UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

Form 10-K/A

(Amendment No. 1)

(Mark One)

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

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2009

or

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 001-15787

MetLife, Inc.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware		13-4075851
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)		(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
200 Park Avenue, New York, N.Y. (Address of principal executive offices)		10166-0188 (Zip Code)

(212) 578-2211
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Title of each class		Name of each exchange on which registered
Common Stock, par value $0.01		New York Stock Exchange
Floating Rate Non-Cumulative Preferred Stock, Series A, par value $0.01		New York Stock Exchange
6.50% Non-Cumulative Preferred Stock, Series B, par value $0.01		New York Stock Exchange
5.875% Senior Notes		New York Stock Exchange
5.375% Senior Notes		Irish Stock Exchange
5.25% Senior Notes		Irish Stock Exchange

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

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

     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 whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes þ No o

     Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§ 229.405 of this chapter) 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. o

     Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

Large accelerated filer þ		Accelerated filer o		Non-accelerated filer o		Smaller reporting company o
				(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)

     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 voting and non-voting common equity held by non-affiliates of the registrant at June 30, 2009 was approximately $25 billion. At February 22, 2010, 819,117,546 shares of the registrant’s common stock were outstanding.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

     The information required to be furnished pursuant to part of Item 10 and Item 11 through Item 14 of Part III of this Form 10-K is set forth in, and is hereby incorporated by reference herein from, the registrant’s definitive proxy statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on April 27, 2010, to be filed by the registrant with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Regulation 14A not later than 120 days after the year ended December 31, 2009.

 

 

Explanatory Note

     On July 21, 2010, the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act repealed Rule 436(g) promulgated under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), thereby eliminating the exemption from the expert consent and liability provisions under the Securities Act for any credit ratings issued by a “nationally recognized statistical rating organization.” As a result, companies that wish to include certain information relating to their ratings in periodic reports that may be incorporated by reference into future registration statements or prospectuses must obtain the consent of the applicable rating agencies. The rating agencies have indicated that they are not providing any consents at this time. The Staff of the Securities and Exchange Commission issued new Compliance & Disclosure Interpretations on July 22, 2010 stating that information constituting “issuer disclosure-related ratings information” will be permitted without the need for rating agencies’ consent.

     This Annual Report on Form 10-K/A (the “Amendment”) solely modifies Part I, Item 1(Business) and Part II, Item 7 (Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations) in our Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009, originally filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on February 26, 2010 (the “Original Form 10-K”), to delete disclosures and references to our credit ratings as it may not constitute “issuer disclosure-related ratings information.” All other Items of the Original Form 10-K are unaffected by this Amendment and such Items have not been included in this Amendment. Information included in this Amendment is stated as of December 31, 2009, and does not reflect any subsequent events occurring after the filing of the Original Form 10-K.

Table Of Contents

		Page
		Number
Part I
Item 1. Business			4
Part II
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations			23
Part IV
Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules			108
Signatures			109
Exhibit Index			110
EX-31.1
EX-31.2

Part I

Item 1. Business

     As used in this Form 10-K, “MetLife,” the “Company,” “we,” “our” and “us” refer to MetLife, Inc., a Delaware corporation incorporated in 1999 (the “Holding Company”), and its subsidiaries, including Metropolitan Life Insurance Company (“MLIC”).

     With a more than 140-year history, we have grown to become a leading, global provider of insurance, employee benefits and financial services with more than 70 million customers and operations throughout the United States and the regions of Latin America, Asia Pacific and Europe, Middle East and India (“EMEI”). Over the past several years, we have grown our core businesses, as well as successfully executed on our growth strategy. This has included completing a number of transactions that have resulted in the acquisition and in some cases divestiture of certain businesses while also further strengthening our balance sheet to position MetLife for continued growth.

     In December 2009, we began reporting results under our new U.S. Business organization. U.S. Business consists of Insurance Products, Retirement Products, Corporate Benefit Funding (“CBF”) and Auto & Home. The former Institutional Business & Individual Business segments have been reclassified into the following three segments:

	•		Insurance Products (group life, individual life and non-medical health insurance products);
	•		Retirement Products (individual and institutional annuity products); and
	•		Corporate Benefit Funding (pension closeouts, structured settlements and other benefit funding solutions).

     The financial reporting format for the Auto & Home segment, which is also part of U.S. Business and consists of our property & casualty insurance products, remains unchanged from prior periods.

     Through our U.S. Business organization, we provide a variety of insurance and financial services products — including life, dental, disability and long-term care insurance, guaranteed interest and stable value products, various annuity products, and auto & home insurance — through both proprietary and independent retail distribution channels, as well as at the workplace. This business serves over 60,000 group customers, including over 90 of the top one hundred FORTUNE 500^® companies, and provides protection and retirement solutions to millions of individuals.

     Our International segment operates in 16 countries within the Latin America, Asia Pacific and EMEI regions. MetLife is the largest life insurer in Mexico and also holds leading market positions in Chile and Japan. We are also investing in organic growth efforts in a number of countries, including India, China and South Korea. International is the fastest-growing of MetLife’s businesses, and we have clearly identified it to be one of the biggest future growth areas.

     Within the U.S., we also provide a wide array of savings and mortgage banking products. Through its own organic growth efforts and the completion of two mortgage company acquisitions in 2008, MetLife Bank, National Association (“MetLife Bank”), ranked among the top four reverse mortgage originators and the top 11 mortgage originators for the year ended December 31, 2009, according to Reverse Mortgage Insight and Inside Mortgage Finance, an industry trade group publication. Results of our banking operation are reported in Banking, Corporate & Other.

     Revenues derived from any customer did not exceed 10% of consolidated revenues in any of the last three years. Financial information, including revenues, expenses, income and loss, and total assets by segment, is provided in Note 22 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

     With a $328 billion general account portfolio invested primarily in investment grade corporate bonds, structured finance securities, commercial & agricultural mortgage loans, U.S. Treasury, agency and government guaranteed securities, as well as real estate and corporate equity, we are one of the largest institutional investors in the United States. Over the past several years, we have taken a number of actions to further diversify and strengthen our general account portfolio.

     Our well-recognized brand names, leading market positions, competitive and innovative product offerings and financial strength and expertise should help drive future growth and enhance shareholder value, building on a long history of fairness, honesty and integrity.

     Over the course of the next several years, we will pursue the following specific objectives to achieve our goals:

	•		Build on our widely recognized brand name
	•		Capitalize on our large customer base of institutions and individual consumers
	•		Expand and leverage our broad, diverse distribution channels
	•		Continue to introduce innovative and competitive products
	•		Focus on growing our businesses around the globe
	•		Capitalize on opportunities to provide retirement income solutions
	•		Maintain balanced focus on income and protection products
	•		Maintain and enhance capital efficiency
	•		Continue to achieve organizational efficiencies through our Operational Excellence initiative
	•		Focus on margin improvement and return on equity expansion
	•		Further our commitment to a diverse workplace

     Overview

     Insurance Products

     Our Insurance Products segment offers a broad range of protection products and services aimed at serving the financial needs of our customers throughout their lives. These products are sold to individuals and corporations, as well as other institutions and their respective employees. We have built a leading position in the U.S. group insurance market through long-standing relationships with many of the largest corporate employers in the United States, and are one of the largest issuers of individual life insurance products in the United States. We are organized into three businesses: Group Life, Individual Life and Non-Medical Health.

     Our Group Life insurance products and services include variable life, universal life, and term life products. We offer group insurance products as employer-paid benefits or as voluntary benefits where all or a portion of the premiums are paid by the employee. These group products and services also include employee paid supplemental life and are offered as standard products or may be tailored to meet specific customer needs.

     Our Individual Life insurance products and services include variable life, universal life, term life and whole life products. Additionally, through our broker-dealer affiliates, we offer a full range of mutual funds and other securities products. The elimination of transactions from activity between the segments within U.S. Business occurs within Individual Life. The major products in this area are:

     Variable Life. Variable life products provide insurance coverage through a contract that gives the policyholder flexibility in investment choices and, depending on the product, in premium payments and coverage amounts, with certain guarantees. Most importantly, with variable life products, premiums and account balances can be directed by the policyholder into a variety of separate accounts or directed to the Company’s general account. In the separate accounts, the policyholder bears the entire risk of the investment results. We collect specified fees for the management of these various investment accounts and any net return is credited directly to the policyholder’s account. In some instances, third-party money management firms manage investment accounts that support variable insurance products. With some products, by maintaining a certain premium level, policyholders may have the advantage of various guarantees that may protect the death benefit from adverse investment experience.

     Universal Life. Universal life products provide insurance coverage on the same basis as variable life, except that premiums, and the resulting accumulated balances, are allocated only to the Company’s general account. Universal life products may allow

the insured to increase or decrease the amount of death benefit coverage over the term of the contract and the owner to adjust the frequency and amount of premium payments. We credit premiums to an account maintained for the policyholder. Premiums are credited net of specified expenses. Interest is credited to the policyholder’s account at interest rates we determine, subject to specified minimums. Specific charges are made against the policyholder’s account for the cost of insurance protection and for expenses. With some products, by maintaining a certain premium level, policyholders may have the advantage of various guarantees that may protect the death benefit from adverse investment experience.

     Term Life. Term life products provide a guaranteed benefit upon the death of the insured for a specified time period in return for the periodic payment of premiums. Specified coverage periods range from one year to 30 years, but in no event are they longer than the period over which premiums are paid. Death benefits may be level over the period or decreasing. Decreasing coverage is used principally to provide for loan repayment in the event of death. Premiums may be guaranteed at a level amount for the coverage period or may be non-level and non-guaranteed. Term insurance products are sometimes referred to as pure protection products, in that there are typically no savings or investment elements. Term contracts expire without value at the end of the coverage period when the insured party is still living.

     Whole Life. Whole life products provide a guaranteed benefit upon the death of the insured in return for the periodic payment of a fixed premium over a predetermined period. Premium payments may be required for the entire life of the contract period, to a specified age or period, and may be level or change in accordance with a predetermined schedule. Whole life insurance includes policies that provide a participation feature in the form of dividends. Policyholders may receive dividends in cash or apply them to increase death benefits, increase cash values available upon surrender or reduce the premiums required to maintain the contract in-force. Because the use of dividends is specified by the policyholder, this group of products provides significant flexibility to individuals to tailor the product to suit their specific needs and circumstances, while at the same time providing guaranteed benefits.

Our Non-Medical Health insurance products and services include dental insurance, group short- and long-term disability, individual disability income, long-term care (“LTC”), critical illness and accidental death & dismemberment coverages. Other products and services include employer-sponsored auto and homeowners insurance provided through the Auto & Home segment and prepaid legal plans. We also sell administrative services-only (“ASO”) arrangements to some employers. The major products in this area are:

     Dental. Dental products provide insurance and ASO plans that assist employees, retirees and their families in maintaining oral health while reducing out-of-pocket expenses and providing superior customer service. Dental plans include the Preferred Dentist Program and the Dental Health Maintenance Organization.

     Disability. Disability products provide a benefit in the event of the disability of the insured. In most instances, this benefit is in the form of monthly income paid until the insured reaches age 65. In addition to income replacement, the product may be used to provide for the payment of business overhead expenses for disabled business owners or mortgage payment protection. This is offered on both a group and individual basis.

     Long-term Care. LTC products provide a fixed benefit amount on a daily or monthly basis for individuals who need assistance with activities of daily living or have a cognitive impairment. These products are offered on both a group and individual basis.

     Retirement Products

     Our Retirement products segment includes a variety of variable and fixed annuities that are primarily sold to individuals and employees of corporations and other institutions. The major products in this area are:

     Variable Annuities. Variable annuities provide for both asset accumulation and asset distribution needs. Variable annuities allow the contractholder to make deposits into various investment accounts, as determined by the contractholder. The investment accounts are separate accounts and risks associated with such investments are borne entirely by the contractholder, except where guaranteed minimum benefits are involved. In certain variable annuity products, contractholders may also choose to allocate all or a portion of their account to the Company’s general account and are credited with interest at rates we determine, subject to certain minimums. In addition, contractholders may also elect certain minimum death benefit and minimum living benefit guarantees for which additional fees are charged.

     Fixed Annuities. Fixed annuities provide for both asset accumulation and asset distribution needs. Fixed annuities do not allow the same investment flexibility provided by variable annuities, but provide guarantees related to the preservation of principal and

interest credited. Deposits made into deferred annuity contracts are allocated to the Company’s general account and are credited with interest at rates we determine, subject to certain minimums. Credited interest rates are guaranteed not to change for certain limited periods of time, ranging from one to ten years. Fixed income annuities provide a guaranteed monthly income for a specified period of years and/or for the life of the annuitant.

     Corporate Benefit Funding

     Our Corporate Benefit Funding segment includes an array of annuity and investment products, including, guaranteed interest products and other stable value products, income annuities, and separate account contracts for the investment management of defined benefit and defined contribution plan assets. This segment also includes certain products to fund postretirement benefits and company, bank or trust owned life insurance used to finance non-qualified benefit programs for executives. The major products in this area are:

     Stable Value Products. We offer general account guaranteed interest contracts, separate account guaranteed interest contracts, and similar products used to support the stable value option of defined contribution plans. We also offer private floating rate funding agreements that are used for money market funds, securities lending cash collateral portfolios and short-term investment funds.

     Pensions Closeouts. We offer general account and separate account annuity products, generally in connection with the termination of defined benefit pension plans, both domestically and in the United Kingdom. We also offer partial risk transfer solutions that allow for partial transfers of pension liabilities. Annuity products include single premium buyouts and terminal funding contracts.

     Torts and Settlements. We offer innovative strategies for complex litigation settlements, primarily structured settlement annuities.

     Capital Markets Investment Products. Products offered include funding agreements (including our Global GIC Programs), Federal Home Loan Bank advances and funding agreement backed commercial paper.

     Other Corporate Benefit Funding Products and Services. We offer specialized life insurance products designed specifically to provide solutions for non-qualified benefit and retiree benefit funding purposes.

     Auto & Home

     Our Auto & Home segment includes personal lines property and casualty insurance offered directly to employees at their employer’s worksite, as well as to individuals through a variety of retail distribution channels, including independent agents, property and casualty specialists, direct response marketing and the agency distribution group. Auto & Home primarily sells auto insurance, which represented 68% of Auto & Home’s total net earned premiums in 2009. Homeowners and other insurance represented 32% of Auto & Home’s total net earned premiums in 2009. The major products in this area are:

     Auto Coverages. Auto insurance policies provide coverage for private passenger automobiles, utility automobiles and vans, motorcycles, motor homes, antique or classic automobiles and trailers. Auto & Home offers traditional coverage such as liability, uninsured motorist, no fault or personal injury protection and collision and comprehensive.

     Homeowners and Other Coverages. Homeowners’ insurance policies provide protection for homeowners, renters, condominium owners and residential landlords against losses arising out of damage to dwellings and contents from a wide variety of perils, as well as coverage for liability arising from ownership or occupancy. Other insurance includes personal excess liability (protection against losses in excess of amounts covered by other liability insurance policies), and coverage for recreational vehicles and boat owners.

     Traditional insurance policies for dwellings represent the majority of Auto & Home’s homeowners’ policies providing protection for loss on a “replacement cost” basis. These policies provide additional coverage for reasonable, normal living expenses incurred by policyholders that have been displaced from their homes.

     Sales Distribution

     Our U.S. Business markets our products and services through various distribution groups. Our life insurance and retirement products targeted to individuals are sold via sales forces, comprised of MetLife employees, in addition to third-party organizations. Our group life and non-medical health insurance and corporate benefit funding products are sold via sales forces primarily comprised of MetLife employees. Personal lines property and casualty insurance products are directly marketed to employees at their employer’s worksite. Auto & Home products are also marketed and sold to individuals by independent agents and property and casualty specialists through a direct response channel and the agency distribution group. MetLife sales employees work with all distribution groups to better reach and service customers, brokers, consultants and other intermediaries.

     Individual Sales Distribution

     Our individual distribution targets the large middle-income market, as well as affluent individuals, owners of small businesses and executives of small- to medium-sized companies. We have also been successful in selling our products in various multi-cultural markets.

     Insurance Products are sold through our individual sales distribution organization and also through various third-party organizations utilizing two models. In the coverage model, wholesalers sell to high net worth individuals and small- to medium-sized businesses through independent general agencies, financial advisors, consultants, brokerage general agencies and other independent marketing organizations under contractual arrangements. Wholesalers sell through financial intermediaries, including regional broker-dealers, brokerage firms, financial planners and banks.

     Retirement Products are sold through our individual sales distribution organization and also through various third-party organizations such as regional broker-dealers, New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) brokerage firms, financial planners and banks.

     Individual sales distribution representatives market Auto & Home products to individuals through a variety of means.

     The individual sales distribution organization is comprised of three channels: the MetLife distribution channel, a career agency system, the New England financial distribution channel, a general agency system, and MetLife Resources, a career agency system.

     The MetLife distribution channel had 5,762 MetLife agents under contract in 82 agencies at December 31, 2009. The career agency sales force focuses on the large middle-income and affluent markets, including multi-cultural markets. We support our efforts in multi-cultural markets through targeted advertising, specially trained agents and sales literature written in various languages.

     The New England financial distribution channel included 36 general agencies providing support to 2,232 general agents and a network of independent brokers throughout the United States at December 31, 2009. The New England financial distribution channel targets high net worth individuals, owners of small businesses and executives of small- to medium-sized companies.

     MetLife Resources, a focused distribution channel of MetLife, markets retirement, annuity and other financial products on a national basis through 621 MetLife agents and independent brokers at December 31, 2009. MetLife Resources targets the nonprofit, educational and healthcare markets.

     We market and sell Auto & Home products through independent agents, property and casualty specialists, a direct response channel and the agency distribution group. In recent years, we have increased the number of independent agents appointed to sell these products.

     In 2009, Auto & Home’s business was concentrated in the following states, as measured by amount and percentage of total direct earned premiums:

		For the Year Ended December 31, 2009
		(In millions)				Percent
New York		$	392				13	%
Massachusetts		$	281				9	%
Illinois		$	201				7	%
Florida		$	169				6	%
Connecticut		$	150				5	%
Texas		$	129				4	%

     Group Sales Distribution

     Insurance Products distributes its group life and non-medical health insurance products and services through a sales force that is segmented by the size of the target customer. Marketing representatives sell either directly to corporate and other group customers or through an intermediary, such as a broker or consultant. Voluntary products are sold through the same sales channels, as well as by specialists for these products. Employers have been emphasizing such voluntary products and, as a result, we have increased our focus on communicating and marketing to such employees in order to further foster sales of those products. At December 31, 2009, the group life and non-medical health insurance sales channels had 385 marketing representatives.

     Retirement Products markets its retirement, savings, investment and payout annuity products and services to sponsors and advisors of benefit plans of all sizes. These products and services are offered to private and public pension plans, collective bargaining units, nonprofit organizations, recipients of structured settlements and the current and retired members of these and other institutions.

     Corporate Benefit Funding products and services are distributed through dedicated sales teams and relationship managers located in 12 offices around the country. In addition, the retirement & benefits funding organization works with individual distribution and group life and non-medical health insurance distribution areas to better reach and service customers, brokers, consultants and other intermediaries.

     Auto & Home is a leading provider of personal lines property and casualty insurance products offered to employees at their employer’s worksite. At December 31, 2009, 2,223 employers offered MetLife Auto & Home products to their employees.

     Group marketing representatives market personal lines property and casualty insurance products to employers through a variety of means, including broker referrals and cross-selling to group customers. Once permitted by the employer, MetLife commences marketing efforts to employees. Employees who are interested in the auto and homeowners products can call a toll-free number to request a quote to purchase coverage and to request payroll deduction over the telephone. Auto & Home has also developed a proprietary software that permits an employee in most states to obtain a quote for auto insurance through Auto & Home’s Internet website.

     We have entered into several joint ventures and other arrangements with third parties to expand the marketing and distribution opportunities of group products and services. We also seek to sell our group products and services through sponsoring organizations and affinity groups. For example, we are the provider of LTC products for the National Long-Term Care Coalition, a group of some of the nation’s largest employers. In addition, we also provide life and dental coverage to federal employees.

International

     Overview

     International provides life insurance, accident and health insurance, credit insurance, annuities, endowment and retirement & savings products to both individuals and groups. We focus on emerging markets primarily within the Latin America, Asia Pacific and EMEI regions. We operate in international markets through subsidiaries and joint ventures. See “Risk Factors — Fluctuations in Foreign Currency Exchange Rates and Foreign Securities Markets Could Negatively Affect Our Profitability,” and “Risk Factors — Our International Operations Face Political, Legal, Operational and Other Risks that Could Negatively Affect Those Operations or Our Profitability,” and “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.”

     Latin America Region

     We operate in the Latin America region in Mexico, Chile, Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay. The operations in Mexico and Chile represented 83% of the total premiums and fees in this region for the year ended December 31, 2009. The Mexican operation is the largest life insurance company in both the individual and group businesses in Mexico according to Asociación Mexicana de Instituciones de Seguro, a Mexican industry trade group which provides ranking for insurance companies. The Chilean operation is the second largest annuity company in Chile, based on market share according to Superintendencia Valores y Seguros, the Chilean insurance regulator. The Chilean operation also offers individual life insurance and group insurance products. We also actively market individual life insurance, group insurance products and credit life coverage in Argentina, but the nationalization of the pension system substantially reduced our presence in Argentina. The business environment in Argentina has been, and may continue to be, affected by governmental and legal actions which impact our results of operations.

