Athene Holding (ATH-PA) 10-K 26 Feb 18 2017 FY Annual report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - USD ($) $ in Billions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Jan. 31, 2018	Jun. 30, 2017
Document Information [Line Items]
Entity Registrant Name	Athene Holding Ltd
Entity Central Index Key	1,527,469
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Document Type	10-K
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2017
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,017
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Amendment Flag	false
Entity Public Float			$ 5.7
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Common Class A
Document Information [Line Items]
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		142,449,265
Common Class B
Document Information [Line Items]
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		47,421,940
Common Class M-1
Document Information [Line Items]
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		3,388,890
Common Class M-2
Document Information [Line Items]
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		851,103
Common Class M-3
Document Information [Line Items]
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		1,088,000
Common Class M-4
Document Information [Line Items]
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		4,701,866

Consolidated Balance Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Millions		Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Available-for-sale securities, at fair value
Mortgage loans, net of allowances (portion at fair value: 2017 – $41 and 2016 – $44)		$ 6,233	$ 5,470
Investment funds		2,580	2,460
Cash and cash equivalents	[1]	4,892	2,459
Reinsurance recoverable (portion at fair value: 2017 – $1,824 and 2016 – $1,692)		4,972	6,001
Deferred acquisition costs, deferred sales inducements and value of business acquired		2,930	2,940
Total assets		99,747	86,699
Liabilities
Total liabilities		90,539	79,840
Equity
Additional paid-in capital		3,472	3,421
Retained earnings		4,321	3,070
Accumulated other comprehensive income (related party: 2017 – $48 and 2016 – $12)		1,415	367
Total Athene Holding Ltd. shareholders’ equity		9,208	6,858
Noncontrolling interest		0	1
Total equity		9,208	6,859
Total liabilities and equity		99,747	86,699
Related Party
Equity
Accumulated other comprehensive income (related party: 2017 – $48 and 2016 – $12)		48	12
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) and Related Party
Available-for-sale securities, at fair value
Fixed maturity securities		61,012	52,033
Equity securities		277	353
Trading securities, at fair value		2,709	2,581
Mortgage loans, net of allowances (portion at fair value: 2017 – $41 and 2016 – $44)		6,233	5,470
Investment funds		699	689
Policy loans		530	602
Funds withheld at interest (portion at fair value: 2017 – $312 and 2016 – $140)		7,085	6,538
Derivative assets		2,551	1,370
Real estate (portion held for sale: 2017 – $32 and 2016 – $23)		624	542
Short-term investments, at fair value		201	189
Other investments		133	81
Total investments		82,054	70,448
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE)
Available-for-sale securities, at fair value
Fixed maturity securities		61,418
Cash and cash equivalents		4,888	2,445
Restricted cash		105	57
Accrued investment income (related party: 2017 – $10 and 2016 – $9)		652	554
Reinsurance recoverable (portion at fair value: 2017 – $1,824 and 2016 – $1,692)		4,972	6,001
Deferred acquisition costs, deferred sales inducements and value of business acquired		2,930	2,940
Other assets		969	1,348
Liabilities
Interest sensitive contract liabilities (portion at fair value: 2017 – $8,929 and 2016 – $6,574)		67,708	61,532
Future policy benefits (portion at fair value: 2017 – $2,428 and 2016 – $2,400)		17,507	14,592
Other policy claims and benefits		211	217
Dividends payable to policyholders		1,025	974
Derivative liabilities		134	40
Payables for collateral on derivatives		2,323	1,383
Funds withheld liability (portion at fair value: 2017 – $22 and 2016 – $6)		407	380
Other liabilities		1,222	688
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Related Party
Available-for-sale securities, at fair value
Fixed maturity securities		406	335
Equity securities		0	20
Trading securities, at fair value		307	195
Investment funds		1,310	1,198
Short-term investments, at fair value		52	0
Other investments		238	237
Accrued investment income (related party: 2017 – $10 and 2016 – $9)		10	9
Liabilities
Other liabilities		64	56
Variable Interest Entities
Available-for-sale securities, at fair value
Investment funds		571	573
Cash and cash equivalents		4	14
Other assets		1	6
Liabilities
Other liabilities		2	34
Variable Interest Entities | Related Party
Available-for-sale securities, at fair value
Equity securities		142	161
Trading securities, at fair value		146	167
Investment funds		571	562
Common Class A
Equity
Common stock		0	0
Common Class B
Equity
Common stock		0	0
Common Class M-1
Equity
Common stock		0	0
Common Class M-2
Equity
Common stock		0	0
Common Class M-3
Equity
Common stock		0	0
Common Class M-4
Equity
Common stock		$ 0	$ 0
[1]	Includes cash and cash equivalents of consolidated variable interest entities

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Available-for-sale securities
Mortgage loans	$ 6,233	$ 5,470
Investment funds	2,580	2,460
Reinsurance recoverable	4,972	6,001
Accumulated other comprehensive income	1,415	367
Related Party
Available-for-sale securities
Accumulated other comprehensive income	48	12
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) and Related Party
Available-for-sale securities
Fixed maturity securities, amortized cost	58,506	51,110
Equity securities, amortized cost	271	319
Mortgage loans	6,233	5,470
Investment funds	699	689
Funds withheld at interest	7,085	6,538
Real estate held for sale	32	23
Short-term investments, cost	201	189
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE)
Available-for-sale securities
Fixed maturity securities, amortized cost	58,905
Accrued investment income	652	554
Reinsurance recoverable	4,972	6,001
Interest sensitive contract liabilities	67,708	61,532
Future policy benefits	17,507	14,592
Funds withheld liability	407	380
Other liabilities	1,222	688
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Related Party
Available-for-sale securities
Fixed maturity securities, amortized cost	399	341
Equity securities, amortized cost	0	20
Investment funds	1,310	1,198
Short-term investments, cost	52	0
Accrued investment income	10	9
Other liabilities	64	56
Variable Interest Entities
Available-for-sale securities
Investment funds	571	573
Other liabilities	2	34
Variable Interest Entities | Related Party
Available-for-sale securities
Equity securities, amortized cost	101	143
Investment funds	$ 571	$ 562
Common Class A
Available-for-sale securities
Common stock outstanding (in shares)	142,386,704	77,319,381
Common Class B
Available-for-sale securities
Common stock outstanding (in shares)	47,422,399	111,805,829
Common Class M-1
Available-for-sale securities
Common stock outstanding (in shares)	3,388,890	3,474,205
Common Class M-2
Available-for-sale securities
Common stock outstanding (in shares)	851,103	1,067,747
Common Class M-3
Available-for-sale securities
Common stock outstanding (in shares)	1,092,000	1,346,300
Common Class M-4
Available-for-sale securities
Common stock outstanding (in shares)	4,711,743	5,397,802
Fair Value | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE)
Available-for-sale securities
Mortgage loans	$ 6,342	$ 5,560
Investment funds	554	590
Funds withheld at interest	6,773	6,398
Interest sensitive contract liabilities	31,656	26,930
Funds withheld liability	385	374
Fair Value | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Related Party
Available-for-sale securities
Investment funds	1,280	1,198
Recurring | Fair Value | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) and Related Party
Available-for-sale securities
Mortgage loans	41	44
Investment funds	145	99
Funds withheld at interest	312	140
Recurring | Fair Value | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE)
Available-for-sale securities
Mortgage loans	41	44
Investment funds	145	99
Reinsurance recoverable	1,824	1,692
Interest sensitive contract liabilities	8,929	6,574
Future policy benefits	2,428	2,400
Funds withheld liability	22	6
Recurring | Fair Value | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Related Party
Available-for-sale securities
Investment funds	30	0
Recurring | Fair Value | Variable Interest Entities
Available-for-sale securities
Investment funds	$ 549	$ 562

Consolidated Statements of Inco

Consolidated Statements of Income - USD ($) $ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2017		Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Revenues
Premiums		$ 2,465		$ 240	$ 195
Net investment income		3,269		2,914	2,510
Other-than-temporary impairment investment losses
Other-than-temporary impairment losses reclassified to (from) other comprehensive income		(4)		2	10
Total revenues		8,727		4,105	2,618
Benefits and Expenses
Future policy and other policy benefits		3,163		1,059	518
Total benefits and expenses		7,192		3,389	2,028
Income before income taxes		1,535		716	590
Income tax expense (benefit)		87		(52)	12
Net income		1,448		768	578
Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests		0		0	16
Net income available to Athene Holding Ltd. shareholders		1,448		768	562
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE)
Revenues
Premiums		2,465		240	195
Product charges		340		281	248
Net investment income		3,269		2,914	2,510
Investment related gains (losses)		2,572		652	(430)
Other-than-temporary impairment investment losses
Other-than-temporary impairment losses		(29)		(32)	(40)
Other-than-temporary impairment losses reclassified to (from) other comprehensive income		(4)		2	10
Net other-than-temporary impairment losses		(33)		(30)	(30)
Other revenues		37		34	25
Benefits and Expenses
Interest sensitive contract benefits		2,826		1,296	689
Amortization of deferred sales inducements		63		39	21
Future policy and other policy benefits		3,163		1,059	518
Amortization of deferred acquisition costs and value of business acquired		350		318	206
Dividends to policyholders		118		37	28
Policy and other operating expenses (related party: 2017 – $13, 2016 – $22 and 2015 – $18)				627	549
Variable Interest Entities
Revenues
Net investment income		42		67	67
Investment related gains (losses)		$ 35		(53)	33
Benefits and Expenses
Operating expenses of consolidated variable interest entities				$ 13	$ 17
Common Class A
Earnings per share
Basic (in USD per share)	[1]	$ 7.41		$ 4.11	$ 3.21
Diluted (in USD per share)		7.37		4.02	3.21
Common Class B
Earnings per share
Basic (in USD per share)		7.41		4.11	3.21	[1]
Diluted (in USD per share)		7.41		4.11	$ 3.21
Common Class M-1
Earnings per share
Basic (in USD per share)		7.41		4.11
Diluted (in USD per share)		7.41	[1]	$ 0.20
Common Class M-2
Earnings per share
Basic (in USD per share)		7.41
Diluted (in USD per share)	[1]	5.38
Common Class M-3
Earnings per share
Basic (in USD per share)		7.41
Diluted (in USD per share)	[1]	4.12
Common Class M-4
Earnings per share
Basic (in USD per share)		7.41
Diluted (in USD per share)	[1]	$ 3.31
[1]	Basic and diluted earnings per share for Class M-1 was applicable only for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016. Basic and diluted earnings per share for Class M-2, M-3 and M-4 were applicable only for the year ended December 31, 2017. See Note 13 – Earnings Per Share for further discussion.

Consolidated Statements of Inc5

Consolidated Statements of Income (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Net investment income	$ 3,269	$ 2,914	$ 2,510
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE)
Investment income	3,601	3,217	2,783
Investment expense	332	303	273
Investment related gains (losses)	2,572	652	(430)
Net investment income	3,269	2,914	2,510
Policy and other operating expenses		627	549
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Related Party
Investment income	220	226	168
Investment expense	318	295	268
Investment related gains (losses)	(16)	(38)	(19)
Policy and other operating expenses	13	22	18
Variable Interest Entities
Investment related gains (losses)	35	(53)	33
Net investment income	42	67	67
Variable Interest Entities | Related Party
Investment related gains (losses)	35	(25)	46
Net investment income	$ 42	$ 44	$ 37

Consolidated Statements of Comp

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 1,448	$ 768	$ 578
Other comprehensive income (loss), before tax
Unrealized investment gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities	1,269	878	(1,314)
Noncredit component of other-than-temporary impairment losses on available-for-sale securities	4	(2)	(10)
Unrealized gains (losses) on hedging instruments	(105)	(5)	11
Pension adjustments	(1)	0	12
Foreign currency translation adjustments	20	(8)	(4)
Other comprehensive income (loss), before tax	1,187	863	(1,305)
Income tax expense (benefit) related to other comprehensive income	326	259	(424)
Other comprehensive income (loss)	861	604	(881)
Comprehensive income (loss)	2,309	1,372	(303)
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	0	0	16
Comprehensive income (loss) available to Athene Holding Ltd. shareholders	$ 2,309	$ 1,372	$ (319)

Consolidated Statements of Equi

Consolidated Statements of Equity - USD ($) $ in Millions	Total	Common stock	Additional paid-in capital	Retained earnings		Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)		Total Athene Holding Ltd. shareholders' equity	Noncontrolling interest
Beginning Balance at Dec. 31, 2014	$ 4,578	$ 0	$ 2,153	$ 1,748		$ 644		$ 4,545	$ 33
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income	578			562				562	16
Other comprehensive income	(881)					(881)		(881)
Issuance of shares, net of expenses	1,112		1,112					1,112
Stock-based compensation	17		17					17
Retirement or repurchase of shares	(3)		(1)	(2)				(3)
Other changes in equity of noncontrolling interests	(48)								(48)
Ending Balance at Dec. 31, 2015	5,353	0	3,281	2,308		(237)		5,352	1
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income	768			768				768	0
Other comprehensive income	604					604		604
Issuance of shares, net of expenses	1		1					1
Stock-based compensation	153		153					153
Retirement or repurchase of shares	(20)		(14)	(6)				(20)
Ending Balance at Dec. 31, 2016	6,859	0	3,421	3,070		367		6,858	1
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income	1,448			1,448				1,448	0
Other comprehensive income	861					861		861
Issuance of shares, net of expenses	1		1					1
Stock-based compensation	50		50					50
Retirement or repurchase of shares	(10)		0	(10)				(10)
Other changes in equity of noncontrolling interests	(1)								(1)
Ending Balance at Dec. 31, 2017	9,208	$ 0	$ 3,472	4,321		1,415		9,208	$ 0
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Reclassification of taxes	$ 0			$ (187)	[1]	$ 187	[1]	$ 0
[1]	See discussion of Accounting Standards Update 2018-02 adoption in Note 1 – Business, Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies.

