What type of financial statements are publicly held insurance companies required to prepare?

Publicly held insurance companies are required to prepare financial statements under both the Statutory (STAT) basis and the Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) basis. The STAT basis of accounting is primarily used for regulatory reporting purposes and is designed to reflect the solvency and financial condition of the insurance company to ensure it can meet its obligations to policyholders. This method often includes specific adjustments and requirements that are unique to the insurance industry.

On the other hand, the GAAP basis is used for reporting to shareholders and the general public, providing a comprehensive view of the company’s financial performance and position in accordance with standardized accounting practices. This dual requirement helps maintain transparency and provides a clear picture of the financial health of the insurer to both regulators and investors.

The other options do not correctly represent the formal requirements imposed on publicly held insurance companies, as they either reference unusual accounting methods or fail to capture the specific regulatory and financial reporting standards applicable to the insurance industry.