     Asia Pacific Region

     We operate in the Asia Pacific region in South Korea, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Australia, Japan, and China. The activities in the region are primarily focused on individual business. The operations in South Korea and Hong Kong represented 63% of the total premiums and fees in this region for the year ended December 31, 2009. The South Korean operation has significant sales of variable universal life and annuity products. The Hong Kong operation has significant sales of variable universal life and endowment products. The Japanese joint venture operation offers fixed and guaranteed variable annuities and variable life products. We have a quota share reinsurance agreement with the joint venture in Japan, whereby we assume 100% of the living and death guarantee benefits associated with the variable annuity business written after April 2005 by the joint venture. The operating results of the joint venture operations in Japan and China are reflected in net investment income and are not consolidated in the financial results.

     Europe, Middle East and India Region

     We operate in Europe in the United Kingdom, Belgium, Poland and Ireland. The results of our operations in the Middle East and our consolidated joint venture in India are also included in our EMEI region. The operations in the United Kingdom and India represented 72% of the total premiums and fees in this region for the year ended December 31, 2009. The United Kingdom operation underwrites risk in its home market and fourteen other countries across Europe and the Middle East offering credit insurance coverage. The Indian operation has significant sales of unit-linked and traditional life insurance products.

Banking, Corporate & Other

     Banking, Corporate & Other contains the excess capital not allocated to the business segments, which is invested to optimize investment spread and to fund company initiatives, various start-up entities, and run-off entities. Banking, Corporate & Other also includes interest expense related to the majority of our outstanding debt and expenses associated with certain legal proceedings. The elimination of transactions from activity between U.S. Business, International, and Banking, Corporate & Other occurs within Banking, Corporate & Other.

     Banking, Corporate & Other also includes the financial results of MetLife Bank, which offers a variety of residential mortgage and deposit products. The residential mortgage banking activities include the origination and servicing of mortgage loans. Mortgage loans are held-for-investment or sold primarily into Federal National Mortgage Association (“FNMA”), Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (“FHLMC”) or Government National Mortgage Association (“GNMA”) securities. MetLife Bank also leverages MetLife’s investment platform to source commercial and agriculture loans as investments on its balance sheet. MetLife Bank is a member of the Federal Reserve System and the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York (“FHLB”) and is subject to regulation, examination and supervision by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (“OCC”) and secondarily by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”) and the Federal Reserve.

     Products offered by MetLife Bank include forward and reverse residential mortgage loans and consumer deposits. Residential mortgage loans are originated through MetLife Bank’s national sales force, mortgage brokers and mortgage correspondents. In addition, MetLife Bank principally seeks deposits from direct customers via the Internet and mail, as well as customers of its affiliates having access to affiliates’ distribution channels and field force, including through voluntary benefits platforms.

     The origination of forward and reverse mortgage single family loans include both variable and fixed rate products. MetLife Bank does not originate sub-prime or alternative residential mortgage loans (“Alt-A”) mortgage loans and the funding for the mortgage banking activities is provided by deposits and borrowings.

     Deposit products include traditional savings accounts, money market savings accounts, certificates of deposit (“CDs”) and individual retirement accounts. MetLife Bank participates in the Certificate of Deposit Account Registry Service program through which certain customer CDs are exchanged for CDs of similar amounts from participating banks. The deposit products provide a relatively stable source of funding and liquidity and are used to fund securities and loans.

Policyholder Liabilities

     We establish, and carry as liabilities, actuarially determined amounts that are calculated to meet our policy obligations when a policy matures or is surrendered, an insured dies or becomes disabled or upon the occurrence of other covered events, or to provide for future annuity payments. We compute the amounts for actuarial liabilities reported in our consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”). For more details on Policyholder Liabilities see “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Summary

of Critical Accounting Estimates — Liability for Future Policy Benefits” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Policyholder Liabilities.”

     Pursuant to state insurance laws, the Holding Company’s insurance subsidiaries establish statutory reserves, reported as liabilities, to meet their obligations on their respective policies. These statutory reserves are established in amounts sufficient to meet policy and contract obligations, when taken together with expected future premiums and interest at assumed rates. Statutory reserves generally differ from actuarial liabilities for future policy benefits determined using GAAP.

     The New York Insurance Law and regulations require certain MetLife entities to submit to the New York Superintendent of Insurance or other state insurance departments, with each annual report, an opinion and memorandum of a “qualified actuary” that the statutory reserves and related actuarial amounts recorded in support of specified policies and contracts, and the assets supporting such statutory reserves and related actuarial amounts, make adequate provision for their statutory liabilities with respect to these obligations. See “— Regulation — Insurance Regulation — Policy and Contract Reserve Sufficiency Analysis.”

Underwriting and Pricing

     Underwriting

     Underwriting generally involves an evaluation of applications for Insurance Products, Retirement Products, Corporate Benefit Funding, and Auto & Home by a professional staff of underwriters and actuaries, who determine the type and the amount of risk that we are willing to accept. In addition to the products described above, the International segment, also offers credit insurance and in a limited number of countries, major medical products. We employ detailed underwriting policies, guidelines and procedures designed to assist the underwriter to properly assess and quantify risks before issuing policies to qualified applicants or groups.

     Insurance underwriting considers not only an applicant’s medical history, but also other factors such as financial profile, foreign travel, vocations and alcohol, drug and tobacco use. Group underwriting generally evaluates the risk characteristics of each prospective insured group, although with certain voluntary products, employees may be underwritten on an individual basis. We generally perform our own underwriting; however, certain policies are reviewed by intermediaries under guidelines established by us. Generally, we are not obligated to accept any risk or group of risks from, or to issue a policy or group of policies to, any employer or intermediary. Requests for coverage are reviewed on their merits and generally a policy is not issued unless the particular risk or group has been examined and approved by our underwriters.

     Our remote underwriting offices, intermediaries, as well as our corporate underwriting office are periodically reviewed via continuous on-going internal underwriting audits to maintain high-standards of underwriting and consistency across the Company. Such offices are also subject to periodic external audits by reinsurers with whom we do business.

     We have established senior level oversight of the underwriting process that facilitates quality sales and serves the needs of our customers, while supporting our financial strength and business objectives. Our goal is to achieve the underwriting, mortality and morbidity levels reflected in the assumptions in our product pricing. This is accomplished by determining and establishing underwriting policies, guidelines, philosophies and strategies that are competitive and suitable for the customer, the agent and us.

     Auto & Home’s underwriting function has six principal aspects: evaluating potential worksite marketing employer accounts and independent agencies; establishing guidelines for the binding of risks; reviewing coverage bound by agents; underwriting potential insureds, on a case by case basis, presented by agents outside the scope of their binding authority; pursuing information necessary in certain cases to enable Auto & Home to issue a policy within our guidelines; and ensuring that renewal policies continue to be written at rates commensurate with risk.

     Subject to very few exceptions, agents in each of the U.S. Business distribution channels have binding authority for risks which fall within its published underwriting guidelines. Risks falling outside the underwriting guidelines may be submitted for approval to the underwriting department; alternatively, agents in such a situation may call the underwriting department to obtain authorization to bind the risk themselves. In most states, the Company generally has the right within a specified period (usually the first 60 days) to cancel any policy.

     Pricing

     Pricing has traditionally reflected our corporate underwriting standards. Product pricing is based on the expected payout of benefits calculated through the use of assumptions for mortality, morbidity, expenses, persistency and investment returns, as well as certain macroeconomic factors, such as inflation. Investment-oriented products are priced based on various factors, which may include investment return, expenses, persistency and optionality. For certain investment oriented products in the U.S. and certain business sold internationally, pricing may include prospective and retrospective experience rating features. Prospective experience rating involves the evaluation of past experience for the purpose of determining future premium rates and all prior year gains and losses are borne by the Company. Retrospective experience rating also involves the evaluation of past experience for the purpose of determining the actual cost of providing insurance for the customer, however, the contract includes certain features that allow the Company to recoup certain losses or distribute certain gains back to the policyholder based on actual prior years’ experience.

     Rates for group life and non-medical health products are based on anticipated results for the book of business being underwritten. Renewals are generally reevaluated annually or biannually and are repriced to reflect actual experience on such products. Products offered by CBF are priced frequently and are very responsive to bond yields, and such prices include additional margin in periods of market uncertainty. This business is predominantly illiquid, because policyholders have no contractual rights to cash values and no options to change the form of the product’s benefits.

     Rates for individual life insurance products are highly regulated and must be approved by the state regulators where the product is sold. Generally such products are renewed annually and may include pricing terms that are guaranteed for a certain period of time. Fixed and variable annuity products are also highly regulated and approved by the individual state regulators. Such products generally include penalties for early withdrawals and policyholder benefit elections to tailor the form of the product’s benefits to the needs of the opting policyholder. The Company periodically reevaluates the costs associated with such options and will periodically adjust pricing levels on its guarantees. Further, the Company from time to time may also reevaluate the type and level of guarantee features currently being offered.

     Rates for Auto & Home’s major lines of insurance are based on its proprietary database, rather than relying on rating bureaus. Auto & Home determines prices in part from a number of variables specific to each risk. The pricing of personal lines insurance products takes into account, among other things, the expected frequency and severity of losses, the costs of providing coverage (including the costs of acquiring policyholders and administering policy benefits and other administrative and overhead costs), competitive factors and profit considerations. The major pricing variables for personal lines insurance include characteristics of the insured property, such as age, make and model or construction type, as well as characteristics of the insureds, such as driving record and loss experience, and the insured’s personal financial management. Auto & Home’s ability to set and change rates is subject to regulatory oversight.

     As a condition of our license to do business in each state, Auto & Home, like all other automobile insurers, is required to write or share the cost of private passenger automobile insurance for higher risk individuals who would otherwise be unable to obtain such insurance. This “involuntary” market, also called the “shared market,” is governed by the applicable laws and regulations of each state, and policies written in this market are generally written at rates higher than standard rates.

     We continually review our underwriting and pricing guidelines so that our policies remain competitive and supportive of our marketing strategies and profitability goals. The current economic environment, with its volatility and uncertainty is not expected to materially impact the pricing of our products.

Reinsurance Activity

     We enter into various agreements with reinsurers that cover individual risks, group risks or defined blocks of business, primarily on a coinsurance, yearly renewable term, excess or catastrophe excess basis. These reinsurance agreements spread risk and minimize the effect of losses. The extent of each risk retained by us depends on our evaluation of the specific risk, subject, in certain circumstances, to maximum retention limits based on the characteristics of coverages. We also cede first dollar mortality risk under certain contracts. In addition to reinsuring mortality risk, we reinsure other risks, as well as specific coverages. We routinely reinsure certain classes of risks in order to limit our exposure to particular travel, avocation and lifestyle hazards. We obtain reinsurance for capital requirement purposes and also when the economic impact of the reinsurance agreement makes it appropriate to do so.

     Under the terms of the reinsurance agreements, the reinsurer agrees to reimburse us for the ceded amount in the event a claim is paid. However, we remain liable to our policyholders with respect to ceded reinsurance should any reinsurer be unable to meet its obligations under these agreements. Since we bear the risk of nonpayment by one or more of our reinsurers, we primarily cede reinsurance to well-capitalized, highly rated reinsurers. We analyze recent trends in arbitration and litigation outcomes in disputes, if any, with our reinsurers. We monitor ratings and evaluate the financial strength of our reinsurers by analyzing their financial statements. In addition, the reinsurance recoverable balance due from each reinsurer is evaluated as part of the overall monitoring process. Recoverability of reinsurance recoverable balances are evaluated based on these analyses. We generally secure large reinsurance recoverable balances with various forms of collateral, including secured trusts, funds withheld accounts and irrevocable letters of credit.

     We reinsure our business through a diversified group of reinsurers. In the event that reinsurers do not meet their obligations under the terms of the reinsurance agreements, reinsurance balances recoverable could become uncollectible. Cessions under reinsurance arrangements do not discharge our obligations as the primary insurer.

     U.S. Business

     Our Insurance Products segment participates in reinsurance activities in order to limit losses, minimize exposure to significant risks, and provide additional capacity for future growth. For our individual life insurance products, we have historically reinsured the mortality risk primarily on an excess of retention basis or a quota share basis. Until 2005, we reinsured up to 90% of the mortality risk for all new individual life insurance policies that we wrote through our various subsidiaries. During 2005, we changed our retention practices for certain individual life insurance policies. Under the new retention guidelines, we reinsure up to 90% of the mortality risk in excess of $1 million. Retention limits remain unchanged for other new individual life insurance policies. Policies reinsured in years prior to 2005 remain reinsured under the original reinsurance agreements. On a case by case basis, we may retain up to $20 million per life and reinsure 100% of amounts in excess of our retention limits. We evaluate our reinsurance programs routinely and may increase or decrease our retention at any time. Placement of reinsurance is done primarily on an automatic basis and also on a facultative basis for risks with specific characteristics.

     For other policies within the Insurance Products segment, we generally retain most of the risk and only cede particular risks on certain client arrangements.

     Our Retirement Products segment reinsures a portion of the living and death benefit guarantees issued in connection with our variable annuities. Under these reinsurance agreements, we pay a reinsurance premium generally based on fees associated with the guarantees collected from policyholders, and receive reimbursement for benefits paid or accrued in excess of account values, subject to certain limitations. We enter into similar agreements for new or in-force business depending on market conditions.

     Our Corporate Benefit Funding segment has periodically engaged in reinsurance activities, as considered appropriate.

     Our Auto & Home segment purchases reinsurance to manage its exposure to large losses (primarily catastrophe losses) and to protect statutory surplus. We cede to reinsurers a portion of losses and premiums based upon the exposure of the policies subject to reinsurance. To manage exposure to large property and casualty losses, we utilize property catastrophe, casualty and property per risk excess of loss agreements.

   International

     Our International segment has periodically engaged in reinsurance activities, as considered appropriate.

   Banking, Corporate & Other

     We also reinsure through 100% quota share reinsurance agreements certain run-off long-term care and workers’ compensation business written by MetLife Insurance Company of Connecticut (“MICC”), a subsidiary of the Company.

   Catastrophe Coverage

     We have exposure to catastrophes, which could contribute to significant fluctuations in our results of operations. We use excess of retention and quota share reinsurance arrangements to provide greater diversification of risk and minimize exposure to larger risks.

Reinsurance Recoverables

     For information regarding ceded reinsurance recoverable balances, included in premiums and other receivables in the consolidated balance sheets, see Note 9 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

Regulation

   Insurance Regulation

     Metropolitan Life Insurance Company is licensed to transact insurance business in, and is subject to regulation and supervision by, all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico, Canada, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Northern Mariana Islands. Each of MetLife’s insurance subsidiaries is licensed and regulated in each U.S. and international jurisdiction where they conduct insurance business. The extent of such regulation varies, but most jurisdictions have laws and regulations governing the financial aspects of insurers, including standards of solvency, statutory reserves, reinsurance and capital adequacy, and the business conduct of insurers. In addition, statutes and regulations usually require the licensing of insurers and their agents, the approval of policy forms and certain other related materials and, for certain lines of insurance, the approval of rates. Such statutes and regulations also prescribe the permitted types and concentration of investments. New York Insurance Law limits the amount of compensation that insurers doing business in New York may pay to their agents, as well as the amount of total expenses, including sales commissions and marketing expenses, that such insurers may incur in connection with the sale of life insurance policies and annuity contracts throughout the United States.

     Each insurance subsidiary is required to file reports, generally including detailed annual financial statements, with insurance regulatory authorities in each of the jurisdictions in which it does business, and its operations and accounts are subject to periodic examination by such authorities. These subsidiaries must also file, and in many jurisdictions and in some lines of insurance obtain regulatory approval for, rules, rates and forms relating to the insurance written in the jurisdictions in which they operate.

     The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (“NAIC”) has established a program of accrediting state insurance departments. NAIC accreditation contemplates that accredited states will conduct periodic examinations of insurers domiciled in such states. NAIC-accredited states will not accept reports of examination of insurers from unaccredited states, except under limited circumstances. As a direct result, insurers domiciled in unaccredited states may be subject to financial examination by accredited states in which they are licensed, in addition to any examinations conducted by their domiciliary states. In 2009, the New York State Department of Insurance (the “Department”), MLIC’s principal insurance regulator, received accreditation from the NAIC. Previously, the Department was not accredited by the NAIC, but the absence of this accreditation did not have a significant impact upon our ability to conduct our insurance businesses.

     State and federal insurance and securities regulatory authorities and other state law enforcement agencies and attorneys general from time to time make inquiries regarding compliance by the Holding Company and its insurance subsidiaries with insurance, securities and other laws and regulations regarding the conduct of our insurance and securities businesses. We cooperate with such inquiries and take corrective action when warranted. See Note 16 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

     Holding Company Regulation. The Holding Company and its insurance subsidiaries are subject to regulation under the insurance holding company laws of various jurisdictions. The insurance holding company laws and regulations vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, but generally require a controlled insurance company (insurers that are subsidiaries of insurance holding companies) to register with state regulatory authorities and to file with those authorities certain reports, including information concerning its capital structure, ownership, financial condition, certain intercompany transactions and general business operations.

     State insurance statutes also typically place restrictions and limitations on the amount of dividends or other distributions payable by insurance company subsidiaries to their parent companies, as well as on transactions between an insurer and its affiliates. See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Liquidity and Capital Resources — The Holding Company — Liquidity and Capital Sources — Dividends from Subsidiaries.” The New York Insurance Law and the regulations thereunder also restrict the aggregate amount of investments MLIC may make in non-life insurance subsidiaries, and provide for detailed periodic reporting on subsidiaries.

     Guaranty Associations and Similar Arrangements. Most of the jurisdictions in which the Company’s insurance subsidiaries are admitted to transact business require life and property and casualty insurers doing business within the jurisdiction to participate in guaranty associations, which are organized to pay certain contractual insurance benefits owed pursuant to insurance policies issued by impaired, insolvent or failed insurers. These associations levy assessments, up to prescribed limits, on all member insurers in a particular state on the basis of the proportionate share of the premiums written by member insurers in the lines of business in which the impaired, insolvent or failed insurer is engaged. Some states permit member insurers to recover assessments paid through full or partial premium tax offsets.

     In the past five years, the aggregate assessments levied against MetLife have not been material. We have established liabilities for guaranty fund assessments that we consider adequate for assessments with respect to insurers that are currently subject to insolvency proceedings. See Note 16 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on the insolvency assessments.

     Statutory Insurance Examination. As part of their regulatory oversight process, state insurance departments conduct periodic detailed examinations of the books, records, accounts, and business practices of insurers domiciled in their states. State insurance departments also have the authority to conduct examinations of non-domiciliary insurers that are licensed in their states. During the three-year period ended December 31, 2009, MetLife has not received any material adverse findings resulting from state insurance department examinations of its insurance subsidiaries conducted during this three-year period.

     Regulatory authorities in a small number of states and Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (“FINRA”) have had investigations or inquiries relating to sales of individual life insurance policies or annuities or other products by MLIC, MetLife Securities, Inc., New England Mutual Life Insurance Company, New England Life Insurance Company, New England Securities Corporation, General American Life Insurance Company, Walnut Street Securities, Inc., MICC and Tower Square Securities, Inc. Over the past several years, these and a number of investigations by other regulatory authorities were resolved for monetary payments and certain other relief. We may continue to resolve investigations in a similar manner. See Note 16 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

     Policy and Contract Reserve Sufficiency Analysis. Annually, MetLife’s U.S. insurance subsidiaries are required to conduct an analysis of the sufficiency of all statutory reserves. In each case, a qualified actuary must submit an opinion which states that the statutory reserves, when considered in light of the assets held with respect to such reserves, make good and sufficient provision for the associated contractual obligations and related expenses of the insurer. If such an opinion cannot be provided, the insurer must set up additional reserves by moving funds from surplus. Since inception of this requirement, the Company’s insurance subsidiaries which are required by their states of domicile to provide these opinions have provided such opinions without qualifications.

     Surplus and Capital. The Company’s U.S. insurance subsidiaries are subject to the supervision of the regulators in each jurisdiction in which they are licensed to transact business. Regulators have discretionary authority, in connection with the continued licensing of these insurance subsidiaries, to limit or prohibit sales to policyholders if, in their judgment, the regulators determine that such insurer has not maintained the minimum surplus or capital or that the further transaction of business will be hazardous to policyholders. See “— Risk-Based Capital.”

     Risk-Based Capital (“RBC”). Each of the Company’s U.S. insurance subsidiaries is subject to RBC requirements and reports its RBC based on a formula calculated by applying factors to various asset, premium and statutory reserve items, as well as taking into account the risk characteristics of the insurer. The major categories of risk involved are asset risk, insurance risk, interest rate risk, market risk and business risk. The formula is used as an early warning regulatory tool to identify possible inadequately capitalized insurers for purposes of initiating regulatory action, and not as a means to rank insurers generally. State insurance laws provide insurance regulators the authority to require various actions by, or take various actions against, insurers whose RBC ratio does not meet or exceed certain RBC levels. As of the date of the most recent annual statutory financial statements filed with insurance regulators, the RBC of each of these subsidiaries was in excess of each of those RBC levels. See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Liquidity and Capital Resources — The Company — Capital.”