Consolidated Statements of Cash

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Cash flows from operating activities
Net income		$ 1,448	$ 768	$ 578
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Policy acquisition costs deferred		(493)	(601)	(288)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Net cash provided by operating activities		3,170	1,199	1,049
Available-for-sale securities
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities		(5,817)	(2,602)	(52)
Cash flows from financing activities
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities		5,048	1,155	(944)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents		32	(13)	(4)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents		2,433	(261)	49
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year	[1]	2,459	2,720	2,671
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	[1]	4,892	2,459	2,720
Supplementary information
Income Taxes Paid, Net		64	31	34
Interest Paid		0	9	22
Non-cash transactions
Deposits on investment-type policies and contracts through reinsurance agreements		663	3,441	1,182
Withdrawals on investment-type policies and contracts through reinsurance agreements		482	448	373
Investment Funds Acquired		0	0	473
Reinsurance, Reduction in Invested Assets and Liabilities		0	0	920
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE)
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Amortization of deferred acquisition costs and value of business acquired		350	318	206
Amortization of deferred sales inducements		63	39	21
Accretion of net investment premiums, discounts, and other		(192)	(172)	(77)
Coinsurance Agreement Payments		0	0	(10)
Stock-based compensation		45	84	67
Net investment (income) loss (related party: 2017 – $(63), 2016 – $(51) and 2015 – $(6))		(53)	(25)	8
Net recognized (gains) losses on investments and derivatives		(2,180)	(342)	520
Policy acquisition costs deferred		(493)	(601)	(288)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Accrued investment income		(91)	(34)	38
Interest sensitive contract liabilities		2,513	925	874
Future policy benefits, other policy claims and benefits, dividends payable to policyholders and reinsurance recoverable		1,993	344	(573)
Funds withheld assets and liabilities		(419)	(128)	(278)
Other assets and liabilities		219	(33)	(10)
Sales, maturities and repayments of:
Trading securities (related party: 2017 – $55, 2016 – $26 and 2015 – $72)		454	748	1,226
Mortgage loans		1,669	1,176	788
Investment funds (related party: 2017 – $349, 2016 – $293 and 2015 – $99)		496	420	343
Derivative instruments and other invested assets		1,503	468	1,151
Proceeds from Sale of Real Estate Held-for-investment		4	36	63
Short-term investments (related party: 2017 – $65, 2016 – $55 and 2015 – $130)		351	870	207
Available-for-sale securities
Fixed maturity securities (related party: 2017 – $(186), 2016 – $(82) and 2015 – $(64))		(18,883)	(11,797)	(11,069)
Equity securities (related party: 2017 – $0, 2016 – $(20) and 2015 – $0)		(540)	(319)	(239)
Trading securities (related party: 2017 – $0, 2016 – $(39) and 2015 – $(52))		(396)	(868)	(1,409)
Mortgage loans		(2,428)	(1,157)	(672)
Investment funds (related party: 2017 – $(509), 2016 – $(441) and 2015 – $(510))		(660)	(535)	(614)
Derivative instruments and other invested assets		(738)	(686)	(698)
Real estate		(76)	(39)	(6)
Short-term investments (related party: 2017 – $(117), 2016 – $0 and 2015 – $(85))		(421)	(873)	(267)
Change in restricted cash		(48)	59	(39)
Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired		0	0	162
Cash settlement of derivatives		(4)	34	25
Other investing activities, net		507	(185)	279
Cash flows from financing activities
Capital contributions		1	1	1,116
Repayments of Notes Payable		0	0	(4)
Deposits on investment-type policies and contracts		9,056	5,791	3,460
Withdrawals on investment-type policies and contracts		(4,843)	(4,617)	(4,783)
Payments for coinsurance agreements on investment-type contracts, net		(33)	(89)	(153)
Net change in cash collateral posted for derivative transactions		940	516	(535)
Repurchase of common stock		(10)	(20)	(3)
Other financing activities, net		(63)	73	(12)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year		2,445
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year		4,888	2,445
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Fixed Maturity Securities
Sales, maturities and repayments of:
Available-for-sale securities		12,634	9,211	10,424
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Equity Securities
Sales, maturities and repayments of:
Available-for-sale securities		687	350	53
Variable Interest Entities
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Net recognized (gains) losses on investments and derivatives		(36)	25	(35)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Other Noncash Income (Expense)		(3)	(31)	(8)
Available-for-sale securities
Sales, maturities, and repayments of investments (related party: 2017 – $85, 2016 – $22 and 2015 – $244)		95	504	257
Purchases of investments (related party: 2017 – $(23), 2016 – $(19) and 2015 – $(17))		(23)	(19)	(17)
Cash flows from financing activities
Repayment on borrowings		0	(500)	0
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year		14
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year		4	14
Non-cash transactions
Payments to Noncontrolling Interests		0	0	(30)
Reinsurance Settlements [Member]
Non-cash transactions
Transfer to Investments		73	47	75
Pension Risk Transfer Premiums [Member]
Non-cash transactions
Transfer to Investments		334	0	0
Investment funds
Non-cash transactions
Transfer to Investments			0	0
Related Party | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE)
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Net investment (income) loss (related party: 2017 – $(63), 2016 – $(51) and 2015 – $(6))		(63)	(51)	(6)
Net recognized (gains) losses on investments and derivatives		8	34	42
Sales, maturities and repayments of:
Trading securities (related party: 2017 – $55, 2016 – $26 and 2015 – $72)		55	26	72
Investment funds (related party: 2017 – $349, 2016 – $293 and 2015 – $99)		349	293	99
Short-term investments (related party: 2017 – $65, 2016 – $55 and 2015 – $130)		65	55	130
Available-for-sale securities
Fixed maturity securities (related party: 2017 – $(186), 2016 – $(82) and 2015 – $(64))		(186)	(82)	(64)
Equity securities (related party: 2017 – $0, 2016 – $(20) and 2015 – $0)		0	(20)	0
Trading securities (related party: 2017 – $0, 2016 – $(39) and 2015 – $(52))		0	(39)	(52)
Investment funds (related party: 2017 – $(509), 2016 – $(441) and 2015 – $(510))		(509)	(441)	(510)
Short-term investments (related party: 2017 – $(117), 2016 – $0 and 2015 – $(85))		(117)	0	(85)
Related Party | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Fixed Maturity Securities
Sales, maturities and repayments of:
Available-for-sale securities		131	78	65
Related Party | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Equity Securities
Sales, maturities and repayments of:
Available-for-sale securities		22	0	0
Related Party | Variable Interest Entities
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Net recognized (gains) losses on investments and derivatives		(36)	3	(46)
Available-for-sale securities
Sales, maturities, and repayments of investments (related party: 2017 – $85, 2016 – $22 and 2015 – $244)		85	22	244
Purchases of investments (related party: 2017 – $(23), 2016 – $(19) and 2015 – $(17))		(23)	$ (19)	$ (17)
Related Party | Investment funds
Non-cash transactions
Transfer to Investments		$ 26
[1]	Includes cash and cash equivalents of consolidated variable interest entities

Consolidated Statements of Cas9

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Parenthetical) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE)
Net investments (income) loss	$ (53)
Net recognized (gains) losses on investments and derivatives	(2,180)
Sales, maturities and repayments of:
Trading securities	454
Investment funds	496
Short-term investments	351
Purchases of:
Fixed maturity securities (related party: 2017 – $(186), 2016 – $(82) and 2015 – $(64))	(18,883)
Equity securities (related party: 2017 – $0, 2016 – $(20) and 2015 – $0)	(540)
Trading securities	(396)
Investment funds	(660)
Short-term investments	(421)
Variable Interest Entities
Net recognized (gains) losses on investments and derivatives	(36)
Purchases of:
Sales, maturities, and repayments of investments	95
Purchases of investments	(23)
Related Party | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE)
Net investments (income) loss	(63)
Net recognized (gains) losses on investments and derivatives	8
Sales, maturities and repayments of:
Trading securities	55
Investment funds	349
Short-term investments	65
Purchases of:
Fixed maturity securities (related party: 2017 – $(186), 2016 – $(82) and 2015 – $(64))	(186)
Equity securities (related party: 2017 – $0, 2016 – $(20) and 2015 – $0)	0
Trading securities	0
Investment funds	(509)
Short-term investments	(117)
Related Party | Variable Interest Entities
Net recognized (gains) losses on investments and derivatives	(36)
Purchases of:
Sales, maturities, and repayments of investments	85
Purchases of investments	(23)
Fixed Maturity Securities | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE)
Sales, maturities and repayments of:
Available-for-sale securities	12,634
Fixed Maturity Securities | Related Party | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE)
Sales, maturities and repayments of:
Available-for-sale securities	131
Equity securities | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE)
Sales, maturities and repayments of:
Available-for-sale securities	687
Equity securities | Related Party | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE)
Sales, maturities and repayments of:
Available-for-sale securities	22
Other investments
Purchases of:
Transfer to Investments	$ 26

