Although the first criterion (RPS) describes the profitability in relation to every retained claims dollar after reinsurance, it does not show how much of the total premium income is retained by the insurer after paying all claims and reinsurance premiums.
Therefore, a second profitability measure, the difference between retained premiums
and retained claims after reinsurance, is employed. This measure is
in line with prior studies analyzing optimal reinsurance structures
(e.g., Lampaert & Walhin, 2005).
It shows the total amount of
retained premium after paying all claims and reinsurance premiums,
and represents the underwriting profit (loss) before administrative
expenses.
The reinsurance arrangement which enables the insurer to
maximize the retained premiums is theoretically preferred from a profitability point of view.