     The NAIC provides standardized insurance industry accounting and reporting guidance through its Accounting Practices and Procedures Manual (the “Manual”). However, statutory accounting principles continue to be established by individual state laws, regulations and permitted practices. The Department has adopted the Manual with certain modifications for the preparation of statutory financial statements of insurance companies domiciled in New York. Changes to the Manual or modifications by the various state insurance departments may impact the statutory capital and surplus of the Company’s insurance subsidiaries.

     Regulation of Investments. Each of the Company’s U.S. insurance subsidiaries are subject to state laws and regulations that require diversification of its investment portfolios and limit the amount of investments in certain asset categories, such as below investment grade fixed income securities, equity real estate, other equity investments, and derivatives. Failure to comply with these laws and regulations would cause investments exceeding regulatory limitations to be treated as non-admitted assets for purposes of measuring surplus, and, in some instances, would require divestiture of such non-qualifying investments. We believe that the investments made by each of the Company’s insurance subsidiaries complied, in all material respects, with such regulations at December 31, 2009.

     Federal Initiatives. Although the federal government generally does not directly regulate the insurance business, federal initiatives often have an impact on our business in a variety of ways. From time to time, federal measures are proposed which may significantly affect the insurance business. In addition, various forms of direct and indirect federal regulation of insurance have been proposed from time to time, including proposals for the establishment of an optional federal charter for insurance companies. As part of a proposed comprehensive reform of financial services regulation, Congress is considering the creation of an office within the federal government to collect information about the insurance industry, recommend prudential standards, and represent the United States in dealings with foreign insurance regulators. See “Risk Factors — Our Insurance and Banking Businesses Are Heavily Regulated, and Changes in Regulation May Reduce Our Profitability and Limit Our Growth.”

     Legislative Developments. As part of their proposed financial services regulatory reform legislation, the Obama Administration and Congress have made various proposals that would change the capital and liquidity requirements, credit exposure concentrations and similar prudential matters for bank holding companies, banks and other financial firms. For example:

	•		Bank regulatory agencies have issued proposed interagency guidance for funding and liquidity risk management that would apply to MetLife as a bank holding company.
	•		The proposals under consideration in Congress also include special regulatory and insolvency regimes, including even higher capital and liquidity standards, for financial institutions that are deemed to be systemically significant. These insolvency regimes could vary from the resolution regimes currently applicable to some subsidiaries of such companies and could include assessments on financial companies to provide for a systemic resolution fund.
	•		The Obama Administration, members of Congress and Federal banking regulators have suggested new or increased taxes or assessments on banks and financial firms to mitigate the costs to taxpayers of various government programs established to address the financial crisis and to offset the costs of potential future crises.
	•		The proposed legislation also includes new conditions on the writing and trading of certain standardized and non-standardized derivatives.

     Congress is also considering establishing a new governmental agency that would supervise and regulate institutions that provide certain financial products and services to consumers. Although the consumer financial services to which this legislation would apply might exclude certain insurance business, the new agency would have authority to regulate consumer services provided by MetLife Bank. The proposed legislation may also eliminate or significantly restrict federal pre-emption of state consumer protection laws applicable to banking services, which would increase the regulatory and compliance burden on MetLife Bank and could adversely affect its business and results of operations. We cannot predict whether these or other proposals will be adopted, or what impact, if any, such proposals or, if enacted, such laws, could have on our business, financial condition or results of operations or on our dealings with other financial institutions. See “Risk Factors — Our Insurance and Banking Businesses Are Heavily Regulated, and Changes in Regulation May Reduce Our Profitability and Limit Our Growth.”

     We cannot predict what other proposals may be made, what legislation may be introduced or enacted or the impact of any such legislation on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

   Governmental Responses to Extraordinary Market Conditions

     U.S. Federal Governmental Responses. Throughout 2008 and continuing in 2009, Congress, the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, the U.S. Treasury and other agencies of the Federal government took a number of increasingly aggressive actions (in addition to continuing a series of interest rate reductions that began in the second half of 2007) intended to provide liquidity to financial

institutions and markets, to avert a loss of investor confidence in particular troubled institutions and to prevent or contain the spread of the financial crisis. These measures included:

	•		expanding the types of institutions that have access to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York’s discount window;
	•		providing asset guarantees and emergency loans to particular distressed companies;
	•		a temporary ban on short selling of shares of certain financial institutions (including, for a period, MetLife);
	•		programs intended to reduce the volume of mortgage foreclosures by modifying the terms of mortgage loans for distressed borrowers;
	•		temporarily guaranteeing money market funds; and
	•		programs to support the mortgage-backed securities market and mortgage lending.

     In addition to these actions, pursuant to the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 (“EESA”), enacted in October 2008, the U.S. Treasury injected capital into selected financial institutions and their holding companies. EESA also authorizes the U.S. Treasury to purchase mortgage-backed and other securities from financial institutions as part of the overall $700 billion available for the purpose of stabilizing the financial markets. The Federal government, the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, FDIC and other governmental and regulatory bodies also took other actions to address the financial crisis. For example, the Federal Reserve Bank of New York made funds available to commercial and financial companies under a number of programs, including the Commercial Paper Funding Facility (the “CPFF”), and the FDIC established the Temporary Liquidity Guarantee Program (the “FDIC Program”). In March 2009, MetLife, Inc. issued $397 million of senior notes guaranteed by the FDIC under the FDIC Program. The FDIC Program and the CPFF expired in late 2009 and early 2010, respectively. During the period of its existence, the Company made limited use of the CPFF, and no amounts were outstanding under the CPFF at December 31, 2009. In October 2009, the FDIC established a limited six-month emergency guarantee facility upon expiration of the FDIC Program. Participating entities can apply to the FDIC for permission to issue FDIC-guaranteed debt during the period beginning October 31, 2009 through April 30, 2010.

     In February 2009, the Treasury Department outlined a financial stability plan with additional measures to provide capital relief to institutions holding troubled assets, including a capital assistance program for banks that have undergone a “stress test” (the “Capital Assistance Program”) and a public-private investment fund to purchase troubled assets from financial institutions. MetLife was eligible to participate in the U.S. Treasury’s Capital Purchase Program, a voluntary capital infusion program established under EESA, but elected not to participate in that program. MetLife took part in the “stress test” and was advised by the Federal Reserve in May 2009 that, based on the stress test’s economic scenarios and methodology, MetLife had adequate capital to sustain a further deterioration in the economy. The choices made by the U.S. Treasury in its distribution of amounts available under the EESA, the Capital Assistance Program and other programs could have the effect of supporting some aspects of the financial services industry more than others or providing advantages to some of our competitors. See “Risk Factors — Competitive Factors May Adversely Affect Our Market Share and Profitability.”

     In addition to the various measures to foster liquidity and recapitalize the banking sector, the Federal government also passed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act in February 2009 that provided for nearly $790 billion in additional federal spending, tax cuts and federal aid intended to spur economic activity.

     MetLife, Inc. and some or all of its affiliates may be eligible to sell assets to the U.S. Treasury under one or more of the programs established under EESA, and some of their assets may be among those the U.S. Treasury or the public-private investment partnership proposed by the U.S. Treasury offers to purchase, either directly or through auction. MetLife, Inc. and its affiliates may also be able to purchase assets under some of these programs, including the public-private investment program and the Term Asset-Backed Securities Loan Facility, which provides funding for the purchase of specified types of asset-backed securities.

     MetLife Bank has the capacity to borrow from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York’s Discount Window and from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York under the Term Auction Facility. At December 31, 2009, there were no outstanding borrowings under the Term Auction Facility.

     State Insurance Regulatory Responses. In January 2009, the NAIC considered, but declined, a number of reserve and capital relief proposals made by the American Council of Life Insurers (the “ACLI”), acting on behalf of its member companies. However, notwithstanding that NAIC action, insurance companies had the right to approach the insurance regulator in their respective state of domicile and request relief. Several MetLife insurance entities requested and were granted relief, resulting in a beneficial impact on

reserves and capital. During the latter part of 2009, the NAIC adopted a number of reserve and capital relief proposals made by the ACLI, acting on behalf of its member companies. These changes superseded the actions described above and have generally resulted in lower statutory reserve and capital requirements, effective December 31, 2009, for life insurance companies. We cannot quantify or project the impact on the competitive landscape of the reserve and capital relief granted or any subsequent regulatory relief that may be granted.

     In late 2009, following rating agency downgrades of virtually all residential mortgage-backed securities (“RMBS”) from certain vintages, the NAIC engaged PIMCO, a well-known investment management firm, to analyze approximately 20,000 residential mortgage-backed securities held by insurers and evaluate the likely loss that holders of those securities would suffer in the event of a default. PIMCO’s analysis showed that the severity of expected losses on those securities evaluated that are held by our insurance companies was significantly less than would be implied by the rating agencies’ ratings of such securities. The NAIC incorporated the results of PIMCO’s analysis into the risk-based capital charges assigned to the evaluated securities, with a beneficial impact on the risk-based capital to our insurance subsidiaries.

     In late 2009, the NAIC approved an adjustment, for year-end 2009 only, to the mortgage experience adjustment factor (the “MEAF”), which is utilized in calculating the RBC charges that are assigned to commercial and agricultural mortgages held by our domestic insurers. The MEAF calculation includes the ratio of an insurer’s commercial and agricultural mortgage default experience to the industry average commercial and agricultural mortgage default experience and, prior to the adjustment, had a cap of 350% and a floor of 50% of an industry-wide base factor. As a result of the adjustment, the minimum adjustment factor was raised from 50% to 75% and the maximum adjustment factor was lowered from 350% to 125%, based on an insurer’s actual experience. As a result of our experience and the increase in the floor, the corresponding RBC charges of certain of our domestic insurers, including MLIC, increased. It is our understanding that the Capital Adequacy Task Force of the NAIC will monitor market conditions and progress on proposals that may result in modifying or extending the proposal beyond 2009. There can be no assurance that the short-term adjustment will continue beyond 2009.

     In late 2009, the NAIC issued Statement of Statutory Accounting Principles (“SSAP”) 10R (“SSAP 10R”). SSAP 10R increased the amount of deferred tax assets that may be admitted on a statutory basis. The admission criteria for realizing the value of deferred tax assets was increased from a one year to a three year period. Further, the aggregate cap on deferred tax assets that may be admitted was increased from 10% to 15% of surplus. These changes increased the capital and surplus of our insurance subsidiaries, thereby positively impacting RBC at December 31, 2009. To temper this positive RBC impact, and as a temporary measure at December 31, 2009 only, a 5% pre-tax RBC charge must be applied to the additional admitted deferred tax assets generated by SSAP 10R.

     Foreign Governmental Responses. In an effort to strengthen the financial condition of key financial institutions or avert their collapse, and to forestall or reduce the effects of reduced lending activity, a number of foreign governments have also taken actions similar to some of those taken by the U.S. Federal government, including injecting capital into domestic financial institutions in exchange for ownership stakes. We cannot predict whether these actions will achieve their intended purpose or how they will impact competition in the financial services industry.

   Broker-Dealer and Securities Regulation

     Some of the Company’s subsidiaries and their activities in offering and selling variable insurance products are subject to extensive regulation under the federal securities laws administered by the SEC. These subsidiaries issue variable annuity contracts and variable life insurance policies through separate accounts that are registered with the SEC as investment companies under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “Investment Company Act”). Each registered separate account is generally divided into sub-accounts, each of which invests in an underlying mutual fund which is itself a registered investment company under the Investment Company Act. In addition, the variable annuity contracts and variable life insurance policies issued by the separate accounts are registered with the SEC under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”). Other subsidiaries are registered with the SEC as broker-dealers under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), and are members of, and subject to, regulation by the FINRA. Further, some of the Company’s subsidiaries are registered as investment advisers with the SEC under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended (the “Investment Advisers Act”), and are also registered as investment advisers in various states, as applicable. Certain variable contract separate accounts sponsored by the Company’s subsidiaries are exempt from registration, but may be subject to other provisions of the federal securities laws.

     Federal and state securities regulatory authorities and FINRA from time to time make inquiries and conduct examinations regarding compliance by the Holding Company and its subsidiaries with securities and other laws and regulations. We cooperate with such inquiries and examinations and take corrective action when warranted.

     Federal and state securities laws and regulations are primarily intended to protect investors in the securities markets and generally grant regulatory agencies broad rulemaking and enforcement powers, including the power to limit or restrict the conduct of business for failure to comply with such laws and regulations. We may also be subject to similar laws and regulations in the foreign countries in which we provide investment advisory services, offer products similar to those described above, or conduct other activities.

   Environmental Considerations

     As an owner and operator of real property, we are subject to extensive federal, state and local environmental laws and regulations. Inherent in such ownership and operation is also the risk that there may be potential environmental liabilities and costs in connection with any required remediation of such properties. In addition, we hold equity interests in companies that could potentially be subject to environmental liabilities. We routinely have environmental assessments performed with respect to real estate being acquired for investment and real property to be acquired through foreclosure. We cannot provide assurance that unexpected environmental liabilities will not arise. However, based on information currently available to us, we believe that any costs associated with compliance with environmental laws and regulations or any remediation of such properties will not have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations or financial condition.

   Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (“ERISA”) Considerations

     We provide products and services to certain employee benefit plans that are subject to ERISA, or the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”). As such, our activities are subject to the restrictions imposed by ERISA and the Code, including the requirement under ERISA that fiduciaries must perform their duties solely in the interests of ERISA plan participants and beneficiaries and the requirement under ERISA and the Code that fiduciaries may not cause a covered plan to engage in prohibited transactions with persons who have certain relationships with respect to such plans. The applicable provisions of ERISA and the Code are subject to enforcement by the Department of Labor, the Internal Revenue Service and the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (“PBGC”).

     In John Hancock Mutual Life Insurance Company v. Harris Trust and Savings Bank (1993), the U.S. Supreme Court held that certain assets in excess of amounts necessary to satisfy guaranteed obligations under a participating group annuity general account contract are “plan assets.” Therefore, these assets are subject to certain fiduciary obligations under ERISA, which requires fiduciaries to perform their duties solely in the interest of ERISA plan participants and beneficiaries. On January 5, 2000, the Secretary of Labor issued final regulations indicating, in cases where an insurer has issued a policy backed by the insurer’s general account to or for an employee benefit plan, the extent to which assets of the insurer constitute plan assets for purposes of ERISA and the Code. The regulations apply only with respect to a policy issued by an insurer on or before December 31, 1998 (“Transition Policy”). No person will generally be liable under ERISA or the Code for conduct occurring prior to July 5, 2001, where the basis of a claim is that insurance company general account assets constitute plan assets. An insurer issuing a new policy that is backed by its general account and is issued to or for an employee benefit plan after December 31, 1998 will generally be subject to fiduciary obligations under ERISA, unless the policy is a guaranteed benefit policy.

     The regulations indicate the requirements that must be met so that assets supporting a Transition Policy will not be considered plan assets for purposes of ERISA and the Code. These requirements include detailed disclosures to be made to the employee benefits plan and the requirement that the insurer must permit the policyholder to terminate the policy on 90 day notice and receive without penalty, at the policyholder’s option, either (i) the unallocated accumulated fund balance (which may be subject to market value adjustment) or (ii) a book value payment of such amount in annual installments with interest. We have taken and continue to take steps designed to ensure compliance with these regulations.

   Banking Regulation

     As a federally chartered national association, MetLife Bank is subject to a wide variety of banking laws, regulations and guidelines. Federal banking laws regulate most aspects of the business of MetLife Bank, but certain state laws may apply as well. MetLife Bank is principally regulated by the OCC, the Federal Reserve and the FDIC. Federal banking laws and regulations address various aspects of MetLife Bank’s business and operations with respect to, among other things, chartering to carry on business as a bank; maintaining minimum capital ratios; capital management in relation to the bank’s assets; safety and soundness standards; loan loss and other statutory reserves; liquidity; financial reporting and disclosure standards; counterparty credit concentration; restrictions on related party and affiliate transactions; lending limits; payment of interest; unfair or deceptive acts or practices; privacy; and bank holding company and bank change of control. The FDIC has the right to assess FDIC-insured banks for funds to help pay the obligations of insolvent banks to depositors. Federal and state banking regulators regularly re-examine existing laws and regulations applicable to banks and their products. Changes in these laws and regulations, or in interpretations thereof, are often made for the benefit of the consumer at the expense of the bank.

   Financial Holding Company Regulation

     Regulatory Agencies. In connection with its acquisition of a federally-chartered commercial bank, MetLife, Inc. became a bank holding company and financial holding company on February 28, 2001. As such, the Holding Company is subject to regulation under the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended (the “BHC Act”), and to inspection, examination, and supervision by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. In addition, MetLife Bank is subject to regulation and examination primarily by the OCC and secondarily by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York and the FDIC.

     Financial Holding Company Activities. As a financial holding company, MetLife, Inc.’s activities and investments are restricted by the BHC Act, as amended by the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act of 1999 (the “GLB Act”), to those that are “financial” in nature or “incidental” or “complementary” to such financial activities. Activities that are financial in nature include securities underwriting, dealing and market making, sponsoring mutual funds and investment companies, insurance underwriting and agency, merchant banking and activities that the Federal Reserve Board has determined to be closely related to banking. In addition, under the insurance company investment portfolio provision of the GLB Act, financial holding companies are authorized to make investments in other financial and non-financial companies, through their insurance subsidiaries, that are in the ordinary course of business and in accordance with state insurance law, provided the financial holding company does not routinely manage or operate such companies except as may be necessary to obtain a reasonable return on investment.

     Other Restrictions and Limitations on Bank Holding Companies and Financial Holding Companies — Capital. MetLife, Inc. and MetLife Bank are subject to risk-based and leverage capital guidelines issued by the federal banking regulatory agencies for banks and financial holding companies. The federal banking regulatory agencies are required by law to take specific prompt corrective actions with respect to institutions that do not meet minimum capital standards. At December 31, 2009, MetLife, Inc. and MetLife Bank were in compliance with the aforementioned guidelines.

     Other Restrictions and Limitations on Bank Holding Companies and Financial Holding Companies — Consumer Protection Laws. Numerous other federal and state laws also affect the Holding Company’s and MetLife Bank’s earnings and activities, including federal and state consumer protection laws. The GLB Act included consumer privacy provisions that, among other things, require disclosure of a financial institution’s privacy policy to customers. In addition, these provisions permit states to adopt more extensive privacy protections through legislation or regulation. As part of its consideration of comprehensive reform of financial services regulation, Congress is considering establishing a Consumer Financial Protection Agency, a new governmental agency that would supervise and regulate institutions that provide certain financial products and services to consumers. Although the consumer financial services to which this legislation would apply might exclude certain insurance business, the new agency would have authority to regulate consumer services provided by MetLife Bank. The proposed legislation may also eliminate or significantly restrict federal pre-emption of state consumer protection laws applicable to banking services, which would increase the regulatory and compliance burden on MetLife Bank and could adversely affect its business and results of operations.

     Other Restrictions and Limitations on Bank Holding Companies and Financial Holding Companies — Change of Control. Because MetLife, Inc. is a financial holding company and bank holding company under the federal banking laws, no person may acquire control of MetLife, Inc. without the prior approval of the Federal Reserve Board. A change of control is conclusively presumed upon acquisition of 25% or more of any class of voting securities and rebuttably presumed upon acquisition of 10% or more of any class of voting securities. Further, as a result of MetLife, Inc.’s ownership of MetLife Bank, approval from the OCC would be required in connection with a change of control (generally presumed upon the acquisition of 10% or more of any class of voting securities) of MetLife, Inc.

Competition

     We believe that competition faced by our business segments is based on a number of factors, including service, product features, scale, price, financial strength, claims-paying ratings, credit ratings, ebusiness capabilities and name recognition. We compete with a large number of other insurance companies, as well as non-insurance financial services companies, such as banks, broker-dealers and asset managers, for individual consumers, employer and other group customers as well as agents and other distributors of insurance and investment products. Some of these companies offer a broader array of products, have more competitive pricing or, with respect to other insurance companies, have higher claims paying ability ratings. Many of our insurance products are underwritten annually and, accordingly, there is a risk that group purchasers may be able to obtain more favorable terms from competitors rather than renewing coverage with us.

     We believe that the turbulence in financial markets that began in the latter half of 2008, its impact on the capital position of many competitors, and subsequent actions by regulators and rating agencies have altered the competitive environment. In particular, we believe that these factors have highlighted financial strength as the most significant differentiator from the perspective of some customers and certain distributors. We believe the Company is well positioned to compete in this environment. In particular, the Company distributes many of its individual products through other financial institutions such as banks and broker-dealers. These distribution partners are currently placing greater emphasis on the financial strength of the company whose products they sell. In addition, the financial market turbulence has highlighted the extent of the risk associated with certain variable annuity products and has led many companies in our industry to re-examine the pricing and features of the products they offer. The effects of current market conditions may also lead to consolidation in the life insurance industry. Although we cannot predict the ultimate impact of these conditions, we believe that the strongest companies will enjoy a competitive advantage as a result of the current circumstances.

     We must attract and retain productive sales representatives to sell our insurance, annuities and investment products. Strong competition exists among insurance companies for sales representatives with demonstrated ability. We compete with other insurance companies for sales representatives primarily on the basis of our financial position, support services and compensation and product features. See “— U.S. Business — Sales Distribution.” We continue to undertake several initiatives to grow our career agency force, while continuing to enhance the efficiency and production of our existing sales force. We cannot provide assurance that these initiatives will succeed in attracting and retaining new agents. Sales of individual insurance, annuities and investment products and our results of operations and financial position could be materially adversely affected if we are unsuccessful in attracting and retaining agents.

