Business
SSNIT’s US$206 million is locked up in four joint ventures – 2021 AG’s report
The Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) has invested US$206 million in four Joint Venture projects, according to the Auditor-2021 General’s report.
Section 7 of the Public Financial Management Act of 2016 (Act 921) specifies that a covered entity’s Principal Spending Officer must guarantee the regularity and proper use of money allotted to that covered entity.
Furthermore, Section 2 (2.64) of SSNIT’s Investment Policy and Guidelines (IPG) 2019 mandates that assets be managed in respect to predicted cash flows (i.e., liquidity), portfolio quality, and avoidance of excessive exposure to a particular sector/companies.
“We reviewed the investment reports on Unlisted Companies 2021 and noted that the Trust has over US$206 million of its investible funds locked up in 4 joint ventures projects. Our reviews showed that, between 2008 and 2014, SSNIT and four other companies entered into a joint venture agreement to undertake projects in the real estate sector”, the A-G’s report said.
The projects included: RSS, Switchback, Trust F-Line and West Hills Ridge project. The Switchback Ltd project started in 2008, RSS started in 2009 while the Trust F-Line and West Hills Ridge commenced in 2014.
All the four projects were estimated to cost US$240 million.
“Our review of projects files and inspection of 3 of the projects disclosed that, they were at various stages of completion. We noted during our inspection that, phase 1 of RSS projects had completed whilst phases 2, 3 and 4 were halted. Our review of unlisted equities reports also showed that, SSNIT has so far spent US$ 206 million on RSS, F-Line and West Hill projects”, the report noted.
It said the amount of money spent on Switchback project and updated expenditure on RSS, FLine and West Hill Ridge were not provided by Trust to the team despite all efforts.
The report noted that the schedule officer-in-charge of Unlisted Equity disclosed to the audit team that, the projects have stalled due to lack of funds to complete them. He indicated that, starting the projects concurrently in 2008 and 2014 created financial challenges to the Trust.
The KPMG Value for Money Audit (VFM) conducted in 2018 also attributed the delay in completing RSS project for instance, to financial challenges.
The schedule officer-in-charge of Unlisted Equities further indicated that the projects started at a time when the real estate market showed signs of growth with high demand from prospective buyers, however, the unexpected economic crisis resulted in a decline in demand for real estate properties.
The audit team is of the view that, the management did not take due care and the Board did not exercise effective control over the Trust’s funds especially when the investment in the RSS and Trust F-Line have not been completed or yielded returns within 5 to 6 years, but the Trust still went ahead with similar investment with Switchback and West Hill Ridge Ltd in 2014.
The four projects, of which two started concurrently, have either been stalled or are in serious need of funds to continue.
“The JVCs are struggling to sell the completed apartments. Pension funds have been locked up in these projects, thereby aggravating the liquidity challenges of the Trust. It is uncertain when the funds already invested in these projects would be recouped to ensure sustainability of the Trust”, the report said.
It said: “Although the Board’s control over investment has improved lately, we recommended that the Trust takes steps to reduce its exposure on these projects. We also recommended that the Trust should avoid investing in multiplicity projects. We further urged the management to update the audit team with the various cost associated with the 4 projects, especially, Switch Back and West Hill projects”.
SSNIT’s response
Management in their response stated that “As a general solution common to all four investments, SSNIT Management has put in place a new Investment Policy and Guidelines document to guide the Trust on such transactions in future that includes that, SSNIT shall not enter into any joint venture agreement where a partner in the JV will be the contractor for the project the JV is to undertake.
RSS Developers
The real estate industry has been going through difficult times for the past four years and more. This is partly due to the oversupply of medium-to-high end properties, and economic downturns in the country and other parts of the world. Processes are almost complete for SSNIT to take over some of the assets of RSS to defray part of the loan owed SSNIT.
