ABK Ambac Financial Grp. Common Stock

Ambac Financial Group, Inc. (NYSE: ABK) (Ambac) today announced third quarter 2006 net income of $213.5 million, or $1.98 per diluted share. This represents a 22% increase from third quarter 2005 net income of $175.1 million, and a 23% increase in net income per diluted share from $1.61 in the third quarter of 2005. Net Income Per Diluted Share Net income and net income per diluted share are computed in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). However, many research analysts and investors do not limit their analysis of our earnings to a strictly GAAP basis. In order to assist investors in their understanding of quarterly results, Ambac provides other information. Earnings measures reported by research analysts exclude the net income impact of net gains and losses from sales of investment securities and mark-to-market gains and losses on credit, total return and non-trading derivative contracts (collectively �net security gains and losses�) and certain other items. Certain research analysts and investors further exclude the net income impact of accelerated premiums earned on guaranteed obligations that have been refunded and other accelerated earnings (�accelerated earnings�). During the third quarter 2006, net security gains and losses had the effect of increasing net income by $6.5 million, $0.06 on a per diluted share basis. Accelerated earnings had the effect of increasing net income by $14.5 million, or $0.13 per diluted share for the third quarter 2006. Table I, below, provides third quarter and nine-month comparisons of earnings for 2006 and 2005. Table I Earnings Per Diluted Share � Third Quarter Nine Months 2006� 2005� % Change 2006� 2005� % Change Net income per diluted share $1.98� $1.61� + 23% $6.26� $4.97� + 26% Effect of net security gains ($0.06) ($0.08) n.a. ($0.44) ($0.27) n.a. Operating earnings(a)(b) $1.92� $1.53� + 25% $5.82� $4.70� + 24% Effect of Accelerated earnings ($0.13) ($0.26) n.a. ($0.46) ($0.56) n.a. Core earnings(b) $1.79� $1.27� + 41% $5.36� $4.14� + 29% � (a) Consensus earnings that are reported by earnings estimate services, such as First Call, are on this basis. (b) Operating and core earnings are non-GAAP measures. See footnote 2 on page 10. Commenting on the overall results, Ambac Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Robert J. Genader, noted, �I am pleased with the results given the challenging environment�we have�faced�during much of the�year. We are currently�witnessing a solid�level of deal inquiries and opportunities across most of our business segments. Domestic public finance, however, continues to pose a�challenge given the decline in issuance�and intensified�pricing pressures. We remain steadfast in judiciously allocating our capital to transactions that enable us to�continue to�deliver�superior returns.� Revenues Highlights Credit enhancement production(1) in the third quarter of 2006 was $216.2 million, down 16% from the third quarter of 2005 which came in at $256.6 million. Growth in international was more than offset by declines in U.S. public finance and U.S. structured finance. Credit enhancement production(1) for the nine months of 2006 of $980.7 million was 15% higher than credit enhancement production of $853.5 million in the same period of 2005, driven by growth in the international and U.S. structured finance markets during the nine-month period. Table II, below, provides the third quarter and nine-month comparisons of credit enhancement production by market segment for 2006 and 2005. Table II Credit Enhancement Production(1) � $-millions Third Quarter Nine Months � 2006� � 2005� % Change� � 2006� � 2005� % Change� Public Finance $ 89.8� $ 118.3� - 24% $ 321.0� $ 397.3� - 19% Structured Finance 78.6� 117.0� - 33% 382.2� 335.5� + 14% International � 47.8� � 21.3� + 124% � 277.5� � 120.7� + 130% Total $ 216.2� $ 256.6� - 16% $ 980.7� $ 853.5� + 15% In public finance, Ambac�s premium production was lower as overall market issuance, as reported by third party sources, was down approximately 14% quarter on quarter. The decline in issuance for the quarter was driven by significantly reduced refunding issuance. The new money component of issuance for the quarter was relatively flat as compared to the third quarter of 2005. Contributing to the lower premium production was increased competition from other financial guarantors and the mix of business coming to market. We note that fewer highly structured transactions commanding stronger pricing have come to market recently. Ambac had healthy writings in the stadium financing sector during the quarter and health care writings were strong albeit lower than in the comparable prior quarter. U.S. structured finance production during the quarter was lower as increased writings in auto securitizations and pooled debt obligations were more than offset by lower commercial asset-backed securitizations and mortgage-backed securities. Competition from the senior/subordinated market remains challenging and spreads remain tight across most asset classes of U.S. structured finance. International production was stronger but compares to a relatively light prior year quarter. The international quarter was highlighted by two deals out of the U.K, one an infrastructure transaction and the other a structured finance transaction. Ambac continues to see attractive opportunities across diverse geographic regions and asset classes outside of the U.S. Net premiums written in the third quarter of 2006 of $186.0 million were 9% lower than net premiums written of $203.6 million in the same period of 2005. Gross premiums written in the third quarter of 2006 and 2005 were $212.3 million and $237.9 million, respectively. The decreases in net and gross premiums written are primarily attributable to less up-front premiums collected on U.S. public finance business written during the third quarter of 2006. Ceded premiums as a percentage of gross premiums written were 12.4% and 14.4% for the third quarter of 2006 and 2005, respectively. Net premiums written for the nine months of 2006 of $669.4 million were 8% lower than net premiums written of $728.0 million in the same period of 2005. Excluding the impact of return premiums from reinsurance cancellations in each of the periods ($37.0 million in the first quarter of 2006 and $55.8 million in the first quarter of 2005), net premiums written are down 6% period on period primarily due to less up-front premiums collected on U.S. public finance business written during 2006. A breakdown of gross premiums written by market segment and ceded premiums for the third quarter and nine-month periods of 2006 and 2005 are included below in Table III. Table III Premiums Written � $-millions Third Quarter Nine Months � 2006� � 2005� % Change� � 2006� � 2005� % Change� Public Finance $ 71.1� $ 111.7� - 36% $ 286.3� $ 393.2� - 27% Structured Finance 78.8� 78.1� + 1% 247.8� 231.2� + 7% International � 62.4� � 48.1� + 30% � 210.7� � 165.3� + 27% Total Gross Premiums Written 212.3� 237.9� - 11% 744.8� 789.7� - 6% Ceded Premiums Written � (26.3) � (34.3) - 23% � (75.4) � (61.7) + 22% Net Premiums Written $ 186.0� $ 203.6� - 9% $ 669.4� $ 728.0� - 8% Net premiums earned and other credit enhancement fees for the third quarter of 2006 were $214.5 million, which represented a 7% decrease from the $231.1 million earned in the third quarter of 2005. The decrease was driven by lower accelerated premiums from refundings and policy termination fees offset by increased normal premiums and other credit enhancement fees earned