     Numerous aspects of our business are subject to regulation. Legislative and other changes affecting the regulatory environment can affect our competitive position within the life insurance industry and within the broader financial services industry. See “— Regulation,” “Risk Factors — Our Insurance and Banking Businesses Are Heavily Regulated, and Changes in Regulation May Reduce Our Profitability and Limit Our Growth” and “Risk Factors — Changes in U.S. Federal and State Securities Laws and Regulations May Affect Our Operations and Our Profitability.”

Employees

     At December 31, 2009, we had approximately 54,000 employees. We believe that our relations with our employees are satisfactory.

Executive Officers of the Registrant

     Set forth below is information regarding the executive officers of MetLife, Inc. and MLIC:

     C. Robert Henrikson, age 62, has been Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of MetLife, Inc. and MLIC since April 25, 2006. Previously, he was President and Chief Executive Officer of MetLife, Inc. and MLIC from March 1, 2006, President and Chief Operating Officer of MetLife, Inc. from June 2004, and President of the U.S. Insurance and Financial Services businesses of MetLife, Inc. and MLIC from July 2002 to June 2004. He served as President of Institutional Business of MetLife, Inc. from September 1999 to July 2002 and President of Institutional Business of MLIC from May 1999 through June 2002. He was Senior Executive Vice President, Institutional Business, of MLIC from December 1997 to May 1999, Executive Vice President, Institutional Business, from January 1996 to December 1997, and Senior Vice President, Pensions, from January 1991 to January 1995. He is a director of MetLife, Inc. and MLIC.

     Gwenn L. Carr, age 64, has been Executive Vice President and Chief of Staff to the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of MetLife, Inc. and MLIC since August 2009. Previously, she was Senior Vice President and Chief of Staff to the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of MetLife, Inc. and MLIC from June 2009, Senior Vice President, Secretary and Chief of Staff to the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of MetLife, Inc, and MLIC from 2007, Senior Vice President and Secretary of MetLife, Inc. and MLIC from October 2004, and Vice President and Secretary of MetLife, Inc. and MLIC from August 1999. Ms. Carr was Vice President and Secretary of ITT Corporation from 1990 to 1999.

     Steven A. Kandarian, age 57, has been Executive Vice President and Chief Investment Officer of MetLife, Inc. and MLIC since April 2005. Previously, he was the executive director of the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation from 2001 to 2004. Before joining the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation, Mr. Kandarian was founder and managing partner of Orion Capital Partners, LP, where he managed a private equity fund specializing in venture capital and corporate acquisitions for eight years. He is a director of MetLife Bank.

     James L. Lipscomb, age 63, has been Executive Vice President and General Counsel of MetLife, Inc. and MLIC since July 2003. He was Senior Vice President and Deputy General Counsel from July 2001 to July 2003. Mr. Lipscomb was President and Chief Executive Officer of Conning Corporation, a former subsidiary of MLIC, from March 2000 to July 2001, prior to which he served in various senior management positions with MLIC for more than five years.

     Maria R. Morris, age 47, has been Executive Vice President, Technology and Operations, of MetLife, Inc. and MLIC since January 2008. Previously, she was Executive Vice President of MLIC from December 2005 to January 2008, Senior Vice President of MLIC from July 2003 to December 2005, and Vice President of MLIC from March 1997 to July 2003. Ms. Morris is a director of MetLife Insurance Company of Connecticut.

     William J. Mullaney, age 50, has been President, U.S. Business of MetLife, Inc. and MLIC since August 2009. Previously, he was President, Institutional Business, of MetLife, Inc. and MLIC from January 2007 to July 2009, President of Metropolitan Property and Casualty Insurance Company from January 2005 to January 2007, Senior Vice President of Metropolitan Property and Casualty Insurance Company from July 2002 to December 2004, Senior Vice President, Institutional Business, of MLIC from August 2001 to July 2002, and a Vice President of MLIC for more than five years. He is a director of MetLife Bank.

     William J. Toppeta, age 61, has been President, International, of MetLife, Inc. and MLIC since June 2001. He was President of Client Services and Chief Administrative Officer of MetLife, Inc. from September 1999 to June 2001 and President of Client Services and Chief Administrative Officer of MLIC from May 1999 to June 2001. He was Senior Executive Vice President, Head of Client Services, of MLIC from March 1999 to May 1999, Senior Executive Vice President, Individual, from February 1998 to March 1999, Executive Vice President, Individual Business, from July 1996 to February 1998, Senior Vice President from October 1995 to July 1996 and President and Chief Executive Officer of its Canadian Operations from July 1993 to October 1995.

     William J. Wheeler, age 48, has been Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of MetLife, Inc. and MLIC since December 2003, prior to which he was a Senior Vice President of MLIC from 1997 to December 2003. Previously, he was a Senior Vice President of Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette for more than five years. Mr. Wheeler is a director of MetLife Bank.

Trademarks

     We have a worldwide trademark portfolio that we consider important in the marketing of our products and services, including, among others, the trademark “MetLife.” We also have the exclusive license to use the Peanuts^® characters in the area of financial services and healthcare benefit services in the United States and internationally under an advertising and premium agreement with United Feature Syndicate until December 31, 2014. Furthermore, we also have a non-exclusive license to use certain Citigroup-owned trademarks in connection with the marketing, distribution or sale of life insurance and annuity products under a licensing agreement with Citigroup until June 30, 2015. We believe that our rights in our trademarks and under our Peanuts^® characters license and our Citigroup license are well protected.

Available Information

     MetLife files periodic reports, proxy statements and other information with the SEC. Such reports, proxy statements and other information may be obtained by visiting the Public Reference Room of the SEC at its Headquarters Office, 100 F Street, N.E., Washington D.C. 20549 or by calling the SEC at 1-202-551-8090 or 1-800-SEC-0330 (Office of Investor Education and Advocacy). In addition, the SEC maintains an internet website (www.sec.gov) that contains reports, proxy statements, and other information regarding issuers that file electronically with the SEC, including MetLife, Inc.

     MetLife makes available, free of charge, on its website (www.metlife.com) through the Investor Relations page, its annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, and amendments to all those reports, as soon as reasonably practicable after filing (furnishing) such reports to the SEC. Other information found on the website is not part of this or any other report filed with or furnished to the SEC.

Part II

Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

     For purposes of this discussion, “MetLife” or the “Company” refers to MetLife, Inc., a Delaware corporation incorporated in 1999 (the “Holding Company”), and its subsidiaries, including Metropolitan Life Insurance Company (“MLIC”). Following this summary is a discussion addressing the consolidated results of operations and financial condition of the Company for the periods indicated. This discussion should be read in conjunction with “Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements,” “Risk Factors,” “Selected Financial Data” and the Company’s consolidated financial statements included elsewhere herein.

     This Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations may contain or incorporate by reference information that includes or is based upon forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements give expectations or forecasts of future events. These statements can be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. They use words such as “anticipate,” “estimate,” “expect,” “project,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe” and other words and terms of similar meaning in connection with a discussion of future operating or financial performance. In particular, these include statements relating to future actions, prospective services or products, future performance or results of current and anticipated services or products, sales efforts, expenses, the outcome of contingencies such as legal proceedings, trends in operations and financial results. Any or all forward-looking statements may turn out to be wrong. Actual results could differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. See “Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements.”

     The following discussion includes references to our performance measures operating earnings and operating earnings available to common shareholders, that are not based on generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”). Operating earnings is the measure of segment profit or loss we use to evaluate segment performance and allocate resources and, consistent with GAAP accounting guidance for segment reporting, is our measure of segment performance. Operating earnings is also a measure by which our senior management’s and many other employees’ performance is evaluated for the purposes of determining their compensation under applicable compensation plans. Operating earnings is defined as operating revenues less operating expenses, net of income tax. Operating earnings available to common shareholders, which is used to evaluate the performance of Banking, Corporate & Other, as well as MetLife is defined as operating earnings less preferred stock dividends.

     Operating revenues is defined as GAAP revenues (i) less net investment gains (losses), (ii) less amortization of unearned revenue related to net investment gains (losses), (iii) plus scheduled periodic settlement payments on derivative instruments that are hedges of investments but do not qualify for hedge accounting treatment, (iv) plus income from discontinued real estate operations, and (v) plus, for operating joint ventures reported under the equity method of accounting, the aforementioned adjustments and those identified in the definition of operating expenses, net of income tax, if applicable to these joint ventures.

     Operating expenses is defined as GAAP expenses (i) less changes in experience-rated contractholder liabilities due to asset value fluctuations, (ii) less costs related to business combinations (since January 1, 2009) and noncontrolling interests, (iii) less amortization of DAC and VOBA and changes in the policyholder dividend obligation related to net investment gains (losses), and (iv) plus scheduled periodic settlement payments on derivative instruments that are hedges of policyholder account balances but do not qualify for hedge accounting treatment.

     We believe the presentation of operating earnings and operating earnings available to common shareholders as we measure it for management purposes enhances the understanding of our performance by highlighting the results of operations and the underlying profitability drivers of our businesses. Operating earnings and operating earnings available to common shareholders should not be viewed as substitutes for GAAP income (loss) from continuing operations, net of income tax. Reconciliations of operating earnings and operating earnings available to common shareholders to GAAP income (loss) from continuing operations, net of income tax, the most directly comparable GAAP measure, are included in “— Consolidated Results of Operations.”

Executive Summary

     MetLife is a leading provider of insurance, employee benefits and financial services with operations throughout the United States and the Latin America, Asia Pacific and Europe, Middle East and India (“EMEI”) regions. Through its subsidiaries, MetLife offers

life insurance, annuities, auto and homeowners insurance, retail banking and other financial services to individuals, as well as group insurance and retirement & savings products and services to corporations and other institutions. MetLife is organized into five operating segments: Insurance Products, Retirement Products, Corporate Benefit Funding and Auto & Home (collectively, “U.S. Business”) and International. In addition, the Company reports certain of its results of operations in Banking, Corporate & Other, which is comprised of MetLife Bank and other business activities.

     The U.S. and global financial markets experienced extraordinary dislocations during late 2008 through early 2009, with the U.S. economy entering a recession in January 2008. The economic crisis and the resulting recession have had an adverse effect on our financial results, as well as the financial services industry. Most economists believe the recession ended in the third quarter of 2009 when positive growth returned and now expect positive growth to continue through 2010. We have experienced an increase in market share and sales in some of our businesses from a flight to quality in the industry. In addition, the recovering global financial markets contributed to the improvement in net investment income and sales in most of our international regions. These positive impacts were outweighed by the adverse effects on our net investment income and the demand for certain of our products. For a discussion of how the financial and economic environment has impacted our 2009 results, capital and liquidity, and expected 2010 performance, see “— Results of Operations,” “— Liquidity and Capital Resources” and “— Consolidated Company Outlook.”

		Years Ended December 31,
		2009				2008				2007
						(In millions)
Income (loss) from continuing operations, net of income tax		$	(2,318	)		$	3,481			$	4,105
Less: Net investment gains (losses)			(7,772	)			1,812				(578	)
Less: Other adjustments to continuing operations			284				(662	)			(317	)
Less: Provision for income tax (expense) benefit			2,683				(488	)			293
Operating earnings			2,487				2,819				4,707
Less: Preferred stock dividends			122				125				137
Operating earnings available to common shareholders		$	2,365			$	2,694			$	4,570

Year Ended December 31, 2009 compared with the Year Ended December 31, 2008

     Unless otherwise stated, all amounts are net of income tax.

     During the year ended December 31, 2009, MetLife’s income (loss) from continuing operations, net of income tax, decreased $5.8 billion to a loss of $2.3 billion from income of $3.5 billion in the comparable 2008 period. The year over year change is predominantly due to a $5.2 billion unfavorable change in net investment gains (losses) to losses of $4.6 billion, net of related adjustments, in 2009 from gains of $644 million, net of related adjustments, in 2008. In addition, operating earnings available to common shareholders decreased by $329 million to $2.4 billion in 2009 from $2.7 billion in 2008.

     The unfavorable change in net investment gains (losses) of $5.2 billion, net of related adjustments, was primarily driven by losses on freestanding derivatives, partially offset by gains on embedded derivatives, primarily associated with variable annuity minimum benefit guarantees, and lower losses on fixed maturity securities.

     The positive impacts of business growth and favorable mortality in several of our businesses were more than offset by a decline in net investment income, resulting in a decrease in operating earnings of $329 million. The decrease in net investment income caused significant declines in the operating earnings of many of our businesses, especially the interest spread businesses. Also contributing to the decline in operating earnings was an increase in net guaranteed annuity benefit costs and a charge related to our closed block of business, a specific group of participating life policies that were segregated in connection with the demutualization of MLIC. The favorable impact of Operational Excellence, our enterprise-wide cost reduction and revenue enhancement initiative, was more than offset by higher pension and postretirement benefit costs, driving the increase in other expenses. The declines in operating earnings were partially offset by a change in amortization related to DAC, deferred sales inducement (“DSI”), and unearned revenue.

Year Ended December 31, 2008 compared with the Year Ended December 31, 2007

     Unless otherwise stated, all amounts are net of income tax.

     During the year ended December 31, 2008, MetLife’s income (loss) from continuing operations, net of income tax, decreased $624 million to $3.5 billion from $4.1 billion in the comparable 2007 period. The year over year change was predominantly due to a $1.9 billion decrease in operating earnings available to common shareholders. Partially offsetting this decline was a $1.1 billion favorable change in net investment gains (losses) to gains of $644 million, net of related adjustments, in 2008 from losses of $438 million, net of related adjustments, in 2007.

     Beginning in the third quarter of 2008, there was unprecedented disruption and dislocation in the global financial markets that caused extreme volatility in the equity, credit and real estate markets. This adversely impacted both net investment income as yields decreased and net investment gains (losses) as there was an increase in impairments and credit-related losses.

     We responded to the extraordinary market conditions by increasing levels of cash, cash equivalents, short-term investments and high quality, lower yielding fixed maturity securities particularly in two operating segments: Corporate Benefit Funding and Retirement Products, as well as in Banking, Corporate & Other. We decreased fixed maturity security holdings to increase our liquidity position.

     The favorable change of $1.1 billion in net investment gains (losses), net of related adjustments, was driven by increased gains on freestanding derivatives, partially offset by increased losses on embedded derivatives primarily associated with variable annuity minimum benefit guarantees, and increased impairment losses on fixed maturity securities and equity securities.

     The unprecedented disruption and dislocation in the global financial markets resulted in decreased yields on our investment portfolio and, in response to the market conditions, we increased our asset allocation to lower yielding, more liquid investments, both of which contributed to a decline in net investment income and, consequently, operating earnings available to common shareholders. The market environment’s negative impact on investment results was partially offset by growth in average invested assets calculated excluding unrealized gains and losses. In addition, the volatile market environment also resulted in declines in our separate account balances. Such declines required us to increase DAC amortization, negatively affecting operating earnings available to common shareholders. The declines in the separate account balances also resulted in lower policy fees and other revenues. Operating earnings available to common shareholders for the year ended December 31, 2008 were also lower as a result of higher catastrophe losses and unfavorable mortality in various products. Higher earnings from our dental business and from our businesses in the Latin America and Asia Pacific regions partially offset the aforementioned items.

   Consolidated Company Outlook

     In 2009, the general economic conditions of the marketplace, particularly in the early part of the year, continued to be volatile and negatively impacted the results of the Company. In 2010, we expect meaningful earnings recovery for the Company, driven primarily by the following:

•

Continued growth in premiums, fees & other revenues

•

We expect top-line growth in 2010 of approximately 6% over 2009. We expect this growth will be driven by:

	•		Higher fees earned on separate accounts, as the full impact of the recovery in the equity market is felt, thereby increasing the value of those separate accounts;
	•		Increased sales in the pension closeout business, both in the United States and the United Kingdom, as the demand for these products rebounds from the lower levels seen in 2009;
	•		Increases in our International segment, as a result of ongoing investments and improvements in the various distribution and service operations throughout the regions; and
	•		Modest growth in Insurance products. Our growth continues to be impacted by the current higher levels of unemployment and it is possible that certain customers may further reduce or eliminate coverages in response to the financial pressures they are experiencing.

•

Offsetting these growth areas, MetLife Bank’s premiums, fees & other revenues are expected to decline from the 2009 level, which benefited from the large number of mortgage refinancings in that year.

•

Higher returns on the investment portfolio

Despite expectations that the real estate market will remain challenging in 2010, higher returns on the investment portfolio are expected across all segments. We believe returns on alternative investment classes will improve and expect to reinvest cash and U.S. Treasuries into higher yielding asset classes.

•

Improvement in net investment gains (losses)

Although difficult to predict, net investment gains (losses) on our invested asset portfolio are expected to show significant improvement as the financial markets stabilize across asset classes, returning to a more normalized level from the large losses encountered in 2009. More difficult to predict is the impact of potential changes in fair value of derivatives instruments as even relatively small movements in market variables, including interest rates, equity levels and volatility, can have a large impact on derivatives fair values. Additionally, changes in MetLife’s credit spread, may have a material impact on net investment gains (losses) as it is required to be included in the valuation of certain embedded derivatives.

•

Reduced volatility in guarantee-related liabilities

Certain annuity and life benefit guarantees are tied to market performance, which when markets are depressed, may require us to establish additional liabilities, even though these guarantees are significantly hedged. In line with the assumptions discussed above, we expect a significant reduction in the volatility of these items in 2010 compared to 2009.

•

Focus on disciplined underwriting

We do not expect any significant changes to the underlying trends that drive underwriting results and we anticipate solid results in 2010. While we did begin to see the negative impact of the economy on non-medical health experience in 2009, we expect to see improvement in our results in 2010 as the economy continues to improve. Pricing actions taken in 2009 in our dental business will help mitigate the impact of elevated claim utilization, experienced as a result of the challenging economic conditions and higher unemployment.

•

Focus on expense management

Our continued focus on expense control throughout the Company, as well the continuing impact of specific initiatives such as Operational Excellence (our enterprise-wide cost reduction and revenue enhancement initiative), should contribute to increased profitability. With continued improvement in the financial markets, we also expect that the Company’s pension-related expenses will return to a more normal level in 2010.

Industry Trends

     The Company’s segments continue to be influenced by a continuing unstable financial and economic environment that affects the industry.

     Financial and Economic Environment. Our results of operations are materially affected by conditions in the global capital markets and the economy, generally, both in the United States and elsewhere around the world. The global economy and markets are now recovering from a period of significant stress that began in the second half of 2007 and substantially increased through the first quarter of 2009. This disruption adversely affected the financial services industry, in particular. The U.S. economy entered a recession in January 2008 and most economists believe this recession ended in the third quarter of 2009 when positive growth returned. Most economists now expect positive growth to continue through 2010.

     Throughout 2008 and continuing in 2009, Congress, the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, the U.S. Treasury and other agencies of the Federal government took a number of increasingly aggressive actions (in addition to continuing a series of interest rate reductions that began in the second half of 2007) intended to provide liquidity to financial institutions and markets, to avert a loss of investor confidence in particular troubled institutions, to prevent or contain the spread of the financial crisis and to spur economic growth. How and to whom these governmental institutions distribute amounts available under the governmental programs could have the effect of supporting some aspects of the financial services industry more than others or provide advantages to some of our competitors. Governments in many of the foreign markets in which MetLife operates have also responded to address market imbalances and have taken meaningful steps intended to restore market confidence. As market conditions have stabilized, some of these programs have been terminated or allowed to expire. We cannot predict whether or when the U.S. or foreign governments will establish additional governmental programs or terminate or permit other programs to expire or the impact any additional measures, existing programs or termination or expiration of programs will have on the financial markets, whether on the levels of volatility currently being experienced, the levels of lending by financial institutions, the prices buyers are willing to pay for financial assets or otherwise. See “Business — Regulation — Governmental Responses to Extraordinary Market Conditions.”

     The economic crisis and the resulting recession have had and will continue to have an adverse effect on the financial results of companies in the financial services industry, including MetLife. The declining financial markets and economic conditions have negatively impacted our investment income, our net investment gains (losses), and the demand for and the cost and profitability of certain of our products, including variable annuities and guarantee benefits. See “— Results of Operations” and “— Liquidity and Capital Resources.”

     Demographics. In the coming decade, a key driver shaping the actions of the life insurance industry will be the rising income protection, wealth accumulation and needs of the retiring Baby Boomers. As a result of increasing longevity, retirees will need to accumulate sufficient savings to finance retirements that may span 30 or more years. Helping the Baby Boomers to accumulate assets for retirement and subsequently to convert these assets into retirement income represents an opportunity for the life insurance industry.

     Life insurers are well positioned to address the Baby Boomers’ rapidly increasing need for savings tools and for income protection. We believe that, among life insurers, those with strong brands, high financial strength ratings and broad distribution, are best positioned to capitalize on the opportunity to offer income protection products to Baby Boomers.

     Moreover, the life insurance industry’s products and the needs they are designed to address are complex. We believe that individuals approaching retirement age will need to seek information to plan for and manage their retirements and that, in the workplace, as employees take greater responsibility for their benefit options and retirement planning, they will need information about their possible individual needs. One of the challenges for the life insurance industry will be the delivery of this information in a cost effective manner.