The strategy following the swap is to sell the apartments at current market rates which are much lower than the selling prices at the inception of the project. The Trust will also look to rent some of the properties in order to generate income and also to create greater visibility for the development in the market. The land that will be swapped will also be sold to attract more buyers to the development.
Trust F-Line Limited
Progress was limited from 2016 to 2019 due to the inability of the other partner, DVM Group, to secure its debt component for the completion of the project. SSNIT has provided additional finance by buying some of the units at a significant discount to help the company complete the project. It is expected that once the project is completed, the units would be quickly sold, due to the project’s location, quality, and competitive sale price of the apartments. Marketing and sale of the apartments are currently ongoing.
Switchback Developers Limited
Financing has become a challenge for this project as the first phase, Adinkra Heights is yet to be completed. SSNIT has purchased some of the land owned by the company and also, purchased some of the apartments at a significant discount to enable the company to have enough funds to complete the first phase. Marketing and sale of the apartments are ongoing. West Hills Ridge Company Ltd.
The SSNIT Management/Board conducted a value for money audit on the company. The audit led to the company saving US$30 million on the construction cost. SSNIT further stopped the continuation of the Phase 2 except for six blocks that construction was advanced and the Sports Centre, which is a very necessary complimentary facility. The project is steadily going on with sales ongoing for the completed units.”
Business
Otto Insurance: Home and Property Protection
Otto Insurance is a US-based insurance firm that provides a wide range of insurance services. Otto Insurance, with an emphasis on home and property protection, has been a popular solution for consumers seeking security and peace of mind in the case of property loss or damage. In this post, we will go over the services and benefits of Otto insurance, as well as how it may help you safeguard your house and belongings.
What is Otto Insurance?
Otto Insurance is a firm that provides a variety of insurance products such as homeowners, renters, business owners, and vehicle insurance. The organisation is committed to providing its clients with reasonable and dependable insurance solutions that safeguard them against loss and harm in all aspects of their lives.
Services Offered by Otto Insurance
- Homeowners Insurance: One of Otto’s most noteworthy products is homeowners insurance. Coverage for your home’s structure as well as your personal items in the event of damage or loss caused by covered catastrophes including as fire, theft, flood, and more.
- Renters Insurance: If you rent a house, Otto’s renters insurance can safeguard your personal possessions while also providing legal responsibility in the event of damage to the owner’s property.
- Otto Insurance provides auto insurance to secure your vehicle and give coverage in the case of an accident, theft, or third-party damage.
- Business Insurance: Otto provides business insurance for a number of risks, including liability, commercial property, and workers’ compensation.
Benefits of Choosing Otto Insurance
- Coverage choices: Otto Insurance provides a comprehensive range of coverage choices that may be adapted to your unique requirements. You may select the level of protection that best matches your needs.
- Personalised Attention: The organisation takes pleasure in offering excellent customer service. Their agents are accessible to answer your inquiries and explain your insurance products.
- Affordable Quotes: Otto Insurance strives to provide affordable prices that meet your budget without sacrificing coverage quality.
- Payment Flexibility: They provide various payment choices, allowing you to select the payment method that is most convenient for you.
How to Get Insurance with Otto
If you want to purchase insurance with Otto Insurance, you may start by visiting their official website or calling a local agent. The following are some general procedures to get an insurance coverage with Otto:
- Consider your requirements: Determine the type of insurance you require and the amount of coverage you require.
- Request a price online or contact an Otto representative for a personalised estimate.
- Personalise your policy: Work with an agent to tailor your coverage to your exact requirements.
- Accept the insurance: Once you’re pleased with the quotation and coverage, accept the policy and pay the applicable fee.
Maintain the following policies: Review your policy on a regular basis to verify that it is still relevant to your changing needs.
Conclusion
Otto Insurance is a reliable option for consumers wishing to safeguard their homes, automobiles, and companies. Otto Insurance has been a popular choice in the United States insurance industry due to its extensive selection of insurance products and commitment to client satisfaction. When it comes to insurance, don’t be afraid to look into what Otto Insurance has to offer and take steps to safeguard your possessions and your peace of mind.
