Discussion

1. Although domiciled in Nebraska, Auto Insurance is licensed to sell auto insurance in 10 states. A different set of rates applies in each state. In five states, prior approval of rates is required. Two states have a file-and-use law, and the remaining three states have a flex-rating law. Auto Insurance has experienced poor underwriting results and needs to increase its rates.

a. Explain how each of the above rating laws would apply to Auto Insurance.

b. Describe some possible problems that Auto Insurance may experience in trying to get its rates increased in a prior-approval state.

2. Ashley is an actuary who is employed by the Nebraska Department of Insurance. Her duties include monitoring the financial position of insurance companies doing business in Nebraska. Based on an analysis of annual financial statements that insurers are required to submit, she discovered that Mutual Life Insurance has a risk-based capital ratio of 75 percent. Based on this information, answer the following questions:

a. What is the purpose of requiring insurers to meet risk-based capital requirements?

b. What could be the regulatory action for this company?

c. Mutual Life Insurance has 25 percent of its assets invested in common stocks. Assume the stocks are sold, and the proceeds are invested in U.S. government bonds. What effect, if any, will this investment change have on the risk-based capital ratio of Mutual Life Insurance? Explain your answer.