Abstract

Journal of Actuarial Practice

Volume 1, Number 2, 1993


On the Equivalence of the Loss Ratio and Pure Premium Methods of Determining Property and Casualty Rating Relativities

Robert L. Brown

Abstract

There are two distinct stages in the property and casualty ratemaking process. First, there is the portfolio average rate change. Second, there is the adjustment of classification relativities. It is well known that the loss ratio and pure premium (also called the loss cost) methods are algebraically equivalent in the stage called the portfolio average rate change. This paper reviews the proof of this equivalence. Further, it is proved algebraically that the loss ratio and pure premium methods are also equivalent in calculating classification relativities (or differentials) if certain data requirements can be met. A short numerical example of this equivalence is included.

Key words and phrases: loss cost, ratemaking, relativities

Robert L. Brown
Department of Statistics & Actuarial Science
University of Waterloo
Waterloo ON N2l 3G1
Canada


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