyholders and provide a return on its deployed capital. Consequently, we are subject to the risk that issuers of these securities may default on principal and interest payments, particularly in the event of a major downturn in economic and/or business climate. At December 31, 2006, approximately 2.7% of the Company’s $5.5 billion fixed income securities portfolio was comprised of issuers who were investment grade at the time the Company acquired them but were subsequently downgraded for various reasons. A substantial increase in defaults from these or other issuers could negatively impact the Company’s financial position and results.

For the Company’s equity-indexed products, over the counter derivative instruments are purchased from a number of highly rated counterparties to fund the equity-index credit to policyholders. In the event that any of these counterparties fails to meet their contractual obligations under these derivative instruments, the Company would be financially at risk for providing the credits due that the counterparty reneged on. The failure of the counterparty to perform could negatively impact the Company’s financial position and results.

We are subject to incurring difficulties in marketing and distributing our products through our current and future distribution channels.

The Company distributes its life and annuity products through independent broker-agents. There is substantial competition, particularly in the Company’s domestic market, for independent broker-agents with the demonstrated ability to market and sell insurance products. Competition for these individuals or organizations typically centers on products, compensation, home office support and the insurer’s financial strength ratings. The Company’s future sales and financial condition are dependent upon avoiding significant interruptions in attracting and retaining independent broker-agents.

We are subject to a downgrade in our financial strength ratings which may negatively effect our ability to attract and retain independent distributors, make our products less attractive to consumers, and may have an adverse effect on our operations.

Financial strength ratings have grown to become an important criteria in establishing the competitive position of insurers. Ratings generally reflect the rating agencies’ view of a particular company’s financial strength, operating performance, and ability to meet its obligations to policyholders. However, some of the rating factors often relate to the particular views of the rating agency, their independent economic modeling, the general economic climate, and other circumstances outside of the insurer’s control. Accordingly, we cannot predict with any certainty what actions rating agencies may take. A downgrade in our financial strength rating, or an announced potential downgrade, could affect our competitive position and make it more difficult to market our products vis-à-vis competitors with higher financial strength ratings. In extreme situations, a significant downgrade action by one or more rating agency could induce existing policyholders to cancel their policies and withdraw funds from the Company. These events could have a material adverse effect on our financial position and liquidity.

We are subject to competition from new sources as well as companies having substantially greater financial resources which could have an adverse impact upon our business levels and profitability.

In recent years, there has been considerable consolidation among companies in the insurance and financial sectors resulting in large, well-capitalized entities that offer products comparable to the Company. Frequently, these larger organizations are not domiciled in the United States or are financial services entities attempting to establish a position in the insurance industry. These larger competitors often enjoy economies of scale which produce lower operating costs and the wherewithal to absorb greater risk allowing them to price products more competitively and, in turn, attract independent distributors. Consequently, the Company may encounter additional product pricing pressures and be challenged to maintain profit margin targets and profitability criteria. Because of these competitive presences, the Company may not be able to effectively compete without negative affects on our financial position and results.


We are subject to regulation and changes to existing laws that may affect our profitability or means of operations.

The Company is subject to extensive laws and regulations which are complex and subject to change. In addition, these laws and regulations are enforced by a number of different authorities including, but not limited to, state insurance regulators, the Securities and Exchange Commission, state attorney generals, and the U.S. Department of Justice. Compliance with these laws and regulations is time consuming and any changes may materially increase our compliance costs and other expenses of doing business. The regulatory framework at the state and, increasingly, federal level pertaining to insurance products and practices is advancing and could affect not only the design of our products but our ability to continue to sell certain products.

Life insurer products generally offer tax advantages to policyholders via the deferral of income tax on policy earnings during the accumulation phase of the product, be it an annuity or a life insurance product. Periodically, Congress has considered legislation that would reduce or eliminate this tax deferral advantage inherent to the life insurance industry and subject the industry’s products to treatment more equivalent with other investments. In the event that the tax-deferred status of life insurance products is revised or reduced by Congress all life insurers would be adversely impacted.

We may be subject to unfavorable judicial developments, including the time and expense of litigation, which potentially could affect our financial position and results.

In the ordinary course of business, we are involved in various legal actions common to the life insurance industry, some of which may occasionally assert claims for large amounts. These actions, for example, could include allegations of improper sales practices in connection with the sale of life insurance or bad faith in the handling of insurance claims. While we are not a party to any lawsuit that we believe will have a material adverse effect on our financial position or operations, given the inherent unpredictability of litigation, there can be no assurance that such litigation, current or in the future, will not have such a material adverse effect on the Company’s results of operation or cash flows in any particular reporting period.

We are subject to policy claims experience which can fluctuate from period to period and vary from past results or expectations.

The Company’s earnings are significantly influenced by policy claims received and will vary from period to period depending upon the amount of claims incurred. In any given quarter or year, there is very limited predictability of claims experience. The liability established for future policy benefits is based upon a number of different factors. In the event our future claim experience does not match our past results or pricing assumptions, our operating results could be materially and adversely affected.

We are subject to assumption inaccuracies regarding future mortality, persistency, and interest rates used in determining deferred policy acquisition costs. 

Deferred policy acquisition costs (and deferred sales inducement amounts) are calculated using a number of assumptions related to policy persistency, mortality and interest rates. Actual results could differ significantly from the related assumptions which could have a material and adverse impact on the Company’s operating results.

We are dependent upon managing ever-evolving technology initiatives for effectively managing the Company’s business.

The Company’s business operations are technology dependent for maintaining accurate records, administering complex contract provisions, and complying with increasingly demanding regulation. While systems developments can streamline many processes and in the long term reduce the cost of doing business, these initiatives can present short-term cost and implementation risks. Projections of expenses, implementation time frames and the ultimate enhancement values may be different from expectations and escalate over time. The Company also faces rising costs and time constraints in meeting data security compliance requirements of new and proposed regulations. The increasing volume and sophistication of computer viruses, hackers and other external threats may increase the vulnerability of the Company’s systems to data breaches. These increased risks and expanding requirements expose the Company to potential data loss and damages and significant increases in compliance and litigation costs.


ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

None.


ITEM 2. PROPERTIES

The Company leases approximately 72,000 square feet of office space in Austin, Texas. This lease expires in 2010 and specifies lease payments that gradually increase over the term of the lease. Currently, lease payments are $0.6 million per year plus taxes, insurance, maintenance, and other operating costs. Additionally, the Company’s wholly-owned subsidiary, The Westcap Corporation, owns two buildings adjacent to the Company’s principal office space totaling approximately 21,000 square feet that are leased and utilized by the Company. The Company’s affiliate, Regent Care Building, Limited Partnership, owns a 65,000 square foot building in Reno, Nevada, which is leased and utilized by another of the Company’s affiliates, Regent Care Operations, Limited Partnership, for use in its nursing home operations. Lease costs and related operating expenses for facilities of the Company’s subsidiaries are currently not significant in relation to the Company’s consolidated financial statements. The intercompany lease costs related to The Westcap Corporation and the nursing home have been eliminated for consolidated reporting purposes.

ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

In the course of an audit of a charitable tax-exempt foundation, the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) raised an issue under the special provisions of the Internal Revenue Code (“IRC”) governing tax-exempt private foundations as to certain interest-bearing loans from the Company to another corporation in which the tax-exempt foundation owns stock. The issue is whether such transactions constitute indirect self-dealing by the foundation, the result of which would be excise taxes on the Company by virtue of its participation in such transactions. By letter to the Company dated August 21, 2003, the IRS proposed an initial excise tax liability in the total amount approximating one million dollars as a result of such transactions. The Company disagrees with the IRS analysis. The Company is contesting the matter and expects to prevail on the merits. On October 14, 2003, in response to the IRS letter, the Company requested that this issue instead be referred to the IRS National Office for technical advice. The IRS audit team agreed and the matter was referred in November of 2003 to the IRS National Office. Such technical advice when issued by the IRS National Office will be in the form of a memorandum analyzing the issue which will be binding on the IRS audit team.

The Company is a defendant in three class action lawsuits, and one class has been certified regarding an alleged violation of section 17200 of the California Business and Professions Code. Management believes that the Company has good and meritorious defenses and intends to continue to vigorously defend itself against these claims.

The Company is involved or may become involved in various other legal actions, in the normal course of business, in which claims for alleged economic and punitive damages have been or may be asserted, some for substantial amounts. Although there can be no assurances, at the present time, the Company does not anticipate that the ultimate liability arising from potential, pending, or threatened legal actions, will have a material adverse effect on the financial condition or operating results of the Company.


ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE
OF SECURITY HOLDERS

No matters were submitted to a vote of the Company’s security holders during the fourth quarter of 2006.



PART II

ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY
AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

Market Information

The principal market on which the Class A common stock of the Company trades is The NASDAQ Stock Market® under the symbol “NWLIA”. The high and low sales prices for the Class A common stock for each quarter during the last two years are shown in the following table.

     
High
 
Low
           
2006:
First Quarter
$
232.29
 
200.00
 
Second Quarter
 
239.65
 
209.00
 
Third Quarter
 
237.36
 
222.59
 
Fourth Quarter
 
243.00
 
224.05
 
         
2005:
First Quarter
$
175.85
 
166.63
 
Second Quarter
 
197.99
 
160.00
 
Third Quarter
 
213.70
 
194.69
 
Fourth Quarter
 
220.00
 
181.95

Equity Security Holders

The number of stockholders of record on March 9, 2007 was as follows:

 
Class A Common Stock
 
4,635
 
Class B Common Stock
 
2

Dividends

During 2006, the Company paid cash dividends on its Class A and Class B common stock in the amounts of $1,231,497 and $36,000, respectively. During 2005, the Company paid cash dividends on its Class A and Class B common stock in the amounts of $1,160,017 and $34,000, respectively. Payment of dividends is within the discretion of the Company’s Board of Directors. The Company’s general policy is to reinvest earnings internally to finance the development of new business.

Securities Authorized For Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans

The Company has one equity compensation plan that was approved by security holders. Under the plan, 128,465 shares of the Company’s Class A common stock may be issued upon exercise of the outstanding options at December 31, 2006. The weighted average exercise price of the outstanding options is $123.00 per option. Excluding the outstanding options, 26,477 shares of the common stock remain available for future issuance under the plan at December 31, 2006. The Company has no equity compensation plans that have not been approved by security holders.


Performance Graph

The following graph compares the change in the Company's cumulative total stockholder return on its common stock with the NASDAQ - U.S. Companies Index and the NASDAQ Insurance Stock Index. The graph assumes that the value of the Company's common stock and each index was $100 at December 31, 2001, and that all dividends were reinvested.







ITEM 6. SELECTED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA

The following five-year financial summary includes comparative amounts derived from the audited consolidated financial statements.

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
2003
 
2002
 
   
(In thousands except per share amounts)
 
Earnings Information:
                     
Revenues:
                     
Life and annuity premiums
 
$
15,805
   
14,602
   
14,025
   
13,916
   
13,918
 
Universal life and annuity contract
                               
revenues
   
106,320
   
96,765
   
89,513
   
80,964
   
76,173
 
Net investment income
   
379,768
   
310,213
   
315,843
   
298,974
   
236,714
 
Other income
   
17,304
   
9,579
   
11,259
   
7,061
   
6,726
 
Realized gains (losses) on
                               
investments
   
2,662
   
9,884
   
3,506
   
(1,647
)
 
(16,144
)
Total revenues
   
521,859
   
441,043
   
434,146
   
399,268
   
317,387
 
Benefits and expenses:
                               
Life and other policy benefits
   
35,241
   
39,162
   
34,613
   
37,180
   
31,299
 
Amortization of deferred policy
                               
acquisition costs
   
90,358
   
87,955
   
88,733
   
53,829
   
35,799
 
Universal life and investment
                               
annuity contract interest
   
213,736
   
150,692
   
173,315
   
176,374
   
150,479
 
Other operating expenses
   
65,709
   
46,349
   
35,441
   
48,776
   
36,938
 
Total expenses
   
405,044
   
324,158
   
332,102
   
316,159
   
254,515
 
Earnings before Federal income taxes
                               
and cumulative effect of change in
                               
accounting principle
   
116,815
   
116,885
   
102,044
   
83,109
   
62,872
 
Federal income taxes
   
40,472
   
39,618
   
34,572
   
27,327
   
20,806
 
Earnings before cumulative effect of
                               
change in accounting principle
   
76,343
   
77,267
   
67,472
   
55,782
   
42,066
 
Cumulative effect or change in
                               
accounting principle, net of tax
   
-
   
-
   
54,697
   
-
   
-
 
Net earnings
 
$
76,343
   
77,267
   
122,169
   
55,782
   
42,066
 
                                 
                                 
Diluted Earnings Per Share:
                               
Earnings from operations
 
$
20.88
   
21.24
   
18.73
   
15.64
   
11.84
 
Cumulative effect of change in
                               
accounting principle
   
-
   
-
   
15.18
   
-
   
-
 
Net earnings
 
$
20.88
   
21.24
   
33.91
   
15.64
   
11.84
 
                                 
Balance Sheet Information:
                               
                                 
Total assets
 
$
6,693,443
   
6,369,008
   
5,991,685
   
5,297,720
   
4,137,247
 
                                 
Total liabilities
 
$
5,760,459
   
5,495,000
   
5,183,013
   
4,617,862
   
3,530,041
 
                                 
Stockholders’ equity
 
$
932,984
   
874,008
   
808,672
   
679,858
   
607,206
 
                                 
Book value per common share
 
$
257.67
   
241.89
   
225.62
   
191.69
   
172.26
 


ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Forward-Looking Statements

The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides a “safe harbor” for forward-looking statements. Certain information contained herein or in other written or oral statements made by or on behalf of National Western Life Insurance Company or its subsidiaries are or may be viewed as forward-looking. Although the Company has taken appropriate care in developing any such information, forward-looking information involves risks and uncertainties that could significantly impact actual results. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, matters described in the Company’s SEC filings such as exposure to market risks, anticipated cash flows or operating performance, future capital needs, and statutory or regulatory related issues. However, National Western, as a matter of policy, does not make any specific projections as to future earnings, nor does it endorse any projections regarding future performance that may be made by others. Whether or not actual results differ materially from forward-looking statements may depend on numerous foreseeable and unforeseeable events or developments. Also, the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments, or otherwise.

Management’s discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations (“MD&A”) of National Western Life Insurance Company for the three years ended December 31, 2006 follows. This discussion should be read in conjunction with the Company’s consolidated financial statements and related notes beginning on page 74 of this report.

Overview

The Company provides life insurance products on a global basis for the savings and protection needs of policyholders and annuity contracts for the asset accumulation and retirement needs of contractholders both domestically and internationally. The Company accepts funds from policyholders or contractholders and establishes a liability representing future obligations to pay the policy or contract-holders and their beneficiaries. To ensure the Company will be able to pay these future commitments, the funds received as premium payments and deposits are invested in high quality investments, primarily fixed income securities.

Due to the business of accepting funds to pay future obligations in later years, the underlying economics and relevant factors affecting the life insurance industry include the following:

Ÿ  
level of premium revenues collected
Ÿ  
persistency of policies and contracts
Ÿ  
returns on investments
Ÿ  
investment credit quality
Ÿ  
levels of policy benefits and costs to acquire business
Ÿ  
effect of interest rate changes on revenues and investments including asset and liability matching
Ÿ  
adequate levels of capital and surplus

The Company monitors these factors continually as key business indicators. The discussion below includes these indicators and presents information useful to an overall understanding of the Company’s business performance in 2006, incorporating required disclosures in accordance with the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission.



Critical Accounting Policies

Accounting policies discussed below are those considered critical to an understanding of the Company’s financial statements.

Impairment of Investment Securities.  The Company’s accounting policy requires that a decline in the value of a security below its amortized cost basis be evaluated to determine if the decline is other-than-temporary. The primary factors considered in evaluating whether a decline in value for fixed income and equity securities is other-than-temporary include: (a) the length of time and the extent to which the fair value has been less than cost, (b) the financial conditions and near-term prospects of the issuer, (c) whether the debtor is current on contractually obligated principal and interest payments, and (d) the intent and ability of the Company to retain the investment for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery. In addition, certain securitized financial assets with contractual cash flows are evaluated periodically by the Company to update the estimated cash flows over the life of the security. If the Company determines that the fair value of the securitized financial asset is less than its carrying amount and there has been a decrease in the present value of the estimated cash flows since the previous estimate, then an other-than-temporary impairment charge is recognized. When a security is deemed to be impaired a charge is recorded as net realized losses equal to the difference between the fair value and amortized cost basis of the security. Once an impairment charge has been recorded, the fair value of the impaired investment becomes its new cost basis and the Company continues to review the other-than-temporarily impaired security for appropriate valuation on an ongoing basis. Under U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, the Company is not permitted to increase the basis of impaired securities for subsequent recoveries in value.

Deferred Acquisition Costs (“DAC”).  The Company is required to defer certain policy acquisition costs and amortize them over future periods. These costs include commissions and certain other expenses that vary with and are primarily associated with acquiring new business. The deferred costs are recorded as an asset commonly referred to as deferred policy acquisition costs. The DAC asset balance is subsequently charged to income over the lives of the underlying contracts in relation to the anticipated emergence of revenue or profits. Actual revenue or profits can vary from Company estimates resulting in increases or decreases in the rate of amortization. The Company regularly evaluates to determine if actual experience or other evidence suggests that earlier estimates should be revised. Assumptions considered significant include surrender and lapse rates, mortality, expense levels, investment performance, and estimated interest spread. Should actual experience dictate that the Company change its assumptions regarding the emergence of future revenues or profits (commonly referred to as “unlocking”), the Company would record a charge or credit to bring its DAC balance to the level it would have been if using the new assumptions from the inception date of each policy.

DAC is also subject to periodic recoverability and loss recognition testing. These tests ensure that the present value of future contract-related cash flows will support the capitalized DAC balance to be amortized in the future. The present value of these cash flows, less the benefit reserve, is compared with the unamortized DAC balance and if the DAC balance is greater, the deficiency is charged to expense as a component of amortization and the asset balance is reduced to the recoverable amount. For more information about accounting for DAC see Note 1, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Deferred Sales Inducements.  Costs related to sales inducements offered on sales to new customers, principally on investment type contracts and primarily in the form of additional credits to the customer’s account value or enhancements to interest credited for a specified period, which are beyond amounts currently being credited to existing contracts, are deferred and recorded as other assets. All other sales inducements are expensed as incurred and included in interest credited to contract holders’ funds. Deferred sales inducements are amortized to income using the same methodology and assumptions as DAC, and are included in interest credited to contract holders’ funds. Deferred sales inducements are periodically reviewed for recoverability.


Future Policy Benefits.  Because of the long-term nature of insurance contracts, the Company is liable for policy benefit payments many years into the future. The liability for future policy benefits represents estimates of the present value of the Company’s expected benefit payments, net of the related present value of future net premium collections. For traditional life insurance contracts, this is determined by standard actuarial procedures, using assumptions as to mortality (life expectancy), morbidity (health expectancy), persistency, and interest rates, which are based on the Company’s experience with similar products. The assumptions used are those considered to be appropriate at the time the policies are issued. An additional provision is made on most products to allow for possible adverse deviation from the assumptions assumed. For universal life and annuity products, the Company’s liability is the amount of the contract’s account balance. Account balances are also subject to minimum liability calculations as a result of minimum guaranteed interest rates in the policies. While management and Company actuaries have used their best judgment in determining the assumptions and in calculating the liability for future policy benefits, there is no assurance that the estimate of the liabilities reflected in the financial statements represents the Company’s ultimate obligation. In addition, significantly different assumptions could result in materially different reported amounts. A discussion of the assumptions used to calculate the liability for future policy benefits is reported in Note 1, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Revenue Recognition.  Premium income for the Company’s traditional life insurance contracts is generally recognized as the premium becomes due from policyholders. For annuity and universal life contracts, the amounts collected from policyholders are considered deposits and are not included in revenue. For these contracts, fee income consists of policy charges for policy administration, cost of insurance charges and surrender charges assessed against policyholders’ account balances which are recognized in the period the services are provided.

Investment activities of the Company are integral to its insurance operations. Since life insurance benefits may not be paid until many years into the future, the accumulation of cash flows from premium receipts are invested with income reported as revenue when earned. Anticipated yields on investments are reflected in premium rates, contract liabilities, and other product contract features. These anticipated yields are implied in the interest required on the Company’s net insurance liabilities (future policy benefits less deferred acquisition costs) and contractual interest obligations in its insurance and annuity products. The Company benefits to the extent actual net investment income exceeds the required interest on net insurance liabilities and manages the rates it credits on its products to maintain the targeted excess or “spread” of investment earnings over interest credited. The Company will continue to be required to provide for future contractual obligations in the event of a decline in investment yield. For more information concerning revenue recognition, investment accounting, and interest sensitivity, please refer to Note 1, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, and Note 3, Investments, in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements and the discussions under Investments in Item 7 of this report.

Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits.  The Company sponsors a qualified defined benefit pension plan covering substantially all employees and three nonqualified defined benefit plans covering certain senior officers. In addition, the Company also has postretirement health care benefits for certain senior officers. In accordance with prescribed accounting standards, the Company annually reviews plan assumptions.

The Company annually reviews its pension benefit plan assumptions which include the discount rate, the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets, and the compensation increase rate. The assumed discount rate is set based on the rates of return on high quality long-term fixed income investments currently available and expected to be available during the period to maturity of the pension benefits. The assumed long-term rate of return on plan assets is generally set at the rate expected to be earned based on long-term investment policy of the plans and the various classes of the invested funds, based on the input of the plan’s investment advisors and consulting actuary and the plan’s historic rate of return. The compensation rate increase assumption is generally set at a rate consistent with current and expected long-term compensation and salary policy, including inflation. These assumptions involve uncertainties and judgment and therefore actual performance may not be reflective of the assumptions.

Other postretirement benefit assumptions include future events affecting retirement age, mortality, dependency status, per capita claims costs by age, health care trend rates, and discount rates. Per capita claims cost by age is the current cost of providing postretirement health care benefits for one year at each age from the youngest age to the oldest age at which plan participants are expected to receive benefits under the plan. Health care trend rates involve assumptions about the annual rate(s) of change in the cost of health care benefits currently provided by the plan, due to factors other than changes in the composition of the plan population by age and dependency status. These rates implicitly consider estimates of health care inflation, changes in utilization, technological advances and changes in health status of the participants. These assumptions involve uncertainties and judgment, and therefore actual performance may not be reflective of the assumptions.


Share-Based Payments.  Liability awards under a share-based payment arrangement have been measured based on the award's fair value at the reporting date. The Black-Scholes valuation method has been used to estimate the fair value of the options. This fair value calculation of the options include assumptions relative to the following:

Ÿ  
exercise price
Ÿ  
expected term based on contractual term and perceived future behavior relative to exercise
Ÿ  
current price
Ÿ  
expected volatility
Ÿ  
risk-free interest rates

These assumptions are continually reviewed by the Company and adjustments may be made based upon current facts and circumstances.

Other significant accounting policies, although not involving the same level of measurement uncertainties as those discussed above but nonetheless important to an understanding of the financial statements, are described in Note 1, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.


RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The Company’s consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”). In addition, the Company regularly evaluates operating performance using non-GAAP financial measures which exclude or segregate derivative and realized investment gains and losses from operating revenues and earnings. Similar measures are commonly used in the insurance industry in order to assess profitability and results from ongoing operations. The Company believes that the presentation of these non-GAAP financial measures enhances the understanding of the Company’s results of operations by highlighting the results from ongoing operations and the underlying profitability factors of the Company’s business. The Company excludes or segregates derivative and realized investment gains and losses because such items are often the result of events which may or may not be at the Company’s discretion and the fluctuating effects of these items could distort trends in the underlying profitability of the Company’s business. Therefore, in the following sections discussing consolidated operations and segment operations, appropriate reconciliations have been included to report information management considers useful in enhancing an understanding of the Company’s operations to reportable GAAP balances reflected in the consolidated financial statements.

Consolidated Operations

Revenues.  The following details Company revenues.

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
   
(In thousands)
 
               
Universal life and annuity contract revenues
 
$
106,320
   
96,765
   
89,513
 
Traditional life and annuity premiums
   
15,805
   
14,602
   
14,025
 
Net investment income (excluding derivatives)
   
336,489
   
321,201
   
303,855
 
Other income
   
17,304
   
9,579
   
11,259
 
                     
Operating revenues
   
475,918
   
442,147
   
418,652
 
Derivative income (loss)
   
43,279
   
(10,988
)
 
11,988
 
Realized gains on investments
   
2,662
   
9,884
   
3,506
 
                     
Total revenues
 
$
521,859
   
441,043
   
434,146
 

Universal life and annuity contract revenues - Revenues for universal life and annuity products consist of policy charges for the cost of insurance, administration charges, and surrender charges assessed against policyholder account balances, less reinsurance premiums. The Company has experienced modest growth in its life block of businesses. This growth contributes to higher revenues in the form of cost of insurance charges which were $67.7 million in 2006 compared to $63.3 million in 2005, and $60.1 million in 2004. Administrative charges were $17.1 million, $15.0 million, and $13.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2006, 2005, and 2004, respectively. Surrender charges assessed against policyholder account balances upon withdrawal were $28.7 million in 2006 compared to $25.1 million in 2005 and $23.4 million in 2004.


Traditional life and annuity premiums - Traditional life insurance premiums for products such as whole life and term life are recognized as revenues over the premium-paying period. These are product lines that the Company has not put as much emphasis on relative to interest sensitive products, particularly in its international life insurance operations.

Net investment income - A detail of net investment income is provided below.

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Gross investment income:
             
Debt securities
 
$
306,129
   
293,502
   
276,624
 
Mortgage loans
   
8,480
   
9,676
   
12,510
 
Policy loans
   
6,354
   
6,409
   
6,483
 
Other investment income
   
18,407
   
13,975
   
10,351
 
                     
Total investment income
   
339,370
   
323,562
   
305,968
 
Investment expenses
   
2,881
   
2,361
   
2,113
 
                     
Net investment income
                   
(excluding derivatives)
   
336,489
   
321,201
   
303,855
 
                     
Derivative income (loss)
   
43,279
   
(10,988
)
 
11,988
 
                     
Net investment income
 
$
379,768
   
310,213
   
315,843
 

Investment grade debt securities generated approximately 91.0% of total investment income, excluding derivatives in 2006. The mortgage loan investment balance has been steadily declining over the past several years due to the low interest rate environment, which has resulted in loan pre-payments and a decrease of new loan fundings. Other investment income for 2006 includes $1.2 million related to income received on various profit participation arrangements compared to $2.8 million recorded in 2005 and $1.5 million recorded in 2004. In addition, proceeds of $4.3 million were received in 2006 from a class action settlement on a disposed debt security.

Net investment income performance is analyzed excluding derivative income (loss), which is a common practice in the insurance industry, in order to assess underlying profitability and results from ongoing operations. Net investment income performance is summarized as follows:

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
   
(In thousands except percentages)
 
Excluding derivatives:
             
Net investment income
 
$
336,489
   
321,201
   
303,855
 
Average invested assets, at amortized cost
 
$
5,514,196
   
5,205,983
   
4,693,661
 
Yield on average invested assets
   
6.10
%
 
6.17
%
 
6.47
%
                     
Including derivatives:
                   
Net investment income
 
$
379,768
   
310,213
   
315,843
 
Average invested assets, at amortized cost
 
$
5,548,266
   
5,252,259
   
4,731,169
 
Yield on average invested assets
   
6.84
%
 
5.91
%
 
6.68
%

The average invested asset decline in yield is due to the overall interest rate level decline and the Company obtaining lower yields on newly invested funds. In addition, prepayments, calls, and maturities of higher yielding debt securities have added to the yield decrease as these funds are reinvested at lower rates. Refer to the Derivatives discussion following this section for a more detailed explanation.


Derivatives income (loss) - Index options are derivative financial instruments used to fully hedge the equity return component of the Company’s equity-indexed products, which were first introduced for sale in 1997. In 2002, the Company began selling an equity-indexed universal life product in addition to its equity-indexed annuities. Any income or loss from the sale or expiration of the options, as well as period-to-period changes in fair values, are reflected as a component of net investment income. However, increases or decreases in income from these options are substantially offset by corresponding increases or decreases in amounts credited to equity-indexed annuity and life policyholders.

Income and losses from index options are due to market conditions. Index options are intended to act as hedges to match the returns on the S&P 500 Index® and the rise or decline in this index causes index option values to likewise rise or decline. While income from index options fluctuates with the index, the contract interest expense to policyholder accounts for the Company’s equity-indexed products also fluctuates in a similar manner and direction. In 2006 and 2004, the S&P 500 Index® increased and the Company recorded income from index options and likewise increased contract interest expenses. In 2005, the S&P 500 Index® decreased resulting in index option losses and a reduction in contract interest expenses.

Derivative components included in net investment income and the corresponding contract interest amounts are detailed below for each date presented.

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Derivatives:
             
Unrealized income (loss)
 
$
27,108
   
(9,579
)
 
(13,262
)
Realized income (loss)
   
16,171
   
(1,409
)
 
25,250
 
                     
Total income (loss) included in net investment income
 
$
43,279
   
(10,988
)
 
11,988
 
                     
Total contract interest
 
$
213,736
   
150,962
   
173,315
 

Other income - Other income revenues consists primarily of gross income associated with nursing home operations of $11.2 million, $8.9 million, and $8.3 million in 2006, 2005, and 2004, respectively. In addition, the Company received $5.5 million related to lawsuit settlements during 2006. In 2004, a lawsuit settlement of $2.2 million was awarded to the Company relating to an investment previously owned and is also included in other income.

Realized gains on investments - The net gains reported in 2006 of $2.7 million consisted of gross gains of $5.3 million primarily from calls and sales of debt securities, sale of real estate during the year, offset by gross losses of $2.6 million, which includes the impairments highlighted in the table below, and from calls and sales of debt and equity securities.

In past years, the realized losses on investments have primarily resulted from impairment writedowns on investments in debt securities and valuation allowances recorded on mortgage loans. The Company records impairment writedowns when a decline in value is considered other-than-temporary and full recovery of the investment is not expected. Impairment writedowns are summarized in the following table.

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Impairment or valuation writedowns:
             
Bonds
 
$
99
   
1,926
   
3,647
 
Mortgage loans
   
2,100
   
-
   
632
 

The mortgage loan valuation writedown in 2006 involves a New Orleans property whose value was negatively impacted by Hurricane Katrina.


Benefits and Expenses. The following details benefits and expenses.

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
   
(In thousands)
 
               
Life and other policy benefits
 
$
35,241
   
39,162
   
34,613
 
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs
   
90,358
   
87,955
   
88,733
 
Universal life and annuity contract interest
   
213,736
   
150,692
   
173,315
 
Other operating expenses
   
65,709
   
46,349
   
35,441
 
                     
Totals
 
$
405,044
   
324,158
   
332,102
 

Life and other policy benefits - Life and other policy benefits reflect death claims of $26.2 million, $30.0 million, and $24.7 million for 2006, 2005, and 2004, respectively. The Company's mortality experience over the past three years has generally been consistent with its product pricing assumptions.

Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs - Life insurance companies are required to defer certain expenses associated with acquiring new business. The majority of these acquisition expenses consist of commissions paid to agents, underwriting costs, and certain marketing expenses and sales inducements. The Company defers sales inducements in the form of first year interest bonuses on annuity and universal life products that are directly related to the production of new business. These charges are deferred and amortized using the same methodology and assumptions used to amortize other capitalized acquisition costs and the amortization is included in contract interest. Recognition of these deferred policy acquisition costs in the consolidated financial statements is to occur over future periods in relation to the expected emergence of profits priced into the products sold. This emergence of profits is based upon assumptions regarding premium payment patterns, mortality, persistency, investment performance, and expense patterns. Companies are required to review these assumptions periodically to ascertain whether actual experience has deviated significantly from that assumed. If it is determined that a significant deviation has occurred, the emergence of profit patterns is to be "unlocked" and reset based upon the actual experience.

Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs increased to $90.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2006 compared to $88.0 million and $88.7 million reported in 2005 and 2004. Amortization for 2006 includes a true-up adjustment relative to partial surrenders, mortality assumptions, annuitizations, credited rates and earned rates which increased amortization in the current year by approximately $4.3 million. There were similar adjustments in 2005 and 2004 relative to amortization assumptions that resulted in increased amortization for those years.

Universal life and annuity contract interest - The Company closely monitors its credited interest rates on interest sensitive policies, taking into consideration such factors as profitability goals, policyholder benefits, product marketability, and economic market conditions. As long-term interest rates change, the Company's credited interest rates are often adjusted accordingly, taking into consideration the factors described above. The difference between yields earned on investments over policy credited rates is often referred to as the "interest spread". Raising policy credited rates can typically have an impact sooner than higher market rates on the Company's investment portfolio yield, making it more difficult to maintain the current interest spread.

The Company's approximated average credited rates are as follows:

   
December 31,
 
December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
   
(Excluding equity-indexed products)
 
(Including equity-indexed products)
 
                           
Annuity
   
3.39
%
 
3.59
%
 
3.91
%
 
3.86
%
 
2.86
%
 
3.60
%
Interest sensitive life
   
4.30
%
 
4.94
%
 
4.75
%
 
5.41
%
 
4.63
%
 
4.97
%



Contract interest also includes the performance of the derivative component of the Company's equity-indexed products. As previously noted, the recent market performance of these derivative features decreased contract interest expense in 2005, while also decreasing the Company's investment income given the hedge nature of the options. During 2006 and 2004, the reverse was noted, as the S&P 500 Index® performance was up resulting in higher investment income and contract interest expense. With these credited rates, the Company generally realized its targeted interest spread on its products.

Other operating expenses - Other operating expenses consist of general administrative expenses, licenses and fees, commissions not subject to deferral, and expenses of nursing home operations. Nursing home expenses amounted to $10.2 million, $7.6 million, and $7.2 million in 2006, 2005, and 2004, respectively. In 2006, $13.1 million was recorded related to increased compensation costs resulting from a change in liability classification for the Company’s stock option plan. Compensation costs reported in 2005 and 2004 totaled $0.9 million in both years. A reduction in expenses of $6.5 million due to the final accounting related to a lawsuit settlement is reflected in 2004 amounts. In addition, contractholder account balances were increased $2.3 million in 2004 based on this final settlement.

Federal Income Taxes. Federal income taxes on earnings from continuing operations for 2006, 2005, and 2004 reflect effective tax rates of 34.6%, 33.9%, and 33.9%, respectively, which are lower than the expected Federal rate of 35% primarily due to tax-exempt investment income related to investments in municipal securities and dividends-received deductions on income from stock investments.

Segment Operations

Summary of Segment Earnings

A summary of segment earnings from continuing operations for the years ended December 31, 2006, 2005, and 2004 is provided below. The segment earnings exclude realized gains and losses on investments, net of taxes.

   
Domestic
Life
Insurance
 
International
Life
Insurance
 
Annuities
 
All
Others
 
Totals
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Segment earnings:
                     
                       
2006
 
$
297
   
12,191
   
56,559
   
5,566
   
74,613
 
2005
   
2,809
   
13,559
   
47,915
   
6,559
   
70,842
 
2004
   
2,522
   
12,133
   
45,473
   
5,066
   
65,194
 



Domestic Life Insurance Operations

A comparative analysis of results of operations for the Company's domestic life insurance segment is detailed below.