in U.S. public finance and U.S. structured finance. Net premiums earned include accelerated premiums, which result from refundings, calls and other accelerations recognized during the quarter. Accelerated premiums were $24.5 million in the third quarter of 2006, down 50% from $48.9 million in accelerated premiums in the third quarter of 2005. The third quarter 2005 accelerated premiums were impacted by one large refunded transaction, representing almost half of the total accelerated amount in that quarter. Net premiums earned and other credit enhancement fees for the first nine months of 2006 were $647.9 million, flat to $648.6 million earned in the first nine months of 2005. Accelerated premiums were $86.9 million for the nine-month period of 2006, down 20% from $107.9 million in accelerated premiums for the comparable period of 2005. Accelerated premiums in 2006 and 2005 include $7.7 million and $4.5 million, respectively, related to the impact of reinsurance cancellations which occurred in the first quarter of the respective years. A breakdown of net premiums earned and other credit enhancement fees by market segment for 2006 and 2005 are included below in Table IV. Normal net premiums earned exclude accelerated premiums that result from refundings, calls and other accelerations. Table IV Net Premiums Earned and Other Credit Enhancement Fees � $-millions Third Quarter Nine Months � 2006� � 2005� % Change� � 2006� � 2005� % Change� Public Finance $ 58.8� $ 56.9� + 3% $ 172.8� $ 166.7� + 4% Structured Finance 80.3� 71.4� + 12% 235.1� 211.7� + 11% International � 50.9� � 53.9� - 6% � 153.1� � 162.3� - 6% Total Normal Premiums/Fees 190.0� 182.2� + 4% 561.0� 540.7� + 4% Accelerated Premiums � 24.5� � 48.9� - 50% � 86.9� � 107.9� - 19% Total $ 214.5� $ 231.1� - 7% $ 647.9� $ 648.6� - 0% Public finance earned premiums, before accelerations, grew 3% quarter on quarter. Earned premium growth in this segment has been negatively impacted by declining issuance and competitive pricing throughout 2006, compounded by the high level of refunding activity in Ambac�s public finance book. Structured finance earned premiums and other credit enhancement fees grew 12%. The rate of growth in structured finance has improved as the recent level of writings in asset classes such as commercial asset-backed securities, auto securitizations and pooled debt obligations has increased. Narrow credit spreads and high prepayment speeds in the mortgage-backed and home equity book of business and early terminations of transactions in other structured finance sectors continue to partially offset the positive effects of new business writings. International earned premiums and other credit enhancement fees decreased by 6%. The decline was driven primarily by significant paydowns and calls over the past several quarters and the recent business mix which has trended towards long-dated infrastructure transactions that earn premiums over a longer period of time than typical structured finance exposures. Net investment income (including net investment income from VIEs) for the third quarter of 2006 was $120.2 million, representing an increase of 9% from $110.6 million in the comparable period of 2005. This increase was due primarily to growth in the investment portfolio driven by the ongoing collection of financial guarantee premiums and fees and a $200 million capital contribution from the parent company in the fourth quarter of 2005, partially offset by a $5.3 million net positive adjustment booked in the third quarter 2005 for municipal bonds within the portfolio that had been pre-refunded. Investment income from VIEs is offset by interest expense on VIEs, shown separately in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. Net investment income (including net investment income from VIEs) for the nine months of 2006 was $351.2 million, representing an increase of 11% from $317.1 million in the comparable period of 2005, primarily as a result of the reasons provided above. Financial services revenues. The financial services segment is comprised of the investment agreement business and the derivative products business. Gross interest income less gross interest expense from investment and payment agreements plus results from the derivative products business, excluding net realized investment gains and losses and unrealized gains and losses on total return swaps and non-trading derivative contracts, was $13.3 million in the third quarter of 2006, down 22% from $17.1 million in the third quarter of 2005. The decrease was primarily due to lower mark-to-market gains included within derivative products revenues in the third quarter 2006 relative to the comparable prior quarter, partially offset by higher investment agreement revenues from improving spreads during that quarter. Financial services revenues were $35.8 million in the first nine months of 2006, up 1% from the $35.4 million of revenues in the first nine months of 2005. Expenses Highlights Financial guarantee expenses of $40.4 million for the third quarter of 2006 decreased by 69% from the $128.6 million of expenses for the same quarter of 2005. Financial guarantee loss and loss expenses were ($2.5) million in the third quarter of 2006 down from $89.1 million in the third quarter of 2005. The third quarter 2005 loss provision resulted primarily from our exposure to municipal credits impacted by Hurricane Katrina. The current quarter�s negative loss provision is primarily the result of a release of a portion of the Katrina provision partially offset by increased reserves, primarily in the U.S. public finance sector. See �Loss Reserve Activity,� below, for additional information on losses. Net underwriting and operating expenses of the financial guarantee segment totaled $30.2 million in the third quarter of 2006, up 9% from $27.8 million in the third quarter of 2005 primarily due to increased compensation expense. Interest expense on VIE notes amounting to $12.8 million and $11.6 million in the third quarter of 2006 and 2005, respectively, result from the consolidation of certain trusts that Ambac has insured and consolidated under accounting pronouncement FIN 46. Financial guarantee expenses of $147.7 million for the nine months of 2006 decreased 43% from $259.2 million for the same period of 2005. The decrease results primarily from lower loss expenses partially offset by higher compensation expenses during the period. Loss Reserve Activity Case basis loss reserves (loss reserves for exposures that have defaulted) decreased $12.0 million during the third quarter of 2006 from $138.7 million at June 30, 2006 to $126.7 million at September 30, 2006. The decrease was driven primarily by claim payments made during the quarter amounting to $8.9 million. Active credit reserves (�ACR�) are established for probable and estimable losses due to credit deterioration on adversely classified insured transactions. Ambac continuously monitors its insured portfolio actively seeking to mitigate claims. The ACR increased by $0.6 million during the quarter, from $147.0 million at June 30, 2006 to $147.6 million at September 30, 2006. The increase was driven by increased reserves on certain credits within the U.S. public finance and structured finance portfolios, offset by a $35.6 million reduction in the ACR for Hurricane Katrina impacted credits. At September 30, 2006, the specific Hurricane Katrina-related provision amounts to $50.5 million, down from $90.4 million at June 30, 2006. The decrease is primarily due to significant state and federal support recently