Description: This paper argues by means of a mathematical demonstration that: 1. Natural reserves are not appropriate for adjusting earnings of mutual life insurance companies under GAAP. 2. Adjusted earnings developed by using statutory net level premium reserves together with a nonadmitted asset equal to the present value of unamortized variable acquisition expenses, and, if material, possibly with the reserves for terminal dividends, should bc accepted under GAAP, provided that dividend scales are suitably designed. 3. Other approaches which are essentially equivalent to that in bullet #2, such as those involving historical asset share funds, should likewise be acceptable.

Description: This paper, chapter VI of the 1987 Valuation Actuary Handbook, discusses a framework for the valuation of reserves and surplus in statutory financial statements, first providing a detailed section of definitions to clarify to clarify the terms used in the paper. The “new” environment of volatile interest rates is discussed, and the mathematics underlying ruin probabilities, and combinations of risks. Procedures for different products with different types of risks are discussed. Other topics include coordination of investment policy and product policy, aggregate reserves and surplus needed, use of simplifications, financial planning, and reinsurance.