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Premiums and other revenue:
             
Premiums and contract revenues
 
$
22,731
   
22,172
   
23,324
 
Net investment income
   
20,462
   
19,958
   
20,283
 
Other income
   
29
   
35
   
509
 
                     
Total premiums and other revenue
   
43,222
   
42,165
   
44,116
 
                     
Benefits and expenses:
                   
Life and other policy benefits
   
13,656
   
14,932
   
15,141
 
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs
   
7,313
   
5,798
   
9,098
 
Universal life insurance contract interest
   
9,168
   
8,842
   
8,585
 
Other operating expenses
   
12,630
   
8,349
   
7,479
 
                     
Total benefits and expenses
   
42,767
   
37,921
   
40,303
 
                     
Segment earnings before Federal income taxes
   
455
   
4,244
   
3,813
 
                     
Federal income taxes
   
158
   
1,435
   
1,291
 
                     
Segment earnings
 
$
297
   
2,809
   
2,522
 

Revenues from domestic life insurance operations include life insurance premiums on traditional type products and revenues from universal life insurance. Revenues from traditional products are simply premiums collected, while revenues from universal life insurance consist of policy charges for the cost of insurance, policy administration fees, and surrender charges assessed during the period. A comparative detail of premiums and contract revenues is provided below.

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
   
(In thousands)
 
               
Universal life insurance revenues
 
$
18,286
   
16,322
   
16,807
 
Traditional life insurance premiums
   
6,906
   
7,392
   
7,638
 
Reinsurance premiums
   
(2,461
)
 
(1,542
)
 
(1,121
)
                     
Totals
 
$
22,731
   
22,172
   
23,324
 

In accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, premiums collected on universal life products are not reflected as revenues in the Company's consolidated statements of earnings. Actual domestic universal life premiums are detailed below.

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
   
(In thousands)
 
               
Universal life insurance:
             
First year and single premiums
 
$
14,640
   
14,973
   
9,382
 
Renewal premiums
   
14,118
   
14,199
   
14,510
 
                     
Totals
 
$
28,758
   
29,172
   
23,892
 



The Company's U.S. operations have typically emphasized annuity product sales over life product sales but recent efforts have been made to attract new independent agents and to promote life products to improve domestic sales. It is the Company's goal to increase domestic life product sales through increased recruiting of new distribution and the development of new life insurance products. The Company had approximately 10,200 contracted agents as of December 31, 2006.

Policy benefits totaled $13.7 million, $14.9 million, and $15.1 million in 2006, 2005, and 2004, respectively, which are consistent with Company expectations. Net investment income remained consistent with $20.5 million, $20.0 million, and $20.3 million for 2006, 2005, and 2004, respectively. Other operating expenses increased significantly in 2006 due to an increase in compensation costs resulting from the change in liability classification for the Company’s stock option plan. Compensation costs totaled $3.0 million, $0.2 million, and $0.2 million in 2006, 2005, and 2004, respectively.

International Life Insurance Operations

A comparative analysis of results of operations for the Company's international life insurance segment is detailed below.

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Premiums and other revenue:
             
Premiums and contract revenues
 
$
78,005
   
70,379
   
64,239
 
Net investment income
   
28,530
   
23,123
   
22,821
 
Other income
   
78
   
75
   
790
 
                     
Total premiums and other revenue
   
106,613
   
93,577
   
87,850
 
                     
Benefits and expenses:
                   
Life and other policy benefits
   
18,161
   
21,232
   
16,626
 
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs
   
23,075
   
20,389
   
21,837
 
Universal life insurance contract interest
   
25,675
   
18,118
   
18,631
 
Other operating expense
   
21,051
   
13,359
   
12,418
 
                     
Total benefits and expenses
   
87,962
   
73,098
   
69,512
 
                     
Segment earnings before Federal income taxes
   
18,651
   
20,479
   
18,338
 
                     
Federal income taxes
   
6,460
   
6,920
   
6,205
 
                     
Segment earnings
 
$
12,191
   
13,559
   
12,133
 

As with domestic operations, revenues from the international life insurance segment include both premiums on traditional type products and revenues from universal life insurance. A comparative detail of premiums and contract revenues is provided below.

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
   
(In thousands)
 
               
Universal life insurance revenues
 
$
78,008
   
72,010
   
67,059
 
Traditional life insurance premiums
   
11,027
   
9,201
   
8,228
 
Reinsurance premiums
   
(11,030
)
 
(10,832
)
 
(11,048
)
                     
Totals
 
$
78,005
   
70,379
   
64,239
 



International operations have emphasized universal life policies over traditional life insurance products. In accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, premiums collected on universal life products are not reflected as revenues in the Company's consolidated statements of earnings. Actual international universal life premiums collected are detailed below.

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Universal life insurance
             
First year and single premiums
 
$
36,758
   
35,575
   
35,681
 
Renewal premiums
   
81,226
   
68,832
   
59,981
 
                     
Totals
 
$
117,984
   
104,407
   
95,662
 

The Company's international life operations have been a significant contributor to the Company's overall growth and represent a market niche where the Company believes it has a competitive advantage. A productive agency force has been developed given the Company's longstanding reputation for supporting its international life products coupled with the instability of competing companies in international markets. In particular, the Company has experienced sizable growth with its equity-indexed universal life products and has collected premiums of $60.5 million, $48.2 million, and $37.2 million for the years ended 2006, 2005, and 2004, respectively.

A detail of net investment income for international life insurance operations is provided below.

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
   
(In thousands)
 
               
Net investment income
             
(excluding derivatives)
 
$
25,893
   
23,896
   
23,260
 
Derivative income (loss)
   
2,637
   
(773
)
 
(439
)
                     
Net investment income
 
$
28,530
   
23,123
   
22,821
 

Derivative income and losses fluctuate from period to period based on the S&P 500 Index® performance.

Life and other policy benefits totaled $18.2 million in 2006, $21.2 million in 2005, and $16.6 million in 2004, which are consistent with Company expectations. Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs was $23.1 million, $20.4 million, and $21.8 million for 2006, 2005, and 2004, respectively. In the first quarter of 2006, a true-up of amortization assumptions resulted in increased amortization of $1.0 million. Contract interest expense was $25.7 million, $18.1 million, and $18.6 million, in 2006, 2005, and 2004, respectively. The universal life contract interest fluctuations are primarily the result of the S&P 500 Index® performance relative to the equity-indexed universal life products and the associated stock market gains and losses which increased or decreased the amounts the Company credited to policyholders.

International sales during 2006 reflect Brazil, Taiwan, and Argentina as the top three international countries based on premiums and contract revenues recorded. As the international life insurance in force continues to grow, the Company anticipates operating earnings to similarly increase. The amount of international life insurance in force has grown from $11.3 billion at December 31, 2004 to $12.2 billion at December 31, 2005, and to $13.3 billion at December 31, 2006.

Other operating expenses reported in 2006 were $21.1 million compared to $13.4 million and $12.4 million in 2005 and 2004. The significant increase in 2006 is due to an increase in compensation costs resulting from the change in liability classification for the Company’s stock option plan. Compensation costs totaled $5.1 million, $0.4 million, and $0.4 million in 2006, 2005, and 2004, respectively.


Annuity Operations

The Company's annuity operations are almost exclusively in the United States. Although some of the Company's investment contracts are available to international residents, current sales are small relative to total annuity sales. A comparative analysis of results of operations for the Company's annuity segment is detailed below.

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
   
(In thousands)
 
               
Premiums and other revenue:
             
Premiums and contract revenues
 
$
21,389
   
18,816
   
15,975
 
Net investment income
   
323,326
   
258,485
   
266,151
 
Other income
   
5,950
   
588
   
1,701
 
                     
Total premiums and other revenue
   
350,665
   
277,889
   
283,827
 
                     
Benefits and expenses:
                   
Life and other policy benefits
   
3,424
   
2,998
   
2,846
 
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs
   
59,970
   
61,768
   
57,798
 
Annuity contract interest
   
178,893
   
123,732
   
146,099
 
Other operating expenses
   
21,847
   
17,019
   
8,353
 
                     
Total benefits and expenses
   
264,134
   
205,517
   
215,096
 
                     
Segment earnings before Federal income taxes
   
86,531
   
72,372
   
68,731
 
                     
Federal income taxes
   
29,972
   
24,457
   
23,258
 
                     
Segment earnings
 
$
56,559
   
47,915
   
45,473
 

Revenues from annuity operations include primarily surrender charges and recognition of deferred revenues relating to immediate or payout annuities. A comparative detail of the components of premiums and annuity contract revenues is provided below.

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
   
(In thousands)
 
               
Surrender charges
 
$
17,260
   
15,271
   
13,031
 
Payout annuity and other revenues
   
4,098
   
3,511
   
2,906
 
Traditional annuity premiums
   
31
   
34
   
38
 
                     
Totals
 
$
21,389
   
18,816
   
15,975
 

As previously noted, the Company's earnings are dependent upon annuity contracts persisting or remaining in force. While revenues decline with a reduction in surrender charges, the Company's earnings benefit. A mandated change in accounting for two-tier annuities in 2004 had the effect of eliminating payout annuity revenues pertaining to this product.


In accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, deposits collected on annuity contracts are not reflected as revenues in the Company's consolidated statements of earnings. Actual annuity deposits collected are detailed below.

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
   
(In thousands)
 
               
Equity-indexed annuities
 
$
303,613
   
298,227
   
512,709
 
Other deferred annuities
   
171,631
   
236,330
   
350,665
 
Immediate annuities
   
10,750
   
23,383
   
28,653
 
                     
Totals
 
$
485,994
   
557,940
   
892,027
 

The Company experienced a substantial increase in sales relating to equity-indexed annuities as the stock market rebounded in 2003 and 2004. These indexed products are more attractive for consumers when interest rate levels remain low as has been the market environment the past few years. Equity-indexed annuity deposits as a percentage of total annuity deposits recorded were 62.5%, 53.5%, and 57.5% for the years ended December 31, 2006, 2005, and 2004, respectively. Since the Company does not offer variable products or mutual funds, equity-indexed products provide an important alternative to the Company's existing fixed interest rate annuity products.

Other deferred annuity deposits decreased in 2006 compared to 2005 with $171.6 million recorded in collected deposits compared to $236.3 million, respectively. As a selling inducement, many fixed-rate annuity products include a first year premium or interest rate bonus in addition to the base first year deposit interest rate. These bonuses are credited to the policyholder account but are deferred by the Company and amortized over future periods. The amount deferred was approximately $19.7 million, $21.2 million, and $27.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2006, 2005, and 2004, respectively.


A detail of net investment income for annuity operations is provided below.

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
   
(In thousands)
 
               
Net investment income
             
(excluding derivatives)
 
$
282,684
   
268,700
   
253,724
 
Derivative income (loss)
   
40,642
   
(10,215
)
 
12,427
 
                     
Net investment income
 
$
323,326
   
258,485
   
266,151
 

Derivative income and losses fluctuate from period to period based on the S&P 500 Index® performance.

As previously described, derivatives are used to hedge the equity return component of the Company's equity-indexed annuity products with any gains or losses from the sale or expiration of the options, as well as period-to-period changes in fair values, reflected in net investment income. The increase in net investment income, excluding derivatives from 2004 to 2006, is due to the increase in the overall size of the asset portfolio as a result of higher sales volume.

A true-up of assumptions in the first quarter of 2006 resulted in increased amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs of $3.1 million. Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs in 2005 of $61.8 million includes an unlocking adjustment of $1.3 million. Adjustments were made in the assumptions relative to the future spreads on certain equity-index annuity products; modified surrender charges on certain annuities to reflect continuing lower new money rates; and reduced ultimate valuation rates for pay out on annuitization under all annuities. These adjustments resulted in a decrease to the deferred asset balance and an increase in amortization.

The Company is required to periodically adjust for actual experience that varies from that assumed. While management does not currently anticipate any impact from unlocking in 2007, facts and circumstances may arise in the future which require that the factors be reexamined.


Annuity contract interest includes the equity component return associated with the Company's equity-indexed annuities. The detail of equity-indexed annuity contract interest compared to contract interest for all other annuities is as follows:

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
   
(In thousands)
 
               
Equity-indexed annuities
 
$
88,094
   
28,224
   
38,942
 
All other annuities
   
101,619
   
110,165
   
129,392
 
                     
Gross contract interest
   
189,713
   
138,389
   
168,334
 
Bonus interest deferred and capitalized
   
(19,700
)
 
(21,200
)
 
(27,491
)
Bonus interest amortization
   
8,880
   
6,543
   
5,256
 
                     
Total contract interest
 
$
178,893
   
123,732
   
146,099
 

In comparison by year, the fluctuation in reported contract interest amounts for equity-indexed annuities is due to sales and the effect of the positive or negative performance of the stock market on option values as noted previously. In addition, the 2004 contract interest figures include an increase of $2.3 million for certain contractholder account balances as part of a lawsuit settlement.

Other operating expenses totaled $21.8 million in 2006 which reflects an increase of $5.0 million due to increased compensation costs resulting from the change in liability classification for the Company’s stock option plan. Compensation costs were $0.4 million in 2005 and 2004. Expenses for 2004 reflect a reduction of $6.5 million for a charge recorded in the prior year. A $9.7 million charge was initially recorded in 2003 relating to a litigation claim which involved certain annuity products, and actual settlement payments made were $3.2 million during 2004.

Other Operations

National Western's primary business encompasses its domestic and international life insurance operations and its annuity operations. However, the Company also has small real estate, nursing home, and other investment operations through its wholly-owned subsidiaries. Most of the income from the Company's subsidiaries is from a life interest in a trust. Gross income distributions from the trust totaled $4.5 million, pre-tax, in 2006 and $3.9 million and $3.7 million in 2005 and 2004, respectively.

The Company acquired a nursing home facility, which opened in late July, 2000 and is operated by an affiliated limited partnership, whose financial operating results are consolidated with those of the Company. Daily operations and management of the nursing home are performed by an experienced management company through a contract with the limited partnership. Nursing home operations generated $1.0 million, $1.3 million, and $1.1 million of operating earnings in 2006, 2005, and 2004, respectively.


INVESTMENTS

General

The Company's investment philosophy emphasizes the careful handling of policyowners' and stockholders' funds to achieve security of principal, to obtain the maximum possible yield while maintaining security of principal, and to maintain liquidity in a measure consistent with current and long-term requirements of the Company.


The Company's overall conservative investment philosophy is reflected in the allocation of its investments, which is detailed below as of December 31, 2006 and 2005. The Company emphasizes investment grade debt securities, with smaller holdings in mortgage loans and policy loans.

   
2006
 
2005
 
   
Carrying
     
Carrying
     
   
Value
 
%
 
Value
 
%
 
   
(In thousands)
     
(In thousands)
     
                   
Debt securities
 
$
5,484,799
   
94.7
 
$
5,249,156
   
94.8
 
Mortgage loans
   
103,325
   
1.8
   
110,639
   
2.0
 
Policy loans
   
86,856
   
1.5
   
86,385
   
1.6
 
Derivatives
   
72,012
   
1.2
   
39,405
   
0.7
 
Equity securities
   
21,203
   
0.4
   
20,295
   
0.4
 
Real estate
   
12,113
   
0.2
   
13,436
   
0.2
 
Other
   
10,709
   
0.2
   
16,577
   
0.3
 
                           
Totals
 
$
5,791,017
   
100.0
 
$
5,535,893
   
100.0
 

Debt and Equity Securities

The Company maintains a diversified portfolio which consists primarily of corporate, mortgage-backed, and public utility fixed income securities. Investments in mortgage-backed securities include primarily U.S. government agency pass-through securities and collateralized mortgage obligations ("CMO"). As of December 31, 2006 and 2005, the Company's debt securities portfolio consisted of the following:

   
2006
 
2005
 
   
Carrying
     
Carrying
     
   
Value
 
%
 
Value
 
%
 
   
(In thousands)
     
(In thousands)
     
                   
Corporate
 
$
2,384,762
   
43.5
 
$
2,320,306
   
44.2
 
Mortgage-backed securities
   
1,817,532
   
33.1
   
1,715,245
   
32.7
 
Public utilities
   
623,649
   
11.4
   
661,333
   
12.6
 
U.S. government/agencies
   
447,573
   
8.2
   
306,260
   
5.8
 
Asset-backed securities
   
122,101
   
2.2
   
161,324
   
3.1
 
States & political subdivisions
   
58,627
   
1.1
   
53,940
   
1.0
 
Foreign governments
   
30,555
   
0.5
   
30,748
   
0.6
 
                           
Totals
 
$
5,484,799
   
100.0
 
$
5,249,156
   
100.0
 

The Company's investment guidelines prescribe limitations as a percent of the total investment portfolio by type of security and all holdings were within these threshold limits at December 31, 2006 and 2005. During 2005 and continuing into 2006, the Company expanded its holdings of U.S. government and private mortgage-backed securities given attractive yields and spreads. Because the Company's holdings of mortgage-backed securities are subject to prepayment and extension risk, the Company has substantially reduced these risks by investing primarily in collateralized mortgage obligations, which have more predictable cash flow patterns than pass-through securities. These securities, known as planned amortization class I ("PAC I"), very accurately defined maturity ("VADM") and sequential tranches are designed to amortize in a more predictable manner than other CMO classes or pass-throughs. Using this strategy, the Company can more effectively manage and reduce prepayment and extension risks, thereby helping to maintain the appropriate matching of the Company's assets and liabilities.


In addition to diversification, an important aspect of the Company's investment approach is managing the credit quality of its investments in debt securities. Thorough credit analysis is performed on potential corporate investments including examination of a company's credit and industry outlook, financial ratios and trends, and event risks. This emphasis is reflected in the high average credit rating of the Company's portfolio with 97% held in investment grade securities. In the table below, investments in debt securities are classified according to credit ratings by Standard and Poor's ("S&P®"), or other nationally recognized statistical rating organizations if securities were not rated by S&P®.

   
2006
 
2005
 
   
Carrying
     
Carrying
     
   
Value
 
%
 
Value
 
%
 
   
(In thousands)
     
(In thousands)
     
                   
AAA and U.S. government
 
$
2,485,122
   
45.3
 
$
2,285,094
   
43.5
 
AA
   
284,965
   
5.2
   
202,092
   
3.9
 
A
   
1,330,980
   
24.3
   
1,360,716
   
25.9
 
BBB
   
1,237,151
   
22.5
   
1,230,799
   
23.5
 
BB and other below investment grade
   
146,581
   
2.7
   
170,455
   
3.2
 
                           
Totals
 
$
5,484,799
   
100.0
 
$
5,249,156
   
100.0
 

National Western does not purchase below investment grade securities. Investments held in debt securities below investment grade are the result of subsequent downgrades of the securities. During 2006, the Company's percentage of below investment grade securities compared to total invested assets decreased from 3.1% to 2.5% as of December 31, 2005 and 2006, respectively. The decrease from year to year is primarily due to principal payments received and settlements from bankruptcy proceedings as well as sales, tenders and a maturity. Also, there were three upgraded and four downgraded securities. The Company's holdings of below investment grade securities as a percentage of total invested assets is relatively small compared to industry averages. These holdings are summarized below.

   
Below Investment Grade Debt Securities
 
               
% of
 
   
Amortized
 
Carrying
 
Fair
 
Invested
 
   
Cost
 
Value
 
Value
 
Assets
 
   
(In thousands except percentages)
 
                   
December 31, 2006
 
$
145,858
   
146,581
   
146,170
   
2.5
%
                           
December 31, 2005
 
$
168,423
   
170,455
   
167,770
   
3.1
%


Holdings in below investment grade securities by category as of December 31, 2006 are summarized below, including 2005 fair values for comparison. The Company is continually monitoring developments in these industries that would affect security valuations.

Below Investment Grade Debt Securities
 
   
Amortized
 
Carrying
 
Fair
 
Fair
 
   
Cost
 
Value
 
Value
 
Value
 
Category
 
2006
 
2006
 
2006
 
2005
 
   
(In thousands)
 
                   
Retail
 
$
45,864
   
45,929
   
45,933
   
46,385
 
Utilities/Energy
   
27,424
   
29,039
   
29,452
   
29,659
 
Telecommunications
   
19,995
   
17,999
   
17,999
   
18,918
 
Asset-backed
   
12,605
   
12,605
   
11,930
   
10,667
 
Transportation
   
10,137
   
10,866
   
10,866
   
12,055
 
Manufacturing
   
6,019
   
8,346
   
8,323
   
7,132
 
Auto Finance
   
6,173
   
6,173
   
6,200
   
5,422
 
Other
   
17,641
   
15,624
   
15,467
   
15,181
 
Totals
                         
   
$
145,858
   
146,581
   
146,170
   
145,419
 

Generally accepted accounting principles require that investments in debt securities be written down to fair value when declines in value are judged to be other-than-temporary. Since quoted market prices are readily available and understood by investors and creditors, they are the mandated source for fair value estimation when available. In some instances, quoted market prices may not be available for securities that have limited buyer demand. When the quoted market price is not available other valuation techniques such as discounted cash flow analysis and fundamental analysis may be used. Although the Company is required to write down securities deemed to be impaired on an other-than-temporary basis to quoted market prices, the estimated ultimate recovery value of the impaired security is often anticipated to be an amount in excess of the quoted market price. This is due to the influence that "distressed bond" traders may have in depressing market prices in order to generate a yield commensurate with the investment risk of such securities. Consequently, financial results can significantly vary from period to period for securities written down to quoted market prices which may be subsequently redeemed at levels consistent with expected recovery value.

As part of the Company's review for other-than-temporary impairments of investments, the Company determined during 2006 and 2005 that it held investments in several issuers whose decline in value was considered other-than-temporary and these holdings were written down and included as realized losses on investments as follows:

   
Par Holdings
 
2006
Writedown
 
2005
Writedown
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Issuer:
             
Greentree 98-6 6.630%
 
$
3,000
   
99
   
176
 
Entergy New Orleans 6.750%
   
1,200
   
-
   
246
 
Delta 10.125%
   
-
   
-
   
1,000
 
Delta 9.300%
   
-
   
-
   
590
 
                     
Totals
 
$
4,200
   
99
   
2,012
 

The Company is closely monitoring its other below investment grade holdings by reviewing investment performance indicators including information such as issuer operating performance, debt ratings, analyst reports and other economic factors that may affect these specific investments. While additional losses are not currently anticipated based on the existing status and condition of these securities, continued credit deterioration of some securities is possible, which may result in further writedowns.


The Company is required to classify its investments in debt and equity securities into one of three categories: (a) trading securities, (b) securities available for sale, or (c) securities held to maturity. The Company purchases securities with the intent to hold to maturity and accordingly does not maintain a portfolio of trading securities. Of the remaining two categories, available for sale and held to maturity, the Company makes a determination as to which category based on various factors including the type and quality of the particular security and how it will be incorporated into the Company's overall asset/liability management strategy. As shown in the table below, at December 31, 2006, approximately 35% of the Company's total debt and equity securities, based on fair values, were classified as securities available for sale. These holdings provide flexibility to the Company to react to market opportunities and conditions and to practice active management within the portfolio to provide adequate liquidity to meet policyholder obligations and other cash needs.

   
Fair
Value
 
Amortized
Cost
 
Unrealized
Gains (Losses)
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Securities held to maturity:
             
Debt securities
 
$
3,567,625
   
3,603,434
   
(35,809
)
Securities available for sale:
                   
Debt securities
   
1,881,365
   
1,895,027
   
(13,662
)
Equity securities
   
21,203
   
12,427
   
8,776
 
                     
Totals
 
$
5,470,193
   
5,510,888
   
(40,695
)

In accordance with the provisions of SFAS No. 115, Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities, the Company may under certain conditions transfer a debt security from held to maturity to available for sale. No transfers were made in 2006. For the twelve months ended December 31, 2005, the Company transferred debt securities due to credit deterioration from the held to maturity portfolio to the available for sale portfolio in the amount of $7.0 million. The unrealized gains associated with the security transferred in 2005 totaled $0.2 million as recorded as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income, net of deferred acquisition costs and taxes. During 2005, two securities were sold from the held to maturity portfolio due to credit deterioration, with amortized cost of $10.0 million resulting in a realized gain of $0.9 million. No held to maturity sales were made during 2006.

Mortgage Loans and Real Estate

In general, the Company originates loans on high quality, income-producing properties such as shopping centers, freestanding retail stores, office buildings, industrial and sales or service facilities, selected apartment buildings, motels, and health care facilities. The location of these properties is typically in major metropolitan areas that offer a potential for property value appreciation. Credit and default risk is minimized through strict underwriting guidelines and diversification of underlying property types and geographic locations. In addition to being secured by the property, mortgage loans with leases on the underlying property are often guaranteed by the lessee. This approach has proven to result in higher quality mortgage loans with fewer defaults.

The Company requires a minimum specified yield on mortgage loan investments. In the loan interest rate environment of the past few years, fewer loan opportunities have been available which met the Company's required rate of return. As a result, the Company's portfolio has declined.

The Company's direct investments in real estate are not a significant portion of its total investment portfolio as many of these investments were acquired through mortgage loan foreclosures. The Company also participates in several real estate joint ventures and limited partnerships that invest primarily in income-producing retail properties. These investments have enhanced the Company's overall investment portfolio returns.


The Company held net investments in mortgage loans totaling $103.3 million and $110.6 million at December 31, 2006 and 2005, respectively. The diversification of the portfolio by geographic region and by property type was as follows:

   
2006
 
2005
 
                   
Geographic Region:
 
Amount
 
%
 
Amount
 
%
 
   
(In thousands)
     
(In thousands)
     
                   
West South Central
 
$
68,528
   
66.3
 
$
68,413
   
61.8
 
Mountain
   
10,787
   
10.5
   
15,831
   
14.3
 
Pacific
   
10,684
   
10.3
   
11,342
   
10.3
 
South Atlantic
   
4,718
   
4.6
   
4,838
   
4.4
 
All other
   
8,608
   
8.3
   
10,215
   
9.2
 
                           
Totals
 
$
103,325
   
100.0
 
$
110,639
   
100.0
 


   
2006
 
2005
 
                   
Property Type:
 
Amount
 
%
 
Amount
 
%
 
   
(In thousands)
     
(In thousands)
     
                   
Retail
 
$
70,922
   
68.7
 
$
75,545
   
68.3
 
Office
   
22,730
   
22.0
   
24,536
   
22.2
 
Land/Lots
   
3,015
   
2.9
   
3,725
   
3.4
 
Hotel/Motel
   
6,649
   
6.4
   
6,797
   
6.1
 
All other
   
9
   
-
   
36
   
-
 
                           
Totals
 
$
103,325
   
100.0
 
$
110,639
   
100.0
 

The Company does not recognize interest income on loans past due ninety days or more. At December 31, 2006, the Company had two mortgage loans past due six months or more with the principal balance totaling $7.0 million. At December 31, 2005 and 2004, the Company had no mortgage loan principal balances past due three months or more. Interest income not recognized for past due loans totaled approximately $0.4 million in 2006.

The contractual maturities of mortgage loan principal balances at December 31, 2006 are as follows:

   
Principal
Due
 
   
(In thousands)
 
       
Due in one year or less
 
$
7,784
 
Due after one year through five years
   
51,324
 
Due after five years through ten years
   
34,948
 
Due after ten years through fifteen years
   
11,826
 
Due after fifteen years
   
-
 
         
Total
 
$
105,882
 


In the fourth quarter of 2006, a valuation loss of $2.1 million was recorded related to a mortgage loan based on information which indicated that the Company may not collect all amounts in accordance with the mortgage agreement. In the fourth quarter of 2004, an impairment loss of $0.6 million and an additional allowance of $0.4 million was recorded related to a mortgage loan based on information which indicated that the Company may not collect all amounts in accordance with the mortgage agreement. This allowance was reversed in the first quarter of 2005 upon the sale of the loan. While the Company closely manages its mortgage loan portfolio, future changes in economic conditions can result in impairments beyond those currently identified.

The Company's real estate investments totaled approximately $12.1 million and $13.4 million at December 31, 2006 and 2005, respectively, and consist primarily of income-producing properties which are being operated by a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company. The Company recognized operating income on these properties of approximately $0.8 million, $1.0 million, and $1.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2006, 2005, and 2004, respectively. The Company monitors the conditions and market values of these properties on a regular basis and makes repairs and capital improvements to keep the properties in good condition. The Company recorded net realized investment gains of $0.6 million, $6.7 million, and $2.2 million in 2006, 2005, and 2004, respectively associated with these properties.

Market Risk

Market risk is the risk of change in market values of financial instruments due to changes in interest rates, currency exchange rates, commodity prices, or equity prices. The most significant market risk exposure for National Western is interest rate risk. The fair values of fixed income debt securities correlate to external market interest rate conditions. Because interest rates are fixed on almost all of the Company's debt securities, market values typically increase when market interest rates decline, and decrease when market interest rates rise. However, market values may fluctuate for other reasons, such as changing economic conditions or increasing event-risk concerns.

The correlation between fair values and interest rates for debt securities is reflected in the tables below.

   
December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
   
(In thousands except percentages)
 
           
Debt securities - fair value
 
$
5,448,990
   
5,248,425
 
Debt securities - amortized cost
 
$
5,498,461
   
5,238,120
 
               
Fair value as a percentage of amortized cost
   
99.10
%
 
100.20
%
Unrealized gains (losses) at year-end
 
$
(49,471
)
 
10,305
 
Ten-year U.S. Treasury bond - increase in
             
yield for the year
   
0.31
%
 
0.17
%


   
Unrealized Gains (Losses)
 
   
Net Balance at
 
Net Balance at
     
   
December 31,
 
December 31,
 
Change in
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
Net Balance
 
   
(In thousands)
 
               
Debt securities held to maturity
 
$
(35,809
)
 
(731
)
 
(35,078
)
Debt securities available for sale
   
(13,662
)
 
11,036
   
(24,698
)
                     
Totals
 
$
(49,471
)
 
10,305
   
(59,776
)


Changes in interest rates typically have a significant impact on the fair values of the Company's debt securities. During 2006, market interest rates of the ten-year U.S. Treasury bond increased 31 basis points from year end 2005 resulting in an unrealized loss change of $59.8 million on a portfolio of approximately $5.5 billion. This amount is reasonable based upon the current market factors and the current investment portfolio characteristics. The Company would expect similar results in the future from a significant upward or downward movement in market rates. However, since the majority of the Company's debt securities are classified as held to maturity, which are recorded at amortized cost, changes in fair values have relatively small effects on the Company's financial results.

The Company analyzes interest rate risk through ongoing cash flow testing required for insurance regulatory purposes. Computer models are used to perform cash flow testing under various commonly used stress test interest rate scenarios to determine if existing assets would be sufficient to meet projected liability outflows. Sensitivity analysis allows the Company to measure the potential gain or loss in fair value of its interest-sensitive instruments and to protect its economic value and achieve a predictable spread between what is earned on invested assets and what is paid on liabilities. The Company seeks to minimize the impact of interest rate risk through surrender charges that are imposed to discourage policy surrenders and to offset unamortized acquisition costs. Interest rate changes can be anticipated in the computer models and the corresponding risk addressed by management actions affecting asset and liability instruments. However, potential changes in the values of financial instruments indicated by hypothetical interest rate changes will likely be different from actual changes experienced, and the differences could be significant.

The following table illustrates the market risk sensitivity of the Company's interest rate-sensitive assets. The table shows the effect of a change in interest rates on the fair value of the portfolio using models that measure the change in fair value arising from an immediate and sustained change in interest rates in increments of 100 basis points.

   
Fair Values of Assets
 
   
Changes in Interest Rates in Basis Points
 
   
-100
 
0
 
+ 100
 
+ 200
 
+ 300
 
   
(In thousands)
 
                       
Debt and equity securities
 
$
5,716,211
   
5,470,193
   
5,178,913
   
4,878,236
   
4,591,580
 
Mortgage loans
   
109,418
   
105,919
   
102,603
   
99,457
   
96,471
 
Policy loans
   
134,998
   
120,120
   
107,477
   
96,685
   
87,428
 
Other loans
   
3,190
   
3,152
   
3,114
   
3,076
   
3,039
 
Derivatives
   
70,413
   
72,012
   
73,613
   
75,214
   
76,815
 

Expected maturities of debt securities may differ from contractual maturities due to call or prepayment provisions. The models assume that prepayments on mortgage-backed securities are influenced by agency and pool types, the level of interest rates, loan age, refinancing incentive, month of the year, and underlying coupon. During periods of declining interest rates, principal payments on mortgage-backed securities and collateralized mortgage obligations increase as the underlying mortgages are prepaid. Conversely, during periods of rising interest rates, the rate of prepayment slows. Both of these situations can expose the Company to the possibility of asset-liability cash flow and yield mismatch. The model uses a proprietary method of sampling interest rate paths along with a mortgage prepayment model to derive future cash flows. The initial interest rates used are based on the current U.S. Treasury yield curve as well as current mortgage rates for the various types of collateral in the portfolio.

Mortgage and other loans were modeled by discounting scheduled cash flows through the scheduled maturities of the loans, starting with interest rates currently being offered for similar loans to borrowers with similar credit ratings. Policy loans were modeled by discounting estimated cash flows using U.S. Treasury Bill interest rates as the base rates at December 31, 2006. The estimated cash flows include assumptions as to whether such loans will be repaid by the policyholders or settled upon payment of death or surrender benefits on the underlying insurance contracts and incorporate both Company experience and mortality assumptions associated with such contracts.

In addition to the securities analyzed above, the Company invests in index options which are derivative financial instruments used to hedge the equity return component of the Company's equity-indexed annuity and life products. The values of these options are primarily impacted by equity price risk, as the options' fair values are dependent on the performance of the S&P 500 Index®. However, increases or decreases in investment returns from these options are substantially offset by corresponding increases or decreases in amounts paid to equity-indexed policyholders, subject to minimum guaranteed policy interest rates.


The Company's market risk liabilities, which include policy liabilities for annuity and supplemental contracts, are managed for interest rate risk through cash flow testing as previously described. As part of this cash flow testing, the Company has analyzed the potential impact on net earnings of a 100 basis point decrease and increases in increments of 100 basis points in the U.S. Treasury yield curve as of December 31, 2006. The potential impact on net earnings from these interest rate changes are summarized below.

   
Changes in Interest Rates in Basis Points
 
   
-100
 
+100
 
+200
 
+300
 
   
(In thousands)
 
                   
Impact on net earnings
 
$
(221
)
 
544
   
475
   
1,937
 

These estimated impacts in earnings are net of tax effects and the estimated effects of deferred policy acquisition costs.

The above described scenarios produce estimated changes in cash flows as well as cash flow reinvestment projections. Estimated cash flows in the Company's model assume cash flow reinvestments which are representative of the Company's current investment strategy. Calls and prepayments include scheduled maturities and those expected to occur which would benefit the security issuers. Assumed policy surrenders consider differences and relationships between credited interest rates and market interest rates as well as surrender charges on individual policies. The impact to earnings also includes the expected effects on amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs. The model considers only annuity and supplemental contracts in force at December 31, 2006, and does not consider new product sales or the possible impact of interest rate changes on sales.


LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Liquidity

Liquidity requirements are met primarily by funds provided from operations. Premium deposits and annuity considerations, investment income, and investment maturities and prepayments are the primary sources of funds while investment purchases, policy benefits in the form of claims, and payments to policyholders and contract holders in connection with surrenders and withdrawals as well as operating expenses are the primary uses of funds. To ensure the Company will be able to pay future commitments, the funds received as premium payments and deposits are invested in high quality investments, primarily fixed income securities. Funds are invested with the intent that the income from investments, plus proceeds from maturities, will meet the ongoing cash flow needs of the Company. The approach of matching asset and liability durations and yields requires an appropriate mix of investments. Although the Company historically has not been put in the position of liquidating invested assets to provide cash flow, its investments consist primarily of marketable debt securities that could be readily converted to cash for liquidity needs. The Company may also borrow up to $40 million on its bank line of credit for short-term cash needs.


