Ch16 - Reinsurance

Discussion in 'SA1' started by mossie, Sep 2, 2017.

  1. mossie

    mossie Active Member

    Hi,

    Could someone please help with my query below?

    p3 - section 2.1, 2nd paragraph: what is normally used as a measure when they say the ’size of the insurer’ (e.g. by assets, NAV, annual premium etc)? how is it different from 'size of its portfolio'?

    Many thanks!

    M.
     
  2. Sarah Byrne

    Sarah Byrne ActEd Tutor Staff Member

    Hi Mossie

    The size of insurer could be measured by a variety of things including the measures you said as well as contracts inforce, total sum assured etc. It could also be part of a wider group.

    For most insurers it will have various portfolios (blocks of business) that it is considering reinsuring.

    The 'larger' the insurer, the less need for this as it may have diversification from other areas of business or sufficient internal capital to absorb any loss. Although obviously large insurers still need reinsurance too, perhaps more so where the portfolio in question has volatile claims or is a new product.

    Hope this helps.
    Sarah
     
  3. mossie

    mossie Active Member

    Thanks Sarah!
    So does it mean there is not a 'normal' measure of size but depends on the context? Are there situations where it is more appropriate to use one measure over another?
     
  4. Sarah Byrne

    Sarah Byrne ActEd Tutor Staff Member

    Yes, there are a variety of different measured you could consider. I don't have any specific examples of when one thing might be more appropriate, but just consider the use of the measure and suggest something sensible if necessary in the exam.
     

Share This Page