     Competitive Pressures. The life insurance industry remains highly competitive. The product development and product life-cycles have shortened in many product segments, leading to more intense competition with respect to product features. Larger companies have the ability to invest in brand equity, product development, technology and risk management, which are among the fundamentals for sustained profitable growth in the life insurance industry. In addition, several of the industry’s products can be quite homogeneous and subject to intense price competition. Sufficient scale, financial strength and financial flexibility are becoming prerequisites for sustainable growth in the life insurance industry. Larger market participants tend to have the capacity to invest in additional distribution capability and the information technology needed to offer the superior customer service demanded by an increasingly sophisticated industry client base. We believe that the turbulence in financial markets that began in the latter half of 2008, its impact on the capital position of many competitors, and subsequent actions by regulators and rating agencies have highlighted financial strength as the most significant differentiator from the perspective of customers and certain distributors. In addition, the financial market turbulence and the economic recession have led many companies in our industry to re-examine the pricing and features of the products they offer and may lead to consolidation in the life insurance industry.

     Regulatory Changes. The life insurance industry is regulated at the state level, with some products and services also subject to federal regulation. As life insurers introduce new and often more complex products, regulators refine capital requirements and introduce new reserving standards for the life insurance industry. Regulations recently adopted or currently under review can potentially impact the statutory reserve and capital requirements of the industry. In addition, regulators have undertaken market and sales practices reviews of several markets or products, including equity-indexed annuities, variable annuities and group products. The regulation of the financial services industry has received renewed scrutiny as a result of the disruptions in the financial markets in 2008 and 2009. Significant regulatory reforms have been proposed and these or other reforms could be implemented. We cannot predict whether any such reforms will be adopted, the form they will take or their effect upon us. We also cannot predict how the various government responses to the recent financial and economic difficulties will affect the financial services and insurance industries or the standing of particular companies, including our Company, within those industries. See “Risk Factors — Our Insurance and Banking Businesses Are Heavily Regulated, and Changes in Regulation May Reduce Our Profitability and Limit Our Growth” and “Risk Factors — Changes in U.S. Federal and State Securities Laws and Regulations May Affect Our Operations and Our Profitability.”

     Pension Plans. On August 17, 2006, President Bush signed the Pension Protection Act of 2006 (“PPA”) into law. The PPA is a comprehensive reform of defined benefit and defined contribution plan rules. The provisions of the PPA may, over time, have a significant impact on demand for pension, retirement savings, and lifestyle protection products in both the institutional and retail markets. While the impact of the PPA is generally expected to be positive over time, these changes may have adverse short-term effects on our business as plan sponsors may react to these changes in a variety of ways as the new rules and related regulations begin to take effect. In response to the current financial and economic environment, President Bush signed into the law the Worker, Retiree and Employer Recovery Act (the “Employer Recovery Act”) in December 2008. This Act is intended to, among other things, ease the

transition of certain funding requirements of the PPA for defined benefit plans. In addition, legislation that would provide further relief for defined benefit plans is under consideration. The financial and economic environment and the enactment of the Employer Recovery Act, as well as additional funding relief provisions that may be enacted into law, may delay the timing or change the nature of qualified plan sponsor actions and, in turn, affect our business.

Summary of Critical Accounting Estimates

     The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) requires management to adopt accounting policies and make estimates and assumptions that affect amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements. The most critical estimates include those used in determining:

	(i)		the estimated fair value of investments in the absence of quoted market values;
	(ii)		investment impairments;
	(iii)		the recognition of income on certain investment entities and the application of the consolidation rules to certain investments;
	(iv)		the estimated fair value of and accounting for freestanding derivatives and the existence and estimated fair value of embedded derivatives requiring bifurcation;
	(v)		the capitalization and amortization of DAC and the establishment and amortization of VOBA;
	(vi)		the measurement of goodwill and related impairment, if any;
	(vii)		the liability for future policyholder benefits and the accounting for reinsurance contracts;
	(viii)		accounting for income taxes and the valuation of deferred tax assets;
	(ix)		accounting for employee benefit plans; and
	(x)		the liability for litigation and regulatory matters.

     In applying the Company’s accounting policies, we make subjective and complex judgments that frequently require estimates about matters that are inherently uncertain. Many of these policies, estimates and related judgments are common in the insurance and financial services industries; others are specific to the Company’s businesses and operations. Actual results could differ from these estimates.

   Fair Value

     The Company defines fair value as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. In many cases, the exit price and the transaction (or entry) price will be the same at initial recognition. However, in certain cases, the transaction price may not represent fair value. The fair value of a liability is based on the amount that would be paid to transfer a liability to a third-party with the same credit standing. It requires that fair value be a market-based measurement in which the fair value is determined based on a hypothetical transaction at the measurement date, considered from the perspective of a market participant. When quoted prices are not used to determine fair value, the Company considers three broad valuation techniques: (i) the market approach, (ii) the income approach, and (iii) the cost approach. The Company determines the most appropriate valuation technique to use, given what is being measured and the availability of sufficient inputs. The Company prioritizes the inputs to fair valuation techniques and allows for the use of unobservable inputs to the extent that observable inputs are not available. The Company categorizes its assets and liabilities measured at estimated fair value into a three-level hierarchy, based on the priority of the inputs to the respective valuation technique. The fair value hierarchy gives the highest priority to quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3). An asset or liability’s classification within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of input to its valuation. The input levels are as follows:

Level 1		Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. The Company defines active markets based on average trading volume for equity securities. The size of the bid/ask spread is used as an indicator of market activity for fixed maturity securities.
Level 2		Quoted prices in markets that are not active or inputs that are observable either directly or indirectly. Level 2 inputs include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities other than quoted prices in Level 1; quoted prices in markets that are not active; or other significant inputs that are observable or can be derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities.
Level 3		Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and are significant to the estimated fair value of the assets or liabilities. Unobservable inputs reflect the reporting entity’s own assumptions about the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. Level 3 assets and liabilities include financial instruments whose values are determined using pricing models, discounted cash flow methodologies, or similar techniques, as well as instruments for which the determination of estimated fair value requires significant management judgment or estimation.

     Prior to January 1, 2009, the measurement and disclosures of fair value based on exit price excluded certain items such as nonfinancial assets and nonfinancial liabilities initially measured at estimated fair value in a business combination, reporting units measured at estimated fair value in the first step of a goodwill impairment test and indefinite-lived intangible assets measured at estimated fair value for impairment assessment.

   Estimated Fair Value of Investments

     The Company’s investments in fixed maturity and equity securities, investments in trading securities, certain short-term investments, most mortgage loans held-for-sale, and mortgage servicing rights (“MSRs”) are reported at their estimated fair value. In determining the estimated fair value of these investments, various methodologies, assumptions and inputs are utilized, as described further below.

     When available, the estimated fair value of securities is based on quoted prices in active markets that are readily and regularly obtainable. Generally, these are the most liquid of the Company’s securities holdings and valuation of these securities does not involve management judgment.

     When quoted prices in active markets are not available, the determination of estimated fair value is based on market standard valuation methodologies. The market standard valuation methodologies utilized include: discounted cash flow methodologies, matrix pricing or other similar techniques. The inputs to these market standard valuation methodologies include, but are not limited to: interest rates, credit standing of the issuer or counterparty, industry sector of the issuer, coupon rate, call provisions, sinking fund requirements, maturity, estimated duration and management’s assumptions regarding liquidity and estimated future cash flows. Accordingly, the estimated fair values are based on available market information and management’s judgments about financial instruments.

     The significant inputs to the market standard valuation methodologies for certain types of securities with reasonable levels of price transparency are inputs that are observable in the market or can be derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data. Such observable inputs include benchmarking prices for similar assets in active, liquid markets, quoted prices in markets that are not active and observable yields and spreads in the market.

     When observable inputs are not available, the market standard valuation methodologies for determining the estimated fair value of certain types of securities that trade infrequently, and therefore have little or no price transparency, rely on inputs that are significant to the estimated fair value that are not observable in the market or cannot be derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data. These unobservable inputs can be based in large part on management judgment or estimation, and cannot be supported by reference to market activity. Even though unobservable, these inputs are based on assumptions deemed appropriate given the circumstances and consistent with what other market participants would use when pricing such securities.

     The estimated fair value of residential mortgage loans held-for-sale are determined based on observable pricing of residential mortgage loans held-for-sale with similar characteristics, or observable pricing for securities backed by similar types of loans, adjusted to convert the securities prices to loan prices. Generally, quoted market prices are not available. When observable pricing for similar loans or securities that are backed by similar loans are not available, the estimated fair values of residential mortgage loans held-for-sale are determined using independent broker quotations, which is intended to approximate the amounts that would be received from third parties. Certain other mortgage loans have also been designated as held-for-sale which are recorded at the lower of amortized cost or estimated fair value less expected disposition costs determined on an individual loan basis. For these loans, estimated fair value is determined using independent broker quotations or, when the loan is in foreclosure or otherwise determined to be collateral dependent, the estimated fair value of the underlying collateral estimated using internal models.

     MSRs, which are recorded in other invested assets, are measured at estimated fair value and are either acquired or are generated from the sale of originated residential mortgage loans where the servicing rights are retained by the Company. The estimated fair value of MSRs is principally determined through the use of internal discounted cash flow models which utilize various assumptions as to discount rates, loan-prepayments, and servicing costs. The use of different valuation assumptions and inputs, as well as assumptions relating to the collection of expected cash flows may have a material effect on the estimated fair values of MSRs.

     Financial markets are susceptible to severe events evidenced by rapid depreciation in asset values accompanied by a reduction in asset liquidity. The Company’s ability to sell securities, or the price ultimately realized for these securities, depends upon the demand and liquidity in the market and increases the use of judgment in determining the estimated fair value of certain securities.

   Investment Impairments

     One of the significant estimates related to available-for-sale securities is the evaluation of investments for impairments. As described more fully in Note 1 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements, effective April 1, 2009, the Company adopted new other-than-temporary impairments guidance that amends the methodology for determining for fixed maturity securities whether an other-than-temporary impairment exists, and for certain fixed maturity securities, changes how the amount of the other-than-temporary loss that is charged to earnings is determined. There was no change in the other-than-temporary impairment (“OTTI”) methodology for equity securities. The discussion presented below incorporates the new OTTI guidance adopted April 1, 2009.

     The assessment of whether impairments have occurred is based on our case-by-case evaluation of the underlying reasons for the decline in estimated fair value. The Company’s review of its fixed maturity and equity securities for impairments includes an analysis of the total gross unrealized losses by three categories of securities: (i) securities where the estimated fair value had declined and remained below cost or amortized cost by less than 20%; (ii) securities where the estimated fair value had declined and remained below cost or amortized cost by 20% or more for less than six months; and (iii) securities where the estimated fair value had declined and remained below cost or amortized cost by 20% or more for six months or greater. An extended and severe unrealized loss position on a fixed maturity security may not have any impact on the ability of the issuer to service all scheduled interest and principal payments and the Company’s evaluation of recoverability of all contractual cash flows or the ability to recover an amount at least equal to its amortized cost based on the present value of the expected future cash flows to be collected. In contrast, for certain equity securities, greater weight and consideration are given by the Company to a decline in estimated fair value and the likelihood such estimated fair value decline will recover.

     Additionally, we consider a wide range of factors about the security issuer and use our best judgment in evaluating the cause of the decline in the estimated fair value of the security and in assessing the prospects for near-term recovery. Inherent in our evaluation of the security are assumptions and estimates about the operations of the issuer and its future earnings potential. Considerations used by the Company in the impairment evaluation process include, but are not limited to:

	(i)		the length of time and the extent to which the estimated fair value has been below cost or amortized cost;
	(ii)		the potential for impairments of securities when the issuer is experiencing significant financial difficulties;
	(iii)		the potential for impairments in an entire industry sector or sub-sector;
	(iv)		the potential for impairments in certain economically depressed geographic locations;
	(v)		the potential for impairments of securities where the issuer, series of issuers or industry has suffered a catastrophic type of loss or has exhausted natural resources;
	(vi)		with respect to fixed maturity securities, whether the Company has the intent to sell or will more likely than not be required to sell a particular security before recovery of the decline in estimated fair value below cost or amortized cost;
	(vii)		with respect to equity securities, whether the Company’s ability and intent to hold the security for a period of time sufficient to allow for the recovery of its value to an amount equal to or greater than cost;
	(viii)		unfavorable changes in forecasted cash flows on mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities; and
	(ix)		other subjective factors, including concentrations and information obtained from regulators and rating agencies.

     The cost of fixed maturity and equity securities is adjusted for the credit loss component of OTTI in the period in which the determination is made. When an OTTI of a fixed maturity security has occurred, the amount of the OTTI recognized in earnings depends on whether the Company intends to sell the security or more likely than not will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis. If the fixed maturity security meets either of these two criteria, the OTTI recognized in earnings is equal to the entire difference between the security’s amortized cost basis and its estimated fair value at the impairment measurement date. For other-than-temporary impairments of fixed maturity securities that do not meet either of these two criteria, the net amount recognized in earnings is equal to the difference between the amortized cost of the fixed maturity security and the present value of projected future cash flows to be collected from this security. Any difference between the estimated fair value and the present value of the expected future cash flows of the security at the impairment measurement date is recorded in other comprehensive income (loss). For equity securities, the carrying value of the equity security is impaired to its estimated fair value, with a corresponding charge to earnings. The Company does not change the revised cost basis for subsequent recoveries in value.

     The determination of the amount of allowances and impairments on other invested asset classes is highly subjective and is based upon the Company’s periodic evaluation and assessment of known and inherent risks associated with the respective asset class. Such evaluations and assessments are revised as conditions change and new information becomes available.

   Recognition of Income on Certain Investment Entities

     The recognition of income on certain investments (e.g. loan-backed securities, including mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities, certain structured investment transactions, trading securities, etc.) is dependent upon market conditions, which could result in prepayments and changes in amounts to be earned.

   Application of the Consolidation Rules to Certain Investments

     The Company has invested in certain structured transactions that are variable interest entities (“VIEs”). These structured transactions include reinsurance trusts, asset-backed securitizations, hybrid securities, joint ventures, limited partnerships and limited liability companies. The Company is required to consolidate those VIEs for which it is deemed to be the primary beneficiary. The accounting rules for the determination of when an entity is a VIE and when to consolidate a VIE are complex. The determination of

the VIE’s primary beneficiary requires an evaluation of the contractual rights and obligations associated with each party involved in the entity, an estimate of the entity’s expected losses and expected residual returns and the allocation of such estimates to each party involved in the entity. The primary beneficiary is defined as the entity that will absorb a majority of a VIE’s expected losses, receive a majority of a VIE’s expected residual returns if no single entity absorbs a majority of expected losses, or both.

     When assessing the expected losses to determine the primary beneficiary for structured investment products such as asset-backed securitizations and collateralized debt obligations, the Company uses historical default probabilities based on the credit rating of each issuer and other inputs including maturity dates, industry classifications and geographic location. Using computational algorithms, the analysis simulates default scenarios resulting in a range of expected losses and the probability associated with each occurrence. For other investment structures such as hybrid securities, joint ventures, limited partnerships and limited liability companies, the Company takes into consideration the design of the VIE and generally uses a qualitative approach to determine if it is the primary beneficiary. This approach includes an analysis of all contractual and implied rights and obligations held by all parties including profit and loss allocations, repayment or residual value guarantees, put and call options and other derivative instruments. If the primary beneficiary of a VIE can not be identified using this qualitative approach, the Company calculates the expected losses and expected residual returns of the VIE using a probability-weighted cash flow model. The use of different methodologies, assumptions and inputs in the determination of the primary beneficiary could have a material effect on the amounts presented within the consolidated financial statements.

   Derivative Financial Instruments

     The Company enters into freestanding derivative transactions including swaps, forwards, futures and option contracts to manage various risks relating to its ongoing business operations. To a lesser extent, the Company uses credit derivatives, such as credit default swaps, to synthetically replicate investment risks and returns which are not readily available in the cash market.

     The estimated fair value of derivatives is determined through the use of quoted market prices for exchange-traded derivatives and financial forwards to sell certain to be announced securities or through the use of pricing models for over-the-counter derivatives. The determination of estimated fair value, when quoted market values are not available, is based on market standard valuation methodologies and inputs that are assumed to be consistent with what other market participants would use when pricing the instruments. Derivative valuations can be affected by changes in interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates, financial indices, credit spreads, default risk (including the counterparties to the contract), volatility, liquidity and changes in estimates and assumptions used in the pricing models. See Note 5 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional details on significant inputs into the over-the-counter derivative pricing models and credit risk adjustment.

     The accounting for derivatives is complex and interpretations of the primary accounting guidance continue to evolve in practice. Judgment is applied in determining the availability and application of hedge accounting designations and the appropriate accounting treatment under such accounting guidance. If it was determined that hedge accounting designations were not appropriately applied, reported net income could be materially affected. Differences in judgment as to the availability and application of hedge accounting designations and the appropriate accounting treatment may result in a differing impact on the consolidated financial statements of the Company from that previously reported. Assessments of hedge effectiveness and measurements of ineffectiveness of hedging relationships are also subject to interpretations and estimations and different interpretations or estimates may have a material effect on the amount reported in net income.

   Embedded Derivatives

     The Company issues certain variable annuity products with guaranteed minimum benefits. These include guaranteed minimum withdrawal benefits (“GMWB”), guaranteed minimum accumulation benefits (“GMAB”), and certain guaranteed minimum income benefits (“GMIB”). GMWB, GMAB and certain GMIB are embedded derivatives, which are measured at estimated fair value separately from the host variable annuity product, with changes in estimated fair value reported in net investment gains (losses).

     The estimated fair values for these embedded derivatives are determined based on the present value of projected future benefits minus the present value of projected future fees. The projections of future benefits and future fees require capital market and actuarial assumptions including expectations concerning policyholder behavior. A risk neutral valuation methodology is used under which the cash flows from the guarantees are projected under multiple capital market scenarios using observable risk free rates. Beginning in 2008, the valuation of these embedded derivatives includes an adjustment for the Company’s own credit and risk margins for non-capital market inputs. The Company’s own credit adjustment is determined taking into consideration publicly available information relating to the Company’s debt, as well as its claims paying ability. Risk margins are established to capture the non-capital market risks of the instrument which represent the additional compensation a market participant would require to assume the risks related to the uncertainties of such actuarial assumptions as annuitization, premium persistency, partial withdrawal and surrenders. The establishment of risk margins requires the use of significant management judgment.

     These guarantees may be more costly than expected in volatile or declining equity markets. Market conditions including, but not limited to, changes in interest rates, equity indices, market volatility and foreign currency exchange rates; changes in the Company’s own credit standing; and variations in actuarial assumptions regarding policyholder behavior, and risk margins related to non-capital market inputs may result in significant fluctuations in the estimated fair value of the guarantees that could materially affect net income.

     The Company ceded the risk associated with certain of the GMIB and GMAB described in the preceding paragraphs. The value of the embedded derivatives on the ceded risk is determined using a methodology consistent with that described previously for the guarantees directly written by the Company.

     The estimated fair value of the embedded equity and bond indexed derivatives contained in certain funding agreements is determined using market standard swap valuation models and observable market inputs, including an adjustment for the Company’s own credit that takes into consideration publicly available information relating to the Company’s debt, as well as its claims paying ability. Changes in equity and bond indices, interest rates and the Company’s credit standing may result in significant fluctuations in estimated the fair value of these embedded derivatives that could materially affect net income.

     The accounting for embedded derivatives is complex and interpretations of the primary accounting standards continue to evolve in practice. If interpretations change, there is a risk that features previously not bifurcated may require bifurcation and reporting at estimated fair value in the consolidated financial statements and respective changes in estimated fair value could materially affect net income.

   Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs and Value of Business Acquired

     The Company incurs significant costs in connection with acquiring new and renewal insurance business. Costs that vary with and relate to the production of new business are deferred as DAC. Such costs consist principally of commissions and agency and policy issuance expenses. VOBA is an intangible asset that represents the present value of future profits embedded in acquired insurance annuity and investment — type contracts. VOBA is based on actuarially determined projections, by each block of business, of future policy and contract charges, premiums, mortality and morbidity, separate account performance, surrenders, operating expenses, investment returns and other factors. Actual experience on the purchased business may vary from these projections. The recovery of DAC and VOBA is dependent upon the future profitability of the related business. DAC and VOBA are aggregated in the financial statements for reporting purposes.

     Note 1 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements describes the Company’s accounting policy relating to DAC and VOBA amortization for various types of contracts.

     Separate account rates of return on variable universal life contracts and variable deferred annuity contracts affect in-force account balances on such contracts each reporting period which can result in significant fluctuations in amortization of DAC and VOBA. The Company’s practice to determine the impact of gross profits resulting from returns on separate accounts assumes that long-term appreciation in equity markets is not changed by short-term market fluctuations, but is only changed when sustained interim deviations are expected. The Company monitors these changes and only changes the assumption when its long-term expectation changes. The effect of an increase/ (decrease) by 100 basis points in the assumed future rate of return is reasonably likely to result in a decrease/(increase) in the DAC and VOBA amortization of approximately $140 million with an offset to the Company’s unearned revenue liability of approximately $20 million for this factor.