A primary liquidity concern is the risk of an extraordinary level of early policyholder withdrawals. The Company includes provisions within its annuity and universal life insurance policies, such as surrender and market value adjustment charges, that help limit and discourage early withdrawals. The following table sets forth withdrawal characteristics of the Company's annuity reserves and deposit liabilities (based on statutory liability values) as of the dates indicated.

   
December 31, 2006
 
December 31, 2005
 
       
% of
     
% of
 
   
Amount
 
Total
 
Amount
 
Total
 
   
($ Amounts in thousands)
 
                   
Not subject to discretionary withdrawal
                 
provisions
 
$
296,651
   
6.6
%
$
282,134
   
6.6
%
Subject to discretionary withdrawal,
                         
with adjustment:
                         
With market value adjustment
   
1,390,428
   
31.3
%
 
1,341,631
   
31.5
%
At contract value less current
                         
surrender charge of 5% or more
   
2,216,531
   
49.9
%
 
2,106,363
   
49.5
%
                           
Subtotal
   
3,903,610
   
87.8
%
 
3,730,128
   
87.6
%
Subject to discretionary withdrawal at
                         
contract value with no surrender charge
                         
or surrender charge of less than 5%
   
540,519
   
12.2
%
 
528,977
   
12.4
%
                           
Total annuity reserves and deposit
                         
liabilities
 
$
4,444,129
   
100.0
%
$
4,259,105
   
100.0
%

The actual amounts paid by product line in connection with surrenders and withdrawals for the years ended December 31 are noted in the table below.

   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Product Line:
             
Traditional Life
 
$
4,845
   
5,419
   
6,774
 
Universal Life
   
30,566
   
31,143
   
30,409
 
Annuities
   
363,407
   
303,747
   
296,039
 
                     
Total
 
$
398,818
   
340,309
   
333,222
 

The above contractual withdrawals, as well as the level of surrenders experienced, were generally consistent with the Company's assumptions in asset-liability management, and the associated cash outflows did not have an adverse impact on overall liquidity. Individual life insurance policies are less susceptible to withdrawal than annuity reserves and deposit liabilities because policyholders may incur surrender charges and undergo a new underwriting process in order to obtain a new insurance policy. Cash flow projections and tests under various market interest rate scenarios are also performed to assist in evaluating liquidity needs and adequacy. The Company currently expects available liquidity sources and future cash flows to be more than adequate to meet the demand for funds.


In the past, cash flows from the Company's insurance operations have been sufficient to meet current needs. Cash flows from operating activities were $224 million, $201 million, and $146 million in 2006, 2005, and 2004, respectively. The Company also has significant cash flows from both scheduled and unscheduled investment security maturities, redemptions, and prepayments. These cash flows totaled $399 million, $485 million, and $440 million in 2006, 2005, and 2004, respectively. Cash flows from security maturities, redemptions, and prepayments were relatively higher over the last three years due to the decline in interest rates. These cash flow items could be reduced if interest rates rise in 2007. Net cash flows from the Company's universal life and annuity deposit product operations totaled inflows of $25 million, $153 million, and $497 million in 2006, 2005, and 2004, respectively.

Capital Resources

The Company relies on stockholders' equity for its capital resources as there is no long-term debt outstanding and the Company does not anticipate the need for any long-term debt in the near future. As of December 31, 2006, the Company had commitments of approximately $8.0 million which were approved by the Company's Board of Directors for the construction of a nursing home facility in Central Texas. The construction of the new facility is expected to begin in 2007.


OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS AND CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS

It is not Company practice to enter into off-balance sheet arrangements nor is it Company policy to issue guarantees to third parties, other than in the normal course of issuing insurance contracts. Commitments related to insurance products sold are reflected as liabilities for future policy benefits. Insurance contracts guarantee certain performances by the Company.

Insurance reserves are the means by which life insurance companies determine the liabilities that must be established to assure that future policy benefits are provided for and can be paid. These reserves are required by law and based upon standard actuarial methodologies to ensure fulfillment of commitments guaranteed to policyholders and their beneficiaries, even though the obligations may not be due for many years. Refer to Note (1) in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for a discussion of reserving methods.

The table below summarizes future estimated cash payments under existing contractual obligations.

   
Payment due by Period
 
                       
       
Less Than
 
1 - 3
 
3 - 5
 
More Than
 
   
Total
 
1 Year
 
Years
 
Years
 
5 Years
 
   
(In thousands)
 
                       
Operating lease obligations (1)
 
$
2,325
   
808
   
1,300
   
217
   
-
 
Loan commitments
   
13,800
   
13,800
   
-
   
-
   
-
 
Life claims payable (2)
   
43,025
   
43,025
   
-
   
-
   
-
 
Other long-term reserve liabilities
                               
reflected on the balance sheet
                               
under GAAP (3)
   
370,453
   
72,988
   
108,289
   
55,158
   
134,018
 
                                 
Total
 
$
429,603
   
130,621
   
109,589
   
55,375
   
134,018
 

(1)  Refer to Note 9 in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements relating to Company leases.
(2)  Life claims payable include benefit and claim liabilities for which the Company believes the amount and timing of the payment is essentially fixed and determinable. Such amounts generally relate to incurred and reported death and critical illness claims including an estimate of claims incurred but not reported.


(3)  Other long-term liabilities includes obligations that are reported within the Company's reserve liabilities that reflect determinable payout patterns related to immediate annuities. The above amounts are undiscounted whereas the amounts included in future policy benefit liabilities are discounted in accordance with GAAP. Liabilities for future policy benefits and other policyholder liabilities of approximately $5.2 billion as of December 31, 2006 have been excluded from the contractual obligations table. These excluded liabilities include future policy benefits relating to life insurance products, deferred annuities, and universal life products. Amounts excluded from the table are comprised of policies or contracts where (a) the Company is not currently making payments and will not make payments in the future until the occurrence of a payment triggering event, such as death or (b) the occurrence of a payment triggering event, such as a surrender of a policy or contract, which is outside of the control of the Company. The timing of these payments is not reasonably fixed and determinable. These uncertainties are considered in the Company's asset-liability management program as previously noted.


ACCOUNTING STANDARDS AND CHANGES IN ACCOUNTING

Recently Issued Accounting Standards

In May of 2005, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standard ("SFAS") No. 154, Accounting Changes and Error Correction. This standard is a replacement of Accounting Policy Board Opinion No. 20, Accounting Changes, and FASB Standard No. 3, Reporting Accounting Changes in Interim Financial Statements. Under the new standard, any voluntary changes in accounting principles are to be adopted via a retrospective application of the accounting principle in the financial statements presented and an opinion obtained from the auditors that the new principle is preferred. In addition, adoption of a change in accounting principle required by the issuance of a new accounting standard will also require retroactive restatement, unless the new standard includes explicit transition guidelines. This standard was effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2005. Adoption of this standard did not have an impact on the consolidated financial statements of the Company.

 
In March 2004, the Emerging Issues Task Force ("EITF") reached a final consensus on Issue 03-1, The Meaning of Other-Than-Temporary Impairment and its Application to Certain Investments. This Issue establishes impairment models for determining whether to record impairment losses associated with investments in certain equity and debt securities and requires expanded disclosures related to securities with unrealized losses. It also requires income to be accrued on a level-yield basis following an impairment of debt securities, where reasonable estimates of the timing and amount of future cash flows can be made. The Company's current policy has generally been to record income only as cash is received following an impairment of a debt security. The application of this Issue was required for reporting periods beginning after June 15, 2004. In September 2004, the FASB approved FASB Staff Position EITF 03-1-1, which deferred the effective date for the recognition and measurement guidance contained in EITF 03-1 until certain issues were resolved. On November 3, 2005, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position ("FSP") Nos. SFAS 115-1 and SFAS 124-1 titled The Meaning of Other-Than-Temporary Impairment and Its Application to Certain Investments. This FSP nullifies certain requirements of EITF 03-1 and carries forward certain requirements and disclosures. The guidance in this FSP is to be applied to reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2005. The Company has adopted the disclosure provisions and has included the required disclosures. The Company adopted FSP Nos. SFAS 115-1 and SFAS 124-1 as of the beginning of fiscal year 2006, and the FSP did not have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements of the Company.
 

The Company adopted Statement No. 123(R), Share-Based Payment ("SFAS 123(R)") as of January 1, 2006. However, because the Company began recognizing stock-based employee compensation cost using the fair value based method of accounting in 2003, the adoption did not have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements of the Company.


In September 2005, the AICPA issued Statement of Position 05-1, Accounting by Insurance Enterprises for Deferred Acquisition Costs in Connection with Modifications or Exchanges of Insurance Contracts ("SOP 05-1"). SOP 05-1 provides guidance on accounting by insurance enterprises for deferred acquisition costs on internal replacements of insurance and investment contracts other than those specifically described in FASB No. 97. SOP 05-1 defines an internal replacement as a modification in product benefits, features, rights, or coverages that occurs by the exchange of a contract for a new contract, or by amendment, endorsement, or rider to a contract, or by the election of a feature or coverage within a contract. SOP 05-1 is effective for internal replacements occurring in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2006, with earlier adoption encouraged. The Company will have an impact related to the adoption of SOP 05-1 related to contracts which have annuitized and relative to reinstatements of contracts in that the unamortized deferred acquisition costs and deferred sales inducement assets must be released at the time of annuitization and may not be continued related to reinstatements. The effect of this SOP on beginning retained earnings as of January 1, 2007 is expected to be a decrease of $2.2 million, net of tax.

The FASB issued Interpretation No. 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes, an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109 ("FIN 48"), dated June, 2006. The interpretation requires public companies to recognize the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is "more likely than not" to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The amount recognized would be the amount that represents the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being ultimately realized. A liability would be recognized for any benefit claimed, or expected to be claimed, in a tax return in excess of the benefit recorded in the financial statements, along with any interest and penalty (if applicable) on the excess. FIN 48 will require a tabular reconciliation of the change in the aggregate unrecognized tax benefits claimed, or expected to be claimed, in tax returns and disclosure relating to accrued interest and penalties for unrecognized tax benefits. Discussion will also be required for those uncertain tax positions where it is reasonably possible that the estimate of the tax benefit will change significantly in the next 12 months. FIN 48 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2006. Adoption of FIN 48 is not expected to have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.

On February 16, 2006, the FASB issued SFAS 155, Accounting for Certain Hybrid Financial Instruments, which amends SFAS No. 133, Accounting for Derivatives and Hedging Activities, and SFAS No. 140, Accounting for Transfers and Servicing of Financial Assets and Extinguishments of Liabilities. Hybrid financial instruments are single financial instruments that contain an embedded derivative. Under SFAS No. 155, entities can elect to record certain hybrid financial instruments at fair value as individual financial instruments. Prior to this amendment, certain hybrid financial instruments were required to be separated into two instruments - a derivative and host - and generally only the derivative was recorded at fair value. SFAS No. 155 also requires that beneficial interests in securitized assets be evaluated for either freestanding or embedded derivatives. SFAS No. 155 is effective for all financial instruments acquired or issued after January 1, 2007. SFAS No. 155 is not expected to have a material effect on the Company's consolidated financial statements on the date of adoption.

In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, Fair Value Measurements. This Statement defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value in generally accepted accounting principles, and requires additional disclosures about fair value measurements. This Statement does not require any new fair value measurements, but the application of this Statement could change current practices in determining fair value. The Company plans to adopt this guidance effective January 1, 2008. The Company is currently assessing the impact of SFAS No. 157 on the Company's consolidated financial position and results of operations.

In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 158, Employers' Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans an amendment of FASB Statements No. 87, 88, 106 and 132(R). This statement requires an employer on a prospective basis to recognize the overfunded or underfunded status of its defined benefit pension and postretirement plans as an asset or liability in its statement of financial position and to recognize changes in that funded status in the year in which the changes occur through comprehensive income. This requirement, along with the required disclosures, is effective for fiscal years ending after December 15, 2006. SFAS No. 158 also requires an employer on a prospective basis to measure the funded status of its plans as of its fiscal year-end, and is effective for fiscal years ending after December 15, 2008. The incremental effect of the adoption of SFAS No. 158 was to increase other liabilities $8.8 million, decrease deferred Federal income taxes $3.1 million and increase accumulated other comprehensive loss $5.7 million.


In September 2006, the staff of the SEC issued Staff Accounting Bulletin ("SAB") No. 108, Considering the Effects of Prior Year Misstatements when Quantifying Misstatements in Current Year Financial Statements. The interpretations in this SAB express the staff's views regarding the process of quantifying financial statement misstatements. Specifically, the SEC staff believes that registrants must quantify the impact on current period financial statements of correcting all misstatements, including both those occurring in the current period and the effect of reversing those that have accumulated from prior periods. This SAB should be applied beginning with the first fiscal year ending after November 15, 2006, with early adoption encouraged. The adoption of SAB No. 108 did not impact the financial position and results of operations of the Company.

Change in Accounting

None


ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES
ABOUT MARKET RISK

The information called for by Item 7A is set forth in the Investments section of the Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.


ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

See Attachment A, Index to Financial Statements and Schedules, on page 74.


ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS
ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

There have been no changes in auditors or disagreements with auditors which are reportable pursuant to Item 304 of Regulation S-K.


ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information to be disclosed in reports filed or submitted under the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934 is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within required time periods. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed is accumulated and communicated to management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding disclosure matters.

The Company's management, with the participation of the Company's Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of the Company's disclosure controls and procedures (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on this evaluation, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective.



Management's Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

The management of National Western Life Insurance Company ("Company") is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined in Rule 13a-15(f) and Rule 15d-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The Company's internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of the Company's financial statement for external reporting purposes in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. The Company's management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, assessed the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2006. In making this assessment, management used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“COSO”) in Internal Control - Integrated Framework. Based on the Company's assessment under this framework, management concluded that the Company maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2006.

The Company’s assessment of its effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2006 has been attested to by KPMG, LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report on page 44.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

Internal controls over financial reporting change as the Company modified and enhances its systems and processes to meet business needs. Any significant changes in controls are evaluated prior to implementation to help ensure continued effectiveness of internal controls and the control environment. While changes have taken place in internal controls during the quarter ended December 31, 2006, there have been no changes that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal controls over financial reporting.

By letter dated May 16, 2006 addressed to the Audit Committee of National Western Life Insurance Company, the Company's independent auditors, KPMG LLP ("KPMG"), provided notice that as part of their review of the Company's condensed consolidated interim financial statements as of March 31, 2006 and for the three months ended, they noted a control deficiency they considered to be a material weakness. The control deficiency noted by KPMG involved the Company's application of SFAS No. 123(R), Share-Based Payment, specifically the Company's level of technical expertise in this area, with respect to the Company's stock option plan and its recent implementation of a limited stock buy-back program.

The Company subsequently addressed KPMG's material weakness notice by obtaining additional clarification from an independent third party regarding the guidance of SFAS No. 123(R) and its application to the Company's stock option plan and limited stock buy-back program. Additional remediation procedures were implemented enhancing the Company's existing controls including oversight by the Company's Disclosure Controls and Procedures Committee corresponding to Company planned efforts relative to the implementation and application of new accounting standards.

There have been no significant changes in the Company’s internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect these controls subsequent to the date of this examination.



Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm


The Board of Directors and Stockholders
National Western Life Insurance Company:

We have audited management's assessment, included in the accompanying Management's Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting, that National Western Life insurance Company maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2006, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). National Western Life Insurance Company's management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on management's assessment and an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, evaluating management's assessment, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

A company's internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company's internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company's assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

In our opinion, management's assessment that National Western Life Insurance Company maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2006, is fairly stated, in all material respects, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). Also, in our opinion, National Western Life Insurance Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2006, based on, criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheets of National Western Life Insurance Company and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2006 and 2005, and the related consolidated statements of earnings, comprehensive income, stockholders' equity and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2006, and our report dated March 15, 2007 expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements.



KPMG LLP
Austin, Texas
March 15, 2007




ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION

There is no information required to be disclosed on Form 8-K for the quarter ended December 31, 2006 which has not been previously reported.

PART III

ITEM 10. DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT

Identification of Directors

The following information as of January 31, 2007, is furnished with respect to each director. All terms expire in June of 2007.

Name of Director
 
Principal Occupation During Last Five
Years and Directorships
 
First
Elected
 
Age
             
Robert L. Moody
(1) (3)
 
Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive
Officer of the Company
 
1963
 
71
             
Ross R. Moody
(1) (3)
 
President and Chief Operating Officer of the
Company
 
1981
 
44
             
Harry L. Edwards
(4)
 
Retired; Former President and Chief
Operating Officer of the Company,
Austin, Texas
 
1969
 
85
             
Stephen E. Glasgow
(2) (4)
 
Partner, G-2 Development, L.P.
Austin, Texas
 
2004
 
44
             
E. Douglas McLeod
 
Director of Development, The Moody
Foundation, Galveston, Texas
 
1979
 
65
             
Charles D. Milos
(1) (3)
 
Senior Vice President of the Company
 
1981
 
61
             
Frances A. Moody-Dahlberg
 
Executive Director,
The Moody Foundation,
Dallas, Texas
 
1990
 
37
             
Russell S. Moody
 
Investments, League City, Texas
 
1988
 
45
             
Louis E. Pauls, Jr.
(2)
 
President, Louis Pauls & Company;
Investments, Galveston, Texas
 
1971
 
71
             
E. J. Pederson
(2) (4)
 
Former Assistant to the President,
The University of Texas
Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas
 
1992
 
59

(1)  Member of Executive Committee;  (2) Member of Audit Committee;  (3)  Member of Investment Committee;  
(4)  Member of Compensation and Stock Option Committee.


Under the Company’s Articles of Incorporation, respective members of the Board of Directors are elected by the Company’s two classes of common stockholders. One-third (1/3) of the directors, plus one director for any remaining fraction, are elected by the Class A stockholders and the remaining directors are elected by the Class B stockholders. The Board of Directors, as elected by the respective classes of stockholders, is as follows.

Class A
 
Class B
     
Robert L. Moody
 
E. Douglas McLeod
Harry L. Edwards
 
Charles D. Milos
Stephen E. Glasgow
 
Frances A. Moody-Dahlberg
E. J. Pederson
 
Ross R. Moody
   
Russell S. Moody
   
Louis E. Pauls, Jr.

Committees

The Company’s Board of Directors has the following standing committees:

Executive Committee.  The Company’s Executive Committee may exercise all of the powers of the Board when the Board is not in session except that the Executive Committee has no power to alter, amend, or repeal the By-Laws or take any other action that legally may be taken only by the full Board of Directors. The Chairmen of the Board serves as Chairman of the Executive Committee.

Audit Committee.  The Audit Committee of the Board of Directors consists of three non-employee directors. The committee is primarily responsible for oversight of the Company’s financial statements and controls; assessing and ensuring the independence, qualifications and performance of the independent auditors; approving the independent auditors services and fees; reviewing and approving all related party transactions; overseeing and directing internal audit activities; reviewing the Company’s financial risk assessment process and ethical, legal, and regulatory compliance programs; and reviewing and approving the annual audited financial statements for the Company before issuance. Mr. Louis E. Pauls, Jr. serves as Chairman of the Audit Committee.

The Company has at least one person that it believes is qualified to be the Audit Committee Financial Expert. However, the Company has not designated anyone as an Audit Committee Financial Expert at this time as the Company’s Board of Directors has concluded that the ability of the Audit Committee to perform its duties would not be impaired by the failure to designate one of the committee members as an “Audit Committee Financial Expert” if its members otherwise satisfied the NASDAQ standards and rules and regulations of the SEC.

Investment Committee.  The Investment Committee of the Board of Directors is comprised of three directors (and one Company officer) and has the responsibility for oversight of the Company’s investment transactions including compliance with investment guidelines approved by the full Board of Directors. The Chairman of the Board serves as Chairman of the Investment Committee.

Compensation and Stock Option Committee.  The Compensation and Stock Option Committee consists of three outside directors and the committee has oversight responsibility for the compensation programs for the Company’s named executive officers as well as all other officers. Mr. Harry L. Edwards serves as Chairman of the Compensation and Stock Option Committee. The Committee’s report on executive compensation is included in Item 11 of this report on Form 10-K.



Identification of Executive Officers

The following is a list of the Company's executive officers, their ages, and their positions and offices as of January 31, 2007.

Name of Officer
 
Age
 
Position (Year elected to position)
         
Robert L. Moody
 
71
 
Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive
Officer (1963-1968, 1971-1980, 1981), Director
         
Ross R. Moody
 
44
 
President and Chief Operating Officer (1992), Director
         
Scott E. Arendale
 
63
 
Senior Vice President - International Marketing (2006)
         
Paul D. Facey
 
55
 
Senior Vice President - Chief Actuary (1992)
         
S. Christopher Johnson
 
38
 
Senior Vice President - Chief Marketing Officer (2006)
         
Charles D. Milos
 
61
 
Senior Vice President - Mortgage Loans and Real Estate (1990), Director
         
James P. Payne
 
62
 
Senior Vice President - Secretary (1998)
         
Brian M. Pribyl
 
48
 
Senior Vice President - Chief Financial & Administrative
Officer and Treasurer (2001)
         
Patricia L. Scheuer
 
55
 
Senior Vice President - Chief Investment Officer (1992)

There are no arrangements or understandings pursuant to which any officer was elected. All officers hold office for a term of one year or until their successors are elected and qualified, unless otherwise specified by the Board of Directors.

Identification of Certain Significant Employees

None in addition to the individuals identified as Executive Officers above.

Family Relationships

Robert L. Moody is the father of Frances A. Moody-Dahlberg, Ross R. Moody, and Russell S. Moody, and the brother-in-law of E. Douglas McLeod.

Business Experience

All of the Executive Officers listed above have served in various executive capacities with the Company for more than five years, with the exception of the following:

Mr. Johnson was National Promotions Director of National Fitness Corp. from 1992 to 1993; Branch Manager of Hooper Holmes/Portamedic from 1993 to 1994; Agent/Consultant with Financial Facts & Services from 1994 to 1995; Field Sales Manager of Financial Brokerage from 1995 to 1998; Senior Sales Representative with Mutual of Omaha from 1998 to 1999 and Senior Regional Vice President of Allstate - Lincoln Benefit Life from 1999 to 2006.

Mr. Arendale was Vice President of International Sales Development with the Company for the preceding five years prior to being promoted to his current position in June 2006.



Involvement in Certain Legal Proceedings

During the past five years there have been no criminal proceedings, judgments, injunctions or bankruptcy petitions material to an evaluation of the ability or integrity of any of the Company's directors or executive officers.

Code of Ethics

The Company has adopted a Code of Ethics and Conduct for all directors, officers, and employees. This Code is intended to comply with the requirement of the Federal Securities Laws and the requirements of NASDAQ. The Code of Ethics and Conduct has been posted to the Company's website at www.nationalwesternlife.com and is available upon request.


ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

Compensation Discussion and Analysis

Purpose

The Compensation and Stock Option Committee (“Compensation Committee”) is appointed by and serves at the discretion of the Company’s Board of Directors. The Board of Directors has determined that the Compensation Committee consist of no fewer than three members who all, or the majority of, meet the independence requirements of the listing standards of NASDAQ. The purpose of the Compensation Committee is to discharge the Board of Directors’ responsibilities for reviewing and establishing the compensation not just for the Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, and the other three most highly paid executive officers, but for all of the Company’s officers. These compensation elements include base salary, annual incentive bonuses, discretionary bonuses and awards, stock option grants, and any other officer compensation arrangements.

To assist the Compensation Committee with its responsibilities, it is supported by the Company’s Human Resource, Legal and Financial departments. The Compensation Committee may retain, and has retained, independent compensation consultants who report directly to the members of the Compensation Committee. Meetings of the Compensation Committee are scheduled during the year with additional meetings on an as-necessary interim basis and include sessions without members of management present. The Compensation Committee reports to the Board of Directors on its actions and recommendations.

Compensation Philosophy and Objectives

The Company’s overall philosophy in setting compensation policies is to align pay with performance while at the same time providing a competitive compensation that allows the Company to retain and attract talented individuals. Within this overall philosophy, the Compensation Committee has adopted several key principles to help guide compensation decisions for executive officers:

·  
Provide a competitive total compensation package so the Company can attract, retain, and motivate talented individuals;
·  
Tie compensation in part to overall Company financial performance so that executives are held accountable through their compensation for the performance of the business;
·  
Tie compensation in part to the Company’s stock performance through stock options to align executives’ interests with those of the Company’s stockholders; and
·  
Maintain a committee of the Board of Directors independent of senior management that may engage independent compensation consultants as needed to review and establish compensation for executive officers.


Elements of Executive Compensation

Officer compensation arrangements, including executive officers, are reviewed and approved annually by the Compensation Committee at its April meeting. The Compensation Committee focuses primarily on the following components in forming the total compensation package for each Company executive officer:

·  
Base salary;
·  
Annual cash incentive bonus based on Company performance versus predetermined targets;
·  
Discretionary cash bonus based upon individual performance; and
·  
Long-term incentive compensation in the form of stock options.

The mix of executive compensation elements is based upon a philosophy of correlating a portion of executive compensation with the Company’s financial and stock performance thus putting a segment of executive officer annual and long-term compensation at-risk. This structure provides upside potential and downside risk for senior executive positions in recognition that these roles have greater influence on the Company’s performance.

Base Salaries

To ensure that compensation levels are reasonably competitive with market rates, the Compensation Committee engages independent compensation consultants from time-to-time to conduct a survey of executive compensation in a defined group of companies comparable to the Company. The surveyed companies are selected based on similar products and product lines, comparable financial size in terms of assets and revenues, and other known competitive factors. This process was most recently conducted during 2005 when the Compensation Committee retained two separate external compensation consultants to conduct an officer compensation review. While the primary focus of the survey was upon base salaries, the independent consultants were also asked to provide total compensation data for the various officer positions and levels in order to target current and future appropriate compensation levels. The Compensation Committee’s past practice has been to generally target base salaries between the 25th and 50th percentile range of the identified peer group.

In addition to market information, the Compensation Committee also subjectively reviews and evaluates the level of performance of the Company and of each officer. In approving salary and incentive compensation for individuals other than the Chief Executive Officer and the President and Chief Operating Officer, the Compensation Committee considers recommendations from these two individuals concerning the other Company officers incorporating such factors as individual performance, the scope and complexity of their current responsibilities, length of time in their current positions, value of the executive’s position to the market, and difficulty of replacement of the officer. This evaluation focuses most heavily on the base salary levels for each officer.

Annual Incentive Compensation

For certain executive officer positions, the Compensation Committee has determined that annual incentive bonuses are an integral part of the executive’s compensation package as the cash bonuses create a direct link between executive compensation and individual and business performance. Consequently, there are three bonus programs in effect which are reviewed and approved annually by the Compensation Committee:

·  
Executive Officer Bonus Program
·  
Domestic Marketing Officer Bonus Program
·  
International Marketing Officer Bonus Program


Executive Officer Bonus Program. Currently, the participants in the Executive Officer Bonus Program (“Executive Bonus”) are the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (Mr. Robert Moody), the President and Chief Operating Officer (Mr. Ross Moody), and the Senior Vice President, Chief Financial & Administrative Officer (Mr. Brian Pribyl). In order to tie the compensation under the program with the Company’s financial performance, the Executive Bonus includes metrics associated with the Company’s annual sales performance, expense management and profitability. In accordance with the program, the Compensation Committee set performance targets for each metric at various levels equating to various bonus level percentages as follows:

Financial Performance Metric
 
Bonus % Range
     
Sales
 
0% to 15%
Expense Management
 
0% to 12%
Profitability
 
0% to 12%

The sum of the achieved bonus percentages for each metric, subject to a maximum aggregate percentage of 30%, is applied to the weighted average base salary for each participant to determine the earned bonus amount. The bonus determination under the program is subject to review by the Company’s independent auditors and the profitability metric is based upon the Company’s audited financial statements for the year. Bonus awards are generally paid in the year following the annual financial performance metrics concurrent with the completion of the Company’s audit of the year-end financial statements and approval of the award amounts by the Compensation Committee. Accordingly, the Executive Bonus payments in 2006 were based upon the results achieved for 2005 financial performance metrics established by the Compensation Committee. The bonus percentage achieved under the program was 20.5%.

Domestic Marketing Officer Bonus Program. Participants in the Domestic Marketing Officer Bonus Program (“Domestic Bonus”) are all domestic marketing officers including assistant vice presidents, vice presidents, and the senior vice president. As these individuals are most able to influence the outcome of the Company’s financial performance in terms of sales, the program is heavily weighted toward this metric. The measures associated with this program include the Company’s annual sales performance, persistency of policies sold and expense management. These measures were incorporated into the program to award not only the amount of sales but the quality of sales and the management of the costs incurred to acquire the business sold. Unlike the Executive Bonus, the Domestic Bonus metrics assume a targeted level of performance or “par” level to which the Compensation Committee assigned a targeted bonus percentage in order to reflect a disproportionate weighting of the potential bonus award toward the sales metric. If the targeted level for each metric is attained, the sum of the metrics is equal to a bonus percentage of 100% which is applied to the weighted average base salary of each participant. The performance metrics set by the Compensation Committee equating to various bonus level percentages under the program are as follows:

Financial Performance Metric
 
Par Bonus Level
 
Bonus % Range
         
Sales
 
70%
 
0% to no limit
Persistency
 
15%
 
0% to 30%
Expense Management
 
15%
 
0% to 30%

The Domestic Bonus also differs from the Executive Bonus in that the bonus percentage is not subject to a cap and bonus amounts may be advanced quarterly based upon the year-to-date results achieved. Sales metric amounts under the program above the par level increase incrementally with an additional bonus percentage added for every increment of additional sales established by the Compensation Committee. However, if the aggregate sum of the three performance metrics exceeds 100%, the bonus award paid at the end of the calendar year is limited to 100% for each participant. The bonus percentage above 100% is applied to the weighted average base salaries of all participants to create a pool which is paid out to participants in the subsequent calendar year based upon the recommendation of the Domestic Marketing senior vice president and subject to approval by the President and Chief Operating Officer. The Domestic Bonus percentage achieved under the program was 49.0% and 64.5% in 2005 and 2006, respectively.

International Marketing Officer Bonus Program. Participants in the International Marketing Officer Bonus Program (“International Bonus”) are all international marketing officers including assistant vice presidents, vice presidents, and the senior vice president (Mr. Arendale). The International Bonus is identical in format to the Domestic Bonus with the exception that the metric targets established by the Compensation Committee are customized for the differences between the domestic and international lines of business. The weighting of the three performance metrics (annual sales, persistency of policies sold, expense management) is the same as in the Domestic Bonus and all other features are similarly administrated. The International Bonus percentage achieved under the program was 70.0% and 124.0% in 2005 and 2006, respectively.


Discretionary Bonus Awards

For officers who are not participants in any of three bonus programs, the Compensation Committee considers from time-to-time circumstances which merit the need to recognize outstanding performance in the form of a discretionary bonus. Although many of these situations may be deemed within the normal responsibilities of officers, the Compensation Committee on occasion may provide one-time recognition bonuses to identified officers where the demands of the situation and the results of the effort warrant such recognition. In 2006, total discretionary bonuses awarded to officers totaled $88,000 of which $75,000 was targeted to Mr. Charles Milos for his efforts involving the Company’s real estate and investment properties and subsidiary operations.

Long-Term Incentive Compensation

Under the Company’s 1995 Stock and Incentive Plan, the Compensation Committee provides Company officers with long-term incentive awards through grants of stock options directly aligning the interest of the officers with stockholder interests. The stock options have a graded five-year vesting period that begins on the third anniversary date of the granted option in order to promote a long-term perspective and to encourage key employees to remain at the Company. All options to date have been granted at the fair market value of the Company’s Class A common stock on the date of the grant. The Compensation Committee believes that stock options are inherently performance-based and a form of at-risk compensation since the recipient does not benefit unless the Company’s common stock price subsequently rises.

The Compensation Committee is responsible for determining the recipients of the grants, when the grants should be made, and the number of shares to be granted. The size of the awards generally reflect each officer’s position relative to other officers in the Company with consideration to total compensation targets obtained from the peer group information previously discussed. In addition, as is the case with base salaries, the Compensation Committee considers the grant recommendations of the Chairman and Chief Executive and the President and Chief Operating Officer for other Company officers.

The practice of the Compensation Committee has been to grant stock options awards every three years at the time of its annual review of officer compensation. The most recent grant was awarded in April 2004 at which time the Compensation Committee approved the issuance of 56,750 stock options to selected officers.

Retirement and Other Benefits

The Company’s executive officers are eligible to participate in the health and welfare, 401(k) and defined benefit retirement benefit plans that are offered to other Company employees. In addition, if eligible, executive officers may participate in the following plans:

Group Excess Benefit Plan

Company officers at the vice president level and above, including named executive officers, are eligible to participate in a group excess benefit plan which supplements the Company’s core medical insurance plan. Administered by a third party insurer, the group excess benefit plan provides coverage for co-pays, deductibles and other out-of-pocket expenses not covered by the core medical insurance plan. Offering such a plan to the selected Company officer levels is viewed as a key component of the overall compensation strategy for attracting and retaining talented executive officers. The benefits provided to each named executive officer are reported in the “All Other Compensation Column” of the Summary Compensation Table included in this Item 11 of the report on Form 10-K.

Non-Qualified Defined Benefit Plan 

This plan covers those officers of the Company who were in a senior vice president position or above prior to 1991. The plan provides retirement benefits to those individuals affected by the revisions to the Company’s qualified defined benefit pension plan precipitated by the limitations imposed by Internal Revenue Code Section 401(a)(17) and 415. As of December 31, 2006, the active officers participating in this plan were Mr. Robert Moody and Mr. Charles Milos. Benefits associated with this plan are disclosed in the Pension Benefits table included in this Item 11 of the report on Form 10-K.


Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan

This plan allows Company senior officers, including named executive officers, to defer payment of a percentage of their compensation and to provide for up to a 2% matching and 2% profit sharing contribution on plan compensation that exceeds certain qualified plan limits, and an additional Company discretionary matching contributions of up to 2% of plan compensation. Company contributions are subject to a vesting schedule based upon on the officer’s years of service. Benefit information associated with this plan is disclosed in the Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation for 2006 table included in this Item 11 of the report on Form 10-K and Company contributions are included in the “All Other Compensation” column in the Summary Compensation Table.

Non-Qualified Defined Benefit Plan for Robert L. Moody

This plan specifically covers the Company’s Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Robert L. Moody, and is intended to supplement the retirement benefits of the Non-Qualified Defined Benefit Plan, mentioned above, that were limited by the American Jobs Creation Act of 2004. Mr. Moody’s benefits associated with this plan are disclosed in the Pension Benefits table included in this Item 11 of the report on Form 10-K.

Non-Qualified Defined Benefit Plan for the President of National Western Life Insurance Company

Similar to the previously discussed plan, this plan specifically covers the Company’s President and Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Ross R. Moody, and is intended to provide the retirement benefits that comply with the American Jobs Creation Act of 2004. Mr. Moody’s benefits associated with this plan are disclosed in the Pension Benefits table included in this Item 11 of the report on Form 10-K.

National Western Life Insurance Company Retirement Bonus Program for Robert L. Moody

This program provides an annual payment to Mr. Robert L. Moody equal to 2% of his compensation. The payment made in 2007 related to 2006 compensation is reported in the “Non-Equity Incentive Plan Compensation” column of the Summary Compensation Table included with Item 11 of this report on Form 10-K.