Business, Basis of Presentation

Business, Basis of Presentation, and Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Business, Basis of Presentation, and Significant Accounting Policies	1. Business, Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies Athene Holding Ltd. (AHL), a Bermuda exempted company, together with its subsidiaries (collectively, Athene, we, our, us, or the Company), is a leading retirement services company that issues, reinsures and acquires retirement savings products in all U.S. states, the District of Columbia and Germany. We conduct business primarily through the following consolidated subsidiaries: • Athene Life Re Ltd. (ALRe), a Bermuda exempted company to which AHL’s other insurance subsidiaries and third party ceding companies directly and indirectly reinsure a portion of their liabilities; • Athene USA Corporation, an Iowa corporation and its subsidiaries (Athene USA); and • AGER Bermuda Holding Ltd. and its subsidiaries (AGER), which includes Athene Deutschland GmbH & Co. KG, a German partnership and its subsidiaries (ADKG). We deconsolidated AGER effective January 1, 2018, as discussed below. In addition, we consolidate certain variable interest entities (VIEs), for which we determined we are the primary beneficiary, as discussed in Note 4 – Variable Interest Entities . Consolidation and Basis of Presentation —Our consolidated financial statements include our wholly-owned subsidiaries, investees we control and any VIEs where we are the primary beneficiary. Investments in entities that we do not control, but have the ability to exercise significant influence over operating and financing decisions, other than investments for which we have elected the fair value option, are accounted for under the equity method. Intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated. For entities that are consolidated, but not 100% owned, we allocate a portion of the income or loss and corresponding equity to the owners other than the Company. We include the aggregate of the income or loss and corresponding equity that is not owned by the Company in noncontrolling interests in the consolidated financial statements. We report investments in related parties and assets and liabilities of consolidated VIEs separately, as further described in the accounting policies that follow. We have prepared the consolidated financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAP), which requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the period. Actual experience could materially differ from these estimates and assumptions. Our principal estimates impact: • fair value of investments; • impairment of investments and valuation allowances; • derivatives valuation, including embedded derivatives; • deferred acquisition costs (DAC), deferred sales inducements (DSI) and value of business acquired (VOBA); • future policy benefit reserves; • valuation allowances on deferred tax assets; and • stock-based compensation. Additional details around these principal estimates and assumptions are discussed in the significant accounting policies that follow and the related footnote disclosures. AGER Deconsolidation – In April 2017, in connection with a private offering, AGER entered into subscription agreements with AHL, certain affiliates of Apollo Global Management, LLC (AGM and, together with its subsidiaries, Apollo) and a number of other third-party investors pursuant to which AGER secured commitments from such parties to purchase new common shares in AGER (AGER Offering). In November 2017, the AGER board of directors approved resolutions authorizing the closing of the AGER Offering (Closing) to occur on January 1, 2018 and approving a capital call from all of the AGER investors, excluding us. In connection with the Closing and the issuance of shares in respect of the capital call, each of which occurred on January 1, 2018, our equity interest in AGER was exchanged for common shares of AGER. As a result, on January 1, 2018, we held 10% of the aggregate voting power of and less than 50% of the economic interest in AGER and, as such, it is thereafter held as an investment rather than a consolidated subsidiary. We did not recognize a material amount in the consolidated statements of income upon deconsolidation in 2018. AGER Bermuda Holding Ltd. has subsequently been renamed Athora Holding Ltd. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Investments Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities – Fixed maturity securities includes bonds, collateralized loan obligations (CLO), asset-backed securities (ABS), residential mortgage-backed securities (RMBS), commercial mortgage-backed securities (CMBS) and redeemable preferred stock. Equity securities includes common stock, mutual funds and non-redeemable preferred stock. We classify fixed maturity and equity securities as available-for-sale (AFS) or trading at the time of purchase and subsequently carry them at fair value. Fair value hierarchy and valuation methodologies are discussed in Note 5 – Fair Value . Classification is dependent on a variety of factors including our expected holding period, election of the fair value option and asset and liability matching. AFS Securities – Unrealized gains and losses on AFS securities, net of tax and adjustments to DAC, DSI, VOBA and future policy benefits, if applicable, are generally reflected in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (AOCI) on the consolidated balance sheets. Unrealized gains or losses relating to identified risks within AFS securities in fair value hedging relationships are reflected in investment related gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of income. Trading Securities – We elected the fair value option for certain fixed maturity securities. These fixed maturity securities are classified as trading, with changes to fair value included in investment related gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of income. Although the securities are classified as trading, the trading activity related to these investments is primarily focused on asset and liability matching activities and is not intended to be an income strategy based on active trading. As such, the activity related to these investments on the consolidated statements of cash flows is classified as investing activities. Trading securities include mutual funds supporting unit-linked investment contracts. We generally record security transactions on a trade date basis, with any unsettled trades recorded in other assets or other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets. For those security transactions not recorded on a trade date basis, such as investment fund purchases, we record on a settlement date basis. Purchased Credit Impaired (PCI) Investments – We purchase certain structured securities, primarily RMBS and re-performing mortgage loans, having deterioration in credit quality since their issuance which meet the definition of PCI investments. We determined, based on our expectations as to the timing and amount of cash flows expected to be received, that it was probable at acquisition that we would not collect all contractually required payments, including both principal and interest, while also considering the effects of any prepayments for these PCI investments. Based on these assumptions, the difference between the undiscounted expected future cash flows of the PCI investment and the recorded investment represents the initial accretable yield, which is accreted into investment income, net of related expenses, over its remaining life on a level-yield basis. The difference between the contractually required payments on the PCI investment and the undiscounted expected future cash flows represents the non-accretable difference at acquisition. Over time, based on actual payments received and changes in estimates of undiscounted expected future cash flows, the accretable yield and the non-accretable difference can change. PCI investments are presented on the consolidated financial statements consistent with AFS securities or mortgage loans depending on the underlying investment. Quarterly, we evaluate the undiscounted expected future cash flows associated with PCI investments based on updates to key assumptions. Changes to undiscounted expected future cash flows due solely to the changes in the contractual benchmark interest rates on variable rate PCI investments will change the accretable yield prospectively. Declines in undiscounted expected future cash flows due to further credit deterioration, as well as changes in the expected timing of the cash flows, can result in the recognition of an other-than-temporary impairment (OTTI) charge for PCI securities or a valuation allowance for PCI loans. Significant increases in undiscounted expected future cash flows are recognized prospectively as an adjustment to the accretable yield. Mortgage Loans – Mortgage loans are primarily stated at unpaid principal balance, adjusted for any unamortized premium or discount, and net of valuation allowances. Interest income is accrued on the principal amount of the loan based on its contractual interest rate. We record amortization of premiums and discounts using the effective yield method and contractual cash flows on the underlying loan. We accrue interest on loans until it is probable we will not receive interest or the loan is 90 days past due. Interest income, amortization of premiums and discounts and prepayment fees are reported in net investment income on the consolidated statements of income. We have also elected the fair value option on a portion of our mortgage loans. Investment Funds – We invest in certain non-fixed income, alternative investments in the form of limited partnerships or similar legal structures (investment funds). For investment funds in which we have determined we are not the primary beneficiary, and therefore not required to consolidate, we typically record these investments using the equity method of accounting, where the cost is recorded as an investment in the fund, or we have elected the fair value option. Adjustments to the carrying amount reflect our pro rata ownership percentage of the operating results as indicated by net asset value (NAV) in the investment fund financial statements, which can be on a lag of up to three months when investee information is not received in a timely manner. We record our proportionate share of investment fund income within net investment income on the consolidated statements of income. Contributions paid or distributions received by us are recorded directly to the investment fund balance as an increase to carrying value or as a return of capital, thus reducing our carrying value. Policy Loans – Policy loans are funds provided to policyholders in return for a claim on the policy’s account value. The funds provided are limited to a specified percentage of the account balance. The majority of policy loans do not have a stated maturity and the balances and accrued interest are repaid with proceeds from the policy account balance. Policy loans are reported at the unpaid principal balance. Interest income is recorded as earned using the contract interest rate and is reported in net investment income on the consolidated statements of income. Funds Withheld at Interest – Funds withheld at interest represents a receivable for amounts contractually withheld by ceding companies in accordance with funds withheld coinsurance (funds withheld) and modified coinsurance (modco) reinsurance agreements in which we act as reinsurer. Generally, assets equal to statutory reserves are withheld and legally owned by the ceding company, and any excess or shortfall is settled periodically. The underlying agreements contain embedded derivatives as discussed below. Real Estate – Real estate investments are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is recorded on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful life of the asset, which is typically 40 years , and is included in net investment income on the consolidated statements of income. We periodically review our real estate investments for impairment and test for recoverability when events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value may not be recoverable and exceeds its estimated fair value. We recognize an impairment to fair value if the carrying amount of a property exceeds the expected undiscounted cash flows. Real estate investments for which we have committed to a plan to sell within one year and are actively marketing are classified as held for sale. Real estate held for sale is stated at the lower of depreciated cost as of the date we committed to a plan to sell or estimated fair value less expected disposition costs. Short-term Investments – Short-term investments consists of financial instruments with maturities of greater than three months but less than twelve months when purchased. Short-term debt securities are accounted for as trading or AFS consistent with our policies for those investments. Short-term loans are carried at amortized cost. Fair values are determined consistent with policies described in Note 5 – Fair Value for the respective investment type. Investment Income – We recognize investment income as it accrues or is legally due, net of investment management and custody fees. Investment income on fixed maturity securities includes coupon interest, as well as the amortization of any premium and the accretion of any discount. Investment income on equity securities represents dividend income and preferred coupons interest. Realized gains and losses on sales of investments are included in investment related gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of income. Realized gains and losses on investments sold are determined based on a first-in first-out method. Other-Than-Temporary Impairment – We identify fixed maturity and equity securities that could potentially have impairments that are other-than-temporary by monitoring market events for changes in market interest rates, credit issues, changes in business climate, management changes, litigation, government actions and other similar factors. Indicators of impairment may include changes in the issuers’ credit ratings and outlook, frequency of late payments, pricing levels, key financial ratios, financial statements, revenue forecasts and cash flow projections. We review all securities on a case-by-case basis to determine whether an other-than-temporary decline in value exists and whether losses should be recognized. We consider relevant facts and circumstances in evaluating whether a credit or interest rate-related impairment of a security is other-than-temporary. Relevant facts and circumstances include: (1) the extent and length of time the fair value has been below cost; (2) the reasons for the decline in fair value; (3) the issuer’s financial position and access to capital; and (4) for fixed maturity securities, our ability and intent to sell a security or whether it is more likely than not that we will be required to sell the security before the recovery of its cost or amortized cost which, in some cases, may extend to maturity and for equity securities, our ability and intent to hold the security for a period of time that allows for the recovery in value. To the extent we determine that a security is other-than-temporarily impaired, an impairment loss is recognized. The recognition of impairment losses on fixed maturity securities is dependent upon the facts and circumstances related to the specific security. If we intend to sell a security or it is more likely than not that we would be required to sell a security before the recovery of its cost or amortized cost less any recorded credit loss, we recognize a loss in other-than-temporary impairment losses on the consolidated statements of income for the difference between cost or amortized cost and fair value. If neither of these two conditions exists, then the recognition of the loss is bifurcated and we recognize the credit loss portion in other-than-temporary impairment losses on the consolidated statements of income and the non-credit loss portion in AOCI on the consolidated balance sheets. We estimate the amount of the credit loss component of a fixed maturity security impairment as the difference between amortized cost