     The Company also reviews periodically other long-term assumptions underlying the projections of estimated gross margins and profits. These include investment returns, policyholder dividend scales, interest crediting rates, mortality, persistency, and expenses to administer business. We annually update assumptions used in the calculation of estimated gross margins and profits which may have significantly changed. If the update of assumptions causes expected future gross margins and profits to increase, DAC and VOBA amortization will decrease, resulting in a current period increase to earnings. The opposite result occurs when the assumption update causes expected future gross margins and profits to decrease.

     Over the last several years, the Company’s most significant assumption updates resulting in a change to expected future gross margins and profits and the amortization of DAC and VOBA have been updated due to revisions to expected future investment returns, expenses, in-force or persistency assumptions and policyholder dividends on contracts included within the Insurance Products and Retirement Products segments. During 2009, the amount of net investment gains (losses), as well as the level of separate account balances also resulted in significant changes to expected future gross margins and profits impacting amortization of DAC and VOBA. The Company expects these assumptions to be the ones most reasonably likely to cause significant changes in the future. Changes in these assumptions can be offsetting and the Company is unable to predict their movement or offsetting impact over time.

     Note 6 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements provides a rollforward of DAC and VOBA for the Company for each of the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, as well as a breakdown of DAC and VOBA by segment and reporting unit at December 31, 2009 and 2008.

     At December 31, 2009 and 2008, DAC and VOBA for the Company was $19.3 billion and $20.1 billion, respectively. A substantial portion, approximately 84%, of the Company’s DAC and VOBA was associated with the Insurance Products and Retirement Products segments at December 31, 2009. At December 31, 2009 and 2008, DAC and VOBA for these segments was $16.1 billion and $17.4 billion, respectively. Amortization of DAC and VOBA associated with the variable & universal life and the annuities contracts within the Insurance Products and Retirement Products segments are significantly impacted by movements in equity markets. The following chart illustrates the effect on DAC and VOBA within the Company’s U.S. Business of changing each of the respective assumptions, as well as updating estimated gross margins or profits with actual gross margins or profits during the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007. Increases (decreases) in DAC and VOBA balances, as presented below, result in a corresponding decrease (increase) in amortization.

		Years Ended December 31,
		2009				2008				2007
						(In millions)
Investment return		$	141			$	70			$	(34	)
Separate account balances			(32	)			(708	)			8
Net investment gain (loss) related			712				(521	)			126
Expense			60				61				(53	)
In-force/Persistency			(87	)			(159	)			1
Policyholder dividends and other			174				(30	)			(39	)
Total		$	968			$	(1,287	)		$	9

     Prior to 2008, fluctuations in the amounts presented in the table above arose principally from normal assumption reviews during the period.

     The following represents significant items contributing to the changes to DAC and VOBA amortization in 2009:

	•		Actual gross profits decreased as a result of increased investment losses from the portfolios associated with the hedging of guaranteed insurance obligations on variable annuities, resulting in a decrease of DAC and VOBA amortization of $141 million.
	•		Changes in net investment gains (losses) resulted in the following changes in DAC and VOBA amortization:

	-		Actual gross profits increased as a result of a decrease in liabilities associated with guarantee obligations on variable annuities, resulting in an increase of DAC and VOBA amortization of $995 million, excluding the impact from the Company’s own credit and risk margins, which are described below. This increase in actual gross profits was partially offset by freestanding derivative losses associated with the hedging of such guarantee obligations, which resulted in a decrease in DAC and VOBA amortization of $636 million.
	-		The narrowing of the Company’s own credit spreads increased the valuation of guarantee liabilities, decreased actual gross profits and decreased DAC and VOBA amortization by $607 million. This was partially offset by lower risk margins which decreased the guarantee liability valuations, increased actual gross profits and increased DAC and VOBA amortization by $20 million.
	-		The remainder of the impact of net investment gains (losses), which decreased DAC amortization by $484 million, was primarily attributable to current period investment activities.

•

Included in policyholder dividends and other was a decrease in amortization of $90 million as a result of changes to long term assumptions. The remainder of the decrease was due to various immaterial items.

     The following represent significant items contributing to the changes to DAC and VOBA amortization in 2008:

	•		The decrease in equity markets during the year significantly lowered separate account balances which lead to a significant reduction in expected future gross profits on variable universal life contracts and variable deferred annuity contracts resulting in an increase of $708 million in DAC and VOBA amortization.
	•		Changes in net investment gains (losses) resulted in the following changes in DAC and VOBA amortization:

	-		Actual gross profits decreased as a result of an increase in liabilities associated with guarantee obligations on variable annuities resulting in a reduction of DAC and VOBA amortization of $1,047 million. This decrease in actual gross profits was mitigated by freestanding derivative gains associated with the hedging of such guarantee obligations which resulted in an increase in actual gross profits and an increase in DAC and VOBA amortization of $625 million.
	-		The widening of the Company’s own credit spreads decreased the valuation of guarantee liabilities, increased actual gross profits and increased DAC and VOBA amortization by $739 million. This was partially offset by higher risk margins which increased the guarantee liability valuations, decreased actual gross profits and decreased DAC and VOBA amortization by $100 million.
	-		Reductions in both actual and expected cumulative earnings of the closed block resulting from recent experience in the closed block combined with changes in expected dividend scales resulted in an increase in closed block DAC amortization of $195 million, $175 million of which was related to net investment gains (losses).
	-		The remainder of the impact of net investment gains (losses), which increased DAC amortization by $129 million, was attributable to numerous immaterial items.

•

Increases in amortization in 2008 resulting from changes in assumptions related to in-force/persistency of $159 million were driven by higher than anticipated mortality and lower than anticipated premium persistency during 2008.

     The Company’s DAC and VOBA balance is also impacted by unrealized investment gains (losses) and the amount of amortization which would have been recognized if such gains and losses had been recognized. The significant decrease in unrealized investment losses decreased the DAC and VOBA balance by $2.8 billion in 2009 whereas increases in unrealized investment losses increased the DAC and VOBA balance by $3.4 billion in 2008. Notes 3 and 6 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements include the DAC and VOBA offset to unrealized investment losses.

   Goodwill

     Goodwill is the excess of cost over the estimated fair value of net assets acquired. Goodwill is not amortized but is tested for impairment at least annually or more frequently if events or circumstances, such as adverse changes in the business climate, indicate that there may be justification for conducting an interim test. We perform our annual goodwill impairment testing during the third quarter of each year based upon data as of the close of the second quarter.

     Impairment testing is performed using the fair value approach, which requires the use of estimates and judgment, at the “reporting unit” level. A reporting unit is the operating segment or a business one level below the operating segment, if discrete financial information is prepared and regularly reviewed by management at that level. For purposes of goodwill impairment testing, a significant portion of goodwill within Banking, Corporate & Other is allocated to reporting units within our business segments.

     For purposes of goodwill impairment testing, if the carrying value of a reporting unit exceeds its estimated fair value, there might be an indication of impairment. In such instances, the implied fair value of the goodwill is determined in the same manner as the amount of goodwill would be determined in a business acquisition. The excess of the carrying value of goodwill over the implied fair value of goodwill is recognized as an impairment and recorded as a charge against net income.

     In performing our goodwill impairment tests, when we believe meaningful comparable market data are available, the estimated fair values of the reporting units are determined using a market multiple approach. When relevant comparables are not available, we use a discounted cash flow model. For reporting units which are particularly sensitive to market assumptions, such as the retirement products and individual life reporting units, we may corroborate our estimated fair values by using additional valuation methodologies.

     The key inputs, judgments and assumptions necessary in determining estimated fair value include projected operating earnings, current book value (with and without accumulated other comprehensive income), the level of economic capital required to support the mix of business, long term growth rates, comparative market multiples, the account value of in-force business, projections of new and renewal business, as well as margins on such business, the level of interest rates, credit spreads, equity market levels, and the discount rate we believe appropriate to the risk associated with the respective reporting unit. The estimated fair value of the retirement products and individual life reporting units are particularly sensitive to the equity market levels.

     When testing goodwill for impairment, we also consider our market capitalization in relation to our book value. We believe that our current market capitalization supports the value of the underlying reporting units.

     We apply significant judgment when determining the estimated fair value of our reporting units and when assessing the relationship of market capitalization to the estimated fair value of our reporting units and their book value. The valuation methodologies utilized are subject to key judgments and assumptions that are sensitive to change. Estimates of fair value are inherently uncertain and represent only management’s reasonable expectation regarding future developments. These estimates and the judgments and assumptions upon which the estimates are based will, in all likelihood, differ in some respects from actual future results. Declines in the estimated fair value of our reporting units could result in goodwill impairments in future periods which could materially adversely affect our results of operations or financial position.

     During our 2009 impairment tests of goodwill, we concluded that the fair values of all reporting units were in excess of their carrying values and, therefore, goodwill was not impaired. However, we continue to evaluate current market conditions that may affect the estimated fair value of our reporting units to assess whether any goodwill impairment exists. Deteriorating or adverse market conditions for certain reporting units may have a significant impact on the estimated fair value of these reporting units and could result in future impairments of goodwill. See Note 7 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for further consideration of goodwill impairment testing during 2009.

   Liability for Future Policy Benefits

     The Company establishes liabilities for amounts payable under insurance policies, including traditional life insurance, traditional annuities and non-medical health insurance. Generally, amounts are payable over an extended period of time and related liabilities are calculated as the present value of future expected benefits to be paid reduced by the present value of future expected premiums. Such liabilities are established based on methods and underlying assumptions in accordance with GAAP and applicable actuarial standards. Principal assumptions used in the establishment of liabilities for future policy benefits are mortality, morbidity, policy lapse, renewal, retirement, disability incidence, disability terminations, investment returns, inflation, expenses and other contingent events as appropriate to the respective product type. These assumptions are established at the time the policy is issued and are intended to estimate the experience for the period the policy benefits are payable. Utilizing these assumptions, liabilities are established on a block of business basis. If experience is less favorable than assumptions, additional liabilities may be required, resulting in a charge to policyholder benefits and claims.

     Future policy benefit liabilities for disabled lives are estimated using the present value of benefits method and experience assumptions as to claim terminations, expenses and interest.

     Liabilities for unpaid claims and claim expenses for property and casualty insurance are included in future policyholder benefits and represent the amount estimated for claims that have been reported but not settled and claims incurred but not reported. Other policyholder funds include claims that have been reported but not settled and claims incurred but not reported on life and non-medical health insurance. Liabilities for unpaid claims are estimated based upon the Company’s historical experience and other actuarial assumptions that consider the effects of current developments, anticipated trends and risk management programs, reduced for anticipated salvage and subrogation. The effects of changes in such estimated liabilities are included in the results of operations in the period in which the changes occur.

     Future policy benefit liabilities for minimum death and income benefit guarantees relating to certain annuity contracts and secondary and paid-up guarantees relating to certain life policies are based on estimates of the expected value of benefits in excess of the projected account balance and recognizing the excess ratably over the accumulation period based on total expected assessments. Liabilities for universal and variable life secondary guarantees and paid-up guarantees are determined by estimating the expected value of death benefits payable when the account balance is projected to be zero and recognizing those benefits ratably over the accumulation period based on total expected assessments. The assumptions used in estimating these liabilities are consistent with those used for amortizing DAC, and are thus subject to the same variability and risk. The assumptions of investment performance and volatility for variable products are consistent with historical S&P experience.

     The Company periodically reviews its estimates of actuarial liabilities for future policy benefits and compares them with its actual experience. Differences between actual experience and the assumptions used in pricing of these policies and guarantees and in the establishment of the related liabilities result in variances in profit and could result in losses. The effects of changes in such estimated liabilities are included in the results of operations in the period in which the changes occur.

   Reinsurance

     The Company enters into reinsurance agreements primarily as a purchaser of reinsurance for its various insurance products and also as a provider of reinsurance for some insurance products issued by third parties. Accounting for reinsurance requires extensive use of assumptions and estimates, particularly related to the future performance of the underlying business and the potential impact of counterparty credit risks. The Company periodically reviews actual and anticipated experience compared to the aforementioned assumptions used to establish assets and liabilities relating to ceded and assumed reinsurance and evaluates the financial strength of counterparties to its reinsurance agreements using criteria similar to that evaluated in the security impairment process discussed previously. Additionally, for each of its reinsurance agreements, the Company determines if the agreement provides indemnification against loss or liability relating to insurance risk, in accordance with applicable accounting standards. The Company reviews all contractual features, particularly those that may limit the amount of insurance risk to which the reinsurer is subject or features that delay the timely reimbursement of claims. If the Company determines that a reinsurance agreement does not expose the reinsurer to a reasonable possibility of a significant loss from insurance risk, the Company records the agreement using the deposit method of accounting.

   Income Taxes

     Income taxes represent the net amount of income taxes that the Company expects to pay to or receive from various taxing jurisdictions in connection with its operations. The Company provides for federal, state and foreign income taxes currently payable, as well as those deferred due to temporary differences between the financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities. The Company’s accounting for income taxes represents management’s best estimate of various events and transactions.

     Deferred tax assets and liabilities resulting from temporary differences between the financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities are measured at the balance sheet date using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years the temporary differences are expected to reverse. The realization of deferred tax assets depends upon the existence of sufficient taxable income within the carryback or carryforward periods under the tax law in the applicable tax jurisdiction. Valuation allowances are established when management determines, based on available information, that it is more likely than not that deferred income tax assets will not be realized. Factors in management’s determination consider the performance of the business including the ability to generate capital gains. Significant judgment is required in determining whether valuation allowances should be established, as well as the amount of such allowances. When making such determination, consideration is given to, among other things, the following:

	(i)		future taxable income exclusive of reversing temporary differences and carryforwards;
	(ii)		future reversals of existing taxable temporary differences;
	(iii)		taxable income in prior carryback years; and
	(iv)		tax planning strategies.

     The Company determines whether it is more likely than not that a tax position will be sustained upon examination by the appropriate taxing authorities before any part of the benefit is recorded in the financial statements. A tax position is measured at the largest amount of benefit that is greater than 50 percent likely of being realized upon settlement. The Company may be required to change its provision for income taxes when the ultimate deductibility of certain items is challenged by taxing authorities or when estimates used in determining valuation allowances on deferred tax assets significantly change, or when receipt of new information indicates the need for adjustment in valuation allowances. Additionally, future events, such as changes in tax laws, tax regulations, or interpretations of such laws or regulations, could have an impact on the provision for income tax and the effective tax rate. Any such changes could significantly affect the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements in the year these changes occur.

   Employee Benefit Plans

     Certain subsidiaries of the Holding Company (the “Subsidiaries”) sponsor and/or administer pension and other postretirement benefit plans covering employees who meet specified eligibility requirements. The obligations and expenses associated with these plans require an extensive use of assumptions such as the discount rate, expected rate of return on plan assets, rate of future compensation increases, healthcare cost trend rates, as well as assumptions regarding participant demographics such as rate and age of retirements, withdrawal rates and mortality. In consultation with our external consulting actuarial firm, we determine these assumptions based upon a variety of factors such as historical performance of the plan and its assets, currently available market and industry data, and expected benefit payout streams. The assumptions used may differ materially from actual results due to, among other factors, changing market and economic conditions and changes in participant demographics. These differences may have a significant effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements and liquidity.

   Litigation Contingencies

     The Company is a party to a number of legal actions and is involved in a number of regulatory investigations. Given the inherent unpredictability of these matters, it is difficult to estimate the impact on the Company’s financial position. Liabilities are established when it is probable that a loss has been incurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. Liabilities related to certain lawsuits, including the Company’s asbestos-related liability, are especially difficult to estimate due to the limitation of available data and uncertainty regarding numerous variables that can affect liability estimates. The data and variables that impact the assumptions used to estimate the Company’s asbestos-related liability include the number of future claims, the cost to resolve claims, the disease mix and severity of disease in pending and future claims, the impact of the number of new claims filed in a particular jurisdiction and variations in the law in the jurisdictions in which claims are filed, the possible impact of tort reform efforts, the willingness of courts to allow plaintiffs to pursue claims against the Company when exposure to asbestos took place after the dangers of asbestos exposure were well known, and the impact of any possible future adverse verdicts and their amounts. On a quarterly and annual basis, the Company reviews relevant information with respect to liabilities for litigation, regulatory investigations and litigation-related contingencies to be reflected in the Company’s consolidated financial statements. It is possible that an adverse outcome in certain of the Company’s litigation and regulatory investigations, including asbestos-related cases, or the use of different assumptions in the determination of amounts recorded could have a material effect upon the Company’s consolidated net income or cash flows in particular quarterly or annual periods.

Economic Capital

     Economic capital is an internally developed risk capital model, the purpose of which is to measure the risk in the business and to provide a basis upon which capital is deployed. The economic capital model accounts for the unique and specific nature of the risks inherent in MetLife’s businesses. As a part of the economic capital process, a portion of net investment income is credited to the segments based on the level of allocated equity. This is in contrast to the standardized regulatory risk-based capital (“RBC”) formula, which is not as refined in its risk calculations with respect to the nuances of the Company’s businesses.

Acquisitions and Dispositions

     See Note 2 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

Recent Developments

     On February 2, 2010, MetLife announced that it is in discussions with American International Group, Inc. about acquiring its subsidiary, American Life Insurance Company, an international life insurance company. These discussions are ongoing. No agreement has been reached and there are no assurances that an agreement will be reached.

Consolidated Results of Operations

Year Ended December 31, 2009 compared with the Year Ended December 31, 2008

     Unfavorable market conditions continued through 2009, providing a challenging business environment. The largest and most significant impact continued to be on our investment portfolio as declining yields resulted in lower net investment income. Market sensitive expenses were also negatively impacted by the market conditions as evidenced by an increase in pension and postretirement benefit costs. Higher levels of unemployment continued to impact certain group businesses as a decrease in covered payrolls reduced growth. Our auto and homeowners business was impacted by a declining housing market, the deterioration of the new auto sales market and the continuation of credit availability issues, all of which contributed to a decrease in insured exposures. Despite the challenging business environment, revenue growth remained solid in the majority of our businesses. A flight to quality during the year contributed to an improvement in sales in both our domestic fixed and variable annuity products. We also saw an increase in market share, especially in the structured settlement business, where we experienced an increase of 53% in premiums. An improvement in the global financial markets contributed to a recovery of sales in most of our international regions and resulted in improved investment performance in some regions during the second half of 2009. We also benefited domestically from a strong residential mortgage refinance market and healthy growth in the reverse mortgage arena.

		Years Ended December 31,
		2009				2008				Change				% Change
						(In millions)
Revenues
Premiums		$	26,460			$	25,914			$	546				2.1	%
Universal life and investment-type product policy fees			5,203				5,381				(178	)			(3.3	)%
Net investment income			14,838				16,291				(1,453	)			(8.9	)%
Other revenues			2,329				1,586				743				46.8	%
Net investment gains (losses)			(7,772	)			1,812				(9,584	)			(528.9	)%
Total revenues			41,058				50,984				(9,926	)			(19.5	)%
Expenses
Policyholder benefits and claims and policyholder dividends			29,986				29,188				798				2.7	%
Interest credited to policyholder account balances			4,849				4,788				61				1.3	%
Interest credited to bank deposits			163				166				(3	)			(1.8	)%
Capitalization of DAC			(3,019	)			(3,092	)			73				2.4	%
Amortization of DAC and VOBA			1,307				3,489				(2,182	)			(62.5	)%
Interest expense			1,044				1,051				(7	)			(0.7	)%
Other expenses			11,061				10,333				728				7.0	%
Total expenses			45,391				45,923				(532	)			(1.2	)%
Income (loss) from continuing operations before provision for income tax			(4,333	)			5,061				(9,394	)			(185.6	)%
Provision for income tax expense (benefit)			(2,015	)			1,580				(3,595	)			(227.5	)%
Income (loss) from continuing operations, net of income tax			(2,318	)			3,481				(5,799	)			(166.6	)%
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income tax			40				(203	)			243				119.7	%
Net income (loss)			(2,278	)			3,278				(5,556	)			(169.5	)%
Less: Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests			(32	)			69				(101	)			(146.4	)%
Net income (loss) attributable to MetLife, Inc.			(2,246	)			3,209				(5,455	)			(170.0	)%
Less: Preferred stock dividends			122				125				(3	)			(2.4	)%
Net income (loss) available to MetLife, Inc.’s common shareholders		$	(2,368	)		$	3,084			$	(5,452	)			(176.8	)%

     Unless otherwise stated, all amounts are net of income tax.

     During the year ended December 31, 2009, MetLife’s income (loss) from continuing operations, net of income tax decreased $5.8 billion to a loss of $2.3 billion from income of $3.5 billion in the comparable 2008 period. The year over year change is predominantly due to a $5.2 billion unfavorable change in net investment gains (losses) to losses of $4.6 billion, net of related adjustments, in 2009 from gains of $644 million, net of related adjustments, in 2008.

     We manage our investment portfolio using disciplined Asset/Liability Management principles, focusing on cash flow and duration to support our current and future liabilities. Our intent is to match the timing and amount of liability cash outflows with invested assets that have cash inflows of comparable timing and amount, while optimizing, net of income tax, risk-adjusted net investment income and risk-adjusted total return. Our investment portfolio is heavily weighted toward fixed income investments, with over 80% of our

portfolio invested in fixed maturity securities and mortgage loans. These securities and loans have varying maturities and other characteristics which cause them to be generally well suited for matching the cash flow and duration of insurance liabilities. Other invested asset classes including, but not limited to equity securities, other limited partnership interests and real estate and real estate joint ventures provide additional diversification and opportunity for long term yield enhancement in addition to supporting the cash flow and duration objectives of our investment portfolio. We also use derivatives as an integral part of our management of the investment portfolio to hedge certain risks, including changes in interest rates, foreign currencies, credit spreads and equity market levels. Additional considerations for our investment portfolio include current and expected market conditions and expectations for changes within our unique mix of products and business segments.