Postretirement Benefits

The Company’s basic health plan and group excess benefit plan have a provision for individuals serving in the positions of Chairman of the Board or President for seven years or more subsequent to 1980 to continue to receive lifetime health benefits for themselves and their dependents upon retirement. Mr. Robert L. Moody and Mr. Ross R. Moody, named executive officers, currently meet this eligibility criteria.

Perquisites and Other Personal Benefits

The Compensation Committee periodically reviews executive officer perquisites and other benefits based upon information supplied to it by the Company’s Human Resources, Legal and Financial departments. In addition to base salaries and annual and long-term bonus incentives, the Company provides its executive officers with certain and varying perquisites and benefits.

The perquisites and personal benefits provided to each named executive officer are reported in the “All Other Compensation Column” of the Summary Compensation Table included in this Item 11 of the report on Form 10-K and are described in further detail in the footnotes to that table.

Stock Ownership Guidelines

The Company does not require its directors or executive officers to own a particular amount of the Company’s common stock and accordingly has not established a set of stock ownership guidelines. The Compensation Committee is satisfied that the long-term incentive compensation offered to directors and officers in the form of stock options adequately aligns this group’s interest with those of the Company’s stockholders.


Employment Agreements 

The Company does not utilize employment agreements with its executive officers or other employees. The Company’s practice has been to issue offer letters to executive officer candidates when recruited to their positions. In addition to outlining the executive officer’s responsibilities, each offer letter specifies the beginning base salary and eligibility for any additional compensation programs overseen by the Compensation Committee. Accordingly, the Company does not have any contractual obligations to its executive officers for severance payments in connection with any termination or change-in-control.

Financial Restatements

The Compensation Committee has not formally adopted a policy with respect to whether retroactive adjustments to any form of compensation paid under arrangements for executive officers will be made where the prior payment was related to financial results of the Company that are subsequently restated. As this situation has not previously been experienced, the Compensation Committee believes that such an issue is best addressed at the time it occurs and all facts and circumstances surrounding the restatement are known.

Tax and Accounting Treatment of Compensation

Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code generally disallows a tax deduction to public corporations for non-performance based compensation over $1 million paid in any one year to each of the individuals who were, at the end of the year, the corporation’s chief executive officer and the four other most highly compensated executive officers. Except for the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, the levels of non-performance based salary, bonus and other compensation paid do not typically exceed this level. As an insurance company subject to the laws and regulations of the State of Colorado, the Company is exempt from the requirements of Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code pursuant to Section 12(g)(2)(G) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 until such time as the Company completes a registration filing as a NASDAQ exchange listed registrant.

The Compensation Committee reserves the right to award compensation to executive officers that may not qualify under Section 162(m) as deductible compensation, however, it will continue to consider all elements of cost to the Company of providing such compensation, including the potential impact, if any, of Section 162(m).

The Company accounts for long-term incentive compensation in the form of stock options to executive officers under the rules SFAS 123(R) which requires the Company to estimate and expense each award of equity compensation over the service period of the award. Other accounting rules require that cash compensation be recorded as an expense at the time the obligation is accrued.

Compensation Committee Report

The Compensation Committee has reviewed each element of executive officer compensation and believes that the compensation philosophy and practices are designed to serve the best interests of the Company and its stockholders. The Compensation Committee also believes that the compensation of the Company’s executive officers is both appropriate and consistent with the objectives set by this committee.

The Compensation Committee has reviewed and discussed the Compensation Discussion and Analysis set forth with the Company’s management. Based on its reviews and discussions, the Compensation Committee approved and recommended to the Company’s Board of Directors that the Compensation Discussion and Analysis be included in this report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006.
 
 
Members of the Compensation Committee
   
 
Harry L. Edwards (Chairman)
 
Stephen E. Glasgow
 
E. J. Pederson



Summary Compensation Table

The following table sets forth all of the compensation awarded to, earned by, or paid to the Company’s principal executive officer, principal financial officer, and the three other highest paid executive officers for the year ended December 31, 2006.
 
                       
Change in
         
                       
Pension
         
                   
Non-Equity
 
Value and
         
                   
Incentive
 
Nonqualified
         
                   
Plan
 
Deferred
 
All Other
     
Name and
             
Option
 
Compen-
 
Compensation
 
Compen-
     
Principal Position
 
Year
 
Salary (a)
 
Bonus
 
Awards (c)
 
sation
 
Earnings (f)
 
sation (g)
 
Total
 
                                   
Robert L. Moody
   
2006
 
$
1,536,875
 
$
-
 
$
5,705,108
 
$
373,001(d
)
$
3,041,422
 
$
757,891
 
$
11,414,296
 
Chairman of the Board
                                                 
and Chief Executive
                                                 
Officer
                                                 
                                                   
Brian M. Pribyl
   
2006
   
240,600
   
-
   
145,571
   
54,433(d
)
 
13,409
   
40,627
   
494,640
 
Senior Vice President,
                                                 
Chief Financial and
                                                 
Administrative Officer
                                                 
                                                   
Ross R. Moody
   
2006
   
550,925
   
-
   
2,870,250
   
118,903(d
)
 
14,951
   
74,171
   
3,629,200
 
President and Chief
                                                 
Operating Officer
                                                 
                                                   
Charles D. Milos
   
2006
   
232,732
   
75,000(b
)
 
1,054,108
   
-
   
77,788
   
43,167
   
1,482,795
 
Senior Vice President,
                                                 
Mortgage Loans &
                                                 
Real Estate
                                                 
                                                   
Scott E. Arendale
   
2006
   
117,456
   
-
   
123,872
   
117,085(e
)
 
25,853
   
12,354
   
396,620
 
Senior Vice President,
                                                 
International Marketing
                                                 
 
Note: Columns with no data have been omitted.

(a)
The amounts in this column include Company and subsidiary Board of Director fees of $28,700 for Mr. Robert L. Moody, $3,250 for Mr. Pribyl, $33,450 for Mr. Ross R. Moody, and $31,700 for Mr. Milos.
(b)
Mr. Milos received a discretionary bonus award in 2006 in recognition of his performance with respect to the Company’s real estate and investment properties and subsidiary operations.
(c)
The amounts in this column represent the dollar amount recognized for financial statement purposes in 2006 in accordance with SFAS 123(R) for all stock options granted and outstanding. For a discussion of the assumptions made in the valuation of these option awards, refer to the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements section of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
(d)
The amounts for Mr. Robert L. Moody, Mr. Ross R. Moody, and Mr. Pribyl represent amounts earned under the 2006 Executive Officer Bonus Program. These amounts will be paid in 2007. Included in Mr. Robert L. Moody’s amount is $26,425 paid in conjunction with the NWLIC Retirement Bonus Program for Robert L. Moody.
(e)
The amount for Mr. Arendale represents the amount earned under the 2006 International Marketing Officer Bonus Program. This amount will be paid in 2007.
(f)
The amounts in this column represent the change in the accumulated pension benefit during 2006 under the Company’s qualified defined benefit plan for Messrs. Ross R. Moody, Pribyl and Arendale and the change in the accumulated pension benefit during 2006 under the Company’s qualified and non-qualified defined benefit plans for Messrs. Robert L. Moody and Milos. For a discussion of the assumptions made in the calculation of these amounts, refer to the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements section of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
(g)
The amounts in this column include the items summarized in the following tables:



All Other Compensation
 
   
Company
 
Excess
 
Company
 
Company
     
Total
 
   
Paid
 
Benefit
 
Contributions
 
Paid
     
All Other
 
Name and
 
Benefit
 
Claims
 
To Savings
 
Taxes/
 
Other
 
Compen-
 
Principal Position
 
Premiums (1)
 
Paid (2)
 
Plans (3)
 
Insurance (4)
 
Perquisites
 
sation
 
                           
Robert L. Moody
 
$
4,391
 
$
48,850
 
$
4,400
 
$
667,775
 
$
32,475(5
)
$
757,891
 
Chairman of the Board and Chief
                                     
Executive Officer
                                     
                                       
Brian M. Pribyl
   
7,206
   
15,023
   
14,661
   
-
   
3,737(6
)
 
40,627
 
Senior Vice President, Chief
                                     
Financial and Administrative
                                     
Officer
                                     
                                       
Ross R. Moody
   
3,540
   
5,649
   
32,980
   
-
   
32,002(7
)
 
74,171
 
President and Chief Operating
                                     
Officer
                                     
                                       
Charles D. Milos
   
7,286
   
15,692
   
13,754
   
-
   
6,435(8
)
 
43,167
 
Senior Vice President, Mortgage
                                     
Loans & Real Estate
                                     
                                       
Scott E. Arendale
   
4,314
   
-
   
6,412
   
-
   
1,628(9
)
 
12,354
 
Senior Vice President,
                                     
International Marketing
                                     
 
(1)
The Company provides its officers additional compensation equivalent to the premiums for health, dental and accidental death and disbursement coverage offered to all employees.
(2)
The amounts in this column represent claims paid under the Company’s Group Excess Benefit Program.
(3)
The amounts in this column represent company contributions to the Company’s qualified and non-qualified savings plans. The Company’s 401(k) plan is available to all employees with the same contribution criteria.
(4)
Mr. Robert L. Moody contributed a life interest in a trust estate to the Company as a capital contribution. The Company, in turn, issued term policies on the life of Mr. Moody in excess of the amount of the asset contributed which was assigned to Mr. Moody. Premiums paid on the excess amount which were $424,371 in 2006 represent additional compensation to Mr. Moody. In addition, the Company reimburses Mr. Moody the applicable taxes associated with this benefit which were $243,404.
(5)
Mr. Robert Moody’s amounts in this column include $7,862 for car usage, $19,456 in miscellaneous travel and entertainment, $4,198 in membership dues and event tickets, and $959 in various other expense items.
(6)
Mr. Pribyl’s amounts in this column include $2,374 for guest travel on Company business trips, $563 in entertainment, and $800 in gifts.
(7)
Mr. Ross Moody’s amounts in this column include $6,988 for car usage, $11,503 in miscellaneous travel and entertainment, $6,049 in membership dues and event tickets, $1,600 in gifts, $1,875 for personal tax return preparation, and $3,987 in various other expense items.
(8)
Mr. Milos’ amounts in this column include $721 for car usage, $1,600 in gifts, $2,542 for guest travel on Company business trips, and $1,572 in miscellaneous travel and entertainment.
(9)
Mr. Arendale’s amounts in this column include $828 for guest travel on Company business trips and $800 in gifts.



Grants of Plan-Based Awards

The following table provides information regarding grants under the Company’s 2006 Executive Officer Bonus Program and International Marketing Officer Bonus Program for the executive officers named in the Summary Compensation Table. No stock options or equity awards were granted to the named executive officers during 2006.

   
Estimated Future Payouts
 
   
Under Non-Equity Incentive
 
   
Plan Awards (a)
 
Name
 
Threshold
 
Target
 
Maximum (b)
 
               
Robert L. Moody
             
2006 Executive Officer Bonus Program:
             
International life sales
 
$
30,137
 
$
50,329
 
$
75,343
 
Domestic life sales
   
30,137
   
50,178
   
75,343
 
Annuities sales
   
30,137
   
50,178
   
75,343
 
Expense management
   
90,411
   
150,685
   
180,822
 
Company profitability
   
90,411
   
150,685
   
180,822
 
                     
Brian M. Pribyl
                   
2006 Executive Officer Bonus Program:
                   
International life sales
   
4,733
   
7,905
   
11,833
 
Domestic life sales
   
4,733
   
7,881
   
11,833
 
Annuities sales
   
4,733
   
7,881
   
11,833
 
Expense management
   
14,200
   
23,667
   
28,400
 
Company profitability
   
14,200
   
23,667
   
28,400
 
                     
Ross R. Moody
                   
2006 Executive Officer Bonus Program:
                   
International life sales
   
10,339
   
17,267
   
25,849
 
Domestic life sales
   
10,339
   
17,215
   
25,849
 
Annuities sales
   
10,339
   
17,215
   
25,849
 
Expense management
   
31,018
   
51,697
   
62,037
 
Company profitability
   
31,018
   
51,697
   
62,037
 
                     
Scott E. Arendale
                   
2006 International Marketing Officer Bonus Program:
                   
Life sales
   
23,417
   
81,960
   
unlimited
 
Persistency
   
3,513
   
17,563
   
35,126
 
Expense management
   
3,513
   
17,563
   
35,126
 

Note: Columns with no data have been omitted.

(a)
Amounts that have been or are expected to be paid in 2007 pertaining to the 2006 programs are reflected in the Summary Compensation Table. The 2006 program bonus amounts are based upon the base salary actually paid during 2006.
(b)
Although the Executive Officer Bonus Program has stated maximums per program component, the aggregate bonus amount cannot exceed 30% of base salaries paid.



Outstanding Equity Awards at December 31, 2006

The following table provides information regarding outstanding stock options held by the executive officers named in the Summary Compensation Table as of December 31, 2006. No stock options have been granted since 2004.

   
Option Awards
 
       
Number of
         
   
Number of
 
Securities
         
   
Securities
 
Underlying
         
   
Underlying
 
Unexercised
 
Option
 
Option
 
   
Options (#)
 
Options (#)
 
Exercise
 
Expiration
 
Name
 
Exercisable
 
Unexercisable
 
Price
 
Date
 
                   
Robert L. Moody Grants:
                 
4/16/1998
   
12,000
   
-
 
$
105.250
   
4/16/2008
 
6/19/1998
   
1,000
   
-
   
112.375
   
6/19/2008
 
4/20/2001
   
6,900
   
4,600
   
92.130
   
4/20/2011
 
6/22/2001
   
1,000
   
-
   
95.000
   
6/22/2011
 
4/23/2004
   
-
   
20,000
   
150.000
   
4/23/2014
 
6/25/2004
   
400
   
600
   
150.000
   
6/25/2014
 
                           
Brian M. Pribyl Grants:
                         
4/20/2001
   
-
   
560
   
92.130
   
4/20/2011
 
4/23/2004
   
-
   
2,000
   
150.000
   
4/23/2014
 
                           
Ross R. Moody Grants:
                         
5/1/1997
   
81
   
-
   
85.125
   
5/1/2007
 
4/16/1998
   
5,630
   
-
   
105.250
   
4/16/2008
 
6/19/1998
   
1,000
   
-
   
112.375
   
6/19/2008
 
4/20/2001
   
6,300
   
4,200
   
92.130
   
4/20/2011
 
6/22/2001
   
1,000
   
-
   
95.000
   
6/22/2011
 
4/23/2004
   
-
   
10,000
   
150.000
   
4/23/2014
 
6/25/2004
   
400
   
600
   
150.000
   
6/25/2014
 
                           
Charles D. Milos Grants:
                         
5/1/1997
   
1,500
   
-
   
85.125
   
5/1/2007
 
4/16/1998
   
2,500
   
-
   
105.250
   
4/16/2008
 
6/19/1998
   
1,000
   
-
   
112.375
   
6/19/2008
 
4/20/2001
   
780
   
520
   
92.130
   
4/20/2011
 
6/22/2001
   
1,000
   
-
   
95.000
   
6/22/2011
 
4/23/2004
   
-
   
2,000
   
150.000
   
4/23/2014
 
6/25/2004
   
400
   
600
   
150.000
   
6/25/2014
 
                           
Scott E. Arendale Grants:
                         
4/20/2001
   
-
   
280
   
92.130
   
4/20/2011
 
4/23/2004
   
-
   
750
   
150.000
   
4/23/2014
 

Note: Columns with no data have been omitted.



Officer stock options vest 20% annually following three full years of service to the Company from the date of grant. Stock options granted to members of the Board of Directors vest 20% annually following one full year of service to the Company from the date of grant. Accordingly, the unexercisable options shown in the previous table are scheduled to vest during the following years:

                       
Total
 
   
2007
 
2008
 
2009
 
2010
 
2011
 
Unexercisable
 
                           
Robert L. Moody
                         
Grants:
                         
4/20/2001
   
2,300
   
2,300
               
4,600
 
4/23/2004
   
4,000
   
4,000
   
4,000
   
4,000
   
4,000
   
20,000
 
6/25/2004 (director)
   
200
   
200
   
200
               
600
 
                                       
Brian M. Pribyl
                                     
Grants:
                                     
4/20/2001
   
280
   
280
               
560
 
4/23/2004
   
400
   
400
   
400
   
400
   
400
   
2,000
 
                                       
Ross R. Moody
                                     
Grants:
                                     
4/20/2001
   
2,100
   
2,100
               
4,200
 
4/23/2004
   
2,000
   
2,000
   
2,000
   
2,000
   
2,000
   
10,000
 
6/25/2004 (director)
   
200
   
200
   
200
           
600
 
                                       
Charles D. Milos
                                     
Grants:
                                     
4/20/2001
   
260
   
260
               
520
 
4/23/2004
   
400
   
400
   
400
   
400
   
400
   
2,000
 
6/25/2004 (director)
   
200
   
200
   
200
           
600
 
                                       
Scott E. Arendale
                                     
Grants:
                                     
4/20/2001
   
140
   
140
               
280
 
4/23/2004
   
150
   
150
   
150
   
150
   
150
   
750
 



Option Exercises and Stock Vested

The following table sets forth information regarding option exercises by the executive officers named in the Summary Compensation Table for the year ended December 31, 2006. The Company does not have stock award plans with stock awards subject to vesting.

   
Option Awards
 
   
Number of
     
   
Shares
     
   
Acquired on
 
Value Realized
 
Name
 
Exercise
 
on Exercise
 
           
Robert L. Moody
   
16,125
 
$
2,333,093
 
               
Brian M. Pribyl
   
280
   
37,972
 
               
Ross R. Moody
   
1,529
   
204,258
 
               
Charles D. Milos
   
1,400
   
232,245
 
               
Scott E. Arendale
   
520
   
67,780
 

Note: Columns with no data have been omitted.



Pension Benefits

The following table provides information regarding benefits under the Company’s Pension Plan, Non-Qualified Defined Benefit Plan, Non-qualified Defined Benefit Plan for Robert L. Moody, and Non-Qualified Defined Benefit Plan for the President of National Western Life Insurance Company (NWLIC).
 
       
Number of
         
       
Years of
 
Present Value of
 
Payments
 
       
Credited
 
Accumulated
 
During
 
Name
 
Plan Name
 
Service
 
Benefit
 
Last Fiscal Year
 
                   
Robert L. Moody
   
NWLIC Pension Plan
   
43
 
$
1,220,476
 
$
148,208
 
                           
     
NWLIC Non-Qualified
                   
     
Defined Benefit Plan
   
43
   
5,798,229
   
713,258
 
                           
     
NWLIC Non-Qualified
                   
     
Defined Benefit Plan for
                   
     
Robert L. Moody
   
43
   
8,665,835
   
918,467
 
                           
Brian M. Pribyl
   
NWLIC Pension Plan
   
6
   
56,659
   
-
 
                           
Ross R. Moody
   
NWLIC Pension Plan
   
16
   
119,728
   
-
 
                           
     
Non-Qualified Defined
                   
     
Benefit Plan for the
                   
     
President of NWLIC
   
16
   
-
   
-
 
     
 
                   
Charles D. Milos
   
NWLIC Pension Plan
   
24
   
353,910
   
-
 
                           
     
NWLIC Non-Qualified
                   
     
Defined Benefit Plan
   
24
   
221,113
   
-
 
                           
Scott E. Arendale
   
NWLIC Pension Plan
   
13
   
171,305
   
-
 

Note: Columns with no data have been omitted.

Pension Plan. The qualified defined benefit plan covers substantially all employees and officers of the Company and provides benefits based on the participant's years of service and compensation. The Company makes annual contributions to the plan that complies with the minimum funding provisions of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act. Annual pension benefits for those employees who became eligible participants prior to January 1, 1991, are generally calculated as the sum of the following:

(1)  50% of the participant's final 5-year average annual eligible compensation at December 31, 1990, less 50% of their primary social security benefit determined at December 31, 1990; this net amount is then prorated for less than 15 years of benefit service at normal retirement date. This result is multiplied by a fraction which is the participant's years of benefit service at December 31, 1990, divided by the participant's years of benefit service at normal retirement date.

(2)  1.5% of the participant's eligible compensation earned during each year of benefit service after December 31, 1990.

Annual pension benefits for those employees who become eligible participants on or subsequent to January 1, 1991, are generally calculated as 1.5% of their compensation earned during each year of benefit service.


Non-Qualified Defined Benefit Plan. This plan covers officers of the Company who were in the position of senior vice president or above prior to 1991. The plan provides benefits based on the participant's years of service and compensation. No minimum funding standards are required.

The benefit to be paid pursuant to this plan to a participant, other than the Chairman of the Company, who retires at his normal retirement date shall be equal to (a) minus (b) minus (c), but the benefit may not exceed (d) minus (b) where:

(a) is the benefit which would have been payable at the participant's normal retirement date under the terms of the Pension Plan as of December 31, 1990, as if that plan had continued without change and without regard to Internal Revenue Code Section 401(a) (17) and 415 limits, and,

(b) is the benefit which actually becomes payable under the terms of the Pension Plan at the participant's normal retirement date, and,

(c) is the actuarially equivalent life annuity which may be provided by an accumulation of 2% of the participant's compensation for each year of service on and after January 1, 1991, accumulated at an assumed interest rate of 8.5% to the participant's normal retirement date, and,

(d) is the benefit which would have been payable at the participant's normal retirement date under the terms of the Pension Plan as of December 31, 1990, as if that plan had continued without change and without regard to Internal Revenue Code Section 401(a)(17) and 415 limits, except that the proration over 15 years shall instead be calculated over 30 years.

The Chairman of the Company, Robert L. Moody, is currently receiving in-service benefits from this plan. The benefit that Mr. Moody began receiving as of his normal retirement date pursuant to the plan was equal to (a) minus (b) minus (c) where:

(a) was his years of service (up to 45), multiplied by 1.66667%, and then multiplied by the excess of his eligible compensation over his primary social security benefit under the terms of the Pension Plan as of December 31, 1990, as if that plan had continued without change and without regard to Internal Revenue Code Section 401(a) (17) and 415 limits, and,

(b) was the benefit payable to him under the terms of the Pension Plan, and,

(c) was the actuarially equivalent life annuity provided by an accumulation of 2% of his compensation for each year of service on and after January 1, 1991, accumulated at an assumed interest rate of 8.5% to his normal retirement date.

This benefit was increased for additional service and changes in eligible compensation through December 31, 2004. The benefit was frozen as of December 31, 2004 in connection with plan changes required by the American Jobs Creation Act of 2004.

Non-Qualified Defined Benefit Plan for Robert L. Moody. This plan covers the current Chairman of the Company, Robert L. Moody, and is intended to provide for post-2004 benefit accruals that mirror and supplement the pre-2005 benefit accruals under the previously discussed Non-Qualified Defined Benefit Plan, while complying with the American Jobs Creation Act of 2004. No minimum funding standards are required.

The annual benefit paid to the Chairman of the Company on an in-service basis effective July 1, 2005 was equal to (a) minus (b) minus (c) where:

(a) was his years of service on his normal retirement date, multiplied by 1.66667%, and then multiplied by the excess of his eligible compensation over his primary social security benefit under the terms of the Pension Plan as of December 31, 1990, as if that plan had continued without change and without regard to Internal Revenue Code Section 401(a) (17) and 415 limits, less the actuarially equivalent life annuity which may be provided by an accumulation of 2% of his compensation for each year of service on and after January 1, 1991, accumulated at an assumed interest rate of 8.5% to his normal retirement date, and, multiplied by the ratio of his years of service on July 1, 2005 to his years of service on his normal retirement date, multiplied by the ratio of his eligible compensation as of July 1, 2005 to his eligible compensation as of his normal retirement date, and,



(b) was the benefit payable to him under the terms of the Pension Plan as of July 1, 2005, and,

(c) was the benefit payable to him under the terms of the Non-Qualified Defined Benefit Plan as of December 31, 2004.

Subsequent to July 1, 2005, the annual benefit was increased monthly for additional service and changes in eligible compensation.

Non-Qualified Defined Benefit Plan for the President of National Western Life Insurance Company. This plan covers the President of the Company and is intended to provide benefit accruals that comply with the American Jobs Creation Act of 2004. No minimum funding standards are required.

The annual benefit to be paid to the President of the Company who retires at his normal retirement date shall be equal to (a) minus (b) minus (c) where:

(a) equals his years of service (up to 45), multiplied by 1.66667%, and then multiplied by the excess of his eligible compensation over his primary social security benefit under the terms of the Pension Plan as of December 31, 1990, as if that plan had continued without change and without regard to Internal Revenue Code Section 401(a) (17) and 415 limits, and,

(b) equals the actuarially equivalent life annuity provided by an accumulation of 2% of his compensation for each year of service on and after his date of hire, accumulated at an assumed interest rate of 8.5% to his normal retirement date, and,

(c) equals the benefit actually payable to him under the terms of the Pension Plan.

The plan provides for a monthly in-service benefit if the President of the Company continues employment after his normal retirement date.

Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation

The following table provides information regarding the Company’s non-qualified deferred compensation plan for the executive officers named in the Summary Compensation Table as of December 31, 2006.

                   
Aggregate
 
   
Executive
 
Registrant
 
Aggregate
     
Balance
 
   
Contributions
 
Contributions
 
Earnings
 
Aggregate
 
at Last
 
   
in Last
 
in Last
 
in Last
 
Withdrawals/
 
Fiscal
 
Name
 
Fiscal Year
 
Fiscal Year (a)
 
Fiscal Year (b)
 
Distributions
 
Year-End (c)
 
                       
Robert L. Moody
 
$
-
 
$
-
 
$
20,486
 
$
49,306
 
$
166,204
 
                                 
Brian M. Pribyl
   
9,774
   
5,861
   
10,784
   
-
   
101,569
 
                                 
Ross R. Moody
   
26,048
   
24,180
   
58,641
   
-
   
572,511
 
                                 
Charles D. Milos
   
10,416
   
5,421
   
47,252
   
-
   
436,193
 
                                 
Scott E. Arendale
   
10,512
   
1,543
   
823
   
-
   
12,878
 

Note: Columns with no data have been omitted.

(a)
Registrant contributions are reflected in the “All Other Compensation” column in the Summary Compensation Table and are not additional earned compensation.
(b)
The investment options under the plan consist of a selection of mutual funds identical to those available to all employees through the 401(k) plan.
(c)
Balances in the plan are settled in cash upon the termination event selected by the officer and distributed either in a lump sum or in annual installments. Deferred amounts represent unsecured obligations of the Company.



Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control

The Company has no contract, agreement, plan or arrangement, written or unwritten, that provides for payment to any officer at, following, or in connection with any termination, severance, retirement or a constructive termination, or a change in control of the Company or a change in any officer’s responsibilities.

Director Compensation

The following table sets forth the compensation for 2006 for those individuals who served as members of the Company’s Board of Directors during 2006 (excluding named executive officers whose director compensation is included in the Summary Compensation Table).
 
           
Change in
         
           
Pension
         
           
Value and
         
           
Nonqualified
         
   
Fees Earned
     
Deferred
         
   
or Paid
 
Option
 
Compensation
 
All Other
     
Name
 
in Cash
 
Awards (a)
 
Earnings
 
Compensation
 
Total
 
                       
Harry L. Edwards
 
$
26,200
 
$
63,944
 
$
(21,344)(b
)
$
26,909(c
)
$
95,709
 
                                 
Stephen E. Glasgow
   
37,200
   
51,338
   
-
   
11,864(d
)
 
100,402
 
                                 
E. Douglas McLeod
   
25,200
   
296,369
   
-
   
3,009   
   
324,578
 
                                 
Russell S. Moody
   
25,200
   
296,369
   
-
   
3,625   
   
325,194
 
                                 
Frances A. Moody-Dahlberg
   
25,200
   
296,369
   
-
   
1,211   
   
322,780
 
                                 
Louis E. Pauls Jr.
   
31,200
   
272,454
   
-
   
11,563(e
)
 
315,217
 
                                 
E. J. Pederson
   
31,200
   
76,168
   
-
   
1,256   
   
108,624
 

Note: Columns with no data have been omitted.

(a)
The amounts in this column represent the dollar amount recognized for financial statement purposes in 2006 in accordance with SFAS No. 123(R) for all stock options granted and outstanding. For a discussion of the assumptions made in the valuation of these option awards, refer to the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements section of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
(b)
The amount in this column for Mr. Edwards is negative due to his receiving current distributions.
(c)
The amount shown for Mr. Edwards includes $24,737 of claims paid under the Company’s Group Excess Benefit Plan, $800 in gifts, and $36 for the taxable portion of supplemental life insurance coverage and $1,336 in other perquisites.
(d)
The amount shown for Mr. Glasgow includes $1,539 of claims paid under the Company’s Group Excess Benefit Plan, $5,335 for the taxable portion of health and supplemental life coverage, and $4,990 in other perquisites.
(e)
The amount shown for Mr. Pauls includes $3,429 of claims paid under the Company’s Group Excess Benefit Plan, $4,915 for the taxable portion of health and supplemental life coverage, and $3,219 in other perquisites.

All directors of the Company currently receive $22,200 a year and $500 for each board meeting attended. They are also reimbursed for actual travel expenses incurred in performing services as directors. An additional $500 is paid for each committee meeting attended. However, a director attending multiple meetings on the same day receives only one meeting fee. The amounts paid pursuant to these arrangements are included in the summary compensation table of this item. The directors and their dependents are also eligible to participate in the Company's group insurance program.


Directors of the Company, other than Compensation and Stock Option Committee members, are eligible for restricted stock awards, incentive awards, and performance awards under the National Western Life Insurance Company 1995 Stock and Incentive Plan. Company directors, including members of the Compensation and Stock Option Committee, are eligible for nondiscretionary stock options. On June 25, 2004, the stockholders approved the issuance of 10,000 nonqualified stock options to Company directors, with each director receiving 1,000 stock options.

Directors of the Company's subsidiary, NWL Investments, Inc., receive $250 annually. Nonemployee directors of the Company's subsidiary, NWL Services, Inc., receive $1,000 per board meeting attended. Directors of the Company's downstream subsidiaries, Regent Care General Partner, Inc., and Regent Care Operations General Partner, Inc., receive $250 per board meeting attended. Directors of the Company's downstream subsidiary, Regent Care Limited Partner, Inc., receive $500 per board meeting attended.

Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation

The Compensation Committee of the Company’s Board of Directors is composed of Harry L. Edwards, Stephen E. Glasgow, and E. J. Pederson, none of whom were officers or employees of the Company during 2006. Mr. Edwards was formerly an officer of National Western Life Insurance Company. Mr. Glasgow and Mr. Pederson currently meet the independent criteria in the NASDAQ listing standards and the regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission.

During 2006, the following executive officers served as a Board of Director of the Company and/or one or more its subsidiaries as follows:

(1)  
Mr. Robert L. Moody, Mr. Ross R. Moody, and Mr. Charles D. Milos served as directors and also served as officers and employees of National Western Life Insurance Company.
(2)  
Mr. Ross Moody served as an officer and director of the Company's wholly-owned subsidiaries, The Westcap Corporation, NWL Investments, Inc., NWL Financial, Inc., NWL Services, Inc., Regent Care Limited Partner, Inc., and Regent Care Operations Limited Partner, Inc., and served as an officer of Westcap Holdings, LLC, a limited liability company whose sole member is The Westcap Corporation.
(3)  
Mr. Milos served as an officer and director of The Westcap Corporation, Regent Care General Partner, Inc., and Regent Care Operations General Partner, Inc., and as an officer of NWL Investments, Inc., NWL Financial, Inc., NWL Services, Inc., Regent Care Limited Partner, Inc., Regent Care Operations Limited Partner, Inc., and Westcap Holdings, LLC, a limited liability company whose sole member is The Westcap Corporation.
(4)  
Mr. Robert Moody was an officer of NWL Services, Inc., and Regent Care Limited Partner, Inc.

None of the Company’s executive officers serves as a member of the compensation committee of any company that has an executive officer serving on the Company’s Board of Directors. In addition, none of the Company’s executive officers serve as a member of the board of directors of any company that has an executive officer serving as a member of the Company’s Compensation Committee.



ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN
BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT

Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners

Set forth below is certain financial information concerning persons who are known by the Company to own beneficially more than 5% of any class of the Company's common stock on December 31, 2006.

Name and Address
 
Title
 
Amount and Nature
 
Percent
of
 
of
 
of
 
of
Beneficial Owners
 
Class
 
Beneficial Ownership
 
Class
             
Robert L. Moody
 
Class A Common
 
1,159,096
 
33.88%
2302 Post Office Street, Suite 702
 
Class B Common
 
198,074
 
99.04%
Galveston, Texas
           
             
FMR Corp.
 
Class A Common
 
241,938
 
7.07%
82 Devonshire Street
           
Boston, Massachusetts
           
             
Third Avenue Management, LLC
 
Class A Common
 
180,456
 
5.28%
622 Third Avenue
           
New York, New York
           
             
Westport Asset Management, Inc.
 
Class A Common
 
171,976
 
5.03%
253 Riverside Avenue
           
Westport, Connecticut
           

Article Four of the Articles of Incorporation of the Company provides that the Class A stockholders have the exclusive right to elect one-third (1/3) of the members of the Board of Directors, plus one director for any remaining fraction, and the Class B stockholders have the exclusive right to elect the remaining members of the Board of Directors. In view of Robert L. Moody's ownership of more than 99% of the Class B stock outstanding, as well as Mr. Moody's ownership of approximately 34% of the Class A stock outstanding (see Security Ownership table above), Mr. Moody holds the voting power to elect a majority of the members of the Board of Directors. The Company is considered to be a controlled company, and Mr. Moody is the controlling stockholder.



Security Ownership of Management

The following table sets forth as of December 31, 2006, information concerning the beneficial ownership of the Company's common stock by all directors, named executive officers, and all directors and executive officers of the Company as a group.

   
Title
 
 Amount and Nature
 
Percent
Directors
 
of
 
of
 
of
and Officers
 
Class
 
Beneficial Ownership
 
Class
             
Directors and Named Executive Officers:
       
Robert L. Moody
 
Class A Common
 
1,159,096
   
33.88%
   
Class B Common
 
198,074
   
99.04%
               
Ross R. Moody
 
Class A Common*
 
625
   
.02%
   
Class B Common*
 
482
   
.24%
               
Charles D. Milos
 
Class A Common
 
528
   
.02%
   
Class B Common
 
-  
   
-  
               
Directors:
             
Harry L. Edwards
 
Class A Common
 
20
   
-  
   
Class B Common
 
-  
   
-  
               
Stephen E. Glasgow
 
Class A Common
 
-  
   
-  
   
Class B Common
 
-  
   
-  
               
E. Douglas McLeod
 
Class A Common
 
10
   
-  
   
Class B Common
 
-  
   
-  
               
Frances A. Moody-Dahlberg
 
Class A Common
 
1,850
   
.05%
   
Class A Common*
 
625
   
.02%
   
Class B Common*
 
482
   
.24%
               
Russell S. Moody
 
Class A Common
 
1,850
   
.05%
   
Class A Common*
 
625
   
.02%
   
Class B Common*
 
482
   
.24%
               
Louis E. Pauls, Jr.
 