Business
Paisano Insurance: A Comprehensive Guide
Paisano Insurance is a well-known insurance company in the United States that offers a wide range of insurance products and services to individuals and businesses. Paisano Insurance has a reputation in the insurance industry for providing tailored insurance solutions. In this lengthy piece, we will delve into the different services and features offered by Paisano Insurance, supporting you in understanding how it can protect your assets and provide financial security.
What is Paisano Insurance?
Paisano Insurance is an independent insurance agency that assists clients in obtaining the finest insurance coverage for their specific needs. As an independent agency, Paisano works with a variety of insurance providers to provide consumers with a variety of insurance options. Clients may compare coverage, price, and plans to find the best fit for their unique needs.
Services Offered by Paisano Insurance
- Paisano Insurance offers auto insurance for vehicles such as cars, trucks, motorcycles, and recreational vehicles. Their coverage covers, among other things, liability insurance, collision insurance, and comprehensive insurance. Clients may tailor their insurance to meet their specific needs and budget.
- Homeowners Insurance: Protecting your home is vital, and Paisano Insurance offers homeowners insurance policies that safeguard your property, and personal belongings, and provide liability coverage. They can help you locate the right coverage whether you own or rent a house.
- Renters insurance is required if you are renting a home or flat to protect your personal items and provide liability coverage. Paisano Insurance offers renters insurance options tailored to their specific needs.
- Paisano Insurance provides general liability insurance, business property insurance, commercial automobile insurance, and workers’ compensation coverage to company owners. These strategies help businesses prevent financial losses caused by unforeseeable events.
- Life insurance is an important part of financial planning. Paisano Insurance can help consumers decide whether to get term or permanent life insurance to provide financial protection for their loved ones in the event of their death.
Benefits of Choosing Paisano Insurance
- Paisano Insurance is an independent firm that offers a wide variety of insurance providers and products. This enables consumers to choose the coverage that best suits their needs and budget.
- Paisano Insurance’s knowledgeable agents provide expert advice to consumers as they navigate the complex world of insurance. They can answer questions, provide recommendations, and assist you in making informed decisions.
- Customised Solutions: Because each client’s insurance requirements are unique, Paisano Insurance specialises in developing solutions to meet those requirements. They look for the ideal match for you, whether it’s auto, home, business, or life insurance.
- Paisano Insurance works hard to obtain competitive prices for its customers, allowing them to save money on insurance premiums without sacrificing coverage quality.
Getting Insurance with Paisano Insurance
Paisano Insurance makes it simple to acquire insurance:
- Assess Your Needs: Determine the type and amount of coverage you require based on your circumstances and risk factors.
- Request a quotation: Contact Paisano Insurance or visit their website to acquire a customised insurance quotation. Their representatives will produce a pricing for you if you supply the necessary details.
- Compare and Choose: To make an informed decision, compare coverage options, prices, and terms from several insurance carriers.
- Purchase Your Coverage: After deciding on the best insurance coverage for you, fill out the necessary paperwork and pay your first premium.
- Regular Review: Check in with Paisano Insurance on a regular basis to confirm that your insurance policies are still meeting your changing needs.
Conclusion
Paisano Insurance is a reliable partner in acquiring insurance coverage that meets your specific needs. They provide a wide range of insurance products to protect your belongings, loved ones, and peace of mind, with a focus on choice, flexibility, and personalised service. Paisano Insurance is an excellent option for comprehensive, tailored, and reasonable insurance solutions for your insurance needs.
Business
Factors Influencing Your Car Insurance Premium
Car insurance rates are not uniform; they can vary substantially across people. Insurance companies use a number of factors when determining the cost of your vehicle insurance policy. Understanding these factors is crucial for receiving the best coverage at the best price. In this comprehensive essay, we will look at the primary factors that influence your vehicle insurance quote.