     The composition of the investment portfolio of each business segment is tailored to the unique characteristics of its insurance liabilities, causing certain portfolios to be shorter in duration and others to be longer in duration. Accordingly, certain portfolios are more heavily weighted in fixed maturity securities, or certain sub-sectors of fixed maturity securities, than other portfolios.

     Investments are purchased to support our insurance liabilities and not to generate net investment gains and losses. However, net investment gains and losses are generated and can change significantly from period to period, due to changes in external influences including movements in interest rates, foreign currencies and credit spreads, counterparty specific factors such as financial performance, credit rating and collateral valuation, and internal factors such as portfolio rebalancing that can generate gains and losses. As an investor in the fixed income, equity security, mortgage loan and certain other invested asset classes, we are exposed to the above stated risks, which can lead to both impairments and credit-related losses.

     The unfavorable variance in net investment gains (losses) of $5.2 billion, net of related adjustments, was primarily driven by losses on freestanding derivatives, partially offset by gains on embedded derivatives associated with variable annuity minimum benefit guarantees, and decreased losses on fixed maturity securities. The negative change in freestanding derivatives, from gains in the prior year to losses in the current year, was primarily attributable to the effect of rising interest rates on certain interest rate sensitive derivatives that are economic hedges of certain invested assets and insurance liabilities; weakening U.S. Dollar on certain foreign currency sensitive derivatives, and equity market and interest rate derivatives that are economic hedges of embedded derivatives. Losses on embedded derivatives decreased from losses to gains and were driven primarily by rising interest rates and improving equity market performance. The gains were net of losses attributable to a narrowing of the Company’s own credit spread. Losses on the freestanding derivatives hedging these embedded derivatives risks substantially offset the change in the liabilities attributable to market factors, excluding the adjustment for the change in the Company’s own credit spread, which is not hedged. The decrease in losses on fixed maturity securities is primarily attributable to lower net losses on sales of fixed maturity securities, partially offset by increased impairments due to the current financial market conditions, although this trend lessened in the latter part of 2009.

     As more fully described in the discussion of performance measures above, operating earnings is the measure of segment profit or loss we use to evaluate performance and allocate resources. Consistent with GAAP accounting guidance for segment reporting, it is our measure of performance, as reported below. Operating earnings is not determined in accordance with GAAP and should not be viewed as a substitute for GAAP income (loss) from continuing operations, net of income tax. We believe that the presentation of operating earnings enhances the understanding of our performance by highlighting the results of operations and the underlying profitability drivers of the business. Operating earnings available to common shareholders decreased by $329 million to $2.4 billion in 2009 from $2.7 billion in 2008.

Year Ended December 31, 2009

										Corporate												Banking
		Insurance				Retirement				Benefit				Auto &								Corporate
		Products				Products				Funding				Home				International				& Other				Total
										(In millions)
Income (loss) from continuing operations, net of income tax		$	(418	)		$	(367	)		$	(841	)		$	321			$	(280	)		$	(733	)		$	(2,318	)
Less: Net investment gains (losses)			(2,258	)			(1,606	)			(2,260	)			(2	)			(903	)			(743	)			(7,772	)
Less: Other adjustments to continuing operations			(139	)			522				123				—				(206	)			(16	)			284
Less: Provision for income tax (expense) benefit			837				380				745				1				366				354				2,683
Operating earnings		$	1,142			$	337			$	551			$	322			$	463				(328	)			2,487
Less: Preferred stock dividends																							122				122
Operating earnings available to common shareholders																						$	(450	)		$	2,365

Year Ended December 31, 2008

										Corporate												Banking
		Insurance				Retirement				Benefit				Auto &								Corporate
		Products				Products				Funding				Home				International				& Other				Total
										(In millions)
Income (loss) from continuing operations, net of income tax		$	2,195			$	382			$	(97	)		$	275			$	553			$	173			$	3,481
Less: Net investment gains (losses)			1,558				901				(1,629	)			(134	)			169				947				1,812
Less: Other adjustments to continuing operations			(193	)			(612	)			74				—				52				17				(662	)
Less: Provision for income tax (expense) benefit			(480	)			(100	)			545				46				(147	)			(352	)			(488	)
Operating earnings		$	1,310			$	193			$	913			$	363			$	479				(439	)			2,819
Less: Preferred stock dividends																							125				125
Operating earnings available to common shareholders																						$	(564	)		$	2,694

Reconciliation of GAAP revenues to operating revenues and GAAP expenses to operating expenses

Year Ended December 31, 2009

										Corporate												Banking
		Insurance				Retirement				Benefit				Auto &								Corporate
		Products				Products				Funding				Home				International				& Other				Total
										(In millions)
Total revenues		$	23,483			$	3,543			$	5,669			$	3,113			$	4,383			$	867			$	41,058
Less: Net investment gains (losses)			(2,258	)			(1,606	)			(2,260	)			(2	)			(903	)			(743	)			(7,772	)
Less: Adjustments related to net investment gains (losses)			(27	)			—				—				—				—				—				(27	)
Less: Other adjustments to revenues			(74	)			(217	)			187				—				(169	)			22				(251	)
Total operating revenues		$	25,842			$	5,366			$	7,742			$	3,115			$	5,455			$	1,588			$	49,108
Total expenses		$	24,165			$	4,108			$	6,982			$	2,697			$	4,868			$	2,571			$	45,391
Less: Adjustments related to net investment gains (losses)			39				(739	)			—				—				—				—				(700	)
Less: Other adjustments to expenses			(1	)			—				64				—				37				38				138
Total operating expenses		$	24,127			$	4,847			$	6,918			$	2,697			$	4,831			$	2,533			$	45,953

Year Ended December 31, 2008

										Corporate												Banking
		Insurance				Retirement				Benefit				Auto &								Corporate
		Products				Products				Funding				Home				International				& Other				Total
										(In millions)
Total revenues		$	26,754			$	5,630			$	7,559			$	3,061			$	6,001			$	1,979			$	50,984
Less: Net investment gains (losses)			1,558				901				(1,629	)			(134	)			169				947				1,812
Less: Adjustments related to net investment gains (losses)			18				—				—				—				—				—				18
Less: Other adjustments to revenues			(1	)			(35	)			45				—				69				13				91
Total operating revenues		$	25,179			$	4,764			$	9,143			$	3,195			$	5,763			$	1,019			$	49,063
Total expenses		$	23,418			$	5,049			$	7,735			$	2,728			$	5,044			$	1,949			$	45,923
Less: Adjustments related to net investment gains (losses)			262				577				—				—				—				—				839
Less: Other adjustments to expenses			(52	)			—				(29	)			—				17				(4	)			(68	)
Total operating expenses		$	23,208			$	4,472			$	7,764			$	2,728			$	5,027			$	1,953			$	45,152

     The volatile market conditions that began in 2008 and continued into 2009 impacted several key components of our operating earnings available to common shareholders including net investment income, hedging costs, and certain market sensitive expenses. The markets also positively impacted our operating earnings available to common shareholders as conditions began to improve during 2009, resulting in lower DAC and DSI amortization.

     A $722 million decline in net investment income was the result of decreasing yields, including the effects of our higher quality, more liquid, but lower yielding investment position in response to the extraordinary market conditions. The impact of declining yields caused a $1.6 billion decrease in net investment income, which was partially offset by an increase of $846 million due to growth in average invested assets calculated excluding unrealized gains and losses. The decrease in yields resulted from the disruption and dislocation in the global financial markets experienced in 2008, which continued, but moderated, in 2009. The adverse yield impact was concentrated in the following four invested asset classes:

	•		Fixed maturity securities — primarily due to lower yields on floating rate securities from declines in short-term interest rates and an increased allocation to lower yielding, higher quality, U.S. Treasury, agency and government guaranteed securities, to increase liquidity in response to the extraordinary market conditions, as well as decreased income on our securities lending program, primarily due to the smaller size of the program in the current year. These adverse impacts were offset slightly as conditions improved late in 2009 and we began to reallocate our portfolio to higher-yielding assets;
	•		Real estate joint ventures — primarily due to declining property valuations on certain investment funds that carry their real estate at estimated fair value and operating losses incurred on properties that were developed for sale by development joint ventures;
	•		Cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments — primarily due to declines in short-term interest rates; and
	•		Mortgage loans — primarily due to lower prepayments on commercial mortgage loans and lower yields on variable rate loans reflecting declines in short-term interest rates.

     Equity markets experienced some recovery in 2009, which led to improved yields on other limited partnership interests. As many of our products are interest spread-based, the lower net investment income was significantly offset by lower interest credited expense on our investment and insurance products.

     The financial market conditions also resulted in a $348 million increase in net guaranteed annuity benefit costs in our Retirement Products segment, as increased hedging losses were only partially offset by lower guaranteed benefit costs.

     The key driver of the increase in other expenses stemmed from the impact of market conditions on certain expenses, primarily pension and postretirement benefit costs, reinsurance expenses and letter of credit fees. These increases coupled with higher variable costs, such as commissions and premium taxes, some of which have been capitalized, more than offset the favorable impact of lower information technology, travel, professional services and advertising expenses, which include the impact of our Operational Excellence initiative.

     The market improvement which began in the second quarter of 2009 was a key factor in the determination of our expected future gross profits, the increase of which triggered a decrease in DAC and DSI amortization, most significantly in the Retirement Products segment. The increase in our expected future gross profits stemmed primarily from an increase in the market value of our separate account balances, which is attributable, in part, to the improving financial markets. Our Insurance Products segment benefited, in the current year, from an increase in amortization of unearned revenue, primarily as a result of our annual review of assumptions that are used in the determination of the amount of amortization recognized. These collective changes in amortization resulted in a $720 million benefit, partially offsetting the declines in operating earnings available to common shareholders discussed above.

     A portion of the decline in operating earnings available to common shareholders was caused by a $200 million reduction in the results of our closed block of business, a specific group of participating life policies that were segregated in connection with the demutualization of MLIC. Until early 2009, the operating earnings of the closed block did not have a full impact on operating earnings as the operating earnings or loss was partially offset by a change in the policyholder dividend obligation, a liability established at the time of demutualization. However, in early 2009 the policyholder dividend obligation was depleted and, as a result, the total operating earnings or loss related to the closed block for the year ended December 31, 2009 was, and in the future may be a component of operating earnings.

     Business growth, from the majority of our businesses, along with net favorable mortality experience, had a positive impact on operating earnings available to common shareholders. These impacts were somewhat dampened by higher benefit utilization in our dental business and mixed claim activity in our Auto & Home segment. In addition, our forward and reverse residential mortgage platform acquisitions in late 2008 benefited Banking, Corporate & Other’s 2009 results.

Insurance Products

		Years Ended December 31,
		2009				2008				Change				% Change
						(In millions)
Operating Revenues
Premiums		$	17,168			$	16,402			$	766				4.7	%
Universal life and investment-type product policy fees			2,281				2,171				110				5.1	%
Net investment income			5,614				5,787				(173	)			(3.0	)%
Other revenues			779				819				(40	)			(4.9	)%
Total operating revenues			25,842				25,179				663				2.6	%
Operating Expenses
Policyholder benefits and claims and policyholder dividends			19,111				18,183				928				5.1	%
Interest credited to policyholder account balances			952				930				22				2.4	%
Capitalization of DAC			(873	)			(849	)			(24	)			(2.8	)%
Amortization of DAC and VOBA			725				743				(18	)			(2.4	)%
Interest expense			6				5				1				20.0	%
Other expenses			4,206				4,196				10				0.2	%
Total operating expenses			24,127				23,208				919				4.0	%
Provision for income tax expense (benefit)			573				661				(88	)			(13.3	)%
Operating earnings		$	1,142			$	1,310			$	(168	)			(12.8	)%

     Unfavorable market conditions, which continued through 2009, provided a challenging business environment for our Insurance Products segment. This resulted in lower net investment income and an increase in market sensitive expenses, primarily pension and postretirement benefit costs. We also experienced higher utilization of dental benefits along with a lower number of recoveries in our disability business. Higher levels of unemployment continued to impact certain group businesses as a decrease in covered payrolls reduced growth. However, revenue growth remained solid in all of our businesses. Revenue growth in our dental and individual life businesses reflected strong sales and renewals.

     The significant components of the $168 million decline in operating earnings were the aforementioned decline in net investment income, especially in the closed block business, partially offset by an increase in the amortization of unearned revenue, the impact of a reduction in dividends to certain policyholders and favorable mortality in the individual life business.

     Until early 2009, the earnings of the closed block did not have a full impact on operating earnings as the earnings or loss was partially offset by a change in the policyholder dividend obligation. However, in early 2009 the policyholder dividend obligation was depleted and, as a result, the total operating earnings or loss related to the closed block for the year ended December 31, 2009 was, and in the future may be, a component of operating earnings. This resulted in a $200 million decline in operating earnings in 2009.

     The decrease in net investment income of $112 million was primarily due to a $317 million decrease from lower yields, partially offset by a $205 million increase from growth in average invested assets. Yields were adversely impacted by the severe downturn in the global financial markets, which primarily impacted other invested assets, real estate joint ventures and fixed maturity securities. In addition, income from our securities lending program decreased primarily due to the smaller size of the program in 2009. The growth in the average invested asset base was primarily from an increase in net flows from our individual life, non-medical health, and group life businesses. The moderate recovery in equity markets in 2009 led to improved yields on other limited partnership interests, which partially offset the overall reduction in yields. To manage the needs of our intermediate to longer-term liabilities, our portfolio consists

primarily of investment grade corporate fixed maturity securities, structured finance securities (comprised of mortgage and asset-backed securities), mortgage loans, and U.S. Treasury, agency and government guaranteed fixed maturity securities and, to a lesser extent, certain other invested asset classes including real estate joint ventures and other invested assets to provide additional diversification and opportunity for long-term yield enhancement.

     Other expenses were essentially flat despite an increase of $137 million from the impact of market conditions on certain expenses, primarily pension and postretirement benefit costs. This increase was partially offset by a decrease of $85 million, predominantly from declines in information technology, travel, and professional services, including the positive impact of our Operational Excellence initiative. A further reduction of expenses was achieved through a decrease in variable expenses, such as commissions and premium taxes of $46 million, a portion of which is offset by DAC capitalization.

     The aforementioned declines in operating earnings were partially offset by the favorable impact of a $63 million decrease in policyholder dividends in the traditional life business, the result of a dividend scale reduction in the fourth quarter of 2009. In addition, favorable mortality in the individual life business was partially offset by higher benefit utilization in the dental business during 2009, reflecting the negative employment trends in the marketplace. The net impact of these two items benefited operating earnings by $36 million. The 2009 results were also favorably impacted by our review of assumptions used to determine estimated gross profits and margins, which in turn are factors in determining the amortization for DAC and unearned revenue. This review resulted in an unlocking event related to unearned revenue and, coupled with the impact from the prior year’s review, generated an increase in operating earnings of $82 million. This increase was recorded in universal life and investment-type product policy fees. Partially offsetting these increases was the impact of lower separate account balances, which resulted in lower fee income of $25 million.

     DAC amortization reflects lower current year amortization of $108 million, stemming from the impact of the improvement in the financial markets in 2009, which increased our expected future gross profits, as well as lower current year gross margins in the closed block. This decrease was partially offset by the net impact of refinements in both the prior and current years of $98 million, the majority of which was recorded in the prior year as a result of the 2008 review of certain DAC related assumptions.

Retirement Products

		Years Ended December 31,
		2009				2008				Change				% Change
						(In millions)
Operating Revenues
Premiums		$	623			$	361			$	262				72.6	%
Universal life and investment-type product policy fees			1,712				1,870				(158	)			(8.4	)%
Net investment income			2,859				2,365				494				20.9	%
Other revenues			172				168				4				2.4	%
Total operating revenues			5,366				4,764				602				12.6	%
Operating Expenses
Policyholder benefits and claims and policyholder dividends			1,398				692				706				102.0	%
Interest credited to policyholder account balances			1,687				1,337				350				26.2	%
Capitalization of DAC			(1,067	)			(980	)			(87	)			(8.9	)%
Amortization of DAC and VOBA			424				1,356				(932	)			(68.7	)%
Interest expense			—				2				(2	)			(100.0	)%
Other expenses			2,405				2,065				340				16.5	%
Total operating expenses			4,847				4,472				375				8.4	%
Provision for income tax expense (benefit)			182				99				83				83.8	%
Operating earnings		$	337			$	193			$	144				74.6	%

     In 2009, Retirement Products benefited from a flight to quality, which contributed to a 10% improvement in combined sales of our fixed and variable products and a 28% reduction in surrenders and withdrawals. Our variable annuity sales have out paced the industry, increasing our market share. Fixed annuity sales benefited from enhanced marketing on our income annuity with life contingency products, which increased our premium revenues by $262 million, or 73%, before income taxes. In the annuity business, the movement in premiums is almost entirely offset by the related change in policyholder benefits, as the insurance liability that we establish at the time we assume the risk under these contracts is typically equivalent to the premium earned less the amount of acquisition expenses. Our average policyholder account balances grew by $7.2 billion in 2009, primarily due to an increase in sales of fixed annuity products and more customers electing the fixed option on variable annuity sales. This has a favorable impact on earnings by increasing net investment income, which is somewhat offset by higher interest credited expense. Unfavorable market conditions resulted in poor investment performance, which outweighed the impact of higher variable annuity sales on our separate account balances causing the average separate account balance to remain lower than the previous year. This resulted in lower policy fees and other revenues which are based on daily asset balances in the policyholder separate accounts.

     The improvement in the financial markets was the primary driver of the $144 million increase in operating earnings, with the largest impact resulting in a decrease in DAC, VOBA and DSI amortization of $655 million. The 2008 results reflected increased, or accelerated, amortization primarily stemming from a decline in the market value of our separate account balances. A factor that determines the amount of amortization is expected future earnings, which in the annuity business are derived, in part, from fees earned on separate account balances. The market value of our separate account balances declined significantly in 2008, resulting in a decrease in the expected future gross profits, triggering an acceleration of amortization in 2008. Beginning in the second quarter of 2009, the market conditions began to improve and the market value of our separate account balances began to increase, resulting in an increase in the expected future gross profits and a corresponding lower level of amortization in 2009.

     Also contributing to the increase in operating earnings was an increase in net investment income of $321 million, which was primarily due to a $343 million increase from growth in average invested assets, partially offset by a $22 million decrease in yields. The increase in average invested assets was due to increased cash flows from the sales of fixed annuity products and more customers electing the fixed option on variable annuity sales, which were reinvested primarily in fixed maturity securities, other invested assets and mortgage loans. Yields were adversely impacted by the severe downturn in the global financial markets which primarily impacted real estate joint ventures, fixed maturity securities and cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments. The moderate improvement in the equity markets in 2009 led to an increase in yields on other limited partnership interests and certain other invested assets, which partially offset the overall reduction in yields. To manage the needs of our intermediate to longer-term liabilities, our portfolio consists primarily of investment grade corporate fixed maturity securities, structured finance securities, mortgage loans and U.S. Treasury, agency and government guaranteed fixed maturity securities and, to a lesser extent, certain other invested asset classes, including real estate joint ventures in order to provide additional diversification and opportunity for long-term yield enhancement. As is typically the case with fixed annuity products, higher net investment income was somewhat offset by higher interest credited expense. Growth in our fixed annuity policyholder account balances increased interest credited expense by $177 million in 2009 and higher average crediting rates on fixed annuities increased interest credited expense by $37 million.

     Operating earnings were negatively impacted by $348 million of operating losses related to the hedging programs for variable annuity minimum death and income benefit guarantees, which are not embedded derivatives, partially offset by a decrease in the liability established for these variable annuity guarantees. The various hedging strategies in place to offset the risk associated with these variable annuity guarantee benefits were more sensitive to market movements than the liability for the guaranteed benefit. Market volatility, improvements in the equity markets, and higher interest rates produced operating losses on these hedging strategies in the current year. Our hedging strategies, which are a key part of our risk management, performed as anticipated. The decrease in annuity guarantee benefit liabilities was due to the improvement in the equity markets, higher interest rates and the annual unlocking of future market expectations.

     Other expenses increased by $221 million primarily due to an increase of $122 million from the impact of market conditions on certain expenses. These expenses are largely comprised of reinsurance costs, pension and postretirement benefit expenses, and letter of credit fees. In addition, variable expenses, such as commissions and premium taxes, increased $76 million, the majority of which have been offset by DAC capitalization. The positive impact of our Operational Excellence initiative was reflected in lower information technology, travel, professional services and advertising expenses, but was more than offset by increases largely due to business growth.

     Finally, policy fees and other revenues decreased by $100 million, mainly due to lower average separate account balances in the current year versus prior year.