Class A Common
 
10
   
-   
   
Class B Common
 
-  
   
-   
               
E. J. Pederson
 
Class A Common
 
100
   
-   
   
Class B Common
 
-   
   
-   
               
Named Executive Officers:
         
Scott E. Arendale
 
Class A Common
 
-   
   
-   
   
Class B Common
 
-   
   
-   
               
S. Christopher Johnson
 
Class A Common
 
-   
   
-   
   
Class B Common
 
-   
   
-   
               
Brian M. Pribyl
 
Class A Common
 
-   
   
-   
   
Class B Common
 
-   
   
-   
               
Directors and Executive
 
Class A Common
 
1,165,339
   
34.07%
Officers as a Group
 
Class B Common
 
199,520
   
99.76%



* Shares are owned indirectly through the Three R Trusts. The Three R Trusts are four Texas trusts for the benefit of the children of Mr. Robert L. Moody (Robert L. Moody, Jr., Ross R. Moody, Russell S. Moody, and Frances A. Moody-Dahlberg). The Three R Trusts own a total of 2,500 Class A common stock shares and 1,926 Class B common stock shares.

Changes in Control

None.


ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS

Transactions with Management and Others

Robert L. Moody, Jr. ("Mr. Moody, Jr.") is the son of Robert L. Moody, the Company's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, and is the brother of Ross R. Moody, the Company's President and Chief Operating Officer, and of Russell S. Moody and Frances A. Moody-Dahlberg who serve as directors of National Western. Prior to January 1, 2006, Mr. Moody, Jr. was employed by the Company in an agency marketing position for which he was paid an annual salary of $14,000 and was eligible to participate in the Company's benefit plans. Mr. Moody, Jr. resigned as an employee effective December 31, 2005.

In addition, Mr. Moody, Jr. wholly owns an insurance marketing organization that maintains agency contracts with National Western pursuant to which agency commissions are paid in accordance with the Company's standard commission schedules. Mr. Moody, Jr. also maintains an independent agent contract with National Western for policies personally sold under which commissions are paid in accordance with standard commission schedules. In 2006, commissions paid under these agency contracts aggregated approximately $181,500. In conjunction with these agency contracts, Mr. Moody, Jr. may be eligible to attend Company sales conferences and functions based upon meeting published minimum levels of qualifying sales production. In his capacity as an insurance marketing organization with the Company, Mr. Moody, Jr. also receives product development fees associated with a product line of the Company which amounted to $28,000 in 2006 and a marketing development allowance of $16,800 for the Company’s business efforts in Puerto Rico.

Mr. Moody, Jr. further serves as the agent of record for several of the Company's benefit plans including the self-insured health plan for which Mr. Moody, Jr. provides utilization review services through a wholly-owned utilization review company. In 2006, amounts paid to Mr. Moody, Jr. as commissions and service fees pertaining to the Company's benefit plans approximated $54,500.

During 2006, management fees totaling $470,000 were paid to Regent Management Services, Limited Partnership ("RMS") for services provided to a downstream nursing home subsidiary of National Western. RMS is 1% owned by general partner RCC Management Services, Inc. ("RCC"), and 99% owned by limited partner, Three R Trusts. RCC is 100% owned by the Three R Trusts. The Three R Trusts are four Texas trusts for the benefit of the children of Robert L. Moody (Robert L. Moody, Jr., Ross R. Moody, Russell S. Moody, and Frances A. Moody-Dahlberg). Charles D. Milos, Senior Vice President-Mortgage Loans and Real Estate, and a director of the Company, is a director and Vice President of RCC. Ellen C. Otte, Assistant Secretary of the Company, is a director and secretary of RCC.

The Company holds a common stock investment totaling approximately 9.4% of the issued and outstanding shares of Moody Bancshares, Inc. at December 31, 2006. Moody Bancshares, Inc. owns 100% of the outstanding shares of Moody Bank Holding Company, Inc., which owns approximately 98% of the outstanding shares of The Moody National Bank of Galveston ("MNB"). The Company utilizes MNB for certain bank custodian services as well as for certain administrative services with respect to the Company's defined benefit and contribution plans. Robert L. Moody serves as Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of MNB. The ultimate controlling person of MNB is the Three R Trusts. During 2006, fees totaling $187,000 were paid to MNB with respect to these services.

Indebtedness of Management

The Company holds a loan in the amount of $4.2 million, including accrued interest, with a contractual interest rate of 7% at December 31, 2006 issued to TMNY, LLC. As of the reporting date, Robert L. Moody owned 20.5% of TMNY, LLC. The stated maturity on this loan is December 29, 2007.


NWL Services, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, is the beneficial owner of a life interest (1/8 share) in the net income of the trust estate of Libbie Shearn Moody. Income distributions from the trust estate were $4.5 million in 2006. The trustee of this estate is MNB.

Review, Approval or Ratification of Transactions with Related Persons

In accordance with the Company’s Audit Committee Charter, related party transactions must be reviewed and approved by the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors, both at inception and on an ongoing basis. Periodic reports of potential related party transactions are brought to the attention of the Audit Committee by management and the Audit Committee reviews the information on a case by case basis to determine if any transaction is a related party transaction. The standard of review for any related party transaction is that the transaction must be fair to the Company and the transaction must be no more favorable to the related party than a similar arm’s length transaction with a non-related party.

While the Company has not adopted written procedures for review of, or written standards for approval of, these transactions, the policies and procedures followed are evidenced by the Audit Committee Charter, memorandums, and documentation of review and approvals.

Director Independence

The Company’s Board of Directors has determined that Messrs. Glasgow, Pauls, and Pederson are each an “Independent Director” under NASDAQ Global Market Marketplace Rules. The Board of Directors has also determined that all, or the majority of, members of the Audit Committee and the Compensation and Stock Option Committee meet the independence requirements prescribed by NASDAQ and the Securities and Exchange Commission.


ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES

The following table represents aggregate fees approved by the Audit Committee for the audits of the fiscal years ended December 31, 2006 and 2005 by KPMG LLP, the Company's principal accounting firm.

   
Fiscal Years Ended
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
   
(In thousands)
 
           
Financial statement audit fees
 
$
608
   
590
 
Benefit plans audit fee
   
-
   
-
 
Tax fees
   
-
   
-
 
All other fees
   
-
   
-
 
               
Total fees
 
$
608
   
590
 

Audit Fees Pre-approval Policy

The Audit Committee has adopted a formal policy concerning approval of audit and non-audit services to be provided by the independent auditor to the Company. The policy requires that all services the Company's independent auditor may provide to the Company, including audit services and permitted audit-related and non-auditor services, be pre-approved by the Committee. The Committee approved all audit and non-audit services provided by KPMG LLP during 2006.


PART IV

ITEM 15. EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

(a) 1.  Listing of Financial Statements

See Attachment A, Index to Financial Statements and Schedules, on page 74 for a list of financial statements included in this report.


(a) 2.  Listing of Financial Statement Schedules

See Attachment A, Index to Financial Statements and Schedules, on page 74 for a list of financial statement schedules included in this report.

All other schedules are omitted because they are not applicable, not required, or because the information required by the schedule is included elsewhere in the financial statements or notes.

(a) 3.  Listing of Exhibits

The exhibits listed below, as part of Form 10-K, are numbered in accordance with the numbering used in Item 601 of regulation S-K of The Securities and Exchange Commission.
 
Exhibit 2
-
Order Confirming Third Amended Joint Consensual Plan Of Reorganization Proposed By The Debtors And The Official Committee Of Unsecured Creditors (As Modified As Of August 28, 1998) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2 to the Company's Form 8-K dated August 28, 1998).
     
Exhibit 3(a) 
-
Restated Articles of Incorporation of National Western Life Insurance Company dated April 10, 1968 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3(a) to the Company's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1995).
     
Exhibit 3(b)
-
Amendment to the Articles of Incorporation of National Western Life Insurance Company dated July 29, 1971 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3(b) to the Company's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1995).
     
Exhibit 3(c)
-
Amendment to the Articles of Incorporation of National Western Life Insurance Company dated May 10, 1976 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3(c) to the Company's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1995).
     
Exhibit 3(d) 
-
Amendment to the Articles of Incorporation of National Western Life Insurance Company dated April 28, 1978 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3(d) to the Company's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1995).
     
Exhibit 3(e)
-
Amendment to the Articles of Incorporation of National Western Life Insurance Company dated May 1, 1979 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3(e) to the Company's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1995).
     
Exhibit 3(f)
-
Bylaws of National Western Life Insurance Company as amended through April 24, 1987 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3(f) to the Company's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1995).
     
Exhibit 10(a)
-
National Western Life Insurance Company Non-Qualified Defined Benefit Plan dated July 26, 1991 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(a) to the Company's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1995).
     
Exhibit 10(c)
-
National Western Life Insurance Company Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan, as amended and restated, dated March 27, 1995 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(c) to the Company's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1995).
     
Exhibit 10(d)
-
First Amendment to the National Western Life Insurance Company Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan effective July 1, 1995 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(d) to the Company's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1995).
     
Exhibit 10(e)
-
National Western Life Insurance Company 1995 Stock and Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(e) to the Company's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1995).
     
Exhibit 10(f)
-
First Amendment to the National Western Life Insurance Company Non-Qualified Defined Benefit Plan effective December 17, 1996 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(f) to the Company's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1996).



 
Exhibit 10(g)
-
Second Amendment to the National Western Life Insurance Company Non-Qualified Defined Benefit Plan effective December 17, 1996 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(g) to the Company's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1996).
     
Exhibit 10(h)
-
Second Amendment to the National Western Life Insurance Company Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan effective December 17, 1996 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(h) to the Company's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1996).
     
Exhibit 10(i)
-
Third Amendment to the National Western Life Insurance Company Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan effective December 17, 1996 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(i) to the Company's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1996).
     
Exhibit 10(j)
-
Fourth Amendment to the National Western Life Insurance Company Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan effective June 20, 1997 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(j) to the Company's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1997).
     
Exhibit 10(k)
-
First Amendment to the National Western Life Insurance Company 1995 Stock and Incentive Plan effective June 19, 1998 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(k) to the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 1998).
     
Exhibit 10(m)
-
Fifth Amendment to the National Western Life Insurance Company Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan effective July 1, 1998 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(m) to the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 1998).
     
Exhibit 10(n)
-
Sixth Amendment to the National Western Life Insurance Company Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan effective August 7, 1998 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(n) to the Company's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1998).
     
Exhibit 10(o)
-
Third Amendment to the National Western Life Insurance Company Non-Qualified Defined Benefit Plan effective August 7, 1998 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(o) to the Company's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1998).
     
Exhibit 10(p)
-
Exchange Agreement by and among National Western Life Insurance Company, NWL Services, Inc., Alternative Benefit Management, Inc., and American National Insurance Company effective November 23, 1998 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(p) to the Company's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1998).
     
Exhibit 10(s)
-
Seventh Amendment to the National Western Life Insurance Company Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan effective August 7, 1998 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(s) to the Company's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2000).
     
Exhibit 10(u)
-
Eighth Amendment to the National Western Life Insurance Company Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan effective December 1, 2000 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(u) to the Company's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2000).
     
Exhibit 10(v)
-
Fourth Amendment to the National Western Life Insurance Company Non-Qualified Defined Benefit Plan effective December 1, 2000 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(v) to the Company's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2000).
     
Exhibit 10(w)
-
Second Amendment to the National Western Life Insurance Company 1995 Stock and Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(w) to the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2001).
     
Exhibit 10(z)
-
Fifth Amendment to the National Western Life Insurance Company Non-Qualified Defined Benefit Plan effective January 1, 2001 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(z) to the Company's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2001).




Exhibit 10(ae)
-
Sixth Amendment to the National Western Life Insurance Company Non-Qualified Defined Benefit Plan effective August 23, 2002 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(ae) to the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2002).
     
Exhibit 10(af)
-
Seventh Amendment to the National Western Life Insurance Company Non-Qualified Defined Benefit Plan effective October 18, 2002 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(af) to the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2002).
     
Exhibit 10(ai)
-
Eighth Amendment to the National Western Life Insurance Company Non-Qualified Defined Benefit Plan effective January 1, 2003 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(ai) to the Company's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2002).
     
Exhibit 10(am)
-
Ninth amendment to the National Western Life Insurance Company Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan effective November 1, 2003 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(am) to the Company's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2003).
     
Exhibit 10(an)
-
Ninth amendment to the National Western Life Insurance Company Non-Qualified Defined Benefit Plan effective December 5, 2003 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(an) to the Company's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2003.)
     
Exhibit 10(ao)
-
Bonus program by and between National Western Life Insurance Company and Domestic Marketing officers of National Western Life Insurance Company for the year ending December 31, 2004 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(ao) to the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2004).
     
Exhibit 10(ap)
-
Bonus program by and between National Western Life Insurance Company and International Marketing Officers of National Western Life Insurance Company for the year ending December 31, 2004 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(ap) to the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2004).
     
Exhibit 10(aq)
-
Bonus program by and between National Western Life Insurance Company and certain Executive officers of National Western Life Insurance Company for the year ending December 31, 2004 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(aq) to the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2004).
     
Exhibit 10(ar)
-
Third Amendment to the National Western Life Insurance Company 1995 Stock and Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(ar) to the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2004).
     
Exhibit 10(as)
-
Amendment to the National Western Life Insurance Company Group Excess Benefit Plan effective December 15, 2004 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(as) to the Company's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004.).
     
Exhibit 10(at)
-
The National Western Life Insurance Company Employee Health Plan was amended and restated effective August 20, 2004 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(at) to the Company's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004.)
     
Exhibit 10(au)
-
Tenth Amendment to the National Western Life Insurance Company Non-Qualified Defined Benefit Plan effective December 31, 2004 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(au) to the Company's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004.).
     
Exhibit 10(av)
-
Bonus program by and between National Western Life Insurance Company and Executive Officers of National Western Life Insurance Company for the year ending December 31, 2005 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(av) to the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2005).
     
     




Exhibit 10(aw)
-
Bonus program by and between National Western Life Insurance Company and Domestic Marketing officers of National Western Life Insurance Company for the year ending December 31, 2005 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(aw) to the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2005).
     
Exhibit 10(ax)
-
Bonus program by and between National Western Life Insurance Company and International Marketing Officers of National Western Life Insurance Company for the year ending December 31, 2005 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(ax) to the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2005).
     
Exhibit 10(az)
-
National Western Life Insurance Company Non-Qualified Defined Benefit Plan for Robert L. Moody (Exhibit 10 to 8-K dated July 1, 2005).
     
Exhibit 10(ba)
-
First Amendment to the National Western Life Insurance Company Non-Qualified Defined Benefit Plan for Robert L. Moody (Exhibit 10 to 8-K dated August 22, 2005).
     
Exhibit 10(bb)
-
Second Amendment to the National Western Life Insurance Company Non-Qualified Defined Benefit Plan for Robert L. Moody (Exhibit 10 to 8-K dated December 15, 2005).
     
Exhibit 10(bc)
-
Tenth Amendment to the National Western Life Insurance Company Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan (Exhibit 10 to 8-K dated December 15, 2005).
     
Exhibit 10(bd)
-
National Western Life Insurance Company Retirement Bonus Program for Robert L. Moody (Exhibit 10 to 8-K dated December 15, 2005).
     
Exhibit 10(be)
-
Eleventh Amendment to the National Western Life Insurance Company Non-Qualified Defined Benefit Plan (Exhibit 10 to 8-K dated December 15, 2005).
     
Exhibit 10(bf)
-
Non-Qualified Defined Benefit Plan for the President of the National Western Life Insurance Company (Exhibit 10 to 8-K dated December 15, 2005).
     
Exhibit 10(bg)
-
National Western Life Insurance Company 2006 Executive Officer Bonus Program (Exhibit 10 to 8-K dated February 17, 2006).
     
Exhibit 10(bh)
-
National Western Life Insurance Company 2006 Executive Officer Bonus Program (as amended) (Exhibit 10 to 8-K dated April 21, 2006).
     
Exhibit 10(bi)
-
2006 International Marketing Officer Bonus Program (Exhibit 10 to 8-K dated June 23, 2006).
     
Exhibit 10(bj)
-
2006 Domestic Marketing Officer Bonus Program (Exhibit 10 to 8-K dated June 23, 2006).
     
Exhibit 10(bk)
-
National Western Life Insurance Company Harvest Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plan (Exhibit 10 to 8-K dated June 23, 2006).
     
Exhibit 10(bl)
-
Amendment No. 16 to Loan Agreement (Exhibit 10 to 8-K dated July 31, 2006).
     
Exhibit 21
-
Subsidiaries of the Registrant.
     
Exhibit 23(a)
-
Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.
     
Exhibit 31(a)
-
Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
     
Exhibit 31(b)
-
Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
     
Exhibit 32(a)
-
Certifications of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.



(b) Exhibits

Exhibits required by Regulation S-K are listed as to location in the Listing of Exhibits in Item 15.(a)3. above. Exhibits not referred to have been omitted as inapplicable or not required.

(c) Financial Statement Schedules

The financial statement schedules required by Regulation S-K are listed as to location in Attachment A, Index to Financial Statements and Schedules, on page 74 of this report.
 
ATTACHMENT A

Index to Financial Statements and Schedules
 
     
   
Page
     
 
75
     
 
76
     
 
78
     
 
79
     
 
80
     
 
81
     
 
83
     
 
127
     
 
128
     

All other schedules are omitted because they are not applicable, not required, or because the information required by the schedule is included elsewhere in the consolidated financial statements or notes.





REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM



The Board of Directors and Stockholders
National Western Life Insurance Company
Austin, Texas

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of National Western Life Insurance Company and subsidiaries (the "Company") as of December 31, 2006 and 2005 and the related consolidated statements of earnings, comprehensive income, stockholders' equity and cash flows for each of the years in the three year period ended December 31, 2006. In connection with our audits of the consolidated financial statements, we have also audited the 2006 financial statement schedule I and the 2006, 2005, and 2004 financial statement schedule V. These financial statements and financial statement schedules are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedules based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of National Western Life Insurance Company and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2006 and 2005 and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the years in the three year period ended December 31, 2006 in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Also, in our opinion, the related financial statement schedules, when considered in relation to the basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, present fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the effectiveness of National Western Life Insurance Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2006, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO), and our report dated March 15, 2007 expressed an unqualified opinion on management's assessment of, and the effective operation of, internal control over financial reporting.

As discussed in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company changed its method of accounting for two-tiered annuity products in 2004.



KPMG LLP
Austin, Texas
March 15, 2007



 
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
 
December 31, 2006 and 2005
 
(In thousands)
 
           
           
ASSETS
 
2006
 
2005
 
           
Investments:
         
Securities held to maturity, at amortized cost
         
(fair value: $3,567,625 and $3,523,993)
 
$
3,603,434
   
3,524,724
 
Securities available for sale, at fair value
             
(cost: $1,907,454 and $1,726,252)
   
1,902,568
   
1,744,727
 
Mortgage loans, net of allowance for possible losses
   
103,325
   
110,639
 
($2,100 and $0)
             
Policy loans
   
86,856
   
86,385
 
Derivatives
   
72,012
   
39,405
 
Other long-term investments
   
22,822
   
30,013
 
               
Total Investments
   
5,791,017
   
5,535,893
 
               
Cash and short-term investments
   
49,901
   
31,355
 
Deferred policy acquisition costs
   
643,964
   
620,129
 
Deferred sales inducements
   
93,139
   
80,450
 
Accrued investment income
   
64,393
   
61,283
 
Federal income tax receivable
   
-
   
2,107
 
Other assets
   
51,029
   
37,791
 
               
   
$
6,693,443
   
6,369,008
 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.



NATIONAL WESTERN LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
 
December 31, 2006 and 2005
 
(In thousands except share amounts)
 
           
           
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
 
2006
 
2005
 
           
LIABILITIES:
         
           
Future policy benefits:
         
Traditional life and annuity contracts
 
$
138,382
   
139,309
 
Universal life and annuity contracts
   
5,395,075
   
5,176,610
 
Other policyholder liabilities
   
112,449
   
100,557
 
Federal income tax liability:
             
Current
   
1,666
   
-
 
Deferred
   
32,207
   
37,735
 
Other liabilities
   
80,680
   
40,789
 
               
Total liabilities
   
5,760,459
   
5,495,000
 
               
               
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Notes 4, 7, and 9)
             
               
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY:
             
               
Common stock:
             
Class A - $1 par value; 7,500,000 shares authorized; 3,420,824
             
and 3,413,199 shares issued and outstanding in 2006 and 2005
   
3,421
   
3,413
 
Class B - $1 par value; 200,000 shares authorized, issued,
             
and outstanding in 2006 and 2005
   
200
   
200
 
Additional paid-in capital
   
36,110
   
37,923
 
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
   
(3,731
)
 
10,564
 
Retained earnings
   
896,984
   
821,908
 
               
Total stockholders' equity
   
932,984
   
874,008
 
               
   
$
6,693,443
   
6,369,008
 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.


 
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS
 
For the Years Ended December 31, 2006, 2005, and 2004
 
(In thousands except per share amounts)
 
               
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
Premiums and other revenue:
             
Life and annuity premiums
 
$
15,805
   
14,602
   
14,025
 
Universal life and annuity contract revenues
   
106,320
   
96,765
   
89,513
 
Net investment income
   
379,768
   
310,213
   
315,843
 
Other income
   
17,304
   
9,579
   
11,259
 
Realized gains on investments
   
2,662
   
9,884
   
3,506
 
                     
Total premiums and other revenue
   
521,859
   
441,043
   
434,146
 
                     
Benefits and expenses:
                   
Life and other policy benefits
   
35,241
   
39,162
   
34,613
 
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs
   
90,358
   
87,955
   
88,733
 
Universal life and annuity contract interest
   
213,736
   
150,692
   
173,315
 
Other operating expenses
   
65,709
   
46,349
   
35,441
 
                     
Total benefits and expenses
   
405,044
   
324,158
   
332,102
 
                     
Earnings before Federal income taxes and cumulative
                   
effect of change in accounting principle
   
116,815
   
116,885
   
102,044
 
Federal income taxes
   
40,472
   
39,618
   
34,572
 
Earnings before cumulative effect of change in
                   
accounting principle
   
76,343
   
77,267
   
67,472
 
Cumulative effect of change in accounting
                   
principle, net of $29,452 of Federal income taxes
   
-
   
-
   
54,697
 
                     
Net earnings
 
$
76,343
   
77,267
   
122,169
 
                     
Basic Earnings Per Share:
                   
Earnings before cumulative effect of change
                   
in accounting principle
 
$
21.09
   
21.45
   
18.93
 
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle
   
-
   
-
   
15.34
 
                     
Net earnings
 
$
21.09
   
21.45
   
34.27
 
                     
Diluted Earnings Per Share:
                   
Earnings before cumulative effect of change
                   
in accounting principle
 
$
20.88
   
21.24
   
18.73
 
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle
   
-
   
-
   
15.18
 
                     
Net earnings
 
$
20.88
   
21.24
   
33.91
 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.




NATIONAL WESTERN LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
 
For the Years Ended December 31, 2006, 2005, and 2004
 
(In thousands)
 
   
               
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
               
               
Net earnings
 
$
76,343
   
77,267
   
122,169
 
                     
Other comprehensive income, net of effects of
                   
deferred costs and taxes:
                   
Unrealized gains (losses) on securities:
                   
Net unrealized holding gains (losses) arising
                   
during period
   
(4,542
)
 
(13,597
)
 
1,603
 
Reclassification adjustment for net (gains)
                   
losses included in net earnings
   
(2,736
)
 
(1,254
)
 
550
 
Amortization of net unrealized losses
                   
related to transferred securities
   
25
   
18
   
245
 
Unrealized gains on securities
                   
transferred during period from held to
                   
maturity to available for sale
   
-
   
202
   
167
 
                     
Net unrealized gains (losses) on securities
   
(7,253
)
 
(14,631
)
 
2,565
 
                     
Foreign currency translation adjustments
   
(178
)
 
130
   
(127
)
                     
Benefit plan liability adjustment:
                   
Change in minimum pension liability
   
(1,166
)
 
(354
)
 
(472
)
                     
Other comprehensive income (loss)
   
(8,597
)
 
(14,855
)
 
1,966
 
                     
Comprehensive income
 
$
67,746
   
62,412
   
124,135
 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.




 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
 
For the Years Ended December 31, 2006, 2005, and 2004
 
(In thousands)
 
               
               
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
               
Common stock:
             
Balance at beginning of year
 
$
3,613
   
3,584
   
3,547
 
Shares exercised under stock option plan
   
8
   
29
   
37
 
                     
Balance at end of year
   
3,621
   
3,613
   
3,584
 
                     
Additional paid-in capital:
                   
Balance at beginning of year
   
37,923
   
33,834
   
29,192
 
Shares exercised under stock option plan,
                   
net of tax benefits
   
503
   
3,094
   
3,663
 
Adjustment for stock option liability classification
   
(2,316
)
 
-
   
-
 
Stock option expense
   
-
   
995
   
979
 
                     
Balance at end of year
   
36,110
   
37,923
   
33,834
 
                     
Accumulated other comprehensive income:
                   
Unrealized gains on securities:
                   
Balance at beginning of year
   
10,401
   
25,032
   
22,467
 
Change in unrealized gains (losses) during period
   
(7,253
)
 
(14,631
)
 
2,565
 
                     
Balance at end of year
   
3,148
   
10,401
   
25,032
 
                     
Foreign currency translation adjustments:
                   
Balance at beginning of year
   
3,300
   
3,170
   
3,297
 
Change in translation adjustments during period
   
(178
)
 
130
   
(127
)
                     
Balance at end of year
   
3,122
   
3,300
   
3,170
 
                     
Benefit plan liability adjustment:
                   
Balance at beginning of year
   
(3,137
)
 
(2,783
)
 
(2,311
)
Change in minimum pension liability
                   
adjustment during period
   
(1,166
)
 
(354
)
 
(472
)
Adjustment to initially apply FASB
                   
Statement No. 158, net of tax
   
(5,698
)
 
-
   
-
 
                     
Balance at end of year
   
(10,001
)
 
(3,137
)
 
(2,783
)
                     
Accumulated other comprehensive
                   
income at end of year
   
(3,731
)
 
10,564
   
25,419
 
                     
Retained earnings:
                   
Balance at beginning of year
   
821,908
   
745,835
   
623,666
 
Net earnings
   
76,343
   
77,267
   
122,169
 
Stockholder dividends
   
(1,267
)
 
(1,194
)
 
-
 
                     
Balance at end of year
   
896,984
   
821,908
   
745,835
 
                     
Total stockholders' equity
 
$
932,984
   
874,008
   
808,672
 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.



 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
 
For the Years Ended December 31, 2006, 2005, and 2004
 
(In thousands)
 
               
               
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
               
Cash flows from operating activities:
             
Net earnings
 
$
76,343
   
77,267
   
122,169
 
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings
                   
to net cash provided by operating activities:
                   
Universal life and annuity contract interest
   
213,736
   
150,692
   
173,315
 
Surrender charges and other policy revenues
   
(31,363
)
 
(27,676
)
 
(26,024
)
Realized gains on investments
   
(2,662
)
 
(9,884
)
 
(3,506
)
Accrual and amortization of investment income
   
(5,443
)
 
(4,114
)
 
(8,373
)
Depreciation and amortization
   
1,516
   
1,513
   
1,665
 
Decrease (increase) in value of derivatives
   
(27,108
)
 
9,579
   
13,262
 
Increase in deferred policy acquisition
                   
and sales inducement costs
   
(13,740
)
 
(14,476
)
 
(57,278
)
Increase in accrued investment income
   
(3,110
)
 
(3,011
)
 
(4,293
)
Decrease (increase) in other assets
   
(10,016
)
 
(4,969
)
 
2,438
 
Decrease in liabilities for future policy benefits
   
(905
)
 
(1,721
)
 
(1,523
)
Increase in other policyholder liabilities
   
11,892
   
25,320
   
12,738
 
Increase in Federal income tax liability
   
2,770
   
1,593
   
30,554
 
Increase (decrease) in other liabilities
   
11,739
   
175
   
(15,793
)
Lawsuit settlement payable
   
-
   
-
   
(9,700
)
Cumulative effect of change in accounting
                   
principle, before taxes
   
-
   
-
   
(84,149
)
Other
   
371
   
802
   
515
 
                     
Net cash provided by operating activities
   
224,020
   
201,090
   
146,017
 
                     
Cash flows from investing activities:
                   
Proceeds from sales of:
                   
Securities held to maturity
   
-
   
9,867
   
8,749
 
Securities available for sale
   
36,428
   
29,211
   
49,801
 
Other investments
   
13,672
   
22,739
   
5,427
 
Proceeds from maturities and redemptions of:
                   
Securities held to maturity
   
258,051
   
330,920
   
322,956
 
Securities available for sale
   
104,435
   
125,225
   
97,507
 
Derivatives
   
37,010
   
29,329
   
19,186
 
Purchases of:
                   
Securities held to maturity
   
(327,126
)
 
(596,191
)
 
(813,489
)
Securities available for sale
   
(312,584
)
 
(301,898
)
 
(352,638
)
Other investments
   
(44,090
)
 
(40,372
)
 
(30,128
)
Principal payments on mortgage loans
   
11,680
   
23,727
   
41,780
 
Cost of mortgage loans acquired
   
(6,326
)
 
(9,038
)
 
(13,116
)
Decrease (increase) in policy loans
   
(471
)
 
2,064
   
1,309
 
Other
   
(1,600
)
 
(469
)
 
(673
)
                     
Net cash used in investing activities
   
(230,921
)
 
(374,886
)
 
(663,329
)

(Continued on next page)




NATIONAL WESTERN LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS, CONTINUED
 
For the Years Ended December 31, 2006, 2005, and 2004
 
(In thousands)
 
               
               
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
               
Cash flows from financing activities:
             
Stockholders dividends
 
$
(1,267
)
 
(1,194
)
 
-
 
Deposits to account balances for universal life
                   
and annuity contracts
   
547,469
   
611,594
   
936,425
 
Return of account balances on universal life
                   
and annuity contracts
   
(521,988
)
 
(458,765
)
 
(439,667
)
Issuance of common stock under stock option plan
   
511
   
2,948
   
2,514
 
                     
Net cash provided by financing activities
   
24,725
   
154,583
   
499,272
 
                     
Effect of foreign exchange
   
722
   
374
   
24
 
                     
Net increase (decrease) in cash and short-term
                   
investments
   
18,546
   
(18,839
)
 
(18,016
)
Cash and short-term investments at beginning of year
   
31,355
   
50,194
   
68,210
 
                     
Cash and short-term investments at end of year
 
$
49,901
   
31,355
   
50,194
 

SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
         
               
Cash paid during the year for:
             
Interest
 
$
41
   
40
   
48
 
Income taxes
   
34,726
   
37,800
   
33,078
 
                     
Noncash investing activities:
                   
Mortgage loans originated to facilitate
                   
the sale of real estate
 
$
900
   
900
   
1,360
 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.



NATIONAL WESTERN LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(1) SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

(A) Principles of Consolidation. The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of National Western Life Insurance Company and its wholly owned subsidiaries ("Company"), The Westcap Corporation, NWL Investments, Inc., NWL Services, Inc., and NWL Financial, Inc. All significant intercorporate transactions and accounts have been eliminated in consolidation.

(B) Basis of Presentation. The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") which require management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting periods. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Significant estimates in the accompanying consolidated financial statements include (1) liabilities for future policy benefits, (2) valuation of derivative instruments, (3) recoverability and amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs, (4) valuation allowances for deferred tax assets, (5) other-than-temporary impairment losses on debt securities, and (6) valuation allowances for mortgage loans and real estate.

The Company also files financial statements with insurance regulatory authorities which are prepared on the basis of statutory accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the Colorado Division of Insurance which are significantly different from consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance with GAAP. These differences are described in detail in the statutory information section of this note.

(C) Investments. Investments in debt securities the Company purchases with the intent to hold to maturity are classified as securities held to maturity. The Company has the ability to hold the securities, as it would be unlikely that forced sales of securities would be required prior to maturity to cover payments of liabilities. As a result, securities held to maturity are carried at amortized cost less declines in fair value that are deemed other-than-temporary.

Investments in debt and equity securities that are not classified as securities held to maturity are reported as securities available for sale. Securities available for sale are reported in the accompanying consolidated financial statements at fair value. Any valuation changes resulting from changes in the fair value of the securities are reflected as a component of stockholders' equity in accumulated other comprehensive income or loss. These unrealized gains or losses in stockholders' equity are reported net of taxes and adjustments to deferred policy acquisition costs.

Transfers of securities between categories are recorded at fair value at the date of transfer. The unrealized holding gains or losses for securities transferred from available for sale to held to maturity are included in accumulated other comprehensive income or loss and amortized into earnings over the remaining life of the security as an adjustment to yield in a manner consistent with the amortization or accretion of premium or discount on the associated security.

Premiums and discounts are amortized or accreted over the life of the related security as an adjustment to yield using the effective interest method. For mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities, the effective interest method is used based on anticipated prepayments and the estimated economic life of the securities. When estimates of prepayments change, the effective yield is recalculated to reflect actual payments to date and anticipated future payments. The net investment in the securities is adjusted to the amount that would have existed had the new effective yield been applied at the time of acquisition. This adjustment is reflected in net investment income.

Realized gains and losses for securities available for sale and securities held to maturity are included in earnings and are derived using the specific identification method for determining the cost of securities sold. A decline in the fair value below cost that is deemed other-than-temporary is charged to earnings, resulting in the establishment of a new cost basis for the security.

Mortgage loans and other long-term investments are stated at cost, less unamortized discounts, deferred fees, and allowances for possible losses. Policy loans are stated at their aggregate unpaid balances. Real estate is stated at the lower of cost or fair value less estimated costs to sell.



Impaired loans are those loans where it is probable that all amounts due according to contractual terms of the loan agreement will not be collected. The Company has identified these loans through its normal loan review procedures. Impaired loans include (1) nonaccrual loans, (2) loans which are 90 days or more past due, unless they are well secured and are in the process of collection, and (3) other loans which management believes are impaired. Impaired loans are measured based on (1) the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan's effective interest rate, (2) the loan's observable market price, or (3) the fair value of the collateral if the loan is collateral dependent. Substantially all of the Company's impaired loans are measured at the fair value of the collateral. In limited cases, the Company may use other methods to determine the level of impairment of a loan if such loan is not collateral dependent.

(D) Cash and Short-Term Investments. For purposes of the consolidated statements of cash flows, the Company considers all short-term investments with a maturity at the date of purchase of three months or less to be cash equivalents.

(E) Derivatives. Equity-indexed products combine features associated with traditional fixed annuities and universal life contracts, with the option to have interest rates linked in part to an equity index like the S&P 500 Index®. The equity return component of such policy contracts is identified separately and accounted for as embedded derivatives. The remaining portions of these policy contracts are considered the host contracts and are recorded separately as fixed annuity or universal life contracts. The host contracts are accounted for under debt instrument type accounting. The host contracts are recorded as discounted debt instruments that are accreted, using the effective yield method, to their minimum account values at their projected maturities or termination dates.

The Company purchases over-the-counter indexed options, which are derivative financial instruments, to hedge the equity return component of its equity-indexed annuity and life products. The indexed options act as hedges to match closely the returns on the S&P 500® Composite Stock Price Index ("S&P 500 Index®"). The amounts which may be credited to policyholders are linked, in part, to the returns of the S&P 500 Index®. As a result, changes to policyholders' liabilities are substantially offset by changes in the value of the options. Cash is exchanged upon purchase of the indexed options and no principal or interest payments are made by either party during the option periods. Upon maturity or expiration of the options, cash is paid to the Company based on the S&P 500 Index® performance and terms of the contract.

The Company does not elect hedging accounting relative to derivative instruments. The derivatives are reported at fair value in the accompanying consolidated financial statements. The changes in the values of the indexed options and the changes in the policyholder liabilities are both reflected in the statement of earnings. Any gains or losses from the sale or expiration of the options, as well as period-to-period changes in values, are reflected as net investment income in the statement of earnings. Any changes relative to the embedded derivatives associated with policy contracts are reflected in contract interest in the statement of earnings.