provided to the region, particularly the greater New Orleans area. Ambac did not pay any Katrina-related claims during the quarter. Provision for income taxes for the third quarter of 2006 amounted to $83.6 million, an effective tax rate of 28.1%. This compares to the third quarter of 2005 tax provision of $51.9 million, an effective tax rate of 22.8%. The increased tax rate in 2006 was due to the net release of tax reserves in the third quarter 2005 and higher taxable income resulting from improved financial guarantee underwriting results in the third quarter 2006 relative to the comparable prior period primarily as a result of Hurricane Katrina related loss activity. Provision for income taxes for the nine months of 2006 amounted to $252.5 million, an effective tax rate of 27.3%. This compares to the nine months of 2005 tax provision of $193.1 million, an effective tax rate of 26.1%. The increased tax rate in 2006 is explained above. Other Items Total net securities gains/(losses) for the third quarter of 2006 were $9.9 million, or $0.06 per diluted share; consisting of net realized gains on investment securities of $7.9 million, net mark-to-market gains on credit and total return derivatives of $2.1 million and net mark-to-market losses on non-trading derivative contracts of ($0.1) million. For the third quarter of 2005, net securities gains/(losses) were $14.5 million, or $0.08 per diluted share; consisting of net realized gains on investment securities of $9.5 million, net mark-to-market gains on credit and total return derivatives of $3.9 million and net mark-to-market gains on non-trading derivative contracts of $1.1 million. Total net securities gains/(losses) for the nine months of 2006 were $74.4 million, or $0.44 per diluted share; consisting of net realized gains on investment securities of $57.5 million, net mark-to-market gains on credit and total return derivatives of $16.5 million and net mark-to-market gains on non-trading derivative contracts of $0.4 million. Approximately $51 million of the net realized gains on investment securities relate to cash recoveries received during the year related to a security in the investment agreement portfolio that had been written down in 2002 and 2003. For the nine months of 2005, net securities gains were $53.1 million, or $0.27 per diluted share; consisting of net realized gains on investment securities of $10.8 million, mark-to-market losses on credit derivatives and total return swaps of ($7.0) million and net mark-to-market gains on non-trading derivative contracts of $49.3 million. The mark-to-market gains on non-trading derivative contracts relate almost entirely to interest rate hedge contracts in Ambac�s investment agreement business that were redesignated to meet the technical requirements of FAS 133 as of July 1, 2005. Balance Sheet Highlights Total assets as of September 30, 2006 were $21.09 billion, up 7% from total assets of $19.73 billion at December 31, 2005. The increase was driven by cash generated from operations during the period. As of September 30, 2006, stockholders� equity was $6.01 billion, a 12% increase from year-end 2005 stockholders� equity of $5.37 billion. The increase was primarily the result of net income during the period. Increased Share Buyback Authorization At its October 2006 Board meeting, the Board of Directors of Ambac Financial Group, Inc. increased the number of shares available under the Company�s Share Repurchase Program by six million shares. Including this additional authorization, Ambac has approximately 9.7 million shares remaining under its Share Repurchase Program. Shares will be repurchased in the open market or in private transactions at times and prices considered appropriate by Ambac. Cash Dividend Declared At its October 2006 Board meeting, the Board of Directors approved the regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.18 per share of common stock. The dividend is payable on December 6, 2006 to stockholders of record on November 10, 2006. Forward-Looking Statements This release, in particular the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer�s remarks, contains statements about our future results that may be considered �forward-looking statements� under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based on current expectations and the current economic environment. We caution you that these statements are not guarantees of future performance. They involve a number of risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict. Our actual results could differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. Among the factors that could cause actual results to differ materially are (1) changes in the economic, credit, or interest rate environment in the United States and abroad; (2) the level of activity within the national and worldwide debt markets; (3) competitive conditions and pricing levels; (4) legislative and regulatory developments; (5) changes in tax laws; (6) the policies and actions of the United States and other governments; (7) changes in capital requirement or other criteria of rating agencies; (8) changes in accounting principles or practices that may impact the Company�s reported financial results; (9) inadequacy of reserves established for losses and loss adjustment expenses; (10) default of one or more of the Company�s reinsurers; (11) market spreads and pricing on insured pooled debt obligations and other derivative products insured or issued by the Company; (12) prepayment speeds on insured asset-backed securities and other factors that may influence the amount of installment premiums paid to the Company; and (13) other risks and uncertainties that have not been identified at this time. We undertake no obligation to publicly correct or update any forward-looking statement if we later become aware that it is not likely to be achieved, except as required by law. Ambac Financial Group, Inc., headquartered in New York City, is a holding company whose affiliates provide financial guarantees and financial services to clients in both the public and private sectors around the world. Ambac�s principal operating subsidiary, Ambac Assurance Corporation, a leading guarantor of public finance and structured finance obligations, has earned triple-A ratings, the highest ratings available from Moody�s Investors Service, Inc., Standard & Poor�s Ratings Services, Fitch, Inc. and Rating and Investment Information, Inc. Ambac Financial Group, Inc. common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (ticker symbol ABK). Footnotes (1) Credit enhancement production, which is not promulgated under GAAP, is used by management, equity analysts and investors as an indication of new business production in the period. Credit enhancement production, which Ambac reports as analytical data, is defined as gross (direct and assumed) up-front premiums plus the present value of estimated installment premiums on insurance policies and structured credit derivatives issued in the period. The discount rate used to measure the present value of estimated installment premiums was 6.0% and 7.0% during the third quarter of 2006 and 2005, respectively. The definition of credit enhancement production used by Ambac may differ from definitions of credit enhancement production used by other public holding companies of financial guarantors. The following table reconciles credit enhancement production to gross premiums written calculated in accordance with GAAP: $-millions Third Quarter Nine Months � 2006� � 2005� � 2006� � 2005� Credit enhancement production $ 216� $ 257� $ 981� $ 854� Present value of estimated installmentpremiums written on insurance policiesand structured credit derivatives issuedin the period � (149) � (143) � (643) � (446) Gross up-front premiums written $ 67� $ 114� $ 338� $ 408� Gross installment premiums writtenon insurance policies � 145� � 124� � 407� � 382� Gross premiums written $ 212� $ 238� $ 745� $ 790� (2) Operating earnings and core earnings are not substitutes for net income computed in accordance with GAAP, but are useful measures of performance used by management, equity analysts and investors. Operating earnings measures income from operations excluding the impact of investment portfolio realized gains and losses, mark-to-market gains and losses from certain non-trading derivative instruments and certain other items. Core earnings further exclude the impact of refundings, calls and other accelerations. The definitions of operating earnings and core earnings used by Ambac may differ from definitions of operating earnings and core earnings used by other public holding companies of financial guarantors. Ambac Financial Group, Inc. and SubsidiariesConsolidated Statements of Operations(Unaudited)For the Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2006 and 2005(Dollars in Thousands Except Share Data) � � Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 30, September 30, 2006� � 2005� 2006� � 2005� Revenues: Financial Guarantee: Gross premiums written $212,301� $237,943� $744,766� $789,697� Ceded premiums written (26,351) (34,296) (75,341) (61,707) Net premiums written $185,950� $203,647� $669,425� $727,990� � Net premiums earned $198,499� $218,098� $603,467� $610,974� Other credit enhancement fees 16,057� 13,014� 44,400� 37,617� Net premiums earned and other credit enhancement fees 214,556� 231,112� 647,867� 648,591� Net investment income 120,247� 110,646� 351,185� 317,104� Net realized investment gains 1,329� 5,013� 2,842� 6,004� Net mark-to-market gains (losses) on credit derivative contracts 2,572� 1,555� 9,906� (4,785) Other income 2,655� 2,859� 35,039� 6,150� Financial Services: Investment income 107,191� 70,854� 287,174� 192,951� Derivative products 3,252� 8,896� 11,259� 13,202� Net realized investment gains 6,636� 4,520� 53,867� 4,808� Net mark-to-market (losses) gains on total return swap contracts (501) 2,347� 6,540� (2,255) Net mark-to-market (losses) gains on non-trading derivatives (1,175) (57) (1,237) 48,869� Corporate: Net investment income 3,545� 515� 9,941� 1,320� Net realized investment gains -� -� 791� -� � Total revenues 460,307� 438,260� 1,415,174� 1,231,959� � Expenses: Financial Guarantee: Loss and loss expenses (2,543) 89,126� 10,406� 134,255� Underwriting and operating expenses 30,192� 27,844� 99,959� 89,939� Interest expense on variable interest entity notes 12,754� 11,623� 37,335� 35,018� Financial Services: Interest from investment and payment agreements 97,126� 62,602� 262,624� 170,781� Other expenses 3,119� 2,912� 9,994� 10,162� Interest 19,474� 13,627� 58,424� 40,653� Corporate 3,036� 3,548� 10,679� 11,291� � Total expenses 163,158� 211,282� 489,421� 492,099� � Income before income taxes 297,149� 226,978� 925,753� 739,860� Provision for income taxes 83,626� 51,861� 252,520� 193,102� � Net income $213,523� $175,117� $673,233� $546,758� � � � Net income per share $2.00� $1.63� $6.32� $5.02� � Net income per diluted share $1.98� $1.61� $6.26� $4.97� � � Weighted average number of common shares outstanding: � Basic 106,725,567� 107,392,176� 106,549,856� 108,891,738� � Diluted 107,737,122� 108,484,035� 107,473,723� 110,121,701� Ambac Financial Group, Inc. and SubsidiariesConsolidated Balance SheetsSeptember 30, 2006 and December 31, 2005(Dollars in Thousands Except Share Data) � � September 30, 2006 December 31, 2005 (unaudited) Assets � Investments: Fixed income securities, at fair value (amortized cost of $16,526,366 in 2006 and $14,781,028 in 2005) $16,855,600� $15,124,016� Fixed income securities pledged as collateral, at fair value (amortized cost of $381,625 in 2006 and $378,480 in 2005) 375,288� 371,160� Short-term investments, at cost (approximates fair value) 277,763� 472,034� Other (cost of $98,467 in 2006 and $13,537 in 2005) 99,474� 14,173� Total investments 17,608,125� 15,981,383� � Cash 42,182� 28,295� Securities purchased under agreements to resell 282,450� 419,000� Receivable for securities sold 1,909� 2,161� Investment income due and accrued 182,979� 178,779� Reinsurance recoverable on paid and unpaid losses 5,292� 3,730� Prepaid reinsurance 311,564� 303,383� Deferred acquisition costs 220,252� 202,195� Loans 1,199,287� 1,344,140� Derivative assets 1,125,519� 1,102,649� Other assets 113,618� 159,425� Total assets $21,093,177� $19,725,140� � Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity � Liabilities: Unearned premiums $3,030,641� $2,954,718� Loss and loss expense reserve 279,614� 304,139� Ceded reinsurance balances payable 16,964� 23,746� Obligations under investment and payment agreements 7,743,869� 7,056,222� Obligations under investment repurchase agreements 157,151� 196,568� Securities sold under agreement to repurchase 139,486� -� Deferred income taxes 261,228� 257,987� Current income taxes 29,281� 16,726� Long-term debt 2,213,303� 2,233,582� Accrued interest payable 108,247� 108,195� Derivative liabilities 846,911� 935,440� Other liabilities 254,577� 253,969� Payable for securities purchased 6,588� 11,641� Total liabilities 15,087,860� 14,352,933� � Stockholders' equity: Preferred stock -� -� Common stock 1,092� 1,092� Additional paid-in capital 755,749� 723,680� Accumulated other comprehensive income 199,752� 202,312� Retained earnings 5,265,443� 4,692,701� Common stock held in treasury at cost (216,719) (247,578) Total stockholders' equity 6,005,317� 5,372,207� Total liabilities and stockholders' equity $21,093,177� $19,725,140� � Number of shares outstanding (net of treasury shares) 106,192,941� 105,639,446� Book value per share $56.55� $50.85� Ambac Assurance Corporation and SubsidiariesCapitalization Table - GAAPSeptember 30, 2006 and December 31, 2005(Dollars in Millions) � � The following table sets forth Ambac Assurance's consolidatedcapitalization as of September 30, 2006 and December 31, 2005,respectively, on the basis of accounting principles generallyaccepted in the United States of America. � September 30, December 31, 2006� 2005� (unaudited) � Unearned premiums $ 3,040� $ 2,966� Long-term debt 1,022� 1,042� Other liabilities � 1,980� � 1,996� Total liabilities � 6,042� � 6,004� � Stockholder's equity: Common stock 82� 82� Additional paid-in capital 1,476� 1,453� Accumulated other comprehensive income 144� 137� Retained earnings � 5,063� � 4,499� Total stockholder's equity � 6,765� � 6,171� Total liabilities and stockholder's equity $ 12,807� $ 12,175� Ambac Financial Group, Inc. (NYSE: ABK) (Ambac) today announced third quarter 2006 net income of $213.5 million, or $1.98 per diluted share. This represents a 22% increase from third quarter 2005 net income of $175.1 million, and a 23% increase in net income per diluted share from $1.61 in the third quarter of 2005. Net Income Per Diluted Share Net income and net income per diluted share are computed in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). However, many research analysts and investors do not limit their analysis of our earnings to a strictly GAAP basis. In order to assist investors in their understanding of quarterly results, Ambac provides other information. Earnings measures reported by research analysts exclude the net income impact of