Driving Record
Your driving record has a significant impact on the cost of your vehicle insurance. Insurance companies look at prior accidents, driving violations, and claims history. A clean driving record with no accidents or violations often results in lower premiums; however, a history of accidents and penalties may result in higher rates.
Age and Gender
Age and gender are typically considered when deciding vehicle insurance prices. Drivers who are young and inexperienced, particularly men, pay higher rates since they are statistically more likely to be involved in an accident. Drivers’ rates tend to reduce as they gain experience and reach middle age.
Location
Your geographic location is a significant consideration when determining your auto insurance quote. Insurance prices are higher in regions with high crime rates, heavy traffic, or an accident history. Rural towns, on the other hand, often have lower premiums due to fewer accidents and lower crime rates.
Vehicle Type and Model
The brand, model, and year of your automobile have a direct impact on your insurance quote. High-performance vehicles, premium vehicles, and newer models generally cost more to insure due to higher repair expenses and theft rates. Safety features and the vehicle’s safety record can have an impact on rates.
Usage of the Vehicle
The way you drive may have an impact on your insurance price. Cars used for frequent commuting or commercial purposes often have higher premiums than cars used for pleasure or on occasion. Mileage and the length of your daily journey are other crucial factors to consider.
Coverage and Deductibles
The kind and level of coverage you choose has a significant impact on your rate. Insurance with higher coverage limits and additional features (such as comprehensive and collision coverage) will cost extra. A higher deductible can lower your premium, but it also means you’ll have to pay more out of pocket if you file a claim.
Credit Score
In certain states, insurance companies use your credit score to determine your rate. A good credit score may result in lower rates, whilst a poor credit history may result in higher rates.
When compared to single drivers, married folks often pay less for insurance. According to studies, married persons are less likely to engage in risky driving practices.
Driving Experience
Your driving history may have an impact on your premium. New drivers frequently pay higher rates, although experienced drivers may be eligible for discounts.
Claims History
Your insurance rate may rise if you have a history of submitting repeated claims. Insurance companies perceive frequent claims to be a greater risk.
Discounts and Bundling
Insurance companies typically provide discounts for a variety of reasons, including having multiple policies with the same company (bundling), completing driver safety classes, maintaining a clean driving record, and putting anti-theft technology in your car.
Occupation and Education
Some insurers evaluate your work and education level when calculating rates. Lower rates may be associated with certain vocations and levels of education.
What element has the greatest influence on insurance premiums?
The individual’s driving record is often the most influential element in insurance prices. Your driving record, including accidents, traffic tickets, and claims, has a substantial influence on the amount of vehicle insurance you pay. Insurance companies evaluate your risk as a policyholder based on your driving record.
Here’s why your driving record is so important:
- Risk Assessment: Insurance companies utilise previous data to determine your chances of being involved in future accidents or submitting claims. A clean driving record with no accidents or infractions indicates a reduced risk, which translates to cheaper rates. A history of accidents, traffic fines, or claims, on the other hand, indicates a higher risk and may result in higher insurance premiums.
- Data consistently demonstrate that drivers having a history of accidents or traffic offences are more likely to be involved in future incidents. Insurance firms base their premium rates on this information.
- Legal Requirements: Your driving record is particularly important since insurance firms are frequently legally required to examine your prior driving conduct when setting premiums. set accidents or infractions, for example, may remain on your record for a set number of years, and insurers are compelled to consider them.
While your driving record is a major influence on insurance costs, other factors such as your age, location, car type, and policy selections also play key roles. Insurance companies use a mix of these criteria to measure risk and calculate your premium. As a result, keeping a clean driving record is one of the most efficient strategies to keep your insurance prices low.
Conclusion
A number of factors influence your vehicle insurance rate, many of which are within your control. Understanding these features will enable you to make more informed judgements about coverage and cost reduction. By having a solid driving record, shopping around for quotes, and taking advantage of any discounts, you may get the best auto insurance coverage to meet your needs at a price that matches your budget.