Although there is credit risk in the event of nonperformance by counterparties to the indexed options, the Company does not expect any counterparties to fail to meet their obligations, given their high credit ratings. In addition, credit support agreements are in place with all counterparties for option holdings in excess of specific limits, which may further reduce the Company's credit exposure. At December 31, 2006 and 2005, the fair values of indexed options owned by the Company totaled $72.0 million and $39.4 million, respectively.

(F) Insurance Revenues and Expenses. Premiums on traditional life insurance products are recognized as revenues as they become due from policyholders. Benefits and expenses are matched with premiums in arriving at profits by providing for policy benefits over the lives of the policies and by amortizing acquisition costs over the premium-paying periods of the policies. For universal life and annuity contracts, revenues consist of policy charges for the cost of insurance, policy administration, and surrender charges assessed during the period. Expenses for these policies include interest credited to policy account balances and benefit claims incurred in excess of policy account balances. The related deferred policy acquisition and sales inducement costs are amortized in relation to the present value of expected gross profits on the policies.


Under GAAP, commissions, sales inducements, and certain expenses related to policy issuance and underwriting, all of which generally vary with and are related to the production of new business, are deferred. For traditional products, these costs are amortized over the premium-paying period of the related policies in proportion to the ratio of the premium earned to the total premium revenue anticipated, using the same assumptions as to interest, mortality, and withdrawals as were used in calculating the liability for future policy benefits. For universal life and annuity contracts, these costs are amortized in relation to the present value of expected gross profits on these policies. The Company evaluates the recoverability of deferred policy acquisition and sales inducement costs on a quarterly basis. In this evaluation, the Company considers estimated future gross profits or future premiums, as applicable for the type of contract. The Company also considers expected mortality, interest earned and credited rates, persistency, and expenses.

A summary of information relative to deferred policy acquisition costs is provided in the table below.
 
   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
   
(In thousands)
 
               
Deferred policy acquisition costs, beginning of year
 
$
620,129
   
582,218
   
558,455
 
                     
Policy acquisition costs deferred:
                   
Agents' commissions
   
97,662
   
96,224
   
139,095
 
Other
   
6,436
   
6,206
   
6,916
 
                     
Total costs deferred
   
104,098
   
102,430
   
146,011
 
                     
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs
   
(90,358
)
 
(87,955
)
 
(88,733
)
Adjustments for unrealized gains and
                   
losses on investment securities
   
10,095
   
23,436
   
1,541
 
Deferred costs written off due to change in
                   
accounting principle
   
-
   
-
   
(35,056
)
                     
Deferred policy acquisition costs, end of year
 
$
643,964
   
620,129
   
582,218
 
 
A summary of information relative to deferred sales inducement costs is provided in the table below.

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
   
(In thousands)
 
       
Deferred sales inducement costs, beginning of year
 
$
80,450
   
62,240
   
40,940
 
                     
Sales inducement costs deferred
   
19,813
   
21,426
   
28,189
 
Amortization of sales inducement
   
(9,101
)
 
(6,484
)
 
(5,256
)
Adjustments for unrealized gains and
                   
(losses) on investment securities
   
1,977
   
3,268
   
(1,633
)
                     
Deferred sales inducement costs, end of year
 
$
93,139
   
80,450
   
62,240
 

Under GAAP, the liability for future policy benefits on traditional products has been calculated under SFAS No. 60 using assumptions as to future mortality (based on the 1965-1970 and 1975-1980 Select and Ultimate mortality tables), interest ranging from 4% to 8%, and withdrawals based on Company experience. For universal life and annuity contracts, the liability for future policy benefits represents the account balance. Equity-indexed products combine features associated with traditional fixed annuities and universal life contracts, with the option to have interest rates linked in part to an equity index like the S&P 500 Index®. In accordance with SFAS No. 133, the equity return component of such policy contracts must be identified separately and accounted for as embedded derivatives. The remaining portions of these policy contracts are considered the host contracts and are recorded separately as fixed annuity or universal life contracts. The host contracts are accounted for under provisions of SFAS No. 97 that requires debt instrument type accounting. The host contracts are recorded as discounted debt instruments that are accreted, using the effective yield method, to their minimum account values at their projected maturities or termination dates. The embedded derivatives are recorded at fair values.


(G) Deferred Federal Income Taxes. Federal income taxes are accounted for under the asset and liability method. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. A valuation allowance for deferred tax assets is provided if all or some portion of the deferred tax asset may not be realized. An increase or decrease in a valuation allowance that results from a change in circumstances that affects the realizability of the related deferred tax asset is included in income in the period the change occurs.

(H) Depreciation of Property, Equipment, and Leasehold Improvements. Depreciation is based on the estimated useful lives of the assets and is calculated on the straight-line and accelerated methods. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the lesser of the economic useful life of the improvement or the term of the lease.

(I) Classification. Certain reclassifications have been made to the prior years to conform to the reporting categories used in 2006.

(J) Statutory Information. Domiciled in Colorado, the Company prepares its statutory financial statements in accordance with accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the Colorado Division of Insurance. The Colorado Division of Insurance has adopted the provisions of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners' ("NAIC") Statutory Accounting Practices as the basis for its statutory practices.

The following are major differences between GAAP and accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the Colorado Division of Insurance.

1.  The Company accounts for universal life and annuity contracts based on the provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 97, Accounting and Reporting by Insurance Enterprises for Certain Long-Duration Contracts and for Realized Gains and Losses from the Sale of Investments. The basic effect of the statement with respect to certain long-duration contracts is that deposits for universal life and annuity contracts are not reflected as revenues, and surrenders and certain other benefit payments are not reflected as expenses. However, only those contracts with no insurance risk qualify for such treatment under statutory accounting practices. For all other contracts, statutory accounting practices do reflect such items as revenues and expenses.

A summary of direct premiums and deposits collected is provided below.

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
   
(In thousands)
 
               
Annuity deposits
 
$
485,994
   
557,940
   
892,027
 
Universal life insurance deposits
   
146,742
   
133,579
   
119,554
 
Traditional life and other premiums
   
18,046
   
16,629
   
15,830
 
                     
Totals
 
$
650,782
   
708,148
   
1,027,411
 

2.  Statutory accounting practices require commissions and related costs to be expensed as incurred, where as for GAAP, these items are deferred and amortized.



3.   For statutory accounting purposes, liabilities for future policy benefits for life insurance policies are calculated by the net level premium method or the commissioners reserve valuation method. Future policy benefit liabilities for annuities are calculated based on the continuous commissioners annuity reserve valuation method and provisions of Actuarial Guidelines 33 and 35.

4.  Deferred Federal income taxes are provided for temporary differences which are recognized in the consolidated financial statements in a different period than for Federal income tax purposes. Deferred taxes are also recognized in statutory accounting practices; however, there are limitations as to the amount of deferred tax assets that may be reported as admitted assets. The change in the deferred taxes is recorded in surplus, rather than as a component of income tax expense.

5.  For statutory accounting purposes, debt securities are recorded at amortized cost, except for securities in or near default, which are reported at fair value. Under GAAP, they are carried at amortized cost or fair value based on their classification as either held to maturity or available for sale.

6.  Investments in subsidiaries are recorded at admitted asset value for statutory purposes, whereas the financial statements of the subsidiaries have been consolidated with those of the Company under GAAP.

7.  Compensation costs related to the Company’s stock option plan are not recognized under statutory accounting.

8.  Pension liabilities and net periodic benefit costs are recognized for statutory accounting however in accordance with GAAP a liability or asset is recognized for the under or over funded status of the plans and does include a non-vested component.  Statutory accounting only includes vested benefits.

9.  The asset valuation reserve and interest maintenance reserve, which are investment valuation reserves prescribed by statutory accounting practices, have been eliminated, as they are not required under GAAP.

10.  The recorded value of the life interest in the Libbie Shearn Moody Trust ("Trust") is reported at its initial valuation, net of accumulated amortization, under GAAP. The initial valuation was based on the assumption that the Trust would provide certain income to the Company at an assumed interest rate and is being amortized over 53 years, the life expectancy of Mr. Robert L. Moody at the date he contributed the life interest to the Company. For statutory accounting purposes, the life interest has been valued at $26.4 million, which was computed as the present value of the estimated future income to be received from the Trust. However, this amount was amortized to a valuation of $12.8 million over a seven-year period ended December 31, 1999, in accordance with Colorado Division of Insurance permitted accounting requirements. Prescribed statutory accounting practices provide no accounting guidance for such asset. The statutory admitted value of this life interest at December 31, 2006, is $12.8 million in comparison to a carrying value of $1.9 million in the accompanying consolidated financial statements.


11.  Reconciliations of statutory capital and surplus, as included in the annual statements filed with the Colorado Division of Insurance, to total stockholders' equity as reported in the accompanying consolidated financial statements prepared under GAAP are as follows:

   
Stockholders' Equity
 
   
as of December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
   
(In thousands)
 
           
Statutory capital and surplus
 
$
673,262
   
598,468
 
Adjustments:
             
Difference in valuation of investment in
             
the Libbie Shearn Moody Trust
   
(10,840
)
 
(10,528
)
Deferral of policy acquisition costs and
             
sales inducements
   
737,103
   
700,579
 
Adjustment of future policy benefits
   
(459,838
)
 
(452,872
)
Difference in deferred Federal income taxes
   
(39,467
)
 
(44,867
)
Adjustment of securities available for sale to fair value
   
(16,217
)
 
10,940
 
Reversal of asset valuation reserve
   
42,624
   
46,555
 
Reversal of interest maintenance reserve
   
6,607
   
8,824
 
Reinstatement of other nonadmitted assets
   
20,491
   
17,250
 
Valuation allowances on investments
   
1,669
   
(929
)
Difference in pension liability
   
(10,622
)
 
-
 
Liability for stock options
   
(13,215
)
 
-
 
Other, net
   
1,427
   
588
 
               
GAAP equity
 
$
932,984
   
874,008
 

12.  Reconciliations of statutory net earnings, as included in the annual statements filed with the Colorado Division of Insurance, to the respective amounts as reported in the accompanying consolidated financial statements prepared under GAAP are as follows:

   
Net Earnings for the
 
   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
   
(In thousands)
 
               
Statutory net earnings
 
$
72,585
   
60,074
   
54,216
 
Adjustments:
                   
Subsidiary earnings before deferred
                   
Federal income taxes and intercompany eliminations
   
7,555
   
12,321
   
8,264
 
Net deferral of policy acquisition and
                   
sales inducement costs
   
24,533
   
29,716
   
45,239
 
Adjustment of future policy benefits
   
(10,555
)
 
(18,568
)
 
42,921
 
Provision for deferred Federal income taxes
   
(1,761
)
 
(5,494
)
 
(29,583
)
Valuation allowances and other-than-temporary
                   
impairment writedowns on investments
   
1,123
   
222
   
1,022
 
Increase (decrease) in interest maintenance reserve
   
(2,217
)
 
(1,179
)
 
881
 
Stock option compensation expense
   
(13,076
)
 
(995
)
 
(979
)
Asset-backed securities amortization adjustment
   
-
   
595
   
2,739
 
Deferred tax from capital loss carryforward
                   
recognized for statutory accounting
   
-
   
-
   
(3,096
)
Other, net
   
(1,844
)
 
575
   
545
 
                     
GAAP net earnings
 
$
76,343
   
77,267
   
122,169
 



(K) Stock Compensation.  SFAS No. 123, Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation established financial accounting and reporting standards for stock-based employee compensation plans. It defines a fair value based method of accounting for employee stock options or similar equity instruments. However, it also allows an entity to continue to measure compensation cost for plans using the intrinsic value based method of accounting prescribed by Accounting Principles Board ("APB") Opinion No. 25, Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees.

In December, 2002, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued SFAS No. 148, Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation - Transition and Disclosure. This statement amends SFAS No. 123 to provide alternative methods of transition for a voluntary change to the fair value based method of accounting for stock-based employee compensation. SFAS No. 148 is effective for fiscal years ending after December 15, 2002.

Under the fair value based method, compensation cost is measured at the grant date based on the fair value of the award and is recognized over the service period, which is usually the vesting period. For stock options, fair value is determined using an option pricing model that takes into account various information and assumptions regarding the Company's stock and options. Under the intrinsic value based method, compensation cost is the excess, if any, of the quoted market price of the stock at grant date or other measurement date over the amount an employee must pay to acquire the stock.

The Company adopted Statement No. 123(R), Share-Based Payment ("SFAS 123(R)") as of January 1, 2006. However, because the Company began recognizing stock-based employee compensation cost using the fair value based method of accounting in 2003, the adoption did not have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements of the Company.

Effective March 10, 2006, the Company began accounting for its share-based compensation under the liability classification and measuring the compensation cost using the fair value method at each reporting date.

(L)  New Accounting Pronouncements. In March 2004, the Emerging Issues Task Force ("EITF") reached a final consensus on Issue 03-1, The Meaning of Other-Than-Temporary Impairment and its Application to Certain Investments. This Issue establishes impairment models for determining whether to record impairment losses associated with investments in certain equity and debt securities and requires expanded disclosures related to securities with unrealized losses. It also requires income to be accrued on a level-yield basis following an impairment of debt securities, where reasonable estimates of the timing and amount of future cash flows can be made. The Company's current policy has generally been to record income only as cash is received following an impairment of a debt security. The application of this Issue was required for reporting periods beginning after June 15, 2004. In September 2004, the FASB approved FASB Staff Position EITF 03-1-1, which deferred the effective date for the recognition and measurement guidance contained in EITF 03-1 until certain issues were resolved. On November 3, 2005, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position ("FSP") Nos. SFAS 115-1 and SFAS 124-1 titled The Meaning of Other-Than-Temporary Impairment and Its Application to Certain Investments. This FSP nullifies certain requirements of EITF 03-1 and carries forward certain requirements and disclosures. The guidance in this FSP is to be applied to reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2005. The Company has adopted the disclosure provisions and has included the required disclosures. The Company adopted FSP Nos. SFAS 115-1 and SFAS 124-1 as of the beginning of fiscal year 2006, and the FSP did not have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements of the Company.

In September 2005, the AICPA issued Statement of Position 05-1, Accounting by Insurance Enterprises for Deferred Acquisition Costs in Connection with Modifications or Exchanges of Insurance Contracts ("SOP 05-1"). SOP 05-1 provides guidance on accounting by insurance enterprises for deferred acquisition costs on internal replacements of insurance and investment contracts other than those specifically described in FASB No. 97. SOP 05-1 defines an internal replacement as a modification in product benefits, features, rights, or coverages that occurs by the exchange of a contract for a new contract, or by amendment, endorsement, or rider to a contract, or by the election of a feature or coverage within a contract. SOP 05-1 is effective for internal replacements occurring in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2006, with earlier adoption encouraged. The Company will have an impact related to the adoption of SOP 05-1 related to contracts which have annuitized and relative to reinstatements of contracts in that the unamortized deferred acquisition costs and deferred sales inducement assets must be released at the time of annuitization and may not be continued related to reinstatements. The effect of this SOP on beginning retained earnings as of January 1, 2007 is expected to be a decrease of $2.2 million, net of tax.


The FASB issued Interpretation No. 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes, an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109 ("FIN 48"), dated June, 2006. The interpretation requires public companies to recognize the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is "more likely than not" to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The amount recognized would be the amount that represents the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being ultimately realized. A liability would be recognized for any benefit claimed, or expected to be claimed, in a tax return in excess of the benefit recorded in the financial statements, along with any interest and penalty (if applicable) on the excess. FIN 48 will require a tabular reconciliation of the change in the aggregate unrecognized tax benefits claimed, or expected to be claimed, in tax returns and disclosure relating to accrued interest and penalties for unrecognized tax benefits. Discussion will also be required for those uncertain tax positions where it is reasonably possible that the estimate of the tax benefit will change significantly in the next 12 months. FIN 48 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2006. Adoption of FIN 48 is not expected to have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.

On February 16, 2006, the FASB issued SFAS 155, Accounting for Certain Hybrid Financial Instruments, which amends SFAS 133, Accounting for Derivatives and Hedging Activities, and SFAS 140, Accounting for Transfers and Servicing of Financial Assets and Extinguishments of Liabilities. Hybrid financial instruments are single financial instruments that contain an embedded derivative. Under SFAS 155, entities can elect to record certain hybrid financial instruments at fair value as individual financial instruments. Prior to this amendment, certain hybrid financial instruments were required to be separated into two instruments - a derivative and host - and generally only the derivative was recorded at fair value. SFAS 155 also requires that beneficial interests in securitized assets be evaluated for either freestanding or embedded derivatives. SFAS 155 is effective for all financial instruments acquired or issued after January 1, 2007. SFAS 155 is not expected to have a material effect on the Company's consolidated financial statements on the date of adoption.

In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, Fair Value Measurements. This Statement defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value in generally accepted accounting principles, and requires additional disclosures about fair value measurements. This Statement does not require any new fair value measurements, but the application of this Statement could change current practices in determining fair value. The Company plans to adopt this guidance effective January 1, 2008. The Company is currently assessing the impact of SFAS No. 157 on the Company's consolidated financial position and results of operations.

In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 158, Employers' Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans an amendment of FASB Statements No. 87, 88, 106 and 132(R). This statement requires an employer on a prospective basis to recognize the overfunded or underfunded status of its defined benefit pension and postretirement plans as an asset or liability in its statement of financial position and to recognize changes in that funded status in the year in which the changes occur through comprehensive income. This requirement, along with the required disclosures, is effective for fiscal years ending after December 15, 2006. SFAS No. 158 also requires an employer on a prospective basis to measure the funded status of its plans as of its fiscal year-end, and is effective for fiscal years ending after December 15, 2008.

Following is the incremental impact of applying SFAS No. 158 on individual line items in the consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2006.

   
Before
     
After
 
   
Application of
     
Application of
 
   
Statement 158
 
Adjustments
 
Statement 158
 
   
(In thousands)
 
               
Other liabilities
 
$
71,914
   
8,766
   
80,680
 
Federal income tax liability, deferred
   
35,275
   
(3,068
)
 
32,207
 
Total liabilities
   
5,754,761
   
5,698
   
5,760,459
 
Accumulated other comprehensive income
   
1,967
   
(5,698
)
 
(3,731
)
Total stockholders’ equity
   
938,682
   
(5,698
)
 
932,984
 



In September 2006, the staff of the SEC issued Staff Accounting Bulletin ("SAB") No. 108, Considering the Effects of Prior Year Misstatements when Quantifying Misstatements in Current Year Financial Statements. The interpretations in this SAB express the staff's views regarding the process of quantifying financial statement misstatements. Specifically, the SEC staff believes that registrants must quantify the impact on current period financial statements of correcting all misstatements, including both those occurring in the current period and the effect of reversing those that have accumulated from prior periods. This SAB should be applied beginning with the first fiscal year ending after November 15, 2006, with early adoption encouraged. The adoption of SAB No. 108 did not impact the financial position and results of operations of the Company.

Other recent accounting pronouncements issued by the FASB (including its Emerging Issues Task Force), the AICPA, and the SEC did not, or are not believed by management to, have a material impact on the Company's present or future consolidated financial statements.


(2) DEPOSITS WITH REGULATORY AUTHORITIES

The following assets were on deposit with state and other regulatory authorities as required by law at the end of each year.

   
December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
   
(In thousands)
 
           
Debt securities held to maturity
 
$
13,757
   
14,146
 
Debt securities available for sale
   
612
   
606
 
Short term investments
   
501
   
223
 
               
Totals
 
$
14,870
   
14,975
 


(3) INVESTMENTS

(A) Investment Income

The major components of net investment income are as follows:

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Gross investment income:
             
Debt securities
 
$
306,129
   
293,502
   
276,624
 
Mortgage loans
   
8,480
   
9,676
   
12,510
 
Policy loans
   
6,354
   
6,409
   
6,483
 
Derivative gains (losses)
   
43,279
   
(10,988
)
 
11,988
 
Other investment income
   
18,407
   
13,975
   
10,351
 
                     
Total investment income
   
382,649
   
312,574
   
317,956
 
Investment expenses
   
2,881
   
2,361
   
2,113
 
                     
Net investment income
 
$
379,768
   
310,213
   
315,843
 

As of December 31, 2006 and 2004 mortgage loans totaling $4.8 million and $0.6 million were on non-accrual status, respectively. The Company had no mortgage loans on non-accrual status as of December 31, 2005. Interest income not recognized for past due loans totaled approximately $0.4 million in 2006. There were no reductions in interest income in 2005, however reductions of $0.4 million and $0.01 million associated with non-performing mortgage loans were noted in 2006 and 2004, respectively. The Company had real estate investments that were non-income producing for the preceding twelve months totaling $2.9 million and $1.9 million at December 31, 2006 and 2005, respectively.


The Company had investments in debt securities with carrying values totaling $1.0 million and $7.6 million as of December 31, 2006 and 2005, respectively that have not produced income for the preceding 12 months. Reductions in interest income associated with nonperforming investments in debt securities totaled $0.1 million, $1.0 million, and $1.1 million in 2006, 2005, and 2004, respectively.

(B) Mortgage Loans and Real Estate

Concentrations of credit risk arising from mortgage loans exist in relation to certain groups of borrowers. A group concentration arises when a number of counterparties have similar economic characteristics that would cause their ability to meet contractual obligations to be similarly affected by changes in economic or other conditions. The Company does not have a significant exposure to any individual customer or counterparty. The major concentrations of mortgage loan credit risk for the Company arise by geographic location in the United States and by property type as detailed below.

   
December 31, 2006
 
December 31, 2005
 
   
Amount
 
%
 
Amount
 
%
 
   
(In thousands)
     
(In thousands)
     
Geographic Region:
                 
West South Central
 
$
68,528
   
66.3
 
$
68,413
   
61.8
 
Mountain
   
10,787
   
10.5
   
15,831
   
14.3
 
Pacific
   
10,684
   
10.3
   
11,342
   
10.3
 
South Atlantic
   
4,718
   
4.6
   
4,838
   
4.4
 
All other
   
8,608
   
8.3
   
10,215
   
9.2
 
                           
Totals
 
$
103,325
   
100.0
 
$
110,639
   
100.0
 

   
December 31, 2006
 
December 31, 2005
 
   
Amount
 
%
 
Amount
 
%
 
   
(In thousands)
     
(In thousands)
     
                   
Property Type:
                 
Retail
 
$
70,922
   
68.7
 
$
75,545
   
68.3
 
Office
   
22,730
   
22.0
   
24,536
   
22.2
 
Land/Lots
   
3,015
   
2.9
   
3,725
   
3.4
 
Hotel/Motel
   
6,649
   
6.4
   
6,797
   
6.1
 
All other
   
9
   
-
   
36
   
-
 
                           
Totals
 
$
103,325
   
100.0
 
$
110,639
   
100.0
 

Mortgage loans with carrying values totaling $4.8 million were considered impaired as of December 31, 2006. No mortgage loans were considered impaired as of December 31, 2005. For the years ended December 31, 2006, 2005, and 2004, average investments in impaired mortgage loans were $0.3 million, $0.1 million, and $4.7 million, respectively. Interest income recognized on impaired loans for the years ended December 31, 2006 and 2004, was $76,000 and $0.9 million, respectively and none for the year ended December 31, 2005. Impaired loans are typically placed on nonaccrual status, and no interest income is recognized. However, if cash is received on the impaired loan, it is applied to principal and interest on past due payments, beginning with the most delinquent payment.

At December 31, 2006 and 2005, the Company owned investment real estate totaling $12.1 million and $13.4 million, respectively, which is reflected in other long-term investments in the accompanying consolidated financial statements. The Company records real estate at the lower of cost or fair value less estimated costs to sell. Real estate values are monitored and evaluated at least annually by the use of independent appraisals or internal evaluations. Changes in market values affecting carrying values are recorded as a valuation allowance which is reflected in realized gains or losses on investments. For the year ended December 31, 2004, the Company recorded a net gain on real estate due to increases in market values totaling $0.8 million. Additional gains totaling $0.7 million and $0.6 million were recorded for the year ended December 31, 2005 and 2004, respectively, as a result of releasing allowances related to properties sold.


(C) Investment Gains and Losses

The table below presents realized gains and losses and changes in unrealized gains and losses on investments for 2006, 2005, and 2004. Changes in unrealized gains and losses on investment securities available for sale are net of the effects of deferred costs and taxes.

       
Change in
 
   
Realized
 
Unrealized
 
   
Investments
 
Investment
 
   
Gains
 
Gains (Losses)
 
   
(Losses)
 
From Prior Year
 
   
(In thousands)
 
           
Year Ended December 31, 2006:
         
Securities held to maturity
 
$
26
   
(35,078
)
Securities available for sale
   
4,110
   
(7,253
)
Real estate
   
626
   
-
 
Other
   
(2,100
)
 
-
 
               
Totals
 
$
2,662
   
(42,331
)
               
Year Ended December 31, 2005:
             
Securities held to maturity
 
$
628
   
(93,709
)
Securities available for sale
   
2,176
   
(14,631
)
Real estate
   
6,713
   
-
 
Other
   
367
   
-
 
               
Totals
 
$
9,884
   
(108,340
)
               
Year Ended December 31, 2004:
             
Securities held to maturity
 
$
2,490
   
(10,353
)
Securities available for sale
   
(846
)
 
2,565
 
Other
   
1,862
   
-
 
               
Totals
 
$
3,506
   
(7,788
)



(D) Debt and Equity Securities

The tables below present amortized cost and fair values of securities held to maturity and securities available for sale at December 31, 2006.

   
Securities Held to Maturity
 
       
Gross
 
Gross
     
   
Amortized
 
Unrealized
 
Unrealized
 
Fair
 
   
Cost
 
Gains
 
Losses
 
Value
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Debt securities:
                 
U.S. Treasury and other U.S.
                 
government corporations
                 
and agencies
 
$
401,662
   
614
   
8,641
   
393,635
 
                           
States and political subdivisions
   
13,282
   
18
   
145
   
13,155
 
                           
Foreign governments
   
19,921
   
219
   
95
   
20,045
 
                           
Public utilities
   
349,994
   
7,952
   
6,094
   
351,852
 
                           
Corporate
   
1,171,088
   
13,406
   
21,061
   
1,163,433
 
                           
Mortgage-backed
   
1,552,611
   
3,827
   
25,693
   
1,530,745
 
                           
Asset-backed
   
94,876
   
1,037
   
1,153
   
94,760
 
                           
Totals
 
$
3,603,434
   
27,073
   
62,882
   
3,567,625
 

   
Securities Available for Sale
 
       
Gross
 
Gross
     
   
Amortized
 
Unrealized
 
Unrealized
 
Fair
 
   
Cost
 
Gains
 
Losses
 
Value
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Debt securities:
                 
U.S. Treasury and other U.S.
                 
government corporations
                 
and agencies
 
$
45,893
   
17
   
-
   
45,910
 
                           
States and political subdivisions
   
43,090
   
2,353
   
98
   
45,345
 
                           
Foreign governments
   
10,526
   
162
   
54
   
10,634
 
                           
Public utilities
   
277,691
   
2,146
   
6,181
   
273,656
 
                           
Corporate
   
1,221,165
   
18,420
   
25,911
   
1,213,674
 
                           
Mortgage-backed
   
269,685
   
1,203
   
5,966
   
264,922
 
                           
Asset-backed
   
26,977
   
369
   
122
   
27,224
 
                           
Equity securities
   
12,427
   
8,927
   
151
   
21,203
 
                           
Totals
 
$
1,907,454
   
33,597
   
38,483
   
1,902,568
 



The tables below present amortized cost and fair values of securities held to maturity and securities available for sale at December 31, 2005.

   
Securities Held to Maturity
 
       
Gross
 
Gross
     
   
Amortized
 
Unrealized
 
Unrealized
 
Fair
 
   
Cost
 
Gains
 
Losses
 
Value
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Debt securities:
                 
U.S. Treasury and other U.S.
                 
government corporations
                 
and agencies
 
$
306,260
   
575
   
6,573
   
300,262
 
                           
States and political subdivisions
   
13,220
   
87
   
39
   
13,268
 
                           
Foreign governments
   
19,899
   
608
   
-
   
20,507
 
                           
Public utilities
   
419,996
   
13,300
   
2,359
   
430,937
 
                           
Corporate
   
1,186,392
   
23,687
   
15,579
   
1,194,500
 
                           
Mortgage-backed
   
1,450,375
   
6,165
   
19,932
   
1,436,608
 
                           
Asset-backed
   
128,582
   
1,581
   
2,252
   
127,911
 
                           
Totals
 
$
3,524,724
   
46,003
   
46,734
   
3,523,993
 

   
Securities Available for Sale
 
       
Gross
 
Gross
     
   
Amortized
 
Unrealized
 
Unrealized
 
Fair
 
   
Cost
 
Gains
 
Losses
 
Value
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Debt securities:
                 
States and political subdivisions
 
$
39,397
   
1,740
   
417
   
40,720
 
                           
Foreign governments
   
10,576
   
277
   
4
   
10,849
 
                           
Public utilities
   
240,541
   
3,599
   
2,803
   
241,337
 
                           
Corporate
   
1,123,539
   
26,783
   
16,408
   
1,133,914
 
                           
Mortgage-backed
   
268,104
   
1,926
   
5,160
   
264,870
 
                           
Asset-backed
   
31,239
   
1,611
   
108
   
32,742
 
                           
Equity securities
   
12,856
   
7,633
   
194
   
20,295
 
                           
Totals
 
$
1,726,252
   
43,569
   
25,094
   
1,744,727
 



Due to the Company's investment policy of investing in high quality securities with the primary intention of holding these securities until the stated maturity, the portfolio does have exposure to interest rate risk. Interest rate risk is the risk that funds are invested today at a market interest rate and in the future interest rates rise causing the current market price on that investment to be lower. This risk is not a significant factor relative to the Company's buy and hold portfolio, since the original intention was to receive the stated interest rate and principal at maturity to match liability requirements of policyholders. Also, the Company takes steps to manage these risks. For example, the Company purchases the type of mortgage-backed securities that have more predictable cash flow patterns.

In addition, the Company is exposed to credit risk which is continually monitored relating to security holdings. Credit risk is the risk that an issuer of a security will not be able to fulfill their obligations relative to a security payment schedule. The Company has reviewed relative information for all issuers in an unrealized loss position at December 31, 2006 including market pricing history, credit ratings, analyst reports as well as data provided by issuers themselves to conclude on each specific issuer and make the determination relating to other-than-temporary impairment. For the securities that have not been impaired at December 31, 2006, the Company has the ability and intent to hold these securities until recovery in fair value and expects to receive all amounts due relative to principal and interest.

The Company held in its investment portfolio below investment grade debt securities totaling $146.6 million and $170.5 million at December 31, 2006 and 2005, respectively. These amounts represent 2.5% and 3.1% of total invested assets for December 31, 2006 and 2005, respectively. Below investment grade holdings are the result of downgrades subsequent to purchase, as the Company only invests in high quality securities with ratings quoted as investment grade. Below investment grade securities generally have greater default risk than higher rated corporate debt. The issuers of these securities are usually more sensitive to adverse industry or economic conditions than are investment grade issuers. For the years ended December 31, 2006, 2005, and 2004, the Company recorded realized losses totaling $0.1 million, $2.0 million, and $3.6 million, respectively, for other-than-temporary impairment writedowns on investments in debt securities.

The following table shows the gross unrealized losses and fair values of the Company's investments by investment category and length of time the individual securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position at December 31, 2006.

   
Less than 12 Months
 
12 Months or Greater
 
Total
 
   
Fair
 
Unrealized
 
Fair
 
Unrealized
 
Fair
 
Unrealized
 
   
Value
 
Losses
 
Value
 
Losses
 
Value
 
Losses
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Debt securities:
                         
U.S. government agencies
 
$
84,630
   
544
   
260,838
   
8,097
   
345,468
   
8,641
 
                                       
State and political
                                     
subdivisions
   
9,945
   
55
   
11,579
   
188
   
21,524
   
243
 
                                       
Foreign governments
   
11,861
   
108
   
3,234
   
41
   
15,095
   
149
 
                                       
Public utilities
   
111,575
   
946
   
264,522
   
11,329
   
376,097
   
12,275
 
                                       
Corporate
   
394,499
   
5,937
   
955,626
   
41,035
   
1,350,125
   
46,972
 
                                       
Mortgage-backed
   
313,895
   
4,130
   
1,033,452
   
27,529
   
1,347,347
   
31,659
 
                                       
Asset-backed
   
12,809
   
52
   
29,052
   
1,223
   
41,861
   
1,275
 
                                       
Debt securities
   
939,214
   
11,772
   
2,558,303
   
89,442
   
3,497,517
   
101,214
 
                                       
Equity securities
   
1,633
   
18
   
2,372
   
133
   
4,005
   
151
 
                                       
Total temporarily
                                     
impaired securities
 
$
940,847
   
11,790
   
2,560,675
   
89,575
   
3,501,522
   
101,365
 



Debt securities. The gross unrealized losses for debt securities are made up of 414 individual issues, or 57% of the total debt securities held by the Company. The market value of these bonds as a percent of amortized cost averages above 97.2%. Of the 414 securities, 160, or approximately 39%, fall in the 12 months or greater aging category; of the debt securities 397 were rated investment grade at December 31, 2006. Additional information on debt securities by investment category is summarized below.

U.S. treasury and U.S. government corporations and agencies. The unrealized losses on these investments were caused by interest rate volatility. The contractual terms of these investments do not permit the issuer to settle the securities at a price less than par, and the Company has the ability and intent to hold these investments until a recovery of fair value, which may be maturity. All of these securities are rated AAA. The Company does not consider these investments to be other than temporarily impaired at December 31, 2006.

State and political subdivisions. The unrealized losses on these investments are the result of holdings in eight securities. Of these securities, seven are in an unrealized loss position for greater than 12 months, for which the market value as a percent of book value is 98.4%. Based on these facts and the Company's intent to hold to maturity, no other-than-temporary loss was recognized as of December 31, 2006.

Foreign government. Only two securities are reflected in this category. One investment grade bond purchased at a premium is in the greater than 12 months category but is priced above $100.00. The other security in an unrealized loss position is also investment grade and priced above $98. At this time the Company considers this unrealized loss as temporary.

Public utilities. The market value as a percent of the amortized cost is above 93% for each individual security except one security priced at approximately $88; however, this security has been in this position for less than 12 months and is considered investment grade. Of the 61 securities, all are rated BBB or above except one, which, though rated below investment grade, is priced at $100.00. At this time, the Company does not consider any of these unrealized losses as other-than-temporary.

Corporate bonds. A total of 170 securities fall into this category with only eleven rated below investment grade. Of the 159 that are investment grade, all have a market value as a percent of amortized cost of at least 91%. Of those rated below investment grade, one security has been written down due to other-than-temporary impairment. Of the remaining securities all have been reviewed based on the monitoring procedures described previously including review of credit ratings, analyst reports, and issuer information and are not considered other-than-temporarily impaired at December 31, 2006.

Mortgage-backed securities. These securities are all rated AAA and priced at $91.00 or above. The Company generally purchased these investments at a discount relative to their face amount and it is expected that the securities will not be settled at a price less than the stated par. Because the decline in market value is attributable to changes in interest rates and not credit quality, and because the Company has the ability and intent to hold these securities until a recovery of fair value, which may be maturity, the Company does not consider these investments to be other-than-temporarily impaired at December 31, 2006.