net gains and losses from sales of investment securities and mark-to-market gains and losses on credit, total return and non-trading derivative contracts (collectively "net security gains and losses") and certain other items. Certain research analysts and investors further exclude the net income impact of accelerated premiums earned on guaranteed obligations that have been refunded and other accelerated earnings ("accelerated earnings"). During the third quarter 2006, net security gains and losses had the effect of increasing net income by $6.5 million, $0.06 on a per diluted share basis. Accelerated earnings had the effect of increasing net income by $14.5 million, or $0.13 per diluted share for the third quarter 2006. Table I, below, provides third quarter and nine-month comparisons of earnings for 2006 and 2005. -0- *T Table I Earnings Per Diluted Share Third Quarter Nine Months % % 2006 2005 Change 2006 2005 Change ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- Net income per diluted share $1.98 $1.61 + 23% $6.26 $4.97 + 26% Effect of net security gains ($0.06) ($0.08) n.a. ($0.44) ($0.27) n.a. ------- ------- ------- ------- Operating earnings(a)(b) $1.92 $1.53 + 25% $5.82 $4.70 + 24% Effect of Accelerated earnings ($0.13) ($0.26) n.a. ($0.46) ($0.56) n.a. ------- ------- ------- ------- Core earnings(b) $1.79 $1.27 + 41% $5.36 $4.14 + 29% ======= ======= ======= ======= (a) Consensus earnings that are reported by earnings estimate services, such as First Call, are on this basis. (b) Operating and core earnings are non-GAAP measures. See footnote 2 on page 10. *T Commenting on the overall results, Ambac Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Robert J. Genader, noted, "I am pleased with the results given the challenging environment we have faced during much of the year. We are currently witnessing a solid level of deal inquiries and opportunities across most of our business segments. Domestic public finance, however, continues to pose a challenge given the decline in issuance and intensified pricing pressures. We remain steadfast in judiciously allocating our capital to transactions that enable us to continue to deliver superior returns." Revenues Highlights Credit enhancement production(1) in the third quarter of 2006 was $216.2 million, down 16% from the third quarter of 2005 which came in at $256.6 million. Growth in international was more than offset by declines in U.S. public finance and U.S. structured finance. Credit enhancement production(1) for the nine months of 2006 of $980.7 million was 15% higher than credit enhancement production of $853.5 million in the same period of 2005, driven by growth in the international and U.S. structured finance markets during the nine-month period. Table II, below, provides the third quarter and nine-month comparisons of credit enhancement production by market segment for 2006 and 2005. -0- *T Table II Credit Enhancement Production(1) $-millions Third Quarter Nine Months % % 2006 2005 Change 2006 2005 Change ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- Public Finance $ 89.8 $118.3 - 24% $321.0 $397.3 - 19% Structured Finance 78.6 117.0 - 33% 382.2 335.5 + 14% International 47.8 21.3 + 124% 277.5 120.7 + 130% ------- ------- ------- ------- Total $216.2 $256.6 - 16% $980.7 $853.5 + 15% ======= ======= ======= ======= *T In public finance, Ambac's premium production was lower as overall market issuance, as reported by third party sources, was down approximately 14% quarter on quarter. The decline in issuance for the quarter was driven by significantly reduced refunding issuance. The new money component of issuance for the quarter was relatively flat as compared to the third quarter of 2005. Contributing to the lower premium production was increased competition from other financial guarantors and the mix of business coming to market. We note that fewer highly structured transactions commanding stronger pricing have come to market recently. Ambac had healthy writings in the stadium financing sector during the quarter and health care writings were strong albeit lower than in the comparable prior quarter. U.S. structured finance production during the quarter was lower as increased writings in auto securitizations and pooled debt obligations were more than offset by lower commercial asset-backed securitizations and mortgage-backed securities. Competition from the senior/subordinated market remains challenging and spreads remain tight across most asset classes of U.S. structured finance. International production was stronger but compares to a relatively light prior year quarter. The international quarter was highlighted by two deals out of the U.K, one an infrastructure transaction and the other a structured finance transaction. Ambac continues to see attractive opportunities across diverse geographic regions and asset classes outside of the U.S. Net premiums written in the third quarter of 2006 of $186.0 million were 9% lower than net premiums written of $203.6 million in the same period of 2005. Gross premiums written in the third quarter of 2006 and 2005 were $212.3 million and $237.9 million, respectively. The decreases in net and gross premiums written are primarily attributable to less up-front premiums collected on U.S. public finance business written during the third quarter of 2006. Ceded premiums as a percentage of gross premiums written were 12.4% and 14.4% for the third quarter of 2006 and 2005, respectively. Net premiums written for the nine months of 2006 of $669.4 million were 8% lower than net premiums written of $728.0 million in the same period of 2005. Excluding the impact of return premiums from reinsurance cancellations in each of the periods ($37.0 million in the first quarter of 2006 and $55.8 million in the first quarter of 2005), net premiums written are down 6% period on period primarily due to less up-front premiums collected on U.S. public finance business written during 2006. A breakdown of gross premiums written by market segment and ceded premiums for the third quarter and nine-month periods of 2006 and 2005 are included below in Table III. -0- *T Table III Premiums Written $-millions Third Quarter Nine Months % % 2006 2005 Change 2006 2005 Change ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- Public Finance $ 71.1 $111.7 - 36% $286.3 $393.2 - 27% Structured Finance 78.8 78.1 + 1% 247.8 231.2 + 7% International 62.4 48.1 + 30% 210.7 165.3 + 27% ------- ------- ------- ------- Total Gross Premiums Written 212.3 237.9 - 11% 744.8 789.7 - 6% Ceded Premiums Written (26.3) (34.3) - 23% (75.4) (61.7) + 22% ------- ------- ------- ------- Net Premiums Written $186.0 $203.6 - 9% $669.4 $728.0 - 8% ======= ======= ======= ======= *T Net premiums earned and other credit enhancement fees for the third quarter of 2006 were $214.5 million, which represented a 7% decrease from the $231.1 million earned in the third quarter of 2005. The decrease was driven by lower accelerated premiums from refundings and policy termination fees offset by increased normal premiums and other credit enhancement fees earned in U.S. public finance and U.S. structured finance. Net premiums earned include accelerated premiums, which result from refundings, calls and other accelerations recognized during the quarter. Accelerated premiums were $24.5 million in the third quarter of 2006, down 50% from $48.9 million in accelerated premiums in the third quarter of 2005. The third quarter 2005 accelerated premiums were impacted by one large refunded transaction, representing almost half of the total