Operating segments

Group functions and consolidation

Group functions

Group functions

In € million

2019

2018

2017

Operating expenses (net)

–48.5

–68.4

–55.3

Net investment income

356.3

309.8

267.2

Earnings before taxes

255.0

185.6

153.7

In the Group functions segment, dropped by 29.1 per cent to €48.5 million (2018: €68.4 million).

Net investment income amounted to €356.3 million (2018: €309.8 million).

Earnings before taxes rose to €255.0 million (2018: €185.6 million) in the 2019 financial year.

Consolidation

Consolidation

In € million

2019

2018

2017

Net investment income

–286.2

–248.3

–247.6

Earnings before taxes

–232.1

–198.7

–197.6

Net investment income in the consolidation segment in 2019 amounted to €–286.2 million (2018: €–248.3 million).

Earnings before taxes amounted to €–232.1 million (2018: €–198.7 million).

Operating expenses
This item includes acquisition expenses, portfolio management expenses and the expenses for implementing reinsurance. The operating expenses remain for the company’s own account following deduction of the commissions and profit participation received from the reinsurance business ceded.