and the present value of the expected cash flows of the security. The present value is determined using the estimated cash flows discounted at the effective interest rate implicit to the security at the date of purchase or the current yield to accrete an asset-backed or floating rate security. The techniques and assumptions for establishing the estimated cash flows vary depending on the type of security. A structured security’s cash flow estimates are based on security-specific facts and circumstances that may include collateral characteristics, expectations of delinquency and default rates, loss severity, prepayments and structural support, including subordination and guarantees. A non-structured security’s cash flow estimates are derived from scenario-based outcomes of expected corporate restructurings or the disposition of assets using security-specific facts and circumstances including timing, security interests and loss severity. In periods after an OTTI is recognized on a fixed maturity security, we report the impaired security as if it had been purchased on the date it was impaired and continue to estimate the present value of the estimated cash flows of the security. Accordingly, the discount (or reduced premium) based on the new cost basis is accreted into net investment income over the remaining term of the fixed maturity security in a prospective manner based on the amount and timing of estimated future cash flows. We impair a mortgage loan when it is probable we will not collect all amounts due under the agreement. We establish a general valuation allowance on mortgage loans based on loss history. Additionally, we establish a valuation allowance on individual loans based on expected losses from future dispositions or settlement, including foreclosures. We calculate the allowance based on how much the carrying value exceeds one of these values: • the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s original effective interest rate; • the value of the loan’s collateral if it is in the process of foreclosure or otherwise collateral dependent; or • the loan’s fair value if the loan is being sold. We first apply any interest accrued or received on the net carrying amount of the impaired loan to the principal of the loan, and once the principal is repaid, we include amounts received in net investment income. We limit accrued interest income on impaired loans to 90 days of interest. Once accrued interest on the impaired loan is received, we recognize interest income on a cash basis. Loans deemed uncollectible or in foreclosure are charged off against the valuation allowances, and subsequent recoveries, if any, are credited to the valuation allowances. Changes in valuation allowances are reported in investment related gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of income. The cost of other invested assets is adjusted for impairments in value deemed to be other-than-temporary in the period in which the determination is made. These impairments are included within other-than-temporary impairment losses on the consolidated statements of income, and the cost basis of the investment securities is reduced accordingly. We do not change the revised cost basis for subsequent recoveries in value. Derivative Instruments —We invest in derivatives to hedge the risks experienced in our ongoing operations, such as equity risk, interest rate risk, cash flow risks or for other risk management purposes, which primarily involve managing liability risks associated with our indexed annuity products and reinsurance agreements. Derivatives are financial instruments whose values are derived from interest rates, foreign exchange rates, financial indices or other underlying notional amounts. Derivative assets and liabilities are carried at fair value on the consolidated balance sheets. We elect to present any derivatives subject to master netting provisions as a gross asset or liability and gross of collateral. Disclosures regarding balance sheet presentation of derivatives subject to master netting agreements are discussed in Note 3 – Derivative Instruments . We may designate derivatives as cash flow or fair value hedges. Hedge Documentation and Hedge Effectiveness – To qualify for hedge accounting, at the inception of the hedging relationship, we formally document our risk management objective and strategy for undertaking the hedging transaction, as well as our designation of the hedge as a cash flow or fair value hedge. In this documentation, we identify how the hedging instrument is expected to hedge the designated risks related to the hedged item, the method that will be used to retrospectively and prospectively assess the hedging instrument’s effectiveness and the method which will be used to measure ineffectiveness. A derivative designated as a hedging instrument must be assessed as being highly effective in offsetting the designated risk of the hedged item. Hedge effectiveness is formally assessed at inception and periodically throughout the life of the designated hedging relationship. For a cash flow hedge, changes in the fair value of the hedging derivative measured as effective are reported within AOCI, and the related gains or losses on the derivative are reclassified into the consolidated statements of income when the cash flows of the hedged item affect earnings. Any ineffectiveness is reported in investment related gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of income each reporting period as effectiveness is assessed. For a fair value hedge, changes in the fair value of the hedging derivative, including any amounts measured as ineffective, and changes in the fair value of the hedged item related to the designated risk being hedged, are reported on the consolidated statements of income according to the nature of the risk being hedged. We discontinue hedge accounting prospectively when: (1) we determine the derivative is no longer highly effective in offsetting changes in the estimated cash flows or fair value of a hedged item; (2) the derivative expires, is sold, terminated, or exercised; or (3) the derivative is de-designated as a hedging instrument. When hedge accounting is discontinued, the derivative continues to be carried on the consolidated balance sheets at fair value, with changes in fair value recognized in investment related gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of income. For a derivative not designated as a hedge, changes in the derivative’s fair value and any income received or paid on derivatives at the settlement date are included in investment related gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of income. Embedded Derivatives – We issue and reinsure products, primarily fixed indexed annuity products, or purchase investments that contain embedded derivatives. If we determine the embedded derivative has economic characteristics not clearly and closely related to the economic characteristics of the host contract, and a separate instrument with the same terms would qualify as a derivative instrument, the embedded derivative is bifurcated from the host contract and accounted for separately, unless the fair value option is elected on the host contract. Under the fair value option, bifurcation of the embedded derivative is not necessary as all related gains and losses on the host contract and derivative are included within investment related gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of income. Embedded derivatives are carried on the consolidated balance sheets at fair value in the same line item as the host contract. Fixed indexed annuity and indexed universal life insurance contracts allow the policyholder to elect a fixed interest rate return or an equity market component where interest credited is based on the performance of common stock market indices. The equity market option is an embedded derivative, similar to a call option. The benefit reserve is equal to the sum of the fair value of the embedded derivative and the host (or guaranteed) component of the contracts. The fair value of embedded derivatives is computed as the present value of benefits attributable to the excess of the projected policy contract values over the projected minimum guaranteed contract values. The projections of policy contract values are based on assumptions for future policy growth, which include assumptions for expected index credits on the next policy anniversary date, future equity option costs, volatility, interest rates and policyholder behavior. The projections of minimum guaranteed contract values include the same assumptions for policyholder behavior as were used to project policy contract values. For contracts we issue directly to policyholders, the embedded derivative cash flows are discounted using a rate that reflects our credit rating. For contracts assumed through funds withheld and modco reinsurance contracts, we do not use a credit spread as the funds are backed by the cedant’s collateral. The host contract is established at contract inception as the initial account value less the initial fair value of the embedded derivative and accreted over the policy’s life. The host contract accretion rate is updated each quarter so that the present value of actual and expected guaranteed cash flows is equal to the initial host value. Changes in the fair value of embedded derivatives associated with fixed indexed annuities and indexed universal life insurance contracts are included in interest sensitive contract benefits on the consolidated statements of income. Additionally, reinsurance agreements written on a funds withheld or modco basis contain embedded derivatives. The right to receive or obligation to pay the total return on the assets supporting the funds withheld at interest or funds withheld liability, respectively, represents a total return swap with a floating rate leg. The fair value of embedded derivatives on funds withheld and modco agreements is computed as the unrealized gain (loss) on the underlying assets and is included in the funds withheld at interest and funds withheld liability lines on the consolidated balance sheets for assumed and ceded agreements, respectively. The change in the fair value of the embedded derivatives is recorded in investment related gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of income. Assumed and ceded earnings from funds withheld at interest, funds withheld liability and changes in the fair value of embedded derivatives are reported in operating activities on the consolidated statements of cash flows. Contributions to and withdrawals from funds withheld at interest and funds withheld liability are reported in operating activities on the consolidated statements of cash flows. Variable Interest Entities —An entity that does not have sufficient equity to finance its activities without additional financial support, or in which the equity investors, as a group, do not have the characteristics typically afforded to common shareholders is a VIE. The determination as to whether an entity qualifies as a VIE depends on the facts and circumstances surrounding each entity and may require significant judgment. Our investment funds generally qualify as VIEs and are evaluated for consolidation under the VIE model. We are required to consolidate a VIE if we are the primary beneficiary, defined as the variable interest holder with both the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the VIE’s economic performance and rights to receive benefits or obligations to absorb losses that could be potentially significant to the VIE. We determine whether we are the primary beneficiary of an entity based on a qualitative assessment of the VIE’s capital structure, contractual terms, nature of the VIE’s operations and purpose and our relative exposure to the related risks of the VIE. Since affiliates of Apollo, a related party, are the decision makers in certain of the investment funds, we and a member of our related party group may together have the characteristics of the primary beneficiary of an investment fund. In this situation, we have concluded we are not under common control, as defined by GAAP, with the related party, and therefore consolidate in the circumstances when substantially all of the activities of the VIE are conducted on our behalf. We reassess the VIE and primary beneficiary determinations on an ongoing basis. If we are not the primary beneficiary, but are able to exert significant influence over the VIE’s operations, we record the VIE as an equity method investment. If we are not able to exercise significant influence, generally on investment funds in which we own a less than a 3% interest, we elect the fair value option. See Note 4 – Variable Interest Entities for discussion of our interest in entities that meet the definition of a VIE. Business Combinations and Goodwill —Business combination transactions are accounted for under the acquisition method. Accordingly, the purchase consideration is allocated to assets and liabilities based on their estimated fair value at the acquisition date. The consideration for the net assets acquired is determined prior to the assessment of the fair value of the net assets at the acquisition date. We have identified several intangible assets acquired in business combinations including VOBA, acquired distribution channels and state licenses. We value VOBA as described below under Deferred Acquisition Costs, Deferred Sales Inducements and Value of Business Acquired . We value distribution channels using the multi-period excess earnings method under the income approach and the state licenses using the market approach. Distribution channels and state licenses are included in other assets on the consolidated balance sheets. Goodwill represents the excess of purchase consideration over the acquisition date fair value of net assets acquired and is included in the other assets on the consolidated balance sheets. Goodwill is not amortized but reviewed for impairment annually or more frequently if events occur or circumstances change indicating potential impairment has occurred. If the acquisition date fair value of the net assets acquired exceeds the purchase consideration in a business combination, a bargain purchase gain is recorded on the consolidated statements of income. See Note 6 – Business Combinations for details of business combination transactions. Reinsurance —We assume and cede insurance and investment contracts under coinsurance, funds withheld and modco. We follow reinsurance accounting for transactions that provide indemnification against loss or liability relating to insurance risk (risk transfer). To meet risk transfer requirements, a reinsurance agreement must include insurance risk consisting of underwriting, investment, timing risk and any other significant risks. Cessions under reinsurance do not discharge our obligations as the primary insurer, unless the requirements of assumption reinsurance have been met. We generally have the right of offset on reinsurance contracts, but have elected to present reinsurance settlement amounts due to and from the Company on a gross basis. Assets and liabilities assumed or ceded under coinsurance, funds withheld, or modco are presented gross on the consolidated balance sheets. For investment contracts, the change in assumed and ceded reserves, deposits and withdrawals are presented net in interest sensitive contract benefits on the consolidated statements of income. For insurance contracts, the change in assumed and ceded reserves and benefits are presented net in future policy and other policy benefits on the consolidated statements of income. Assumed or ceded premiums are included in premiums on the consolidated statements of income. Accounting for reinsurance requires the use of assumptions, particularly related to the future performance of the underlying business and the potential impact of counterparty credit risks. We attempt to minimize our counterparty credit risk through the structuring of the terms of our reinsurance agreements, including the use of trusts, and we monitor credit ratings of counterparties for signs of declining credit quality. When a ceding company does not report information on a timely basis, we record accruals based on the best available information at the time, which includes the reinsura