Asset-backed securities. Of these securities, six are priced above $94.00 and are not considered impaired. The other three securities are all monitored under SOP 03-3 and SFAS No. 115-1 impairment guidance and based on the cash flow analysis only one security was impaired during the third quarter of 2006.

Equity securities. The gross unrealized losses for equity securities are made up of nine individual issues. These holdings are reviewed for impairment quarterly. As of December 31, 2006, no impairment is deemed necessary.



The following table shows the gross unrealized losses and fair values of the Company's investments by investment category and length of time the individual securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position at December 31, 2005.

   
Less than 12 Months
 
12 Months or Greater
 
Total
 
   
Fair
 
Unrealized
 
Fair
 
Unrealized
 
Fair
 
Unrealized
 
   
Value
 
Losses
 
Value
 
Losses
 
Value
 
Losses
 
Debt Securities:
 
(In thousands)
 
U.S. government agencies
 
$
163,178
   
2,416
   
111,876
   
4,157
   
275,054
   
6,573
 
                                       
State and political
                                     
subdivisions
   
10,187
   
137
   
2,181
   
319
   
12,368
   
456
 
                                       
Foreign
                                     
governments
   
3,279
   
4
   
-
   
-
   
3,279
   
4
 
                                       
Public utilities
   
215,032
   
3,028
   
70,832
   
2,134
   
285,864
   
5,162
 
                                       
Corporate
   
618,353
   
13,761
   
412,537
   
18,226
   
1,030,890
   
31,987
 
                                       
Mortgage-backed
   
616,184
   
9,396
   
426,583
   
15,696
   
1,042,767
   
25,092
 
                                       
Asset-backed
   
14,208
   
46
   
25,191
   
2,314
   
39,399
   
2,360
 
                                       
Debt securities
   
1,640,421
   
28,788
   
1,049,200
   
42,846
   
2,689,621
   
71,634
 
                                       
Equity securities
   
375
   
26
   
3,236
   
168
   
3,611
   
194
 
                                       
Total temporarily
                                     
impaired securities
 
$
1,640,796
   
28,814
   
1,052,436
   
43,014
   
2,693,232
   
71,828
 

The amortized cost and fair value of investments in debt securities at December 31, 2006, by contractual maturity, are shown below. Expected maturities may differ from contractual maturities because borrowers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties.

   
Debt Securities
 
Debt Securities
 
   
Available for Sale
 
Held to Maturity
 
   
Amortized
 
Fair
 
Amortized
 
Fair
 
   
Cost
 
Value
 
Cost
 
Value
 
   
(In thousands)
 
                   
Due in 1 year or less
 
$
195,683
   
197,102
   
76,322
   
76,731
 
                           
Due after 1 year through 5 years
   
243,602
   
252,564
   
357,777
   
370,657
 
                           
Due after 5 years through 10 years
   
1,056,278
   
1,034,803
   
1,185,874
   
1,167,462
 
                           
Due after 10 years
   
102,802
   
104,750
   
335,974
   
327,270
 
     
1,598,365
   
1,589,219
   
1,955,947
   
1,942,120
 
                           
Mortgage and asset-backed securities
   
296,662
   
292,146
   
1,647,487
   
1,625,505
 
                           
Total
 
$
1,895,027
   
1,881,365
   
3,603,434
   
3,567,625
 



The Company uses the specific identification method in computing realized gains and losses. Proceeds from sales of securities available for sale during 2006, 2005, and 2004 totaled $36.4 million, $29.2 million, and $49.8 million, respectively. Gross gains and losses realized on those sales are detailed below.

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
   
(In thousands)
 
               
Gross realized gains
 
$
4,587
   
3,930
   
2,600
 
Gross realized losses
   
(433
)
 
(255
)
 
(451
)
                     
Net realized gains
 
$
4,154
   
3,675
   
2,149
 

No held to maturity securities were transferred or sold during 2006. Due to a significant decline in credit quality, the Company transferred debt securities totaling $7.0 million in 2005 and $35.9 million in 2004 from held to maturity to the available for sale portfolio. Net unrealized gains of $0.2 million in both 2005 and 2004, related to these transferred securities are included as a separate component of accumulated other comprehensive income. Due to significant credit deterioration, bonds from the held to maturity portfolio were sold during 2005 and 2004. The amortized cost of these bonds sold totaled $10.0 million and $8.1 million, which resulted in realized gains of $0.9 million and $0.6 million for 2005 and 2004, respectively.

Except for U.S. government agency mortgage-backed securities, the Company had no other investments in any entity in excess of 10% of stockholders' equity at December 31, 2006 or 2005.

(E) Transfers of Securities

On January 1, 2001, the Company made transfers totaling $112 million to the held to maturity category from securities available for sale. Lower holdings of securities available for sale significantly reduce the Company's exposure to equity volatility while still providing securities for liquidity and asset/liability management purposes. The transfers of securities were recorded at fair values in accordance with SFAS No. 115, Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities. This Statement requires that the unrealized holding gain or loss at the date of the transfer continue to be reported in a separate component of stockholders' equity and be amortized over the remaining life of the security as an adjustment of yield in a manner consistent with the amortization of any premium or discount. The amortization of an unrealized holding gain or loss reported in equity will offset or mitigate the effect on interest income of the amortization of the premium or discount for the held to maturity securities. The transfer of securities from available for sale to held to maturity had no effect on net earnings of the Company. However, stockholders' equity was adjusted as follows:

   
Net Unrealized Gains (Losses)
 
   
as of December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
   
(In thousands)
 
               
Beginning unamortized losses from transfers
 
$
(104
)
 
(122
)
 
(367
)
                     
Amortization of net unrealized losses related
                   
to transferred securities, net of effects of
                   
deferred costs and taxes
   
25
   
18
   
245
 
                     
Ending unamortized losses from transfers
 
$
(79
)
 
(104
)
 
(122
)



(F) Net Unrealized Gains on Available for Sale Securities

Net unrealized gains on investment securities included in stockholders' equity at December 31, 2006 and 2005, are as follows:

   
December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
   
(In thousands)
 
           
Gross unrealized gains
 
$
33,597
   
43,569
 
Gross unrealized losses
   
(38,483
)
 
(25,094
)
Adjustments for:
             
Deferred costs
   
9,849
   
(2,314
)
Deferred Federal income tax expense
   
(1,736
)
 
(5,656
)
               
     
3,227
   
10,505
 
Net unrealized losses related to securities
             
transferred to held to maturity
   
(79
)
 
(104
)
               
Net unrealized gains on investment securities
 
$
3,148
   
10,401
 


(4) REINSURANCE

Effective January 1, 2004, the Company began reinsuring any risk on any one life in excess of $250,000, subject to a minimum session of $50,000. The Company's general policy prior to December 31, 2003 was to reinsure that portion of any risk in excess of $200,000 on the life of any one individual. The Company is party to several reinsurance agreements. Total life insurance in force was $15.9 billion and $14.7 billion at December 31, 2006 and 2005, respectively. Of these amounts, life insurance in force totaling $4.1 billion and $3.5 billion was ceded to reinsurance companies, primarily on a yearly renewable term basis, at December 31, 2006 and 2005, respectively. In accordance with the reinsurance contracts, reinsurance receivables including amounts related to claims incurred but not reported and liabilities for future policy benefits totaled $16.5 million and $9.7 million at December 31, 2006 and 2005, respectively. Premiums and contract revenues were reduced by $13.5 million, $12.3 million, and $13.0 million for reinsurance premiums incurred during 2006, 2005, and 2004, respectively. Benefit expenses were reduced by $17.7 million, $8.2 million, and $6.4 million, for reinsurance recoveries during 2006, 2005, and 2004, respectively. A contingent liability exists with respect to reinsurance, as the Company remains liable if the reinsurance companies are unable to meet their obligations under the existing agreements. The Company does not assume reinsurance.



(5) FEDERAL INCOME TAXES

Total Federal income taxes for 2006, 2005, and 2004 were allocated as follows:

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
   
(In thousands)
 
               
Taxes (benefits) on earnings from continuing operations:
             
Current
 
$
38,711
   
32,874
   
34,441
 
Deferred
   
1,761
   
6,744
   
131
 
                     
Taxes on earnings before cumulative effect of
                   
change in accounting principle
   
40,472
   
39,618
   
34,572
 
Taxes on cumulative effect of change in accounting
                   
principle
   
-
   
-
   
29,452
 
                     
Taxes on earnings
   
40,472
   
39,618
   
64,024
 
                     
Taxes (benefits) on components of stockholders' equity:
                   
Net unrealized gains and losses on
                   
securities available for sale
   
(3,905
)
 
(7,879
)
 
1,381
 
Foreign currency translation adjustments
   
(96
)
 
70
   
(69
)
Minimum pension liability adjustment
   
(5,385
)
 
(191
)
 
(254
)
Tax benefit from exercise of stock options
   
-
   
(1,170
)
 
(1,186
)
                     
Total Federal income taxes
 
$
31,086
   
30,448
   
63,896
 

The provisions for Federal income taxes attributable to earnings from continuing operations vary from amounts computed by applying the statutory income tax rate to earnings before Federal income taxes. The reasons for the differences and the corresponding tax effects are as follows:

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
   
(In thousands)
 
               
Income tax expense at statutory rate
 
$
40,885
   
40,910
   
35,715
 
Tax-exempt income
   
(2,003
)
 
(1,719
)
 
(1,594
)
Other
   
1,590
   
427
   
451
 
                     
Taxes on earnings from continuing operations
 
$
40,472
   
39,618
   
34,572
 

There were no deferred taxes attributable to enacted tax rate changes for the years ended December 31, 2006, 2005, and 2004.



The tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to significant portions of the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities at December 31, 2006 and 2005 are presented below.
 
   
December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Deferred tax assets:
         
Future policy benefits, excess of financial
         
accounting liabilities over tax liabilities
 
$
188,466
   
187,388
 
Debt securities writedowns for financial
             
accounting purposes
   
8,043
   
8,436
 
Capital loss carryforward
   
508
   
152
 
Pension liabilities
   
5,812
   
1,689
 
Real estate, principally due to writedowns
             
for financial accounting purposes
   
1,129
   
1,409
 
Accrued operating expenses recorded for financial
             
accounting purposes not currently tax deductible
   
6,450
   
746
 
Mortgage loans, principally due to valuation
             
allowances for financial accounting purposes
   
735
   
-
 
Accrued and unearned investment income
             
recognized for tax purposes and deferred for
             
financial accounting purposes
   
160
   
223
 
Other
   
90
   
464
 
               
Total gross deferred tax assets
   
211,393
   
200,507
 
               
Deferred tax liabilities:
             
Deferred policy acquisition and sales inducement
             
costs, principally expensed for tax purposes
   
(229,978
)
 
(223,576
)
Net unrealized gains on securities available for sale
   
(1,695
)
 
(5,600
)
Debt securities, principally due to deferred
             
market discount for tax
   
(2,520
)
 
(3,492
)
Foreign currency translation adjustments
   
(3,297
)
 
(2,781
)
Fixed assets, due to different basis’s
   
(3,275
)
 
(2,264
)
Real estate, principally due to differences in tax and
             
financial accounting for depreciation
   
(176
)
 
(529
)
Other
   
(2,659
)
 
-
 
               
Total gross deferred tax liabilities
   
(243,600
)
 
(238,242
)
               
Net deferred tax liabilities
 
$
(32,207
)
 
(37,735
)
 
There was no valuation allowance for deferred tax assets at December 31, 2006 and 2005. In assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets, management considers whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The ultimate realization of deferred tax assets is dependent upon the generation of future taxable income during the periods in which those temporary differences become deductible. Management considers the scheduled reversal of deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable income, and tax planning strategies in making this assessment. Based upon the level of historical taxable income and projections for future taxable income over the periods in which the deferred tax assets are deductible, management believes it is more likely than not that the Company will realize the benefits of these deductible differences.



The Company files a consolidated Federal income tax return with its subsidiaries. Allocation of the consolidated tax liability is based on separate return calculations pursuant to the "wait-and-see" method as described in sections 1.1552-1(a)(1) and 1.1502-33(d)(2) of the current Treasury Regulations. Under this method, consolidated group members are not given current credit for net losses until future net taxable income is generated to realize such credits.


(6) TRANSACTIONS WITH CONTROLLING STOCKHOLDER AND AFFILIATES

(A) Life Interest in Libbie Shearn Moody Trust

The Company's wholly-owned subsidiary, NWL Services, Inc., is the beneficial owner of a life interest (1/8 share) in the net income of the trust estate of Libbie Shearn Moody ("Trust") which was previously owned by Robert L. Moody, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Company. The Company has issued term insurance policies on the life of Mr. Moody which are reinsured through agreements with unaffiliated insurance companies. The Company is the beneficiary of these policies for an amount equal to the statutory admitted value of the Trust, which was $12.8 million at December 31, 2006. The excess of the $27.0 million face amount of the reinsured policies over the statutory admitted value of the Trust has been assigned to Mr. Moody. The recorded net asset values in the accompanying consolidated financial statements for the life interest in the Trust are as follows:

   
December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
   
(In thousands)
 
           
Original valuation of life interest at February 26, 1960
 
$
13,793
   
13,793
 
Less accumulated amortization
   
(11,858
)
 
(11,546
)
               
Carrying basis at year end
 
$
1,935
   
2,247
 

Income from the Trust and related expenses reflected in the accompanying consolidated statements of earnings are summarized as follows:

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
   
(In thousands)
 
               
Income distributions
 
$
4,500
   
3,915
   
3,738
 
Deduct:
                   
Amortization
   
(312
)
 
(308
)
 
(306
)
Reinsurance premiums
   
(807
)
 
(807
)
 
(701
)
                     
Net income from life interest in the Trust
 
$
3,381
   
2,800
   
2,731
 



(B) Common Stock

Robert L. Moody, Chairman of the Board of Directors, owns 198,074 of the total outstanding shares of the Company's Class B common stock and 1,159,096 of the Class A common stock as of December 31, 2006.

Holders of the Company's Class A common stock elect one-third of the Board of Directors of the Company, and holders of the Class B common stock elect the remainder. Any cash or in-kind dividends paid on each share of Class B common stock shall be only one-half of the cash or in-kind dividends paid on each share of Class A common stock. Also, in the event of liquidation of the Company, the Class A stockholders shall first receive the par value of their shares; then the Class B stockholders shall receive the par value of their shares; and the remaining net assets of the Company shall be divided between the stockholders of both Class A and Class B common stock, based on the number of shares held.


(7) PENSION AND OTHER POSTRETIREMENT PLANS

(A) Defined Benefit Pension Plans

The Company sponsors a qualified defined benefit pension plan covering substantially all employees. The plan provides benefits based on the participants' years of service and compensation. The Company makes annual contributions to the plan that comply with the minimum funding provisions of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 ("ERISA"). Fair values of plan assets and liabilities are measured as of December 31 for the respective year. A detail of plan disclosures is provided below.

Obligations and Funded Status

   
December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Changes in projected benefit obligations:
         
Projected benefit obligations at beginning of year
 
$
17,452
   
16,398
 
Service cost
   
691
   
685
 
Interest cost
   
1,021
   
974
 
Actuarial loss
   
(67
)
 
258
 
Benefits paid
   
(840
)
 
(863
)
               
Projected benefit obligations at end of year
   
18,257
   
17,452
 
               
Changes in plan assets:
             
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year
   
12,808
   
11,779
 
Actual return on plan assets
   
1,175
   
274
 
Contributions
   
1,010
   
1,618
 
Benefits paid
   
(840
)
 
(863
)
               
Fair value of plan assets at end of year
   
14,153
   
12,808
 
               
Funded status at end of year
 
$
(4,104
)
 
(4,644
)




   
December 31,
 
   
2006
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Amounts recognized in the Company's consolidated
     
financial statements:
     
Assets
 
$
-
 
Liabilities
   
(4,104
)
         
Net amount recognized
 
$
(4,104
)

Amounts recognized in accumulated other
     
comprehensive income:
     
Net loss
 
$
5,532
 
Prior service cost
   
35
 
         
Net amount recognized
 
$
5,567
 

The accumulated benefit obligation was $17.0 million and $16.1 million at December 31, 2006 and 2005, respectively.

Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Components of net periodic benefit costs:
             
Service cost
 
$
691
   
685
   
591
 
Interest cost
   
1,021
   
974
   
925
 
Expected return on plan assets
   
(947
)
 
(910
)
 
(834
)
Amortization of prior service cost
   
4
   
4
   
4
 
Amortization of net loss
   
352
   
331
   
283
 
                     
Net periodic benefit cost
 
$
1,121
   
1,084
   
969
 

Assumptions
 
   
December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine
         
benefit obligations:
         
Discount rate
   
6.00
%
 
6.00
%
Rate of compensation increase
   
4.50
%
 
4.50
%
 
   
December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
               
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine
             
net periodic benefit cost:
             
Discount rate
   
6.00
%
 
6.00
%
 
6.25
%
Expected long-term return on plan assets
   
7.50
%
 
7.50
%
 
7.50
%
Rate of compensation increase
   
4.50
%
 
4.50
%
 
4.50
%



The assumed long-term rate of return on plan assets is generally set at the rate expected to be earned based on long-term investment policy of the plan and the various classes of invested funds, based on the input of the plan's investment advisors and consulting actuary and the plan's historic rate of return. As of December 31, 2006, the plan's average 10-year and inception-to-date returns were 6.74% and 7.87%, respectively.

Plan Assets

The plan's weighted-average asset allocations by asset category are as follows:

   
December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
               
Asset Category
             
Equity securities
   
60
%
 
57
%
 
58
%
Debt securities
   
35
%
 
34
%
 
34
%
Cash and cash equivalents
   
5
%
 
9
%
 
8
%
                     
Total
   
100
%
 
100
%
 
100
%

The Company has established and maintains an investment policy statement for the assets held in the plan's trust. The investment strategies are of a long-term nature and are designed to meet the following objectives:
 
·  
ensure that funds are available to pay benefits as they become due
·  
set forth an investment structure detailing permitted assets and expected allocation ranges among classes
·  
insure that plan assets are managed in accordance with ERISA

The investment policy statement sets forth the following acceptable ranges for each asset's class.

Asset Category
 
Acceptable Range
Equity securities
 
55-65%
Debt securities
 
30-40%
Cash
 
 0-15%

Deviations from these ranges are permitted if such deviations are consistent with the duty of prudence under ERISA. Investments in natural resources, venture capital, precious metals, futures and options, real estate, and other vehicles which do not have readily available objective valuations are not permitted. Short sales, use of margin or leverage, and investment in commodities and art objects are also prohibited.

The investment policy statement is reviewed annually to insure that the objectives are met considering any changes in benefit plan design, market conditions, or other material considerations.

Contributions

The Company expects to contribute $1.8 million to the plan in 2007.

Estimated Future Benefit Payments

The following benefit payments, which reflect expected future service, as appropriate, are expected to be paid (in thousands):
 
2007
$
942 
2008
 
1,021 
2009
 
1,067 
2010
 
1,139 
2011
 
1,235 
2012-2016
 
6,610 


The Company also sponsors three non-qualified defined benefit pension plans. The first plan covers certain senior officers and provides benefits based on the participants' years of service and compensation. The primary pension obligations and administrative responsibilities of the plan are maintained by a pension administration firm, which is a subsidiary of American National Insurance Company ("ANICO"). ANICO has guaranteed the payment of pension obligations under the plan. However, the Company has a contingent liability with respect to the pension plan should these entities be unable to meet their obligations under the existing agreements. Also, the Company has a contingent liability with respect to the plan in the event that a plan participant continues employment with the Company beyond age seventy, the aggregate average annual participant salary increases exceed 10% per year, or any additional employees become eligible to participate in the plan. If any of these conditions are met, the Company would be responsible for any additional pension obligations resulting from these items. Amendments were made to this plan to allow an additional employee to participate and to change the benefit formula for the Chairman of the Company. As previously mentioned, these additional obligations are a liability to the Company. Effective December 31, 2004, this plan was frozen with respect to the continued accrual of benefits of the Chairman and the President of the Company in order to comply with law changes under the American Jobs Creation Act of 2004 ("Act").

Effective July 1, 2005, the Company established a second non-qualified defined benefit plan for the benefit of the Chairman of the Company. This plan is intended to provide for post-2004 benefit accruals that mirror and supplement the pre-2005 benefit accruals under the previously discussed non-qualified plan, while complying with the requirements of the Act.

Effective November 1, 2005, the Company established a third non-qualified defined benefit plan for the benefit of the President of the Company. This plan in intended to provide for post-2004 benefit accruals that supplement the pre-2005 benefit accruals under the first non-qualified plan as previously discussed, while complying with the requirements of the Act.

A detail of plan disclosures related to the amendments of the original plan and the additional two plans is provided below:

Obligations and Funded Status

   
December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Changes in projected benefit obligations:
         
Projected benefit obligations at beginning of year
 
$
8,970
   
3,525
 
Service cost
   
1,631
   
1,295
 
Interest cost
   
708
   
292
 
Plan amendments
   
-
   
4,629
 
Actuarial loss
   
3,525
   
(210
)
Benefits paid
   
(1,138
)
 
(561
)
               
Projected benefit obligations at end of year
   
13,696
   
8,970
 
               
Change in plan assets:
             
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year
   
-
   
-
 
Contributions
   
1,138
   
561
 
Benefits paid
   
(1,138
)
 
(561
)
               
Fair value of plan assets at end of year
   
-
   
-
 
               
Funded status at end of year
 
$
(13,696
)
 
(8,970
)




   
December 31,
 
   
2006
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Amounts recognized in the Company's consolidated
     
financial statements:
     
Assets
 
$
-
 
Liabilities
   
(13,696
)
         
Net amount recognized
 
$
(13,696
)

Amounts recognized in accumulated other
     
comprehensive income:
     
Net loss
 
$
3,679
 
Prior service cost
   
4,630
 
         
Net amount recognized
 
$
8,309
 

The accumulated benefit obligation was $10.5 million and $6.0 million at December 31, 2006 and 2005, respectively.

Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Components of net periodic benefit cost:
             
Service cost
 
$
1,631
   
1,295
   
422
 
Interest cost
   
708
   
292
   
178
 
Amortization of prior service cost
   
1,040
   
647
   
291
 
Amortization of net loss
   
182
   
-
   
5
 
                     
Net periodic benefit cost
 
$
3,561
   
2,234
   
896
 

Assumptions

   
December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine
         
benefit obligations:
         
Discount rate
   
6.00
%
 
6.00
%
Rate of compensation increase
   
4.00
%
 
4.00
%
               

   
December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
 2004
 
                
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine
              
net periodic benefit costs:
              
Discount rate
   
6.00
%
 
6.00
%
 
6.25
%
Expected long-term return on plan assets
   
n/a
   
n/a
   
n/a
 
Rate of compensation increase
   
4.00
%
 
4.00
%
 
4.00
%

The plan is unfunded and therefore no assumption has been made related to the expected long-term return on plan assets.


Plan Assets

The plan is unfunded and therefore had no assets at December 31, 2006 or 2005.

Contributions

The Company expects to contribute $1.4 million to the plan in 2007.

Estimated Future Benefit Payments

The following benefit payments, which reflect expected future service, as appropriate, are expected to be paid (in thousands):

2007
$
1,456
2008
 
1,710
2009
 
1,896
2010
 
1,892
2011
 
1,888
2012-2016
 
9,442

The Company expects to recognize $1.1 million of net prior service cost and $0.5 million of net loss as net periodic pension cost in 2007 for the defined benefit plans.
 
(B) Defined Contribution Pension Plans

In addition to the defined benefit pension plans, the Company sponsors a qualified 401(k) plan for substantially all employees and a non-qualified deferred compensation plan primarily for senior officers. The Company makes annual contributions to the 401(k) plan of two percent of each employee's compensation. Additional Company matching contributions of up to two percent of each employee's compensation are also made each year based on the employee's personal level of salary deferrals to the plan. All Company contributions are subject to a vesting schedule based on the employee's years of service. For the years ended December 31, 2006, 2005, and 2004, Company contributions totaled $423,000, $410,000, and $398,000, respectively.

The non-qualified deferred compensation plan was established to allow eligible employees to defer the payment of a percentage of their compensation and to provide for additional Company contributions. Company contributions are subject to a vesting schedule based on the employee's years of service. For the years ended December 31, 2006, 2005, and 2004, Company contributions totaled $32,000, $50,000, and $78,000, respectively.


(C)  Defined Benefit Postretirement Plans

The Company sponsors two health care plans that were amended in 2004 to provide postretirement benefits to certain fully-vested individuals. The plans are unfunded. The Company uses a December 31 measurement date for the plans. A detail of plan disclosures related to these plans is provided below:

Obligations and Funded Status

   
December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Changes in projected benefit obligations:
         
Projected benefit obligations at beginning of year
 
$
1,746
   
1,671
 
Interest cost
   
117
   
100
 
Actuarial gain
   
244
   
(8
)
Benefits paid
   
(54
)
 
(17
)
               
Projected benefit obligations at end of year
   
2,053
   
1,746
 
               
Changes in plan assets:
             
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year
   
-
   
-
 
Contributions
   
54
   
17
 
Benefits paid
   
(54
)
 
(17
)
               
Fair value of plan assets at end of year
   
-
   
-
 
               
Funded status at end of year
 
$
(2,053
)
 
(1,746
)

   
December 31,
 
   
2006
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Amounts recognized in the Company's consolidated
     
financial statements:
     
Assets
 
$
-
 
Liabilities
   
(2,053
)
         
Net amount recognized
 
$
(2,053
)

Amounts recognized in accumulated other
     
comprehensive income:
     
Net gain
 
$
221
 
Prior service cost
   
1,289
 
         
Net amount recognized
 
$
1,510
 

Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost
   
December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
   
(In thousands)
 
           
Components of net periodic benefit cost:
         
Interest cost
 
$
117
   
100
 
Amortization of prior service costs
   
103
   
103
 
               
Net periodic benefit cost
 
$
220
   
203
 


 
Assumptions

A weighted-average discount rate assumption of 6% was used to determine benefit obligations and net periodic benefit cost as of and for the years ended December 31, 2006 and 2005. No assumption was made related to the expected long-term return on plan assets as the plan is unfunded.

For measurement purposes, an 8% annual rate of increase in the per capita cost of covered health care benefits was assumed for 2007 and future years.

Assumed health care trend rates have a significant effect on the amounts reported for the health care plans. A 1% point change in assumed health care cost trend rates would have the following effects for the years ended December 31:

   
2006
 
2005
 
   
1% Point
 
1% Point
 
1% Point
 
1% Point
 
   
Increase
 
Decrease
 
Increase
 
Decrease
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Effect on total of service and interest
                 
cost components
 
$
27
   
(20
)
 
28
   
(20
)
                           
Effect on postretirement benefit obligation
 
$
468
   
(357
)
 
503
   
(346
)

Plan Assets

The plans are unfunded and therefore had no assets at December 31, 2006 and 2005.

Contributions

The following benefit payments, which reflect expected future service, as appropriate, are expected to be paid (in thousands):

2007
 
$
24
2008
   
26
2009
   
28
2010
   
30
2011
   
33
2012-2016
   
207

The Company expects to recognize $1.1 million of net prior service cost and $0.5 million of net loss as net periodic benefit cost in 2007 for the defined benefit plans.


(8) SHORT-TERM BORROWINGS

The Company has available a $40 million bank line of credit primarily for cash management purposes relating to investment transactions. The Company is required to maintain a collateral security deposit in trust with the sponsoring bank equal to 120% of any outstanding liability. The Company had no outstanding liabilities or collateral security deposits with the bank at December 31, 2006 or 2005.



(9) COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

(A) Legal Proceedings

The Company reached a settlement agreement with a class of plaintiffs who had challenged bonus interest rates on certain Company annuity products. The Company vigorously defended the case and denied liability for the claims asserted by the plaintiff in reaching the settlement. The fairness of the settlement agreement was granted final approval by the Court on February 18, 2004. There were no objectors and the order approving the settlement is final and non-appealable. The settlement resulted in a $9.7 million pre-tax charge against 2003 earnings from operations, which represented the maximum settlement fund liability. During 2004, final payments were made to policyholders that opted to participate in this settlement resulting in cash payments totaling $3.2 million pre-tax and an increase of $2.3 million to existing contractholder account balances. Thus, final settlement totaled approximately $5.5 million pre-tax compared to the $9.7 million initially recorded.

On August 26, 2004, the Company entered into an agreement to settle a lawsuit concerning an investment made by the Company more than ten years ago. The investment was sold in 1997. As the result of this settlement, the Company received $2.2 million, which is included in the Company's revenues and pre-tax earnings for the quarter ending September 30, 2004; the lawsuit has been dismissed with prejudice. The lawsuit had been pending for several years, and the costs incurred by the Company in prosecuting the lawsuit have previously been included in the Company's financial statements as such costs were incurred under the category "other operating expenses".

In the course of an audit of a charitable tax-exempt foundation, the Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") raised an issue under the special provisions of the Internal Revenue Code ("IRC") governing tax-exempt private foundations as to certain interest-bearing loans from the Company to another corporation in which the tax-exempt foundation owns stock. The issue is whether such transactions constitute indirect self-dealing by the foundation, the result of which would be excise taxes on the Company by virtue of its participation in such transactions. By letter to the Company dated August 21, 2003, the IRS proposed an initial excise tax liability in the total amount approximating one million dollars as a result of such transactions. The Company disagrees with the IRS analysis. The Company is contesting the matter and expects to prevail on the merits. On October 14, 2003, in response to the IRS letter, the Company requested that this issue instead be referred to the IRS National Office for technical advice. The IRS audit team agreed and the matter was referred in November of 2003 to the IRS National Office. Such technical advice when issued by the IRS National Office will be in the form of a memorandum analyzing the issue which will be binding on the IRS audit team.

The Company has been a plaintiff in various lawsuits and has entered into agreements to settle some of these lawsuits or a portion of these lawsuits. As a result of these settlements, the Company received $5.5 million, which is included in the Company’s revenues and pre-tax earnings for the year ended December 31, 2006.

The Company is a defendant in three class action lawsuits, and one class has been certified regarding an alleged violation of section 17200 of the California Business and Professions Code. Management believes that the Company has good and meritorious defenses and intends to continue to vigorously defend itself against these claims.

The Company is involved or may become involved in various other legal actions, in the normal course of business, in which claims for alleged economic and punitive damages have been or may be asserted, some for substantial amounts. Although there can be no assurances, at the present time, the Company does not anticipate that the ultimate liability arising from potential, pending, or threatened legal actions, will have a material adverse effect on the financial condition or operating results of the Company.

(B) Financial Instruments

In order to meet the financing needs of its customers in the normal course of business, the Company is a party to financial instruments with off-balance sheet risk. These financial instruments are commitments to extend credit which involve elements of credit and interest rate risk in excess of the amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheet.


The Company's exposure to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by the other party to the financial instrument for commitments to extend credit is represented by the contractual amounts, assuming that the amounts are fully advanced and that collateral or other security is of no value. Commitments to extend credit are legally binding agreements to lend to a customer that generally have fixed expiration dates or other termination clauses and may require payment of a fee. Commitments do not necessarily represent future liquidity requirements, as some could expire without being drawn upon. The Company uses the same credit policies in making commitments and conditional obligations as it does for on-balance sheet instruments. The Company controls the credit risk of these transactions through credit approvals, limits, and monitoring procedures. The Company had commitments to extend credit relating to mortgage loans totaling $5.8 million at December 31, 2006. The Company evaluates each customer's creditworthiness on a case-by-case basis. In addition, the Company had commitments at December 31, 2006, of approximately $8.0 million which were approved by the Company’s Board of Directors for the construction of a nursing home facility in Central Texas.

(C) Guaranty Association Assessments

The Company is subject to state guaranty association assessments in all states in which it is licensed to do business. These associations generally guarantee certain levels of benefits payable to resident policyholders of insolvent insurance companies. Many states allow premium tax credits for all or a portion of such assessments, thereby allowing potential recovery of these payments over a period of years. However, several states do not allow such credits.

The Company estimates its liabilities for guaranty association assessments by using the latest information available from the National Organization of Life and Health Insurance Guaranty Associations. The Company monitors and revises its estimates for assessments as additional information becomes available which could result in changes to the estimated liabilities. As of December 31, 2006 and 2005, liabilities for guaranty association assessments totaled $1.7 million and $2.1 million, respectively. Other operating expenses related to state guaranty association assessments were minimal for the years ended December 31, 2006, 2005, and 2004.

(D) Leases

The Company leases its executive office building and various computer and other office related equipment under operating leases. Rental expenses for these leases for the years ended December 31, 2006, 2005, and 2004 were $0.9 million, $0.9 million, and $1.0 million, respectively. Total future annual lease obligations as of December 31, 2006, are as follows (in thousands):

2007
 
$
808
 
2008
   
650
 
2009
   
650
 
2010
   
217
 
2011
   
-
 
2012 and thereafter, in aggregate
   
-
 
         
Total
 
$
2,325
 

(E) Compensation Plan

Effective January 1, 2006, the Company implemented a Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan to provide incentive bonuses to eligible agents. Agents qualify for participation by meeting certain sales goals each year. Company contributions are subject to a vesting schedule based on the agents’ years of qualification in the plan. The Company expects to contribute $0.4 million to the plan in 2007.



(10) STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

(A) Changes in Common Stock Shares Outstanding

Details of changes in shares of common stock outstanding are provided below.

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
   
(In thousands)
 
               
Common stock shares outstanding:
             
Shares outstanding at beginning of year
   
3,613
   
3,584
   
3,547
 
Shares exercised under stock option plan
   
8
   
29
   
37
 
                     
Shares outstanding at end of year
   
3,621
   
3,613
   
3,584
 

(B) Dividend Restrictions

The Company is restricted by state insurance laws as to dividend amounts which may be paid to stockholders without prior approval from the Colorado Division of Insurance. The restrictions are based on statutory earnings and surplus levels of the Company. The maximum dividend payment which may be made without prior approval in 2007 is $70.1 million. On August 18, 2006, the Board of Directors of the Company declared a cash dividend to stockholders on record October 31, 2006 and payable November 29, 2006. The dividends approved were $0.36 per common share to Class A stockholders and $0.18 per common share to Class B stockholders.

(C) Regulatory Capital Requirements

The Colorado Division of Insurance imposes minimum risk-based capital requirements on insurance companies that were developed by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners ("NAIC"). The formulas for determining the amount of risk-based capital ("RBC") specify various weighting factors that are applied to statutory financial balances or various levels of activity based on the perceived degree of risk. Regulatory compliance is determined by a ratio of the Company's regulatory total adjusted capital to its authorized control level RBC, as defined by the NAIC. Companies below specific trigger points or ratios are classified within certain levels, each of which requires specified corrective action. The Company's current statutory capital and surplus is significantly in excess of all RBC requirements.

(D) Share-Based Payments

The Company has a stock and incentive plan ("Plan") which provides for the grant of any or all of the following types of awards to eligible employees: (1) stock options, including incentive stock options and nonqualified stock options; (2) stock appreciation rights, in tandem with stock options or freestanding; (3) restricted stock; (4) incentive awards; and (5) performance awards. The Plan began on April 21, 1995, and was to terminate on April 20, 2005, unless terminated earlier by the Board of Directors. The Plan was amended on June 25, 2004 to extend the termination date to April 20, 2010. The number of shares of Class A, $1.00 par value, common stock which may be issued under the Plan, or as to which stock appreciation rights or other awards may be granted, may not exceed 300,000. These shares may be authorized and unissued shares or treasury shares. The Company has only issued nonqualified stock options.