accelerated amount in that quarter. Net premiums earned and other credit enhancement fees for the first nine months of 2006 were $647.9 million, flat to $648.6 million earned in the first nine months of 2005. Accelerated premiums were $86.9 million for the nine-month period of 2006, down 20% from $107.9 million in accelerated premiums for the comparable period of 2005. Accelerated premiums in 2006 and 2005 include $7.7 million and $4.5 million, respectively, related to the impact of reinsurance cancellations which occurred in the first quarter of the respective years. A breakdown of net premiums earned and other credit enhancement fees by market segment for 2006 and 2005 are included below in Table IV. Normal net premiums earned exclude accelerated premiums that result from refundings, calls and other accelerations. -0- *T Table IV Net Premiums Earned and Other Credit Enhancement Fees $-millions Third Quarter Nine Months % % 2006 2005 Change 2006 2005 Change ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- Public Finance $ 58.8 $ 56.9 + 3% $172.8 $166.7 + 4% Structured Finance 80.3 71.4 + 12% 235.1 211.7 + 11% International 50.9 53.9 - 6% 153.1 162.3 - 6% ------- ------- ------- ------- Total Normal Premiums/Fees 190.0 182.2 + 4% 561.0 540.7 + 4% Accelerated Premiums 24.5 48.9 - 50% 86.9 107.9 - 19% ------- ------- ------- ------- Total $214.5 $231.1 - 7% $647.9 $648.6 - 0% ======= ======= ======= ======= *T Public finance earned premiums, before accelerations, grew 3% quarter on quarter. Earned premium growth in this segment has been negatively impacted by declining issuance and competitive pricing throughout 2006, compounded by the high level of refunding activity in Ambac's public finance book. Structured finance earned premiums and other credit enhancement fees grew 12%. The rate of growth in structured finance has improved as the recent level of writings in asset classes such as commercial asset-backed securities, auto securitizations and pooled debt obligations has increased. Narrow credit spreads and high prepayment speeds in the mortgage-backed and home equity book of business and early terminations of transactions in other structured finance sectors continue to partially offset the positive effects of new business writings. International earned premiums and other credit enhancement fees decreased by 6%. The decline was driven primarily by significant paydowns and calls over the past several quarters and the recent business mix which has trended towards long-dated infrastructure transactions that earn premiums over a longer period of time than typical structured finance exposures. Net investment income (including net investment income from VIEs) for the third quarter of 2006 was $120.2 million, representing an increase of 9% from $110.6 million in the comparable period of 2005. This increase was due primarily to growth in the investment portfolio driven by the ongoing collection of financial guarantee premiums and fees and a $200 million capital contribution from the parent company in the fourth quarter of 2005, partially offset by a $5.3 million net positive adjustment booked in the third quarter 2005 for municipal bonds within the portfolio that had been pre-refunded. Investment income from VIEs is offset by interest expense on VIEs, shown separately in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. Net investment income (including net investment income from VIEs) for the nine months of 2006 was $351.2 million, representing an increase of 11% from $317.1 million in the comparable period of 2005, primarily as a result of the reasons provided above. Financial services revenues. The financial services segment is comprised of the investment agreement business and the derivative products business. Gross interest income less gross interest expense from investment and payment agreements plus results from the derivative products business, excluding net realized investment gains and losses and unrealized gains and losses on total return swaps and non-trading derivative contracts, was $13.3 million in the third quarter of 2006, down 22% from $17.1 million in the third quarter of 2005. The decrease was primarily due to lower mark-to-market gains included within derivative products revenues in the third quarter 2006 relative to the comparable prior quarter, partially offset by higher investment agreement revenues from improving spreads during that quarter. Financial services revenues were $35.8 million in the first nine months of 2006, up 1% from the $35.4 million of revenues in the first nine months of 2005. Expenses Highlights Financial guarantee expenses of $40.4 million for the third quarter of 2006 decreased by 69% from the $128.6 million of expenses for the same quarter of 2005. Financial guarantee loss and loss expenses were ($2.5) million in the third quarter of 2006 down from $89.1 million in the third quarter of 2005. The third quarter 2005 loss provision resulted primarily from our exposure to municipal credits impacted by Hurricane Katrina. The current quarter's negative loss provision is primarily the result of a release of a portion of the Katrina provision partially offset by increased reserves, primarily in the U.S. public finance sector. See "Loss Reserve Activity," below, for additional information on losses. Net underwriting and operating expenses of the financial guarantee segment totaled $30.2 million in the third quarter of 2006, up 9% from $27.8 million in the third quarter of 2005 primarily due to increased compensation expense. Interest expense on VIE notes amounting to $12.8 million and $11.6 million in the third quarter of 2006 and 2005, respectively, result from the consolidation of certain trusts that Ambac has insured and consolidated under accounting pronouncement FIN 46. Financial guarantee expenses of $147.7 million for the nine months of 2006 decreased 43% from $259.2 million for the same period of 2005. The decrease results primarily from lower loss expenses partially offset by higher compensation expenses during the period. Loss Reserve Activity Case basis loss reserves (loss reserves for exposures that have defaulted) decreased $12.0 million during the third quarter of 2006 from $138.7 million at June 30, 2006 to $126.7 million at September 30, 2006. The decrease was driven primarily by claim payments made during the quarter amounting to $8.9 million. Active credit reserves ("ACR") are established for probable and estimable losses due to credit deterioration on adversely classified insured transactions. Ambac continuously monitors its insured portfolio actively seeking to mitigate claims. The ACR increased by $0.6 million during the quarter, from $147.0 million at June 30, 2006 to $147.6 million at September 30, 2006. The increase was driven by increased reserves on certain credits within the U.S. public finance and structured finance portfolios, offset by a $35.6 million reduction in the ACR for Hurricane Katrina impacted credits. At September 30, 2006, the specific Hurricane Katrina-related provision amounts to $50.5 million, down from $90.4 million at June 30, 2006. The decrease is primarily due to significant state and federal support recently provided to the region, particularly the greater New Orleans area. Ambac did not pay any Katrina-related claims during the quarter. Provision for income taxes for the third quarter of 2006 amounted to $83.6 million, an effective tax rate of 28.1%. This compares to the third quarter of 2005 tax provision of $51.9 million, an effective tax rate of 22.8%. The increased tax rate in 2006 