Investments

Investments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Investments Schedule [Abstract]
Investments	2. Investments Available-for-sale Securities — The following table represents the cost or amortized cost, gross unrealized gains and losses, fair value and OTTI in AOCI of our AFS investments by asset type. Our AFS investment portfolio includes direct investments in affiliates of Apollo where Apollo can exercise significant influence over the affiliates. These investments are presented as investments in related parties on the consolidated balance sheets, and are separately disclosed below. December 31, 2017 (In millions) Cost or Amortized Cost Gross Unrealized Gains Gross Unrealized Losses Fair Value OTTI in AOCI Fixed maturity securities U.S. government and agencies $ 63 $ 1 $ (2 ) $ 62 $ — U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions 996 171 (2 ) 1,165 — Foreign governments 2,575 116 (8 ) 2,683 — Corporate 35,173 1,658 (171 ) 36,660 — CLO 5,039 53 (8 ) 5,084 — ABS 3,945 53 (27 ) 3,971 1 CMBS 1,994 48 (21 ) 2,021 1 RMBS 8,721 652 (7 ) 9,366 11 Total fixed maturity securities 58,506 2,752 (246 ) 61,012 13 Equity securities 271 7 (1 ) 277 — Total AFS securities 58,777 2,759 (247 ) 61,289 13 Fixed maturity securities – related party CLO 353 7 — 360 — ABS 46 — — 46 — Total fixed maturity securities – related party 399 7 — 406 — Total AFS securities including related party $ 59,176 $ 2,766 $ (247 ) $ 61,695 $ 13 December 31, 2016 (In millions) Cost or Amortized Cost Gross Unrealized Gains Gross Unrealized Losses Fair Value OTTI in AOCI Fixed maturity securities U.S. government and agencies $ 59 $ 1 $ — $ 60 $ — U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions 1,024 117 (1 ) 1,140 — Foreign governments 2,098 143 (6 ) 2,235 — Corporate 29,433 901 (314 ) 30,020 2 CLO 4,950 14 (142 ) 4,822 — ABS 2,980 25 (69 ) 2,936 — CMBS 1,835 38 (26 ) 1,847 — RMBS 8,731 313 (71 ) 8,973 15 Total fixed maturity securities 51,110 1,552 (629 ) 52,033 17 Equity securities 319 35 (1 ) 353 — Total AFS securities 51,429 1,587 (630 ) 52,386 17 Fixed maturity securities – related party CLO 284 1 (6 ) 279 — ABS 57 — (1 ) 56 — Total fixed maturity securities – related party 341 1 (7 ) 335 — Equity securities – related party 20 — — 20 — Total AFS securities – related party 361 1 (7 ) 355 — Total AFS securities including related party $ 51,790 $ 1,588 $ (637 ) $ 52,741 $ 17 The amortized cost and fair value of fixed maturity AFS securities, including related party, are shown by contractual maturity below: December 31, 2017 (In millions) Amortized Cost Fair Value Due in one year or less $ 972 $ 975 Due after one year through five years 8,543 8,699 Due after five years through ten years 11,224 11,548 Due after ten years 18,068 19,348 CLO, ABS, CMBS and RMBS 19,699 20,442 Total AFS fixed maturity securities 58,506 61,012 Fixed maturity securities – related party, CLO and ABS 399 406 Total AFS fixed maturity securities including related party $ 58,905 $ 61,418 Actual maturities can differ from contractual maturities as borrowers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties. Unrealized Losses on AFS Securities — The following summarizes the fair value and gross unrealized losses for AFS securities, including related party, aggregated by class of security and length of time the fair value has remained below cost or amortized cost: December 31, 2017 Less than 12 months 12 months or greater Total (In millions) Fair Value Gross Unrealized Losses Fair Value Gross Fair Value Gross Fixed maturity securities U.S. government and agencies $ 34 $ (1 ) $ 9 $ (1 ) $ 43 $ (2 ) U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions 50 (1 ) 39 (1 ) 89 (2 ) Foreign governments 435 (6 ) 76 (2 ) 511 (8 ) Corporate 3,992 (49 ) 2,457 (122 ) 6,449 (171 ) CLO 414 (2 ) 340 (6 ) 754 (8 ) ABS 515 (5 ) 549 (22 ) 1,064 (27 ) CMBS 460 (8 ) 179 (13 ) 639 (21 ) RMBS 506 (3 ) 210 (4 ) 716 (7 ) Total fixed maturity securities 6,406 (75 ) 3,859 (171 ) 10,265 (246 ) Equity securities 134 (1 ) — — 134 (1 ) Total AFS securities 6,540 (76 ) 3,859 (171 ) 10,399 (247 ) Fixed maturity securities – related party CLO 29 — — — 29 — ABS 42 — — — 42 — Total fixed maturity securities – related party 71 — — — 71 — Total AFS securities including related party $ 6,611 $ (76 ) $ 3,859 $ (171 ) $ 10,470 $ (247 ) December 31, 2016 Less than 12 months 12 months or greater Total (In millions) Fair Value Gross Unrealized Losses Fair Value Gross Unrealized Losses Fair Value Gross Unrealized Losses Fixed maturity securities U.S. government and agencies $ 1 $ — $ — $ — $ 1 $ — U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions 85 (1 ) 2 — 87 (1 ) Foreign governments 137 (5 ) 9 (1 ) 146 (6 ) Corporate 6,136 (228 ) 1,113 (86 ) 7,249 (314 ) CLO 388 (2 ) 3,102 (140 ) 3,490 (142 ) ABS 865 (17 ) 767 (52 ) 1,632 (69 ) CMBS 576 (18 ) 183 (8 ) 759 (26 ) RMBS 1,143 (19 ) 1,727 (52 ) 2,870 (71 ) Total fixed maturity securities 9,331 (290 ) 6,903 (339 ) 16,234 (629 ) Equity securities 179 (1 ) — — 179 (1 ) Total AFS securities 9,510 (291 ) 6,903 (339 ) 16,413 (630 ) Fixed maturity securities – related party CLO 68 — 100 (6 ) 168 (6 ) ABS — — 56 (1 ) 56 (1 ) Total fixed maturity securities – related party 68 — 156 (7 ) 224 (7 ) Equity securities – related party 14 — — — 14 — Total AFS securities – related party 82 — 156 (7 ) 238 (7 ) Total AFS securities including related party $ 9,592 $ (291 ) $ 7,059 $ (346 ) $ 16,651 $ (637 ) As of December 31, 2017 , we held 1,639 AFS securities that were in an unrealized loss position. Of this total, 591 were in an unrealized loss position longer than 12 months. As of December 31, 2017 , we held four related party AFS securities that were in an unrealized loss position less than 12 months. The unrealized losses on AFS securities can primarily be attributed to changes in market interest rates since acquisition. We did not recognize the unrealized losses in income as we intend to hold these securities and it is not more likely than not we will be required to sell a security before the recovery of its amortized cost. Other-Than-Temporary Impairments — For the year ended December 31, 2017 , we incurred $33 million of net OTTI, of which $5 million related to intent-to-sell impairments. These securities were impaired to fair value as of the impairment date. The remaining net OTTI of $28 million related to credit impairments, of which $11 million related to credit loss impairments that we impaired to fair value and did not bifurcate a portion of the impairment in AOCI. Any credit loss impairments not bifurcated in AOCI are excluded from the rollforward below. The following table represents a rollforward of the cumulative amounts recognized on the consolidated statements of income for OTTI related to pre-tax credit loss impairments on AFS fixed maturity securities, for which a portion of the securities’ total OTTI was recognized in AOCI: Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 2015 Beginning balance $ 16 $ 22 $ 8 Initial impairments – credit loss OTTI recognized on securities not previously impaired 17 8 19 Additional impairments – credit loss OTTI recognized on securities previously impaired — 3 1 Reduction in impairments from securities sold, matured or repaid (13 ) (9 ) (2 ) Reduction for credit loss that no longer has a portion of the OTTI loss recognized in AOCI (6 ) (8 ) (4 ) Ending balance $ 14 $ 16 $ 22 Net Investment Income —Net investment income by asset class consists of the following: Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 2015 AFS securities Fixed maturity securities $ 2,579 $ 2,293 $ 2,051 Equity securities 10 9 7 Trading securities 204 238 196 Mortgage loans, net of allowances 371 355 320 Investment funds 211 178 111 Funds withheld at interest 148 82 54 Other 78 62 44 Investment revenue 3,601 3,217 2,783 Investment expenses (332 ) (303 ) (273 ) Net investment income $ 3,269 $ 2,914 $ 2,510 Investment Related Gains (Losses) —Investment related gains (losses) by asset class consists of the following: Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 2015 AFS fixed maturity securities Gross realized gains on investment activity $ 169 $ 138 $ 150 Gross realized losses on investment activity (72 ) (54 ) (86 ) Net realized investment gains on fixed maturity securities 97 84 64 AFS equity securities Gross realized gains on investment activity 55 — — Gross realized losses on investment activity (1 ) — — Net realized investment gains on equity securities 54 — — Net realized investment gains (losses) on trading securities 63 (33 ) (228 ) Derivative gains (losses) 2,377 596 (277 ) Other gains (losses) (19 ) 5 11 Investment related gains (losses) $ 2,572 $ 652 $ (430 ) Proceeds from sales of AFS securities were $6,023 million , $4,662 million and $6,899 million for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively. The change in unrealized gains and losses on trading securities we still held as of the respective period end resulted in unrealized gains of $139 million and $38 million , and unrealized losses of $133 million during the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively, which are included in net realized investment gains (losses) on trading securities in the table above. The change in unrealized gains and losses on related party trading securities we still held as of the respective period end resulted in related party unrealized losses of $3 million , $10 million and $10 million during the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively, which are included in net realized investment gains (losses) on trading securities in the table above. Purchased Credit Impaired (PCI) Investments —The following table summarizes our PCI investments: December 31, 2017 2016 1 2017 2016 1 (In millions) Fixed maturity securities Mortgage loans Contractually required payments receivable $ 9,690 $ 8,912 $ 1,140 $ 303 Less: Cash flows expected to be collected 2 (8,188 ) (7,948 ) (1,090 ) (290 ) Non-accretable difference $ 1,502 $ 964 $ 50 $ 13 Cash flows expected to be collected 2 $ 8,188 $ 7,948 $ 1,090 $ 290 Less: Amortized cost (6,168 ) (5,868 ) (817 ) (220 ) Accretable difference $ 2,020 $ 2,080 $ 273 $ 70 Fair value $ 6,703 $ 6,049 $ 844 $ 221 Outstanding balance 8,026 7,275 946 249 1 Balances have been revised for immaterial misstatements to be comparable to current year balances. 2 Represents the undiscounted principal and interest cash flows expected. During the respective year, we acquired PCI investments with the following amounts at the time of purchase: December 31, 2017 2016 1 2017 2016 1 (In millions) Fixed maturity securities Mortgage loans Contractually required payments receivable $ 2,161 $ 2,407 $ 894 $ 304 Cash flows expected to be collected 1,790 2,053 857 290 Fair value 1,428 1,497 633 220 1 Balances have been revised for immaterial misstatements to be comparable to current year balances. The following table summarizes the activity for the accretable yield on PCI investments: 2017 2016 1 2017 2016 1 (In millions) Fixed maturity securities Mortgage loans Beginning balance at January 1 $ 2,080 $ 1,753 $ 70 $ — Purchases of PCI investments, net of sales 264 534 216 70 Accretion (400 ) (325 ) (24 ) — Net reclassification from (to) non-accretable difference 76 118 11 — Ending balance at December 31 $ 2,020 $ 2,080 $ 273 $ 70 1 Balances have been revised for immaterial misstatements to be comparable to current year balances. Mortgage Loans —Mortgage loans, net of allowances, consists of the following: December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 Commercial mortgage loans $ 5,223 $ 5,058 Commercial mortgage loans under development 24 74 Total commercial mortgage loans 5,247 5,132 Residential mortgage loans 986 338 Mortgage loans, net of allowances $ 6,233 $ 5,470 We primarily invest in commercial mortgage loans on income producing properties including hotels, industrial properties and retail and office buildings. We diversify the commercial mortgage loan portfolio by geographic region and property type to reduce concentration risk. We evaluate mortgage loans based on relevant current information to confirm if properties are performing at a consistent and acceptable level to secure the related debt. The distribution of commercial mortgage loans, including those under development, net of valuation allowances, by property type and geographic region, is as follows: December 31, 2017 2016 (In millions, except for percentages) Net Carrying Value Percentage of Total Net Carrying Value Percentage of Total Property type Office building $ 1,187 22.6 % $ 1,217 23.7 % Retail 1,223 23.3 % 1,135 22.1 % Hotels 928 17.7 % 1,025 20.0 % Industrial 944 18.0 % 742 14.5 % Apartment 525 10.0 % 616 12.0 % Other commercial 440 8.4 % 397 7.7 % Total commercial mortgage loans $ 5,247 100.0 % $ 5,132 100.0 % U.S. Region East North Central $ 643 12.3 % $ 450 8.8 % East South Central 144 2.7 % 158 3.1 % Middle Atlantic 909 17.3 % 628 12.2 % Mountain 492 9.4 % 543 10.6 % New England 162 3.1 % 194 3.8 % Pacific 991 18.9 % 833 16.2 % South Atlantic 873 16.6 % 1,284 25.0 % West North Central 233 4.4 % 306 6.0 % West South Central 655 12.5 % 662 12.9 % Total U.S. Region 5,102 97.2 % 5,058 98.6 % International Region 145 2.8 % 74 1.4 % Total commercial mortgage loans $ 5,247 100.0 % $ 5,132 100.0 % Our residential mortgage loan portfolio includes first lien residential mortgage loans collateralized by properties located in the U.S. As of December 31, 2017 , California , Florida and New York represented 34.3% , 15.6% and 6.0% , respectively, of the portfolio, and the remaining 44.1% represented all other states, with each individual state comprising less than 5% of the portfolio. As of December 31, 2016 , California , Florida and New York represented 38.9% , 9.1% and 5.1% , respectively, of the portfolio, and the remaining 46.9% represented all other states, with each individual state comprising less than 5% of the portfolio. Mortgage Loan Valuation Allowance — The assessment of mortgage loan impairments and valuation allowances is substantially the same for residential and commercial mortgage loans. The valuation allowance was $2 million as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 . We did not record any material activity in the valuation allowance during the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 or 2015 . Residential mortgage loans – The primary credit quality indicator of residential mortgage loans is loan performance. Nonperforming residential mortgage loans are 90 days or more past due and/or are in non-accrual status. As of December 31, 2017 , $28 million of our residential mortgage loans were non-performing . As of December 31, 2016 , all of our residential mortgage loans were performing. Commercial mortgage loans – The following provides the aging of our commercial mortgage loan portfolio, including those under development, net of valuation allowances: December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 Current (less than 30 days past due) $ 5,247 $ 5,111 Over 90 days past due — 21 Total commercial mortgage loans $ 5,247 $ 5,132 Loan-to-value and debt service coverage ratios are measures we use to assess the risk and quality of commercial mortgage loans other than those under development. Loans under development are not evaluated using these ratios as the properties underlying these loans are generally not yet income-producing and the value of the underlying property significantly fluctuates based on the progress of construction. Therefore, the risk and quality of loans under development are evaluated based on the aging and geographical distribution of such loans as shown above. The loan-to-value ratio is expressed as a percentage of the amount of the loan relative to the value of the underlying property. A loan-to-value ratio in excess of 100% indicates the unpaid loan amount exceeds the underlying collateral. The following represents the loan-to-value ratio of the commercial mortgage loan portfolio, excluding those under development, net of valuation allowances: December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 Less than 50% $ 1,841 $ 1,787 50% to 60% 1,390 1,337 61% to 70% 1,691 1,401 71% to 100% 301 492 Greater than 100% — 41 Commercial mortgage loans $ 5,223 $ 5,058 The debt service coverage ratio, based upon the most recent financial statements, is expressed as a percentage of a property’s net operating income to its debt service payments. A debt service ratio of less than 1.0 indicates a property’s operations do not generate enough income to cover debt payments. The following represents the debt service coverage ratio of the commercial mortgage loan portfolio, excluding those under development, net of valuation allowances: December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 Greater than 1.20x $ 4,742 $ 4,378 1.00x – 1.20x 297 353 Less than 1.00x 184 327 Commercial mortgage loans $ 5,223 $ 5,058 Investment Funds —Our investment fund portfolio consists of funds that employ various strategies and include investments in real estate and other real assets, credit , private equity, natural resources and hedge funds. Investment funds typically meet the definition of VIEs and are discussed further in Note 4 – Variable Interest Entities .