All of the employees of the Company and its subsidiaries are eligible to participate in the Plan. In addition, directors of the Company, other than Compensation and Stock Option Committee members, are eligible for restricted stock awards, incentive awards, and performance awards. Company directors, including members of the Compensation and Stock Option Committee, are eligible for nondiscretionary stock options. The directors' stock options vest 20% annually following one full year of service to the Company from the date of grant. The officers' stock options vest 20% annually following three full years of service to the Company from the date of grant. Options issued expire after ten years. No awards were issued in 2006 or 2005.


Through December 31, 2005, the Company classified the Plan as equity awards, and as such, utilized the grant date fair value method to measure compensation. Effective March 10, 2006, as more fully described below, the Company's Plan classification was changed to liability and accordingly, the Company began using the current fair value method to measure compensation cost. Nonqualified stock options were not issued in 2006 or 2005. The Committee approved the issuance of nonqualified stock options to selected officers of the Company during 2004 totaling 56,750. Additionally, during 2004 the Committee granted 10,000 nonqualified, nondiscretionary stock options to Company directors. The directors' stock options vest 20% annually following one full year of service to the Company from the date of grant. The officers' stock options vest 20% annually following three full years of service to the Company from the date of grant. The exercise prices of the stock options were set at the fair market values of the common stock on the dates of grant. A summary of shares available for grant and stock option activity is detailed below.

       
Options Outstanding
 
   
Shares
     
Weighted-
 
   
Available
     
Average
 
   
For Grant
 
Shares
 
Exercise Price
 
               
Balance at December 31, 2003
   
85,507
   
159,173
 
$
82.67
 
Stock Options:
                   
Granted
   
(66,750
)
 
66,750
   
150.00
 
Exercised
   
-
   
(37,530
)
 
66.55
 
Forfeited
   
1,530
   
(1,530
)
 
94.83
 
                     
Balance at December 31, 2004
   
20,287
   
186,863
   
109.86
 
Stock Options:
                   
Exercised
   
-
   
(28,984
)
 
67.38
 
Forfeited
   
920
   
(920
)
 
123.58
 
                     
Balance at December 31, 2005
   
21,207
   
156,959
   
117.62
 
Stock Options:
                   
Exercised
   
-
   
(23,224
)
 
81.83
 
Forfeited
   
5,270
   
(5,270
)
 
144.29
 
                     
Balance at December 31, 2006
   
26,477
   
128,465
 
$
123.00
 

The total intrinsic value of options exercised was $3.3 million, $3.3 million, and $3.4 million for the years ended December 31, 2006, 2005, and 2004, respectively. The total share-based liabilities paid were $2.2 million for the year ended 2006.

A summary of vested and exercisable options and weighted-average exercise prices is detailed below.

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
               
Vested and exercisable options
   
56,229
   
68,023
   
77,489
 
Weighted-average exercise prices
 
$
103.47
   
96.21
   
83.55
 



The following table summarizes information about stock options outstanding at December 31, 2006.

   
Options Outstanding
   
       
Weighted-
   
       
Average
   
   
Number
 
Remaining
 
Options
   
Outstanding
 
Contractual Life
 
Exercisable
Exercise prices:
           
$
  85.13
 
1,581 
 
0.3 years
 
1,581 
 
105.25
 
20,630 
 
1.3 years
 
20,630 
 
112.38
 
6,800 
 
1.5 years
 
6,800 
 
  92.13
 
30,954 
 
4.3 years
 
16,218 
 
  95.00
 
7,200 
 
4.5 years
 
7,200 
 
150.00
 
61,300 
 
7.4 years
 
3,800 
             
Totals
 
128,465 
     
56,229 
             
Aggregate intrinsic value
           
(in thousands)
$
13,764 
   
$
7,122 

The aggregate intrinsic value in the table above is based on the closing stock price of $230.14 per share on December 31, 2006.

In estimating the fair value of the options outstanding at December 31, the Company employed the Black-Scholes option pricing model with assumptions as detailed below.

Expected term of options
 
2 to 6 years
Expected volatility:
   
    Range
 
15.60% to 24.43%
    Weighted-average
 
19.81%
Expected dividends
 
-   
Risk-free rate:
   
    Range
 
4.69% to 5.01%
    Weighted-average
 
4.8%

The Company reviewed the contractual term relative to the options as well as perceived future behavior patterns of exercise. Volatility is based on historical volatility over the expected term.

The pre-tax compensation cost recognized in the financial statements related to the Plan was $13.1 million, $0.9 million, and $0.9 million for the years ended December 31, 2006, 2005, and 2004, respectively. The related tax benefit recognized was $4.6 million and $0.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2006 and 2005, respectively.


Effective March 10, 2006, the Company adopted and implemented a limited stock buy-back program which provides option holders the additional alternative of selling shares acquired through the exercise of options directly back to the Company. Option holders may elect to sell such acquired shares back to the Company at any time within ninety (90) days after the exercise of options at the prevailing market price as of the date of notice of election. The buy-back program did not alter the terms and conditions of the Plan, however the program necessitated a change in accounting from the equity classification to the liability classification. The modification affected 35 plan participants who had options outstanding on the date of modification and resulted in $11.7 million of total incremental pre-tax compensation cost due to the change from the equity to liability classification.

As of December 31, 2006, the total compensation cost related to nonvested options not yet recognized was $2.9 million. This amount is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 2 years. The Company recognizes compensation cost over the graded vesting periods.

As of December 31, 2006 and 2005, the total cash received from the exercise of options under the Plan was $0.5 million and $2.0 million, respectively.

The Plan offers two alternatives to option holders for exercising options. In the first alternative, option holders have the choice of either holding shares acquired through exercising options, selling the acquired shares in the open market, or requesting a broker-assisted cashless exercise of all or part of the options exercised. A broker-assisted cashless exercise simultaneously executes the exercise of the options and the sale of acquired shares in the open market with the net proceeds payable to the option holder.

In the second alternative, option holders have the option of selling shares acquired through the exercise of options directly back to the Company. Option holders may elect to sell such acquired shares back to the Company at any time within ninety (90) days after the exercise of options at the prevailing market price as of the date set forth in the notice of election.



(11) EARNINGS PER SHARE

Earnings per share amounts for the Company are presented using two different computations. Basic earnings per share excludes dilutive effects of certain securities or contracts, such as stock options, and is computed by dividing income available to common stockholders by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted earnings per share reflects the potential dilution that could occur if securities or other contracts to issue common stock were exercised or converted into common stock or resulted in the issuance of common stock that then shared in the earnings of the entity. Stock options not included in the weighted average number of diluted shares because such shares would have been anti-dilutive were immaterial. The following table sets forth the computations of basic and diluted earnings per share.

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
   
(In thousands except per share amounts)
 
Numerator for Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share:
             
Earnings from continuing operations
             
available to common stockholders
             
before and after assumed conversions:
             
Earnings before cumulative effect of change
             
in accounting principle
 
$
76,343
   
77,267
   
67,472
 
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle
   
-
   
-
   
54,697
 
                     
Net earnings
 
$
76,343
   
77,267
   
122,169
 
                     
Denominator:
                   
Basic earnings per share -
                   
weighted-average shares
   
3,620
   
3,603
   
3,565
 
Effect of dilutive stock options
   
36
   
35
   
38
 
                     
Diluted earnings per share -
                   
adjusted weighted-average shares
                   
for assumed conversions
   
3,656
   
3,638
   
3,603
 
                     
                     
Basic Earnings Per Share:
                   
Earnings before cumulative effect of change
                   
in accounting principle
 
$
21.09
   
21.45
   
18.93
 
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle
   
-
   
-
   
15.34
 
                     
Net earnings
 
$
21.09
   
21.45
   
34.27
 
                     
Diluted Earnings Per Share:
                   
Earnings before cumulative effect of change
                   
in accounting principle
 
$
20.88
   
21.24
   
18.73
 
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle
   
-
   
-
   
15.18
 
                     
Net earnings
 
$
20.88
   
21.24
   
33.91
 


(12) COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

SFAS No. 130, Reporting Comprehensive Income establishes standards for reporting and display of comprehensive income and its components (revenues, expenses, gains, and losses) in a full set of general-purpose financial statements. This Statement requires that all items required to be recognized under accounting standards as components of comprehensive income be reported in a financial statement that is displayed with the same prominence as other financial statements. This statement requires that an enterprise (a) classify items of other comprehensive income by their nature in a financial statement and (b) display the accumulated balance of other comprehensive income separately from retained earnings and additional paid-in capital in the equity section of a statement of financial position.


SFAS No. 130 affects the Company's reporting presentation of certain items such as foreign currency translation adjustments, unrealized gains and losses on investment securities, and minimum pension liabilities. These items are reflected as components of other comprehensive income, as reported in the accompanying consolidated financial statements. Components of other comprehensive income and the related tax effect are provided below for 2006, 2005, and 2004.

   
Amounts
 
Tax
 
Amounts
 
   
Before
 
(Expense)
 
Net of
 
   
Taxes
 
Benefit
 
Taxes
 
   
(In thousands)
 
               
2006:
             
Unrealized gains (losses) on securities, net of effects
             
of deferred costs of $(12,702):
             
Net unrealized holding losses
             
arising during period
 
$
(6,988
)
 
2,446
   
(4,542
)
Reclassification adjustment for net
                   
gains included in net earnings
   
(4,209
)
 
1,473
   
(2,736
)
Amortization of net unrealized losses
                   
related to transferred securities
   
39
   
(14
)
 
25
 
                     
Net unrealized losses on securities
   
(11,158
)
 
3,905
   
(7,253
)
                     
Foreign currency translation adjustments
   
(274
)
 
96
   
(178
)
Minimum pension liability adjustment
   
(1,793
)
 
627
   
(1,166
)
                     
Other comprehensive income (loss)
 
$
(13,225
)
 
4,628
   
(8,597
)

2005:
             
Unrealized gains (losses) on securities, net of effects
             
of deferred costs of $(26,704):
             
Net unrealized holding gains
             
arising during period
 
$
(20,919
)
 
7,322
   
(13,597
)
Reclassification adjustment for net
                   
losses included in net earnings
   
(1,930
)
 
676
   
(1,254
)
Amortization of net unrealized losses
                   
related to transferred securities
   
28
   
(10
)
 
18
 
Unrealized gains on securities transferred
                   
during period from held to maturity
                   
to available for sale
   
311
   
(109
)
 
202
 
                     
Net unrealized gains on securities
   
(22,510
)
 
7,879
   
(14,631
)
                     
Foreign currency translation adjustments
   
200
   
(70
)
 
130
 
Minimum pension liability adjustment
   
(545
)
 
191
   
(354
)
                     
Other comprehensive income
 
$
(22,855
)
 
8,000
   
(14,855
)




   
Amounts
 
Tax
 
Amounts
 
   
Before
 
(Expense)
 
Net of
 
   
Taxes
 
Benefit
 
Taxes
 
   
(In thousands)
 
               
2004:
             
Unrealized gains (losses) on securities, net of effects
             
of deferred costs of $92:
             
Net unrealized holding gains
             
arising during period
 
$
2,467
   
(864
)
 
1,603
 
Reclassification adjustment for net
                   
losses included in net earnings
   
846
   
(296
)
 
550
 
Amortization of net unrealized losses
                   
related to transferred securities
   
377
   
(132
)
 
245
 
Unrealized losses on securities transferred
                   
during period from held to maturity
                   
to available for sale
   
256
   
(89
)
 
167
 
                     
Net unrealized gains on securities
   
3,946
   
(1,381
)
 
2,565
 
                     
Foreign currency translation adjustments
   
(196
)
 
69
   
(127
)
Minimum pension liability adjustment
   
(726
)
 
254
   
(472
)
                     
Other comprehensive income
 
$
3,024
   
(1,058
)
 
1,966
 


(13) SEGMENT AND OTHER OPERATING INFORMATION

(A) Operating Segment Information

Under SFAS No. 131, Disclosures About Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information, the Company defines its reportable operating segments as domestic life insurance, international life insurance, and annuities. The Company's segments are organized based on product types and geographic marketing areas. In addition, the Company regularly evaluates operating performance using non-GAAP financial measures which exclude or segregate realized investment gains and losses from operating revenues and earnings. The Company believes that the presentation of these non-GAAP financial measures enhances the understanding of the Company's results of operations by highlighting the results from ongoing operations and the underlying profitability factors of the Company's business. The Company excludes or segregates realized investment gains and losses because such items are often the result of events which may or may not be at the Company's discretion and the fluctuating effects of these items could distort trends in the underlying profitability of the Company's business.



A summary of segment information, prepared in accordance with SFAS No. 131, is provided below.

   
Domestic
 
International
             
   
Life
 
Life
     
All
     
   
Insurance
 
Insurance
 
Annuities
 
Others
 
Totals
 
   
(In thousands)
 
2006:
                     
Selected Balance Sheet Items:
                 
Deferred policy acquisition
                     
costs and sales inducements
 
$
50,966
   
182,268
   
503,870
   
-
   
737,104
 
Total segment assets
   
381,490
   
715,064
   
5,467,733
   
103,087
   
6,667,374
 
Future policy benefits
   
314,039
   
498,997
   
4,720,421
   
-
   
5,533,457
 
Other policyholder liabilities
   
7,796
   
18,480
   
86,173
   
-
   
112,449
 
                                 
Condensed Income Statements:
                               
Premiums and contract
                               
revenues
 
$
22,731
   
78,005
   
21,389
   
-
   
122,125
 
Net investment income
   
20,462
   
28,530
   
323,326
   
7,450
   
379,768
 
Other income
   
29
   
78
   
5,950
   
11,247
   
17,304
 
Total revenues
   
43,222
   
106,613
   
350,665
   
18,697
   
519,197
 
Life and other policy benefits
   
13,656
   
18,161
   
3,424
   
-
   
35,241
 
Amortization of deferred
                               
policy acquisition costs
   
7,313
   
23,075
   
59,970
   
-
   
90,358
 
Universal life and investment
                               
annuity contract interest
   
9,168
   
25,675
   
178,893
   
-
   
213,736
 
Other operating expenses
   
12,630
   
21,051
   
21,847
   
10,181
   
65,709
 
Federal income taxes
   
158
   
6,460
   
29,972
   
2,950
   
39,540
 
Total expenses
   
42,925
   
94,422
   
294,106
   
13,131
   
444,584
 
Segment earnings
 
$
297
   
12,191
   
56,559
   
5,566
   
74,613
 


2005:
                     
Selected Balance Sheet Items:
                 
Deferred policy acquisition
                     
costs and sales inducements
 
$
46,055
   
164,989
   
489,535
   
-
   
700,579
 
Total segment assets
   
366,939
   
631,477
   
5,256,146
   
94,064
   
6,348,626
 
Future policy benefits
   
307,730
   
444,513
   
4,563,676
   
-
   
5,315,919
 
Other policyholder liabilities
   
10,135
   
16,936
   
73,486
   
-
   
100,557
 
                                 
Condensed Income Statements:
                       
Premiums and contract
                               
revenues
 
$
22,172
   
70,379
   
18,816
   
-
   
111,367
 
Net investment income
   
19,958
   
23,123
   
258,485
   
8,647
   
310,213
 
Other income
   
35
   
75
   
588
   
8,881
   
9,579
 
Total revenues
   
42,165
   
93,577
   
277,889
   
17,528
   
431,159
 
Life and other policy benefits
   
14,932
   
21,232
   
2,998
   
-
   
39,162
 
Amortization of deferred
                               
policy acquisition costs
   
5,798
   
20,389
   
61,768
   
-
   
87,955
 
Universal life and investment
                               
annuity contract interest
   
8,842
   
18,118
   
123,732
   
-
   
150,692
 
Other operating expenses
   
8,349
   
13,359
   
17,019
   
7,622
   
46,349
 
Federal income taxes
   
1,435
   
6,920
   
24,457
   
3,347
   
36,159
 
Total expenses
   
39,356
   
80,018
   
229,974
   
10,969
   
360,317
 
Segment earnings
 
$
2,809
   
13,559
   
47,915
   
6,559
   
70,842
 




   
Domestic
 
International
             
   
Life
 
Life
     
All
     
   
Insurance
 
Insurance
 
Annuities
 
Others
 
Totals
 
   
(In thousands)
 
                       
2004:
                     
Selected Balance Sheet Items:
                 
Deferred policy acquisition
                     
costs and sale inducements
 
$
46,007
   
145,756
   
452,695
   
-
   
644,458
 
Total segment assets
   
361,176
   
568,723
   
4,960,837
   
84,481
   
5,975,217
 
Future policy benefits
   
301,552
   
405,490
   
4,319,816
   
-
   
5,026,858
 
Other policyholder liabilities
   
10,139
   
9,748
   
55,350
   
-
   
75,237
 
                                 
Condensed Income Statements:
                               
Premiums and contract
                               
revenues
 
$
23,324
   
64,239
   
15,975
   
-
   
103,538
 
Net investment income
   
20,283
   
22,821
   
266,151
   
6,588
   
315,843
 
Other income
   
509
   
790
   
1,701
   
8,259
   
11,259
 
Total revenues
   
44,116
   
87,850
   
283,827
   
14,847
   
430,640
 
Life and other policy benefits
   
15,141
   
16,626
   
2,846
   
-
   
34,613
 
Amortization of deferred
                               
policy acquisition costs
   
9,098
   
21,837
   
57,798
   
-
   
88,733
 
Universal life and investment
                               
annuity contract interest
   
8,585
   
18,631
   
146,099
   
-
   
173,315
 
Other operating expenses
   
7,479
   
12,418
   
8,353
   
7,191
   
35,441
 
Federal income taxes
   
1,291
   
6,205
   
23,258
   
2,590
   
33,344
 
Total expenses
   
41,594
   
75,717
   
238,354
   
9,781
   
365,446
 
Segment earnings
 
$
2,522
   
12,133
   
45,473
   
5,066
   
65,194
 

Reconciliations of segment information to the Company's consolidated financial statements are provided below.

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Premiums and Other Revenue:
             
Premiums and contract revenues
 
$
122,125
   
111,367
   
103,538
 
Net investment income
   
379,768
   
310,213
   
315,843
 
Other income
   
17,304
   
9,579
   
11,259
 
Realized gains on investments
   
2,662
   
9,884
   
3,506
 
                     
Total consolidated premiums and other revenue
 
$
521,859
   
441,043
   
434,146
 

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Federal Income Taxes:
             
Total segment Federal income taxes
 
$
39,540
   
36,159
   
33,344
 
Taxes on realized gains on investments
   
932
   
3,459
   
1,228
 
Taxes on cumulative effect of change in
                   
accounting principle
   
-
   
-
   
29,452
 
                     
Total taxes on consolidated net earnings
 
$
40,472
   
39,618
   
64,024
 




   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Net Earnings:
             
Total segment earnings
 
$
74,613
   
70,842
   
65,194
 
Realized gains on investments, net of taxes
   
1,730
   
6,425
   
2,278
 
Cumulative effect of change in accounting
                   
principle, net of taxes
   
-
   
-
   
54,697
 
                     
Total consolidated net earnings
 
$
76,343
   
77,267
   
122,169
 

   
December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Assets:
             
Total segment assets
 
$
6,667,374
   
6,348,626
   
5,975,217
 
Other unallocated assets
   
26,069
   
20,382
   
16,468
 
                     
Total consolidated assets
 
$
6,693,443
   
6,369,008
   
5,991,685
 

(B) Geographic Information

A significant portion of the Company's premiums and contract revenues are from countries other than the United States. Premiums and contract revenues detailed by country are provided below.

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
   
(In thousands)
 
               
United States
 
$
48,561
   
42,403
   
40,420
 
Brazil
   
16,851
   
12,731
   
10,125
 
Taiwan
   
9,052
   
8,398
   
7,240
 
Argentina
   
8,811
   
8,881
   
9,067
 
Chile
   
8,324
   
8,338
   
7,973
 
Peru
   
7,844
   
7,905
   
7,953
 
Other foreign countries
   
36,173
   
35,085
   
32,929
 
                     
Revenues, excluding reinsurance premiums
   
135,616
   
123,741
   
115,707
 
Reinsurance premiums
   
(13,491
)
 
(12,374
)
 
(12,169
)
                     
Total premiums and contract revenues
 
$
122,125
   
111,367
   
103,538
 

Premiums and contract revenues are attributed to countries based on the location of the policyholder. The Company has no significant assets, other than financial instruments, located in countries other than the United States.

(C) Major Agency Relationships

A significant portion of the Company's premiums and deposits were sold through two independent marketing agencies in recent years. Combined business from these agencies accounted for approximately 21%, 24%, and 32% of total direct premium revenues and universal life and annuity contract deposits in 2006, 2005, and 2004, respectively.



(14) FAIR VALUES OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

SFAS No. 107, Disclosures About Fair Values Of Financial Instruments, requires disclosures of fair value information about financial instruments, whether or not recognized in a company's balance sheet, for which it is practicable to estimate a value. The following methods and assumptions were used by the Company in estimating its fair value disclosures for financial instruments:

Investment securities. Fair values for investments in debt and equity securities are based on quoted market prices, where available. For securities not actively traded, fair values are estimated using values obtained from various independent pricing services. In the cases where prices are unavailable from these sources, values are estimated by discounting expected future cash flows using a current market rate applicable to the yield, credit quality, and maturity of the investments.

Cash and short-term investments. The carrying amounts reported in the balance sheet for these instruments approximate their fair values.

Mortgage and other loans. The fair values of performing mortgage and other loans are estimated by discounting scheduled cash flows through the scheduled maturities of the loans, using interest rates currently being offered for similar loans to borrowers with similar credit ratings. Fair values for significant nonperforming loans are based on recent internal or external appraisals. If appraisals are not available, estimated cash flows are discounted using a rate commensurate with the risk associated with the estimated cash flows. Assumptions regarding credit risk, cash flows, and discount rates are judgmentally determined using available market information and specific borrower information.

Policy loans. The fair values for policy loans are calculated by discounting estimated cash flows using U.S. Treasury bill rates as of December 31, 2006 and 2005. The estimated cash flows include assumptions as to whether such loans will be repaid by the policyholders or settled upon payment of death or surrender benefits on the underlying insurance contracts. As a result, these assumptions incorporate both Company experience and mortality assumptions associated with such contracts.

Derivatives. Fair values for indexed options are based on independent counterparty market prices.

Life interest in Libbie Shearn Moody Trust. The fair value of the life interest is estimated based on assumptions as to future distributions from the Trust over the life expectancy of Mr. Robert L. Moody. These estimated cash flows were discounted at a rate consistent with uncertainties relating to the amount and timing of future cash distributions. However, the Company has limited the fair value to the statutory admitted value of the Trust, as this is the maximum amount to be received from insurance proceeds in the event of Mr. Moody's premature death.

Annuity and supplemental contracts. Fair values of the Company's liabilities for deferred annuity contracts are estimated to be the cash surrender values of each contract. The cash surrender value represents the policyholder's account balance less applicable surrender charges. The fair values of liabilities for immediate annuity contracts and supplemental contracts with and without life contingencies are estimated by discounting estimated cash flows using U.S. Treasury bill rates as of December 31, 2006 and 2005.

Fair values for the Company's insurance contracts other than annuity contracts are not required to be disclosed. This includes the Company's traditional and universal life products. However, the fair values of liabilities under all insurance contracts are taken into consideration in the Company's overall management of interest rate risk, which minimizes exposure to changing interest rates through the matching of investment maturities with amounts due under insurance and annuity contracts.



The carrying amounts and fair values of the Company's financial instruments are as follows:

   
December 31, 2006
 
December 31, 2005
 
   
Carrying
 
Fair
 
Carrying
 
Fair
 
   
Values
 
Values
 
Values
 
Values
 
   
(In thousands)
 
                   
ASSETS
                 
Investments in debt and equity securities:
                 
Securities held to maturity
 
$
3,603,434
   
3,567,625
   
3,524,724
   
3,523,993
 
Securities available for sale
   
1,902,568
   
1,902,568
   
1,744,727
   
1,744,727
 
                           
Cash and short-term investments
   
49,901
   
49,901
   
31,355
   
31,355
 
Mortgage loans
   
103,325
   
105,919
   
110,639
   
114,574
 
Policy loans
   
86,856
   
120,120
   
86,385
   
111,034
 
Other loans
   
3,048
   
3,152
   
6,929
   
7,261
 
Derivatives
   
72,012
   
72,012
   
39,405
   
39,405
 
Life interest in Libbie Shearn
                         
Moody Trust
   
1,935
   
12,775
   
2,247
   
12,775
 
                           
                           
LIABILITIES
                         
Deferred annuity contracts
 
$
4,469,843
   
3,671,116
   
4,314,972
   
3,588,411
 
Immediate annuity and
                         
supplemental contracts
   
309,306
   
295,546
   
294,635
   
286,800
 

Fair value estimates are made at a specific point in time based on relevant market information and information about the financial instruments. These estimates do not reflect any premium or discount that could result from offering for sale at one time the Company's entire holdings of a particular financial instrument. Because no market exists for a portion of the Company's financial instruments, fair value estimates are based on judgments regarding future expected loss experience, current economic conditions, risk characteristics of various financial instruments, and other factors. These estimates are subjective in nature and involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgment and therefore cannot be determined with precision. Changes in assumptions could significantly affect the estimates.


(15) RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

Robert L. Moody, Jr. ("Mr. Moody, Jr.") is the son of Robert L. Moody, the Company's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, and is the brother of Ross R. Moody, the Company's President and Chief Operating Officer, and of Russell S. Moody and Frances A. Moody-Dahlberg who serve as directors of National Western. Prior to January 1, 2006, Mr. Moody, Jr. was employed by the Company in an agency marketing position for which he was paid an annual salary of $14,000 and was eligible to participate in the Company's benefit plans. Mr. Moody, Jr. resigned as an employee effective December 31, 2005.

In addition, Mr. Moody, Jr. wholly owns an insurance marketing organization that maintains agency contracts with National Western pursuant to which agency commissions are paid in accordance with the Company's standard commission schedules. Mr. Moody, Jr. also maintains an independent agent contract with National Western for policies personally sold under which commissions are paid in accordance with standard commission schedules. In 2006, commissions paid under these agency contracts aggregated approximately $181,500. In conjunction with these agency contracts, Mr. Moody, Jr. may be eligible to attend Company sales conferences and functions based upon meeting published minimum levels of qualifying sales production. In his capacity as an insurance marketing organization with the Company, Mr. Moody, Jr. also receives product development fees associated with a product line of the Company which amounted to $28,000 in 2006 and a marketing development allowance of $16,800 for the Company’s business efforts in Puerto Rico.

Mr. Moody, Jr. further serves as the agent of record for several of the Company's benefit plans including the self-insured health plan for which Mr. Moody, Jr. provides utilization review services through a wholly-owned utilization review company. In 2006, amounts paid to Mr. Moody, Jr. as commissions and service fees pertaining to the Company's benefit plans approximated $54,500.


During 2006, management fees totaling $470,000 were paid to Regent Management Services, Limited Partnership ("RMS") for services provided to a downstream nursing home subsidiary of National Western. RMS is 1% owned by general partner RCC Management Services, Inc. ("RCC"), and 99% owned by limited partner, Three R Trusts. RCC is 100% owned by the Three R Trusts. The Three R Trusts are four Texas trusts for the benefit of the children of Robert L. Moody (Robert L. Moody, Jr., Ross R. Moody, Russell S. Moody, and Frances A. Moody-Dahlberg). Charles D. Milos, Senior Vice President-Mortgage Loans and Real Estate, and director of the Company, is a director and Vice President of RCC. Ellen C. Otte, Assistant Secretary of the Company, is a director and secretary of RCC.

The Company holds a loan in the amount of $4.2 million at December 31, 2006 issued to TMNY, LLC. As of the reporting date, Robert L. Moody owned 20.5% of TMNY, LLC. The stated maturity on this loan is December 29, 2007.

The Company holds a common stock investment totaling approximately 9.4% of the issued and outstanding shares of Moody Bancshares, Inc. at December 31, 2006, the latest available financial information. Moody Bancshares, Inc. owns 100% of the outstanding shares of Moody Bank Holding Company, Inc., which owns approximately 98% of the outstanding shares of The Moody National Bank of Galveston ("MNB"). The Company utilizes MNB for certain bank custodian services as well as for certain administrative services with respect to the Company's defined benefit and contribution plans. Robert L. Moody serves as Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of MNB. The ultimate owner of MNB is the Three R Trusts. Fees totaling $187,000, $188,000, and $147,000 were paid to MNB with respect to these services in 2006, 2005, and 2004, respectively.


(16) UNAUDITED QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA

Quarterly results of operations for 2006 are summarized as follows:

   
First
 
Second
 
Third
 
Fourth
 
   
Quarter
 
Quarter
 
Quarter
 
Quarter
 
   
(In thousands except per share data)
 
                   
2006:
                 
Revenues
 
$
136,255
   
100,643
   
129,880
   
155,081
 
                           
Earnings
 
$
14,045
   
22,227
   
16,072
   
23,999
 
                           
Basic earnings per share
 
$
3.88
   
6.13
   
4.44
   
6.63
 
                           
Diluted earnings per share
 
$
3.84
   
6.07
   
4.40
   
6.56
 

Quarterly results of operations for 2005 are summarized as follows:

   
First
 
Second
 
Third
 
Fourth
 
   
Quarter
 
Quarter
 
Quarter
 
Quarter
 
   
(In thousands except per share data)
 
                   
2005:
                 
Revenues
 
$
93,376
   
117,997
   
120,027
   
109,643
 
                           
Earnings
 
$
16,202
   
24,098
   
20,169
   
16,798
 
                           
Basic earnings per share
 
$
4.51
   
6.70
   
5.59
   
4.65
 
                           
Diluted earnings per share
 
$
4.47
   
6.64
   
5.53
   
4.60
 



NATIONAL WESTERN LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
SUMMARY OF INVESTMENTS
OTHER THAN INVESTMENTS IN RELATED PARTIES
December 31, 2006
(In thousands)
 
               
   
(1)
 
Fair
 
Balance Sheet
 
Type of Investment
 
Cost
 
Value
 
Amount
 
Fixed maturity bonds:
             
Securities held to maturity:
             
United States government and government
             
agencies and authorities
 
$
401,662
   
393,635
   
401,662
 
States, municipalities, and political subdivisions
   
13,282
   
13,155
   
13,282
 
Foreign governments
   
19,921
   
20,045
   
19,921
 
Public utilities
   
349,994
   
351,852
   
349,994
 
Corporate
   
1,171,088
   
1,163,433
   
1,171,088
 
Mortgage-backed
   
1,552,611
   
1,530,745
   
1,552,611
 
Asset-backed
   
94,876
   
94,760
   
94,876
 
Total securities held to maturity
   
3,603,434
   
3,567,625
   
3,603,434
 
                     
Securities available for sale:
                   
United States government and government
                   
agencies and authorities
   
45,893
   
45,910
   
45,910
 
States, municipalities, and political subdivisions
   
43,090
   
45,345
   
45,345
 
Foreign Government
   
10,526
   
10,634
   
10,634
 
Public utilities
   
277,691
   
273,656
   
273,656
 
Corporate
   
1,221,165
   
1,213,674
   
1,213,674
 
Mortgage-backed
   
269,685
   
264,922
   
264,922
 
Asset-backed
   
26,977
   
27,224
   
27,224
 
Total securities available for sale
   
1,895,027
   
1,881,365
   
1,881,365
 
Total fixed maturity bonds
   
5,498,461
   
5,448,990
   
5,484,799
 
                     
Equity securities:
                   
Securities available for sale:
                   
Common stocks:
                   
Public utilities
   
878
   
1,288
   
1,288
 
Banks, trust and insurance companies (2)
   
165
   
260
   
260
 
Corporate
   
3,281
   
5,070
   
5,070
 
Preferred stocks
   
7,908
   
7,968
   
7,968
 
Total equity securities
   
12,232
   
14,586
   
14,586
 
                     
Derivatives
   
43,216
         
72,012
 
Mortgage loans (3)
   
95,551
         
95,551
 
Policy loans
   
86,856
         
86,856
 
Other long-term investments (4)
   
24,090
         
22,822
 
Total investments other than
                   
investments in related parties
 
$
5,760,406
         
5,776,626
 

Notes:
(1) Bonds are shown at amortized cost, mortgage loans are shown at unpaid principal balances before allowances for possible losses, and real estate is stated at cost before allowances for possible losses.
(2) Equity securities with related parties having a cost of $0.2 million and balance sheet amount of $6.6 million have been excluded.
(3) Mortgage loans with related parties totaling $7.8 million have been excluded.
(4) Real estate acquired by foreclosure included in other long-term investments is as follows: cost $1.4 million; balance sheet amount $1.1 million.


 
SCHEDULE V
 
VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
 
For the Years Ended December 31, 2006, 2005, and 2004
 
(In thousands)
 
                       
       
(1)
             
   
Balance at
 
Charged to
         
Balance at
 
   
Beginning
 
Costs and
         
End of
 
Description
 
of Period
 
Expenses
 
Reductions
 
Transfers
 
Period
 
                       
Valuation accounts deducted
                     
from applicable assets:
                     
                       
Allowance for possible
                     
losses on mortgage loans:
                     
                       
December 31, 2006
 
$
-
   
2,100
   
-
   
-
   
2,100
 
                                 
December 31, 2005
 
$
368
   
(368
)
 
-
   
-
   
-
 
                                 
December 31, 2004
 
$
660
   
(292
)
 
-
   
-
   
368
 
                                 
                                 
Allowance for possible
                               
losses on real estate:
                               
                                 
December 31, 2006
 
$
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
 
                                 
December 31, 2005
 
$
1,397
   
(658
)
 
-
   
-
   
739
 
                                 
December 31, 2004
 
$
2,785
   
(1,388
)
 
-
   
-
   
1,397
 

Notes:
(1) These amounts were recorded to realized (gains) losses on investments.



SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

NATIONAL WESTERN LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
(Registrant)

Date: March 14, 2007
 
/S/ Robert L. Moody
   
By:  Robert L. Moody, Chairman of the Board and
   
Chief Executive Officer
     
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

Signature
 
Title (Capacity)
 
Date
         
         
/S/ Robert L. Moody
 
Chairman of the Board and
 
March 14, 2007
Robert L. Moody
 
Chief Executive Officer, and Director
   
   
(Principal Executive Officer)
   
         
/S/ Ross R. Moody
 
President and Chief Operating Officer, and Director
 
March 14, 2007
Ross R. Moody
       
         
/S/ Brian M. Pribyl
 
Senior Vice President - Chief Financial &
 
March 14, 2007
Brian M. Pribyl
 
Administrative Officer, and Treasurer
   
   
(Principal Financial Officer)
   
         
/S/ Kay E. Osbourn
 
Vice President, Controller & Assistant Treasurer
 
March 14, 2007
Kay E. Osbourn
 
(Principal Accounting Officer)
   
         
/S/ Harry L. Edwards
 
Director
 
March 14, 2007
Harry L. Edwards
       
         
/S/ Stephen E. Glasgow
 
Director
 
March 14, 2007
Stephen E. Glasgow
       
         
   
Director
 
March 14, 2007
E. Douglas McLeod
       
         
/S/ Charles D. Milos
 
Director
 
March 14, 2007
Charles D. Milos
       
         
   
Director
 
March 14, 2007
Frances A. Moody-Dahlberg
       
         
/S/ Russell S. Moody
 
Director
 
March 14, 2007
Russell S. Moody
       
         
/S/ Louis E. Pauls, Jr.
 
Director
 
March 14, 2007
Louis E. Pauls, Jr.
       
         
/S/ E.J. Pederson
 
Director
 
March 14, 2007
E.J. Pederson