Corporate Benefit Funding

		Years Ended December 31,
		2009				2008				Change				% Change
						(In millions)
Operating Revenues
Premiums		$	2,561			$	2,683			$	(122	)			(4.5	)%
Universal life and investment-type product policy fees			176				227				(51	)			(22.5	)%
Net investment income			4,766				5,874				(1,108	)			(18.9	)%
Other revenues			239				359				(120	)			(33.4	)%
Total operating revenues			7,742				9,143				(1,401	)			(15.3	)%
Operating Expenses
Policyholder benefits and claims and policyholder dividends			4,797				4,977				(180	)			(3.6	)%
Interest credited to policyholder account balances			1,633				2,298				(665	)			(28.9	)%
Capitalization of DAC			(14	)			(18	)			4				22.2	%
Amortization of DAC and VOBA			15				29				(14	)			(48.3	)%
Interest expense			3				2				1				50.0	%
Other expenses			484				476				8				1.7	%
Total operating expenses			6,918				7,764				(846	)			(10.9	)%
Provision for income tax expense (benefit)			273				466				(193	)			(41.4	)%
Operating earnings		$	551			$	913			$	(362	)			(39.6	)%

     Corporate Benefit Funding benefited in certain markets in 2009 as a flight to quality helped drive our increase in market share, especially in the structured settlement business, where we experienced a 53% increase in premiums. Our pension closeout business in the United Kingdom continues to expand and experienced premium growth during 2009 of almost $400 million, or 105% before income taxes. However, this growth was more than offset by a decline in our domestic pension closeout business driven by unfavorable market conditions and regulatory changes. A combination of poor equity returns and lower interest rates have contributed to pension plans being under funded, which reduces our customers’ flexibility to engage in transactions such as pension closeouts. Our customers’ plans funded status may be affected by a variety of factors, including the ongoing phased implementation of the Pensions Protection Act of 2006. For each of these businesses, the movement in premiums is almost entirely offset by the related change in policyholder benefits. The insurance liability that is established at the time we assume the risk under these contracts is typically equivalent to the premium earned.

     Market conditions also contributed to a lower demand for several of our investment-type products. The decrease in sales of these investment-type products is not necessarily evident in our results of operations as the transactions related to these products are recorded through the balance sheet. Our funding agreement products, primarily the London Inter-Bank Offer Rate (“LIBOR”) based contracts, experienced the most significant impact from the volatile market conditions. As companies seek greater liquidity, investment managers are refraining from repurchasing the contracts when they mature and are opting for more liquid investments. In addition, unfavorable market conditions continued to impact the demand for global guaranteed interest contracts, a type of funding agreement.

     Policyholder account balances for our investment-type products were down by approximately $10 billion during 2009, as issuances were more than offset by scheduled maturities. However, due to the timing of issuances and maturities, the average policyholder account balances and liabilities increased from 2008 to 2009. The impact of the decrease in policyholder account balances resulted in lower net investment income, which was somewhat offset by lower interest credited expense.

     The primary driver of the $362 million decrease in operating earnings was lower net investment income of $720 million reflecting a $732 million decrease from lower yields and a $12 million increase due to growth in average invested assets. Yields were adversely impacted by the severe downturn in the global financial markets which impacted real estate joint ventures, fixed maturity securities, other invested assets and mortgage loans. In addition, income from our securities lending program decreased, primarily due to the smaller size of the program during the year. To manage the needs of our longer-term liabilities, our portfolio consists primarily of investment grade corporate fixed maturity securities, mortgage loans, U.S. Treasury, agency and government guaranteed securities and, to a lesser extent, certain other invested asset classes including real estate joint ventures in order to provide additional diversification and opportunity for long-term yield enhancement. For our shorter-term obligations, we invest primarily in structured finance securities, mortgage loans and investment grade corporate fixed maturity securities. The yields on these investments have moved consistent with the underlying market indices, primarily LIBOR and Treasury, on which they are based. The growth in the average invested asset base is consistent with the increase in the average policyholder account balances and liabilities.

     As many of our products are interest spread-based, the lower net investment income was somewhat offset by lower net interest credited expense of $382 million. The decrease in interest credited expense is attributed to $438 million from lower crediting rates. Crediting rates have moved consistent with the underlying market indices, primarily LIBOR, on which they are based. The increase in the average policyholder account balances resulted in a $56 million increase in interest credited expense.

     The year over year decline in operating earnings was also due in part to lower other revenues as the prior year benefited by $44 million in fees for the cancellation of a bank owned life insurance stable value wrap policy combined with the surrender of a global guaranteed interest contract. In addition, a refinement to a reinsurance recoverable in the small business record keeping line of business in the latter part of 2009 also contributed $20 million to the decrease in operating earnings.

     Current year results benefited from favorable liability refinements as compared to unfavorable liability refinements in 2008, as well as improved mortality experience in the current year, all in the pension closeouts business. These items improved 2009 operating earnings by approximately $90 million. Other products generated mortality gains or losses; however, the net change did not have a material impact on our year over year results.

     Although our other expenses only increased marginally and are not a significant driver of the decrease in operating earnings, the general themes associated with the increase are consistent with those factors discussed above in the discussion of our consolidated results of operations. Market conditions triggered an increase in our pension and postretirement benefit expenses of $27 million. In addition, variable expenses, such as commissions and premium taxes, have increased $8 million. These increases were partially offset by a decrease of $30 million, primarily in information technology, travel and professional services expenses, all of which were largely due to our Operational Excellence initiative.

Auto & Home

		Years Ended December 31,
		2009				2008				Change				% Change
						(In millions)
Operating Revenues
Premiums		$	2,902			$	2,971			$	(69	)			(2.3	)%
Net investment income			180				186				(6	)			(3.2	)%
Other revenues			33				38				(5	)			(13.2	)%
Total operating revenues			3,115				3,195				(80	)			(2.5	)%
Operating Expenses
Policyholder benefits and claims and policyholder dividends			1,932				1,924				8				0.4	%
Capitalization of DAC			(435	)			(444	)			9				2.0	%
Amortization of DAC and VOBA			436				454				(18	)			(4.0	)%
Other expenses			764				794				(30	)			(3.8	)%
Total operating expenses			2,697				2,728				(31	)			(1.1	)%
Provision for income tax expense (benefit)			96				104				(8	)			(7.7	)%
Operating earnings		$	322			$	363			$	(41	)			(11.3	)%

     Auto & Home was negatively impacted in 2009 by a declining housing market, the deterioration of the new auto sales market and the continuation of credit availability issues, all of which contributed to a decrease in insured exposures in 2009. Average premiums per policy increased slightly for our homeowners’ policies but decreased for auto policies, primarily as a result of a business shift in insured exposures by state. In particular, we experienced a large decrease in earned exposures in Massachusetts, whose market was impacted by a regulatory change, which resulted in a marked increase in competition.

     A return to more normal weather conditions in 2009 resulted in fewer, and less severe, catastrophe events than in 2008. This was more than offset by an increase in both non-catastrophe claim frequencies and non-catastrophe claim severities in 2009.

     Mixed claim experience and the impact of lower exposures were the primary drivers of the $41 million decrease in operating earnings. While we had a $90 million decrease in catastrophe related losses compared to the prior year, we also recorded $68 million less of a benefit in 2009 from favorable development of prior year non-catastrophe losses. Current year claim costs rose primarily as a result of a $29 million increase in claim frequency from both our auto and homeowners products. In addition, we had a $15 million net increase in claim severity, stemming from higher severity in our auto line of business that was partially offset by lower severity in our homeowners line of business. In 2009, we experienced a decline in insured exposures, which contributed approximately $16 million to the decrease in operating earnings. While this decrease in exposures had a positive impact on the amount of claims, it was more than offset by the negative impact on premiums. The decrease in exposures is largely attributable to slightly higher non-renewal rates, partially offset by greater sales of new policies. Also contributing to the decline in earnings was a decrease of $9 million in the average premium per policy, which is primarily due to a shift in earned exposures to lower average premium states and an increase of $10 million in loss adjustment expenses, primarily related to a decrease in unallocated loss adjusting expense liabilities at the end of 2008.

     The impact of the items discussed above can be seen in the unfavorable change in the combined ratio, excluding catastrophes, to 88.9% in 2009 from 83.1% in 2008 and the unfavorable change in the combined ratio, including catastrophes, to 92.3% in 2009 from 91.2% in 2008.

     A $25 million decrease in other expenses, including the net change in DAC, partially offset the declines in operating earnings discussed above. This improvement resulted from decreases in sales related expenses and from minor fluctuations in a number of expense categories, a portion of which is due to our Operational Excellence initiative.

     Also contributing to the decrease in operating earnings was a decline in net investment income of $4 million which was primarily due to a $9 million decrease from a decline in average invested assets, partially offset by an increase of $5 million due to improved yields.

International

		Years Ended December 31,
		2009				2008				Change				% Change
						(In millions)
Operating Revenues
Premiums		$	3,187			$	3,470			$	(283	)			(8.2	)%
Universal life and investment-type product policy fees			1,061				1,095				(34	)			(3.1	)%
Net investment income			1,193				1,180				13				1.1	%
Other revenues			14				18				(4	)			(22.2	)%
Total operating revenues			5,455				5,763				(308	)			(5.3	)%
Operating Expenses
Policyholder benefits and claims and policyholder dividends			2,660				3,185				(525	)			(16.5	)%
Interest credited to policyholder account balances			581				171				410				239.8	%
Capitalization of DAC			(630	)			(798	)			168				21.1	%
Amortization of DAC and VOBA			415				381				34				8.9	%
Interest expense			8				9				(1	)			(11.1	)%
Other expenses			1,797				2,079				(282	)			(13.6	)%
Total operating expenses			4,831				5,027				(196	)			(3.9	)%
Provision for income tax expense (benefit)			161				257				(96	)			(37.4	)%
Operating earnings		$	463			$	479			$	(16	)			(3.3	)%

     An improvement in the global financial markets has contributed to a recovery of sales in the majority of our International regions and has resulted in improved investment performance in some regions during the second half of 2009. Sales in our Asia Pacific region are down primarily from a decrease in variable annuity sales in Japan, primarily as a result of pricing actions we took during the latter half of 2009. This decline was somewhat offset by growth in South Korea’s fixed annuities product and an increase of variable universal life sales, which are indications that markets are beginning to recover. We experienced growth in the pension, group life, and medical businesses of our Latin America region, specifically in Mexico. Our EMEI region continues to have strong growth in the European variable annuity business. As we continue to focus on our business in India, we have made significant investments in our distribution capabilities.

     The reduction in operating earnings includes the adverse impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates in 2009 as the U.S. Dollar strengthened against the various foreign currencies. This decreased operating earnings by $99 million in 2009 relative to 2008. Excluding the impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates, operating earnings increased $83 million, or 22%, from the prior year. This increase was primarily driven by higher operating earnings of $184 million in our Asia Pacific region, while operating earnings from our Latin America and EMEI regions decreased by $83 million and $18 million, respectively.

     Asia Pacific Region. Improving financial market conditions was the primary driver of the increase in operating earnings. Net investment income in the region increased by $422 million due to an increase of $278 million from improved yields on our investment portfolio, $111 million from the change in results of operating joint ventures, and $33 million from an increase in average invested assets. The increase in yields was primarily due to higher income of $277 million on the trading securities portfolio, stemming from equity markets experiencing some recovery in 2009. As our trading securities portfolio backs unit-linked policyholder liabilities, this increase in income was entirely offset by a corresponding increase in interest credited expense. The income of the Japan joint venture improved by $103 million due to favorable investment results and lower amortization of DAC and VOBA. The decrease in DAC and VOBA amortization was primarily due to an increase in the market value of the joint venture’s separate account balances, which is directly tied to the improving financial markets. A factor that determines the amount of DAC and VOBA amortization is expected future fees earned on separate account balances. Since the market value of separate account balances have increased, it is expected that future earnings on this block of business will be higher than previously anticipated. As a result, the amortization of DAC and VOBA was less in the current year.

     Operating earnings in this region also benefited from higher surrender charges of $16 million. Difficult economic conditions in Korea during the first half of the year resulted in a higher level of surrenders. Growth in our Japan reinsurance business and an increase in reinsurance rates contributed $21 million to the increase in operating earnings. In addition, the favorable impact of a reduction in the liability for our variable annuity guarantees contributed $22 million to operating earnings. The change in the liability was primarily due to an increase in separate account balances in the Japan joint venture. These liabilities are accrued over the life of the contract in proportion to actual and future expected policy assessments based on the level of guaranteed minimum benefits generated using multiple scenarios of separate account returns. The scenarios use best estimate assumptions consistent with those used to amortize DAC. Because separate account balances have had positive returns relative to the prior year, current estimates of future benefits are lower than that previously projected which resulted in a decrease in this liability in the current period. Partially offsetting these increases, higher DAC amortization of $49 million resulted from business growth and favorable investment results.

     Latin America Region. The decrease in operating earnings was primarily driven by lower net investment income. Net investment income decreased by $297 million due to a decrease of $383 million from lower yields, partially offset by an increase of $86 million due to an increase in average invested assets. The decrease in yields was due, in part, to the impact of changes in assumptions for measuring the effects of inflation on certain inflation-indexed fixed maturity securities. This decrease was partially offset by a reduction of $221 million in the related insurance liability primarily due to lower inflation. The increase in net investment income attributable to an increase in average invested assets was primarily due to business growth and, as such, was largely offset by increases in policyholder benefits and interest credited expense.

     Higher claim experience in Mexico resulted in a $45 million decline in operating earnings. The nationalization and reform of the pension business in Argentina impacted both the current year and prior year earnings, resulting in a net $36 million decline in operating earnings. In addition, operating earnings decreased due to a net income tax increase of $8 million in Mexico, resulting from a change in assumption regarding the repatriation of earnings, partially offset by the favorable impact of a lower effective tax rate in 2009.

     Partially offsetting these decreases in operating earnings was the combination of growth in Mexico’s individual and institutional businesses and higher premium rates in its institutional business, which increased operating earnings by $51 million. Pesification in Argentina impacted both the current year and prior year earnings, resulting in a net $73 million increase in operating earnings. This benefit was largely due to a reassessment of our approach in managing existing and potential future claims related to certain social security pension annuity contract holders in Argentina resulting in a liability release. Lower expenses of $8 million resulted primarily from the impact of operational efficiencies achieved through our Operational Excellence initiative.

     EMEI Region. The impact of foreign currency transaction gains and a tax benefit, both of which occurred in the prior year, contributed $12 million to the decline in operating earnings. Our investment of $9 million in our distribution capability and growth initiatives in 2009 also reduced operating earnings. There was an increase in net investment income of $76 million, which was due to an increase of $65 million from an improvement in yields and $11 million from an increase in average invested assets. The increase in yields was primarily due to favorable results on the trading securities portfolio, stemming from the equity markets experiencing some recovery in 2009. As our trading portfolio backs unit-linked policyholder liabilities, the trading portfolio results were entirely offset by a corresponding increase in interest credited expense. The increase in net investment income attributable to an increase in average invested assets was primarily due to business growth and was largely offset by increases in policyholder benefits and interest credited expense, also due to business growth.

Banking, Corporate & Other

		Years Ended December 31,
		2009				2008				Change				% Change
						(In millions)
Operating Revenues
Premiums		$	19			$	27			$	(8	)			(29.6	)%
Net investment income			477				808				(331	)			(41.0	)%
Other revenues			1,092				184				908				493.5	%
Total operating revenues			1,588				1,019				569				55.8	%
Operating Expenses
Policyholder benefits and claims and policyholder dividends			4				46				(42	)			(91.3	)%
Interest credited to policyholder account balances			—				7				(7	)			(100.0	)%
Interest credited to bank deposits			163				166				(3	)			(1.8	)%
Capitalization of DAC			—				(3	)			3				(100.0	)%
Amortization of DAC and VOBA			3				5				(2	)			(40.0	)%
Interest expense			1,027				1,033				(6	)			(0.6	)%
Other expenses			1,336				699				637				91.1	%
Total operating expenses			2,533				1,953				580				29.7	%
Provision for income tax expense (benefit)			(617	)			(495	)			(122	)			(24.6	)%
Operating earnings			(328	)			(439	)			111				25.3	%
Preferred stock dividends			122				125				(3	)			(2.4	)%
Operating earnings available to common shareholders		$	(450	)		$	(564	)		$	114				20.2	%

     Banking, Corporate & Other recognized the full year impact of our forward and reverse residential mortgage platform acquisitions, a strong residential mortgage refinance market, healthy growth in the reverse mortgage arena, and a favorable interest spread environment. Our forward and reverse residential mortgage production of $37.4 billion in 2009 is up 484% compared to 2008 production. The increase in mortgage production drove higher investments in residential mortgage loans held-for-sale and mortgage servicing rights. At December 31, 2009, our residential mortgage loans servicing portfolio was $64.1 billion comprised of agency (FNMA, FHLMC, and GNMA) portfolios. Transaction and time deposits, which provide a relatively stable source of funding and liquidity and are used to fund loans and fixed income securities purchases, grew 48% in 2009 to $10.2 billion. Borrowings decreased 10% in 2009 to $2.4 billion. During 2009, we participated in the Federal Reserve Bank of New York Term Auction Facility, which provided short term liquidity with low funding costs.

     In response to the economic crisis and unusual financial market events that occurred in 2008 and continued into 2009, we decided to utilize excess debt capacity. The Holding Company completed three debt issuances in 2009. The Holding Company issued $397 million of floating rate senior notes in March 2009, $1.3 billion of senior notes in May 2009, and $500 million of junior subordinated debt securities in July 2009. In February 2009, in connection with the initial settlement of the stock purchase contracts issued as part of the common equity units sold in June 2005, the Holding Company issued common stock for $1.0 billion. The proceeds from these equity and debt issuances were used for general corporate purposes and have resulted in increased investments and cash and cash equivalents held within Banking, Corporate & Other.

     Operating earnings available to common shareholders improved by $114 million, of which $254 million was due to MetLife Bank and its acquisitions of a residential mortgage origination and servicing business and a reverse mortgage business, both during 2008. Excluding the impact of MetLife Bank, our operating earnings available to common shareholders decreased $140 million, primarily due to lower net investment income, partially offset by the impact of a lower effective tax rate. The lower effective tax rate provided an increased benefit of $139 million from the prior year. This benefit was the result of a partial settlement of certain prior year tax audit issues and increased utilization of tax preferenced investments, which provide tax credits and deductions.

     Excluding a $68 million increase from MetLife Bank, net investment income decreased $283 million, which was primarily due a decrease of $287 million due to lower yields, partially offset by an increase of $4 million due to an increase in average invested assets. Consistent with the consolidated results of operations discussion above, yields were adversely impacted by the severe downturn in the global financial markets, which primarily impacted fixed maturity securities and real estate joint ventures. The increased average invested asset base was due to cash flows from debt issuances during 2009. Our investments primarily include structured finance securities, investment grade corporate fixed maturity securities, U.S. Treasury, agency and government guaranteed fixed maturity securities and mortgage loans. In addition, our investment portfolio includes the excess capital not allocated to the segments. Accordingly, it includes a higher allocation to certain other invested asset classes to provide additional diversification and opportunity for long-term yield enhancement including leveraged leases, other limited partnership interests, real estate, real estate joint ventures and equity securities.

     After excluding the impact of a $394 million increase from MetLife Bank, other expenses increased by $20 million. Deferred compensation costs, which are tied to equity market performance, were higher due to a significant market rebound. We also had an increase in costs associated with the implementation of our Operational Excellence initiative. These increases were partially offset by lower postemployment related costs and corporate-related expenses, specifically legal costs. Legal costs were lower largely due to the prior year commutation of asbestos policies. In addition, interest expense declined slightly as a result of rate reductions on variable rate collateral financing arrangements offset by debt issuances in 2009 and 2008.

Consolidated Results of Operations

Year Ended December 31, 2008 compared with the Year Ended December 31, 2007

		Years Ended December 31,
		2008				2007				Change				% Change
						(In millions)
Revenues
Premiums		$	25,914			$	22,970			$	2,944				12.8	%
Universal life and investment-type product policy fees			5,381				5,238				143				2.7	%
Net investment income			16,291				18,057				(1,766	)			(9.8	)%
Other revenues			1,586				1,465				121				8.3	%
Net investment gains (losses)			1,812				(578	)			2,390				413.5	%
Total revenues			50,984				47,152				3,832				8.1	%
Expenses
Policyholder benefits and claims and policyholder dividends			29,188				25,506				3,682				14.4	%
Interest credited to policyholder account balances			4,788				5,461				(673	)			(12.3	)%
Interest credited to bank deposits			166				200				(34	)			(17.0	)%
Capitalization of DAC			(3,092	)			(3,064	)			(28	)			(0.9	)%
Amortization of DAC and VOBA			3,489				2,250				1,239				55.1	%
Interest expense			1,051				897				154				17.2	%
Other expenses			10,333				10,122				211				2.1	%
Total expenses			45,923				41,372				4,551				11.0	%
Income before provision for income tax			5,061				5,780				(719	)			(12.4	)%
Provision for income tax expense (benefit)			1,580				1,675				(95	)			(5.7	)%
Income (loss) from continuing operations, net of income tax			3,481				4,105				(624	)			(15.2	)%
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income tax			(203	)			360				(563	)			(156.4	)%
Net income (loss)			3,278				4,465				(1,187	)			(26.6	)%
Less: Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests			69				148				(79	)			(53.4	)%
Net income (loss) attributable to MetLife, Inc.			3,209				4,317				(1,108	)			(25.7	)%
Less: Preferred stock dividends			125				137				(12	)			(8.8	)%
Net income (loss) available to MetLife, Inc.’s common shareholders		$	3,084			$	4,180			$	(1,096	)			(26.2	)%