Derivative Instruments

Derivative Instruments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Derivative Instruments	3. Derivative Instruments We use a variety of derivative instruments to manage risks, primarily equity, interest rate, credit, foreign currency and market volatility. See Note 1 – Business, Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies for a description of our accounting policies for derivatives and Note 5 – Fair Value for information about the fair value hierarchy for derivatives. The following table presents the notional amount and fair value of derivative instruments: December 31, 2017 2016 Notional Amount Fair Value Notional Amount Fair Value (In millions) Assets Liabilities Assets Liabilities Derivatives designated as hedges Foreign currency swaps 928 $ 1 $ 99 289 $ 11 $ 4 Interest rate swaps 302 — — 302 — 14 Total derivatives designated as hedges 1 99 11 18 Derivatives not designated as hedges Equity options 31,460 2,500 19 26,822 1,336 — Futures 1,134 7 — — 9 — Total return swaps 114 5 — 41 2 — Foreign currency swaps 41 21 3 43 5 — Interest rate swaps 385 — 2 568 1 5 Credit default swaps 10 — 5 10 — 7 Foreign currency forwards 1,139 17 6 805 6 10 Embedded derivatives Funds withheld — 312 22 — 140 6 Interest sensitive contract liabilities — — 7,436 — — 5,283 Total derivatives not designated as hedges 2,862 7,493 1,499 5,311 Total derivatives $ 2,863 $ 7,592 $ 1,510 $ 5,329 Derivatives Designated as Hedges Foreign currency swaps – We use foreign currency swaps to convert foreign currency denominated cash flows of an investment to U.S. dollars to reduce cash flow fluctuations due to changes in currency exchange rates. Certain of these swaps are designated and accounted for as cash flow hedges, which will expire by December 2045 . During the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , we had foreign currency swap losses of $105 million and $5 million and gains of $9 million , respectively, recorded in AOCI. There were no amounts reclassified to income and no amounts deemed ineffective for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 or 2015 . As of December 31, 2017 , no amounts are expected to be reclassified to income within the next 12 months. Interest rate swaps – We use interest rate swaps to reduce market risks from interest rate changes and to alter interest rate exposure arising from duration mismatches between assets and liabilities. Certain of these swaps entered into during the fourth quarter of 2016 are designated as fair value hedges. With an interest rate swap, we agree with another party to exchange the difference between fixed-rate and floating-rate interest amounts tied to an agreed-upon notional principal amount at specified intervals. The following table represents the gains and losses on derivatives and the related hedged items in fair value hedge relationships, recorded in interest sensitive contract benefits on the consolidated statements of income: Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 Gains (losses) recognized on derivative $ 2 $ (14 ) Gains (losses) recognized on hedged item (2 ) 14 Ineffectiveness recognized on fair value hedges $ — $ — Derivatives Not Designated as Hedges Equity options – We use equity indexed options to economically hedge fixed indexed annuity products that guarantee the return of principal to the policyholder and credit interest based on a percentage of the gain in a specified market index, primarily the S&P 500. To hedge against adverse changes in equity indices, we enter into contracts to buy equity indexed options. The contracts are net settled in cash based on differentials in the indices at the time of exercise and the strike price. Futures – Futures contracts are purchased to hedge the growth in interest credited to the customer as a direct result of increases in the related indices. We enter into exchange-traded futures with regulated futures commission clearing brokers who are members of a trading exchange. Under exchange-traded futures contracts, we agree to purchase a specified number of contracts with other parties and to post variation margin on a daily basis in an amount equal to the difference in the daily fair values of those contracts. Total return swaps – We purchase total rate of return swaps to gain exposure and benefit from a reference asset or index without ownership. Total rate of return swaps are contracts in which one party makes payments based on a set rate, either fixed or variable, while the other party makes payments based on the return of the underlying asset or index, which includes both the income it generates and any capital gains. Credit default swaps – Credit default swaps provide a measure of protection against the default of an issuer or allow us to gain credit exposure to an issuer or traded index. We use credit default swaps coupled with a bond to synthetically create the characteristics of a reference bond. These transactions have a lower cost and are generally more liquid relative to the cash market. We receive a periodic premium for these transactions as compensation for accepting credit risk. Hedging credit risk involves buying protection for existing credit risk. The exposure resulting from the agreements, which is usually the notional amount, is equal to the maximum proceeds that must be paid by a counterparty for a defaulted security. If a credit event occurs on a reference entity, then a counterparty who sold protection is required to pay the buyer the trade notional amount less any recovery value of the security. Foreign currency forwards – We use foreign currency forward contracts to hedge certain exposures to foreign currency risk. The price is agreed upon at the time of the contract and payment is made at a specified future date. Embedded derivatives – We have embedded derivatives which are required to be separated from their host contracts and reported as derivatives. Host contracts include reinsurance agreements structured on a modco or funds withheld basis and indexed annuity products. The following is a summary of the gains (losses) related to derivatives not designated as hedges: Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 2015 Equity options $ 1,939 $ 325 $ (372 ) Futures (24 ) (19 ) (3 ) Swaps 27 18 8 Foreign currency forwards 28 (2 ) 21 Embedded derivatives on funds withheld 407 274 69 Amounts recognized in investment related gains (losses) 2,377 596 (277 ) Embedded derivatives in indexed annuity products 1 (1,758 ) (324 ) 171 Total gains (losses) for derivatives not designated as hedges $ 619 $ 272 $ (106 ) 1 Included in interest sensitive contract benefits. Credit Risk —We may be exposed to credit-related losses in the event of counterparty nonperformance on derivative financial instruments. Generally, the current credit exposure of our derivative contracts is the fair value at the reporting date less any collateral received from the counterparty. We manage credit risk related to over-the-counter derivatives by entering into transactions with creditworthy counterparties. Where possible, we maintain collateral arrangements and use master netting agreements that provide for a single net payment from one counterparty to another at each due date and upon termination. We have also established counterparty exposure limits, where possible, in order to evaluate if there is sufficient collateral to support the net exposure. Collateral arrangements typically require the posting of collateral in connection with its derivative instruments. Collateral agreements often contain posting thresholds, some of which may vary depending on the posting party’s financial strength ratings. Additionally, a decrease in our financial strength rating to a specified level can result in settlement of the derivative position. The estimated fair value of our net derivative and other financial assets and liabilities after the application of master netting agreements and collateral were as follows: Gross amounts not offset on the consolidated balance sheets (In millions) Gross amount recognized 1 Financial instruments 2 Collateral received/pledged Net amount Off-balance sheet securities collateral 3 Net amount after securities collateral December 31, 2017 Derivative assets $ 2,551 $ (59 ) $ (2,323 ) $ 169 $ (221 ) $ (52 ) Derivative liabilities (134 ) 59 63 (12 ) — (12 ) December 31, 2016 Derivative assets $ 1,370 $ (8 ) $ (1,383 ) $ (21 ) $ (26 ) $ (47 ) Derivative liabilities (40 ) 8 25 (7 ) — (7 ) 1 The gross amounts of recognized derivative assets and derivative liabilities are reported on the consolidated balance sheets. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016, amounts not subject to master netting or similar agreements were immaterial. 2 Represents amounts offsetting derivative assets and derivative liabilities that are subject to an enforceable master netting agreement or similar agreement that are not netted against the gross derivative assets or gross derivative liabilities for presentation on the consolidated balance sheets. 3 For non-cash collateral received, we do not recognize the collateral on our balance sheet unless the obligor (transferor) has defaulted under the terms of the secured contract and is no longer entitled to redeem the pledged asset. Amounts do not include any excess of collateral pledged or received. Certain derivative instruments contain provisions for credit-related events, such as downgrades in our credit ratings or for a negative credit event of a credit default swap’s reference entity. If a credit event were to occur, we may be required to settle an outstanding liability. The following is a summary of our exposure to credit-related events: December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 Fair value of derivative liabilities with credit related provisions $ 5 $ 7 Maximum exposure for credit default swaps 10 10 As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , no additional collateral would be required if a default or termination event were to occur.

