Policy reserves represent future obligations of which party?

Policy reserves are a critical component in the financial management of an insurance company. They represent the portion of insurance premiums that must be set aside to ensure that future obligations to policyholders can be met. These obligations typically include claims that will need to be paid out in the future, as well as other promised benefits under various insurance policies.

When an insurance company underwrites policies, it assumes the responsibility for covering claims as they arise. Consequently, the reserves are calculated based on actuarial assessments of expected future claims, reflecting the company's obligation to policyholders. The setting of these reserves is essential for maintaining financial stability and regulatory compliance, ensuring that the insurer can meet its future liabilities.

Thus, policy reserves are directly related to the obligations of the insurance company, which has a fiduciary duty to honor claims and guarantee coverage as specified in the policies sold to the insured individuals. That is why the correct answer is that policy reserves represent future obligations of the insurance company.