was due to the net release of tax reserves in the third quarter 2005 and higher taxable income resulting from improved financial guarantee underwriting results in the third quarter 2006 relative to the comparable prior period primarily as a result of Hurricane Katrina related loss activity. Provision for income taxes for the nine months of 2006 amounted to $252.5 million, an effective tax rate of 27.3%. This compares to the nine months of 2005 tax provision of $193.1 million, an effective tax rate of 26.1%. The increased tax rate in 2006 is explained above. Other Items Total net securities gains/(losses) for the third quarter of 2006 were $9.9 million, or $0.06 per diluted share; consisting of net realized gains on investment securities of $7.9 million, net mark-to-market gains on credit and total return derivatives of $2.1 million and net mark-to-market losses on non-trading derivative contracts of ($0.1) million. For the third quarter of 2005, net securities gains/(losses) were $14.5 million, or $0.08 per diluted share; consisting of net realized gains on investment securities of $9.5 million, net mark-to-market gains on credit and total return derivatives of $3.9 million and net mark-to-market gains on non-trading derivative contracts of $1.1 million. Total net securities gains/(losses) for the nine months of 2006 were $74.4 million, or $0.44 per diluted share; consisting of net realized gains on investment securities of $57.5 million, net mark-to-market gains on credit and total return derivatives of $16.5 million and net mark-to-market gains on non-trading derivative contracts of $0.4 million. Approximately $51 million of the net realized gains on investment securities relate to cash recoveries received during the year related to a security in the investment agreement portfolio that had been written down in 2002 and 2003. For the nine months of 2005, net securities gains were $53.1 million, or $0.27 per diluted share; consisting of net realized gains on investment securities of $10.8 million, mark-to-market losses on credit derivatives and total return swaps of ($7.0) million and net mark-to-market gains on non-trading derivative contracts of $49.3 million. The mark-to-market gains on non-trading derivative contracts relate almost entirely to interest rate hedge contracts in Ambac's investment agreement business that were redesignated to meet the technical requirements of FAS 133 as of July 1, 2005. Balance Sheet Highlights Total assets as of September 30, 2006 were $21.09 billion, up 7% from total assets of $19.73 billion at December 31, 2005. The increase was driven by cash generated from operations during the period. As of September 30, 2006, stockholders' equity was $6.01 billion, a 12% increase from year-end 2005 stockholders' equity of $5.37 billion. The increase was primarily the result of net income during the period. Increased Share Buyback Authorization At its October 2006 Board meeting, the Board of Directors of Ambac Financial Group, Inc. increased the number of shares available under the Company's Share Repurchase Program by six million shares. Including this additional authorization, Ambac has approximately 9.7 million shares remaining under its Share Repurchase Program. Shares will be repurchased in the open market or in private transactions at times and prices considered appropriate by Ambac. Cash Dividend Declared At its October 2006 Board meeting, the Board of Directors approved the regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.18 per share of common stock. The dividend is payable on December 6, 2006 to stockholders of record on November 10, 2006. Forward-Looking Statements This release, in particular the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer's remarks, contains statements about our future results that may be considered "forward-looking statements" under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based on current expectations and the current economic environment. We caution you that these statements are not guarantees of future performance. They involve a number of risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict. Our actual results could differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. Among the factors that could cause actual results to differ materially are (1) changes in the economic, credit, or interest rate environment in the United States and abroad; (2) the level of activity within the national and worldwide debt markets; (3) competitive conditions and pricing levels; (4) legislative and regulatory developments; (5) changes in tax laws; (6) the policies and actions of the United States and other governments; (7) changes in capital requirement or other criteria of rating agencies; (8) changes in accounting principles or practices that may impact the Company's reported financial results; (9) inadequacy of reserves established for losses and loss adjustment expenses; (10) default of one or more of the Company's reinsurers; (11) market spreads and pricing on insured pooled debt obligations and other derivative products insured or issued by the Company; (12) prepayment speeds on insured asset-backed securities and other factors that may influence the amount of installment premiums paid to the Company; and (13) other risks and uncertainties that have not been identified at this time. We undertake no obligation to publicly correct or update any forward-looking statement if we later become aware that it is not likely to be achieved, except as required by law. Ambac Financial Group, Inc., headquartered in New York City, is a holding company whose affiliates provide financial guarantees and financial services to clients in both the public and private sectors around the world. Ambac's principal operating subsidiary, Ambac Assurance Corporation, a leading guarantor of public finance and structured finance obligations, has earned triple-A ratings, the highest ratings available from Moody's Investors Service, Inc., Standard & Poor's Ratings Services, Fitch, Inc. and Rating and Investment Information, Inc. Ambac Financial Group, Inc. common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (ticker symbol ABK). Footnotes (1) Credit enhancement production, which is not promulgated under GAAP, is used by management, equity analysts and investors as an indication of new business production in the period. Credit enhancement production, which Ambac reports as analytical data, is defined as gross (direct and assumed) up-front premiums plus the present value of estimated installment premiums on insurance policies and structured credit derivatives issued in the period. The discount rate used to measure the present value of estimated installment premiums was 6.0% and 7.0% during the third quarter of 2006 and 2005, respectively. The definition of credit enhancement production used by Ambac may differ from definitions of credit enhancement production used by other public holding companies of financial guarantors. The following table reconciles credit enhancement production to gross premiums written calculated in accordance with GAAP: -0- *T $-millions Third Quarter Nine Months 2006 2005 2006 2005 ------ ------ ------ ------ Credit enhancement production $ 216 $ 257 $ 981 $ 854 Present value of estimated installment premiums written on insurance policies and structured credit derivatives issued in the period (149) (143) (643) (446) ------ ------ ------ ------ Gross up-front premiums written $ 67 $ 114 $ 338 $ 408 Gross installment premiums written on insurance policies 145 124 407 382 ------ ------ ------ ------ Gross premiums written $ 212 $ 238 $ 745 $ 790 ====== ====== ====== ====== *T (2) Operating earnings and core earnings are not substitutes for net income computed in accordance with GAAP, but are useful measures of performance used by management, equity analysts and investors. Operating earnings measures income from operations excluding the impact of investment portfolio realized gains and losses, mark-to-market gains and losses from certain non-trading derivative instruments and certain other items. Core earnings further exclude the impact of refundings, calls and other accelerations. The definitions of operating earnings and core earnings used by Ambac may differ from definitions of operating earnings and core earnings used by other public holding companies of financial guarantors. -0- *T Ambac Financial Group, Inc. and Subsidiaries Consolidated Statements of Operations (Unaudited) For the Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2006 and 2005 (Dollars in Thousands Except Share Data) Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 30, September 30, ------------------------- ------------------------- 2006 2005 2006 2005 ------------------------- ------------------------- Revenues: Financial Guarantee: Gross premiums written $212,301 $237,943 $744,766 $789,697 Ceded premiums written (26,351) (34,296) (75,341) (61,707) ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ Net premiums written $185,950 $203,647 $669,425 $727,990 ============ ============ ============ ============ Net premiums earned $198,499 $218,098 $603,467 $610,974 Other credit enhancement fees 16,057 13,014 44,400 37,617 ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ Net premiums earned and other credit enhancement fees 214,556 231,112 647,867 648,591 Net investment income 120,247 110,646 351,185 317,104 Net realized investment gains 1,329 5,013 2,842 6,004 Net mark-to- market gains (losses) on credit derivative contracts 2,572 1,555 9,906 (4,785) Other income 2,655 2,859 35,039 6,150 Financial Services: Investment income 107,191 70,854 287,174 192,951 Derivative products 3,252 8,896 11,259 13,202 Net realized investment gains 6,636 4,520 53,867 4,808 Net mark-to- market (losses) gains on total return swap contracts (501) 2,347 6,540 (2,255) Net mark-to- market (losses) gains on non- trading derivatives (1,175) (57) (1,237) 48,869 Corporate: Net investment income 3,545 515 9,941 1,320 Net realized investment gains - - 791 - ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ Total revenues 460,307 438,260 1,415,174 1,231,959 ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ Expenses: Financial Guarantee: Loss and loss expenses (2,543) 89,126 10,406 134,255 Underwriting and operating expenses 30,192 27,844 99,959 89,939 Interest expense on variable interest entity notes 12,754 11,623 37,335 35,018 Financial Services: Interest from investment and payment agreements 97,126 62,602 262,624 170,781 Other expenses 3,119 2,912 9,994 10,162 Interest 19,474 13,627 58,424 40,653 Corporate 3,036 3,548 10,679 11,291 ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ Total expenses 163,158 211,282 489,421 492,099 ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ Income before income taxes 297,149 226,978 925,753 739,860 Provision for income taxes 83,626 51,861 252,520 193,102 ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ Net income $213,523 $175,117 $673,233 $546,758 ============ ============ ============ ============ Net income per share $2.00 $1.63 $6.32 $5.02 ============ ============ ============ ============ Net income per diluted share $1.98 $1.61 $6.26 $4.97 ============ ============ ============ ============ Weighted average number of common shares outstanding: Basic 106,725,567 107,392,176 106,549,856 108,891,738 ============ ============ ============ ============ Diluted 107,737,122 108,484,035 107,473,723 110,121,701 ============ ============ ============ ============ *T -0- *T Ambac Financial Group, Inc. and Subsidiaries Consolidated Balance Sheets September 30, 2006 and December 31, 2005 (Dollars in Thousands Except Share Data) September 30, December 31, 2006 2005 ------------- ------------ (unaudited) Assets ------------------------------------------- Investments: Fixed income securities, at fair value (amortized cost of $16,526,366 in 2006 and $14,781,028 in 2005) $16,855,600 $15,124,016 Fixed income securities pledged as collateral, at fair value (amortized cost of $381,625 in 2006 and $378,480 in 2005) 375,288 371,160 Short-term investments, at cost (approximates fair value) 277,763 472,034 Other (cost of $98,467 in 2006 and $13,537 in 2005) 99,474 14,173 ------------- ------------ Total investments 17,608,125 15,981,383 Cash 42,182 28,295 Securities purchased under agreements to resell 282,450 419,000 Receivable for securities sold 1,909 2,161 Investment income due and accrued 182,979 178,779 Reinsurance recoverable on paid and unpaid losses 5,292 3,730 Prepaid reinsurance 311,564 303,383 Deferred acquisition costs 220,252 202,195 Loans 1,199,287 1,344,140 Derivative assets 1,125,519 1,102,649 Other assets 113,618 159,425 ------------- ------------ Total assets $21,093,177 $19,725,140 ============= ============ Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity ------------------------------------------- Liabilities: Unearned premiums $3,030,641 $2,954,718 Loss and loss expense reserve 279,614 304,139 Ceded reinsurance balances payable 16,964 23,746 Obligations under investment and payment agreements 7,743,869 7,056,222 Obligations under investment repurchase agreements 157,151 196,568 Securities sold under agreement to repurchase 139,486 - Deferred income taxes 261,228 257,987 Current income taxes 29,281 16,726 Long-term debt 2,213,303 2,233,582 Accrued interest payable 108,247 108,195 Derivative liabilities 846,911 935,440 Other liabilities 254,577 253,969 Payable for securities purchased 6,588 11,641 ------------- ------------ Total liabilities 15,087,860 14,352,933 ------------- ------------ Stockholders' equity: Preferred stock - - Common stock 1,092 1,092 Additional paid-in capital 755,749 723,680 Accumulated other comprehensive income 199,752 202,312 Retained earnings 5,265,443 4,692,701 Common stock held in treasury at cost (216,719) (247,578) ------------- ------------ Total stockholders' equity 6,005,317 5,372,207 ------------- ------------ Total liabilities and stockholders' equity $21,093,177 $19,725,140 ============= ============ Number of shares outstanding (net of treasury shares) 106,192,941 105,639,446 ============= ============ Book value per share $56.55 $50.85 ============= ============ *T -0- *T Ambac Assurance Corporation and Subsidiaries Capitalization Table - GAAP September 30, 2006 and December 31, 2005 (Dollars in Millions) The following table sets forth Ambac Assurance's consolidated capitalization as of September 30, 2006 and December 31, 2005, respectively, on the basis of accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. September 30, December 31, 2006 2005 ------------- ------------ (unaudited) Unearned premiums $ 3,040 $ 2,966 Long-term debt 1,022 1,042 Other liabilities 1,980 1,996 ------------- ------------ Total liabilities 6,042 6,004 ------------- ------------ Stockholder's equity: Common stock 82 82 Additional paid-in capital 1,476 1,453 Accumulated other comprehensive income 144 137 Retained earnings 5,063 4,499 ------------- ------------ Total stockholder's equity 6,765 6,171 ------------- ------------ Total liabilities and stockholder's equity $12,807 $12,175 ============= ============ *T