Variable Interest Entities

Variable Interest Entities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Variable Interest Entities	4. Variable Interest Entities Our investment funds typically meet the definition of a VIE, and in certain cases these investment funds are consolidated in our financial statements because we meet the criteria of the primary beneficiary. Consolidated VIEs —We consolidate AAA Investments (Co-Invest VI), L.P. (CoInvest VI), AAA Investments (Co-Invest VII), L.P. (CoInvest VII), AAA Investments (Other), L.P. (CoInvest Other), London Prime Apartments Guernsey Holdings Limited (London Prime), NCL Athene, LLC (NCL LLC) and Apollo Asia Sprint Co-Investment Fund, L.P. (Sprint), which are investment funds. We are the only limited partner or Class A member in these investment funds and receive all of the economic benefits and losses, other than management fees and carried interest, as applicable, paid to the general partner in each entity, or a related entity, which are related parties. We do not have any voting rights as limited partner and, as the limited partner or Class A member, do not solely satisfy the power criteria to direct the activities that significantly impact the economics of the VIE. However, the criteria for the primary beneficiary are satisfied by our related party group and, because substantially all of the activities are conducted on our behalf, we consolidate the investment funds. No arrangement exists requiring us to provide additional funding in excess of our committed capital investment, liquidity, or the funding of losses or an increase to our loss exposure in excess of our investment in the VIEs. We elected the fair value option for certain fixed maturity and equity securities, and investment funds, which are reported in the consolidated variable interest entity sections on the consolidated balance sheets. CoInvest VI, CoInvest VII and CoInvest Other were formed to make investments, including co-investments alongside private equity funds sponsored by Apollo. We received our interests in CoInvest VI, CoInvest VII and CoInvest Other as part of a contribution agreement in 2012 with AAA Guarantor – Athene, L.P. and its subsidiary, Apollo Life Re Ltd., in order to provide a capital base to support future acquisitions. London Prime was formed for the purpose of investing in Prime London Ventures Limited, a Guernsey limited company, which purchases rental residential assets across prime central London. CoInvest VII holds a significant investment in MidCap FinCo Limited (MidCap), which is included in investment funds of consolidated VIEs on the consolidated balance sheets. We have purchased pools of loans sourced by MidCap and contemporaneously sold subordinated participation interests in the loans to a subsidiary of MidCap. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , we had $14 million due to MidCap under the subordinated participation agreement, which is reflected as a secured borrowing in other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets. During the third quarter of 2016, CoInvest VI contributed its largest investment, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NCLH) shares, to a newly formed entity, NCL LLC, in exchange for 100% of the membership interests in this entity. Subsequent to this contribution, CoInvest VI distributed its Class A membership interests in NCL LLC to us and the Class B membership interests in NCL LLC to the general partner of CoInvest VI. NCL LLC is subject to the same management fees, selling restrictions with respect to shares of NCLH, and carried interest calculation as CoInvest VI. NCL LLC classifies its NCLH shares as AFS equity securities. We are the primary beneficiary and consolidate NCL LLC, as substantially all of its activities are conducted on our behalf. During the first quarter of 2017, we acquired a 100% limited partnership interest in Sprint, an entity formed to make a co-investment alongside private equity funds sponsored by Apollo. The underlying investment is a structured credit facility on a nearly completed skyscraper in Southeast Asia. We are the primary beneficiary and consolidate Sprint, as substantially all of its activities are conducted on our behalf. We previously consolidated 2012 CMBS-I Fund L.P., a Delaware limited partnership, and 2012 CMBS-II Fund L.P., a Delaware limited partnership (collectively, CMBS Funds). The CMBS Funds were originally formed with the objective of generating high risk-adjusted investment returns by investing primarily in a portfolio of eligible CMBS and using leverage through repurchase agreements treated as collateralized financing. During the third quarter of 2016, the CMBS Funds each sold investments to fully settle the borrowings under their respective repurchase agreements of $500 million . The remaining investments of $167 million were distributed directly to us. During the fourth quarter of 2016, the CMBS Funds were fully dissolved. Trading securities – related party – Trading securities represents investments in fixed maturity and equity securities with changes in fair value recognized in investment related gains (losses) within revenues of consolidated variable interest entities on the consolidated statements of income. The change in unrealized gains and losses on trading securities we still held as of the respective period end resulted in unrealized gains of $29 million and unrealized losses of $78 million and $33 million for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively. Trading securities held by CoInvest VI, CoInvest VII and CoInvest Other are related party investments because Apollo affiliates exercise significant influence over the operations of these investees. Investment funds – including related party – Investment funds include non-fixed income, alternative investments in the form of limited partnerships or similar legal structures that meet the definition of VIEs; however, our consolidated VIEs are not considered the primary beneficiary of these investment funds. Changes in fair value for certain of these investment funds are included in investment related gains (losses) within revenues of consolidated variable interest entities on the consolidated statements of income. Investment funds held by CoInvest VII, CoInvest Other and Sprint are related party investments as they are sponsored or managed by Apollo affiliates. Fair Value —See Note 5 – Fair Value for a description of the levels of our fair value hierarchy and our process for determining the level we assign our assets and liabilities carried at fair value. The following represents the hierarchy for assets and liabilities of our consolidated VIEs measured at fair value on a recurring basis: December 31, 2017 (In millions) Total NAV 1 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Assets of consolidated variable interest entities Investments AFS securities Equity securities $ 142 $ — $ 142 $ — $ — Trading securities Fixed maturity securities 48 — — — 48 Equity securities 98 — 70 — 28 Investment funds 549 528 — — 21 Cash and cash equivalents 4 — 4 — — Total assets of consolidated VIEs measured at fair value $ 841 $ 528 $ 216 $ — $ 97 1 Investments measured at NAV as a practical expedient in determining fair value have not been classified in the fair value hierarchy. December 31, 2016 (In millions) Total NAV 1 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Assets of consolidated variable interest entities Investments AFS securities Equity securities $ 161 $ — $ 161 $ — $ — Trading securities Fixed maturity securities 50 — — — 50 Equity securities 117 — 74 — 43 Investment funds 562 524 — — 38 Cash and cash equivalents 14 — 14 — — Total assets of consolidated VIEs measured at fair value $ 904 $ 524 $ 249 $ — $ 131 1 Investments measured at NAV as a practical expedient in determining fair value have not been classified in the fair value hierarchy. Fair Value Valuation Methods – See Note 5 – Fair Value for the valuation methods used to determine the fair value of AFS securities, trading securities, investment funds and cash and cash equivalents. Level 3 Financial Instruments – The following is a reconciliation for all VIE Level 3 assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis: Year ended December 31, 2017 (In millions) Beginning Balance Total realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in income Purchases Sales Transfers in (out) Ending Balance Total gains (losses) included in earnings 1 Assets of consolidated variable interest entities Trading securities Fixed maturity securities $ 50 $ 1 $ — $ (3 ) $ — $ 48 $ 1 Equity securities 43 (16 ) 1 — — 28 (16 ) Investment funds 38 1 1 (19 ) — 21 1 Total Level 3 assets of consolidated VIEs $ 131 $ (14 ) $ 2 $ (22 ) $ — $ 97 $ (14 ) 1 Related to instruments held at end of period. Year ended December 31, 2016 (In millions) Beginning Balance Total realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in income Purchases Sales Transfers in (out) Ending Balance Total gains (losses) included in earnings 1 Assets of consolidated variable interest entities Trading securities Fixed maturity securities $ 53 $ (1 ) $ — $ (2 ) $ — $ 50 $ (1 ) Equity securities 38 3 2 — — 43 3 Investment funds 2 34 7 17 (20 ) — 38 — Total Level 3 assets of consolidated VIEs $ 125 $ 9 $ 19 $ (22 ) $ — $ 131 $ 2 1 Related to instruments held at end of period. 2 Prior period balances have been revised for immaterial misstatements to be comparable to current year balances. There were no transfers between Level 1 or Level 2 during the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 . Significant Unobservable Inputs – For certain Level 3 trading securities and investment funds, the valuations have significant unobservable inputs, which may include, but are not limited to, comparable multiples and weighted average cost of capital rates applied in the valuation models. These inputs in isolation can cause significant increases or decreases in fair value. For example, the comparable multiples may be multiplied by the underlying investment’s earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization or by some other applicable financial metric to establish the total enterprise value of the underlying investments. A comparable multiple consistent with the implied trading multiple of public industry peers or relevant recent private transactions are used when available. For other Level 3 trading securities, valuations are performed using a discounted cash flow model. For a discounted cash flow model, the significant input is the discount rate applied to present value the projected cash flows. An increase in the discount rate can significantly lower the fair value; a decrease in the discount rate can significantly increase the fair value. The discount rate may be determined by considering the weighted average cost of capital calculation of companies in similar industries with comparable debt to equity ratios. Fair Value Option – The following represents the gains (losses) recorded for instruments within the consolidated VIEs for which we have elected the fair value option: Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 2015 Trading securities Fixed maturity securities $ 1 $ (1 ) $ (5 ) Equity securities 9 (78 ) (4 ) Investment funds 5 49 12 Total gains (losses) $ 15 $ (30 ) $ 3 Fair Value of Financial Instruments Not Held at Fair Value – Assets of consolidated variable interest entities includes $22 million and $11 million of investment funds accounted for under the equity method and not carried at fair value as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , respectively; however, the carrying amount approximates fair value. Commitments and Contingencies – Assets of CoInvest VI included equity investments in publicly traded shares of Caesars Entertainment Corporation (CEC) and Caesars Acquisition Company (CAC). We received the CEC and CAC shares as part of a contribution agreement in 2012 with AAA Guarantor – Athene, L.P. and its subsidiary, Apollo Life Re Ltd., in order to provide a capital base to support future acquisitions. Claims had been pending (which now have been dismissed with prejudice) against CEC, CAC and/or others, related to certain guaranties issued for debt of Caesars Entertainment Operating Company, Inc. (CEOC) and/or certain transactions involving CEOC and certain of its subsidiaries (collectively, Debtors), CEC, CAC and others. CEC and the Debtors announced on or about September 26, 2016 that CEC and CEOC had received confirmations from representatives of CEOC’s major creditor groups of those groups’ support for a term sheet that describes the key economic terms of a proposed consensual chapter 11 plan for the Debtors. The plan, containing such terms and further including such other terms respecting, among other things, the merger of CAC into CEC, that CoInvest VI and others will not retain their pre-merger CEC shares, that CoInvest VI and others will retain the value of their CAC shares when receiving shares in the merged CEC, and that CoInvest VI and others will receive releases to the fullest extent permitted by law, was confirmed by the Bankruptcy Court by order dated January 17, 2017. Conditions precedent to the effective date of the plan included regulatory approvals from the various gaming regulators, CEC and CAC shareholders’ approval of the proposed merger between CEC and CAC with CEC being the surviving entity, and securing required financings. All of the conditions precedent to the effective date of the plan were fulfilled, and the plan became effective on October 6, 2017. On or about October 6, 2017, CoInvest VI resolved its liability of $42 million with its pre-merger CEC shares and received 5,465,733 shares in the post-merger CEC, derived from the value of CoInvest VI’s investment in CAC. Non-Consolidated Securities and Investment Funds Fixed Maturity Securities – We invest in securitization entities as a debt holder or an investor in the residual interest of the securitization vehicle, which are included in fixed maturity securities on the consolidated balance sheets. These entities are deemed VIEs due to insufficient equity within the structure and lack of control by the equity investors over the activities that significantly impact the economics of the entity. In general, we are a debt investor within these entities and, as such, hold a variable interest; however, due to the debt holders’ lack of ability to control the decisions within the trust that significantly impact the entity, and the fact the debt holders are protected from losses due to the subordination by the equity tranche, the debt holders are not deemed the primary beneficiary. Securitization vehicles in which we hold the residual tranche are not consolidated because we do not unilaterally have substantive rights to remove the general partner, or when assessing related party interests, we are not under common control, as defined by GAAP, with the related party, nor are substantially all of the activities conducted on our behalf; therefore, we are not deemed the primary beneficiary. Debt investments and investments in the residual tranche of securitization entities are considered debt instruments and are held at fair value on the balance sheet and classified as AFS or trading. Investment funds – Investment funds include non-fixed income, alternative investments in the form of limited partnerships or similar legal structures. Our risk of loss associated with our non-consolidated investments is limited and depends on the investment, including any unfunded commitments, as follows: (1) investment funds accounted for under the equity method are limited to our initial investment; (2) investment funds under the fair value option are limited to the fair value; (3) AFS securities and other investments are limited to cost or amortized cost; and (4) trading securities are limited to carrying value. The following summarizes the carrying value and maximum loss exposure of these non-consolidated investments: December 31, 2017 2016 (In millions) Carrying Value Maximum Loss Exposure Carrying Value Maximum Loss Exposure Investment funds $ 699 $ 1,036 $ 689 $ 1,026 Investment in related parties – investment funds 1,310 2,598 1,198 1,485 Assets of consolidated variable interest entities – investment funds 571 594 573 593 Investment in fixed maturity securities 21,022 20,278 19,171 19,090 Investment in related parties – fixed maturity securities 713 792 530 536 Total non-consolidated investments $ 24,315 $ 25,298 $ 22,161 $ 22,730 The following summarizes our investment funds, including related party investment funds and investment funds owned by consolidated VIEs: December 31, 2017 2016 (In millions, except for percentages and years) Carrying value Percent of total Remaining life in years Carrying value Percent of total Remaining life in years Investment funds Private equity $ 271 38.8 % 0 – 7 $ 268 38.9 % 0 – 7 Real estate and other real assets 161 23.0 % 1 – 7 118 17.2 % 0 – 4 Natural resources 4 0.6 % 1 – 1 5 0.7 % 1 – 2 Hedge funds 61 8.7 % 0 – 3 72 10.4 % 0 – 3 Credit funds 202 28.9 % 0 – 5 226 32.8 % 0 – 5 Total investment funds 699 100.0 % 689 100.0 % Investment funds – related parties Private equity – A-A Mortgage 1 403 30.8 % 5 – 5 343 28.6 % 3 – 3 Private equity – other 180 13.7 % 0 – 10 131 11.0 % 0 – 10 Real estate and other real assets 297 22.7 % 0 – 7 247 20.6 % 1 – 4 Natural resources 74 5.6 % 4 – 6 49 4.1 % 5 – 5 Hedge funds 93 7.1 % 9 – 9 192 16.0 % 9 – 9 Credit funds 263 20.1 % 2 – 4 236 19.7 % 2 – 3 Total investment funds – related parties 1,310 100.0 % 1,198 100.0 % Investment funds owned by consolidated VIEs Private equity – MidCap 2 528 92.5 % N/A 524 91.4 % N/A Credit funds 21 3.7 % 0 – 3 38 6.7 % 0 – 3 Real estate and other real assets 22 3.8 % 2 – 3 11 1.9 % 2 – 3 Total investment funds owned by consolidated VIEs 571 100.0 % 573 100.0 % Total investment funds including related parties and funds owned by consolidated VIEs $ 2,580 $ 2,460 1 A-A Mortgage Opportunities, LP (A-A Mortgage) is a platform to originate residential mortgage loans and mortgage servicing rights. 2 Our total investment in MidCap, including amounts advanced under credit facilities, totaled $766 million and $761 million as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively, which was less than 10% of total AHL shareholder’s equity at December 31, 2017, but greater than 10% at December 31, 2016. Summarized Ownership of Investment Funds —The following is the aggregated summarized financial information of equity method investees, including those for which we elected the fair value option and would otherwise be accounted for as an equity method investment, and may be presented on a lag due to the availability of financial information from the investee: December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 1 Assets $ 19,729 $ 21,033 Liabilities 6,566 7,340 Equity 13,163 13,693 1 Balances have been revised for immaterial misstatements to be comparable to current year balances to exclude the effects of those fair value option entities that would not otherwise receive equity method accounting. Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 1 2015 1 Net income $ 1,475 $ 694 $ 1,050 1 Balances have been revised for immaterial misstatements to be comparable to current year balances to exclude the effects of those fair value option entities that would not otherwise receive equity method accounting. The following table presents the carrying value by ownership percentage of equity method investment funds, including related party investment funds and investment funds owned by consolidated VIEs: December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 Ownership Percentage 100% $ 35 $ 27 50% – 99% 520 478 3% – 49% 1,301 1,294 Equity method investment funds $ 1,856 $ 1,799 The following table presents the carrying value by ownership percentage of investment funds where we elected the fair value option, including related party investment funds and investment funds owned by consolidated VIEs: December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 Ownership Percentage 3% – 49% $ 590 $ 562 Less than 3% 134 99 Fair value option investment funds $ 724 $ 661

Fair Value

Fair Value	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value	5. Fair Value Fair value is the price we would receive to sell an asset or pay to transfer a liability (exit price) in an orderly transaction between market participants. We determine fair value based on the following fair value hierarchy: Level 1 – Unadjusted quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in an active market. Level 2 – Quoted prices for inactive markets or valuation techniques that require observable direct or indirect inputs for substantially the full term of the asset or liability. Level 2 inputs include the following: • Quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, • Observable inputs other than quoted market prices, and • Observable inputs derived principally from market data through correlation or other means. Level 3 – Prices or valuation techniques with unobservable inputs significant to the overall fair value estimate. These valuations use critical assumptions not readily available to market participants. Level 3 valuations are based on market standard valuation methodologies, including discounted cash flows, matrix pricing or other similar techniques. The fair value hierarchy gives the highest priority to quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3). If the inputs used to measure fair value fall within different levels of the hierarchy, the category level is based on the lowest priority level input that is significant to the instrument’s fair value measurement. We use a number of valuation sources to determine fair values. Valuation sources can include quoted market prices; third-party commercial pricing services; third-party brokers; industry-standard, vendor modeling software that uses market observable inputs; and other internal modeling techniques based on projected cash flows. We periodically review the assumptions and inputs of third-party commercial pricing services through internal valuation price variance reviews, comparisons to internal pricing models, back testing to recent trades, or monitoring trading volumes. The following represents the hierarchy for our assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis: December 31, 2017 (In millions) Total NAV 1 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Assets AFS securities Fixed maturity securities U.S. government and agencies $ 62 $ — $ 26 $ 36 $ — U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions 1,165 — — 1,165 — Foreign governments 2,683 — — 2,683 — Corporate 36,660 — — 36,082 578 CLO 5,084 — — 5,020 64 ABS 3,971 — — 2,510 1,461 CMBS 2,021 — — 1,884 137 RMBS 9,366 — — 9,065 301 Total AFS fixed maturity securities 61,012 — 26 58,445 2,541 Equity securities 277 — 18 251 8 Total AFS securities 61,289 — 44 58,696 2,549 Trading securities Fixed maturity securities U.S. government and agencies 3 — 3 — — U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions 138 — — 121 17 Corporate 1,475 — — 1,475 — CLO 27 — — 10 17 ABS 94 — — 17 77 CMBS 51 — — 51 — RMBS 408 — — 66 342 Total trading fixed maturity securities 2,196 — 3 1,740 453 Equity securities 513 — — 513 — Total trading securities 2,709 — 3 2,253 453 Mortgage loans 41 — — — 41 Investment funds 145 104 — — 41 Funds withheld at interest – embedded derivative 312 — — — 312 Derivative assets 2,551 — 7 2,544 — Short-term investments 201 — 40 161 — Cash and cash equivalents 4,888 — 4,888 — — Restricted cash 105 — 105 — — Investments in related parties AFS, fixed maturity securities CLO 360 — — 360 — ABS 46 — — 46 — Total AFS securities – related party 406 — — 406 — Trading securities CLO 132 — — 27 105 ABS 175 — — 175 — Total trading securities – related party 307 — — 202 105 Investment funds 30 30 — — — Short-term investments 52 — — 52 — Reinsurance recoverable 1,824 — — — 1,824 Total assets measured at fair value $ 74,860 $ 134 $ 5,087 $ 64,314 $ 5,325 (Continued) December 31, 2017 (In millions) Total NAV 1 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Liabilities Interest sensitive contract liabilities Embedded derivative $ 7,436 $ — $ — $ — $ 7,436 Universal life benefits 1,005 — — — 1,005 Unit-linked contracts 488 — — 488 — Future policy benefits AmerUs Closed Block 1,625 — — — 1,625 ILICO Closed Block and life benefits 803 — — — 803 Derivative liabilities 134 — — 129 5 Funds withheld liability – embedded derivative 22 — — 22 — Total liabilities measured at fair value $ 11,513 $ — $ — $ 639 $ 10,874 1 Investments measured at NAV as a practical expedient in determining fair value have not been classified in the fair value hierarchy. (Concluded) December 31, 2016 (In millions) Total NAV 1 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Assets AFS securities Fixed maturity securities U.S. government and agencies $ 60 $ — $ 29 $ 31 $ — U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions 1,140 — — 1,135 5 Foreign governments 2,235 — — 2,221 14 Corporate 30,020 — — 29,650 370 CLO 4,822 — — 4,664 158 ABS 2,936 — — 1,776 1,160 CMBS 1,847 — — 1,695 152 RMBS 8,973 — — 8,956 17 Total AFS fixed maturity securities 52,033 — 29 50,128 1,876 Equity securities 353 — 79 269 5 Total AFS securities 52,386 — 108 50,397 1,881 Trading securities Fixed maturity securities U.S. government and agencies 3 — 3 — — U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions 137 — — 120 17 Corporate 1,423 — — 1,423 — CLO 43 — — — 43 ABS 82 — — 82 — CMBS 81 — — 81 — RMBS 387 — — 291 96 Total trading fixed maturity securities 2,156 — 3 1,997 156 Equity securities 425 — — 425 — Total trading securities 2,581 — 3 2,422 156 (Continued) December 31, 2016 (In millions) Total NAV 1 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Mortgage loans 44 — — — 44 Investment funds 99 99 — — — Funds withheld at interest – embedded derivative 140 — — — 140 Derivative assets 1,370 — 9 1,361 — Short-term investments 189 — 19 170 — Cash and cash equivalents 2,445 — 2,445 — — Restricted cash 57 — 57 — — Investments in related parties AFS, fixed maturity securities CLO 279 — — 279 — ABS 56 — — — 56 Total AFS fixed maturity securities 335 — — 279 56 AFS, equity securities 20 — 20 — — Total AFS securities – related party 355 — 20 279 56 Trading securities, CLO 195 — — — 195 Reinsurance recoverable 1,692 — — — 1,692 Total assets measured at fair value $ 61,553 $ 99 $ 2,661 $ 54,629 $ 4,164 Liabilities Interest sensitive contract liabilities Embedded derivative $ 5,283 $ — $ — $ — $ 5,283 Universal life benefits 883 — — — 883 Unit-linked contracts 408 — — 408 — Future policy benefits AmerUs Closed Block 1,606 — — — 1,606 ILICO Closed Block and life benefits 794 — — — 794 Derivative liabilities 40 — — 33 7 Funds withheld liability – embedded derivative 6 — — 6 — Total liabilities measured at fair value $ 9,020 $ — $ — $ 447 $ 8,573 1 Investments measured at NAV as a practical expedient in determining fair value have not been classified in the fair value hierarchy. (Concluded) See Note 4 – Variable Interest Entities for fair value disclosures associated with consolidated VIEs. Fair Value Valuation Methods —We used the following valuation methods and assumptions to estimate fair value: AFS and trading securities Fixed maturity – We obtain the fair value for most marketable securities without an active market from several commercial pricing services. These are classified as Level 2 assets. The pricing services incorporate a variety of market observable information in their valuation techniques, including benchmark yields, trading activity, credit quality, issuer spreads, bids, offers and other reference data. This category typically includes U.S. and non-U.S. corporate bonds, U.S. agency and government guaranteed securities, ABS, CMBS and RMBS. We value privately placed fixed maturity securities based on the credit quality and duration of comparable marketable securities, which may be securities of another issuer with similar characteristics. In some instances, we use a matrix-based pricing model. These models consider the current level of risk-free interest rates, corporate spreads, credit quality of the issuer and cash flow characteristics of the security. We also consider additional factors such as net worth of the borrower, value of collateral, capital structure of the borrower, presence of guarantees and our evaluation of the borrower’s ability to compete in its relevant market. Privately placed fixed maturity securities are classified as Level 2 or 3. Equity securities – Fair values of publicly traded equity securities are based on quoted market prices and classified as Level 1. Other equity securities, typically private equities or equity securities not traded on an exchange, we value based on other sources, such as commercial pricing services or brokers and are classified as Level 2 or 3. Mortgage loans – Mortgage loans for which we have elected the fair value option or those held for sale are carried at fair value. We estimate fair value on a monthly basis using discounted cash flow analysis and rates being offered for similar loans to borrowers with similar credit ratings. Loans with similar characteristics are aggregated for purposes of the calculations. The discounted cash flow model uses unobservable inputs, including estimates of discount rates and loan prepayments. Mortgage loans are classified as Level 3. Funds withheld (embedded derivative) – We estimate the fair value of the embedded derivative based on the change in the fair value of the assets supporting the funds withheld payable under the combined coinsurance, modco and coinsurance funds withheld reinsurance agreements. As a result, the fair value of the embedded derivative is classified as Level 2 or 3 based on the valuation methods used for the assets held in trust supporting the reinsurance agreements. Derivatives – Derivative contracts can be exchange traded or over-the-counter. Exchange-traded derivatives typically fall within Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy depending on trading activity. Over-the-counter derivatives are valued using valuation models or an income approach using third-party broker valuations. Valuation models require a variety of inputs, including contractual terms, market prices, yield curves, credit curves, measures of volatility, prepayment rates and correlation of the inputs. We consider and incorporate counterparty credit risk in the valuation process through counterparty credit rating requirements and monitoring of overall exposure. We also evaluate and include our own nonperformance risk in valuing derivatives. The majority of our derivatives trade in liquid markets; therefore, we can verify model inputs and model selection does not involve significant management judgment. These are typically classified within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. Cash and cash equivalents – including restricted cash – The carrying amount for cash equals fair value. We estimate the fair value for cash equivalents based on quoted market prices. These assets are classified as Level 1. Interest sensitive contract liabilities (embedded derivative) – Embedded derivatives related to interest sensitive contract liabilities with fixed indexed annuity products are classified as Level 3. The valuations include significant unobservable inputs associated with economic assumptions and actuarial assumptions for policyholder behavior. Unit-linked contracts – Unit-linked contracts are valued based on the fair value of the investments supporting the contract. The underlying investments are trading securities comprised primarily of mutual funds. The valuations of these are based on quoted market prices for similar assets and are classified as Level 2, resulting in a corresponding classification for the unit-linked contracts. AmerUs Closed Block – We elected the fair value option for the future policy benefits liability in the AmerUs Closed Block. Our valuation technique is to set the fair value of policyholder liabilities equal to the fair value of assets. There is an additional component which captures the fair value of the open block’s obligations to the closed block business. This component is the present value of the projected release of required capital and future after tax earnings on required capital supporting the AmerUs Closed Block, discounted at a rate which represents a market participant’s required rate of return, less the initial required capital. Unobservable inputs include estimates for these items. The AmerUs Closed Block policyholder liabilities and any corresponding reinsurance recoverable are classified as Level 3. ILICO Closed Block – We elected the fair value option for the ILICO Closed Block. Our valuation technique is to set the fair value of policyholder liabilities equal to the fair value of assets. There is an additional component which captures the fair value of the open block’s obligations to the closed block business. This component uses the present value of future cash flows which include commissions, administrative expenses, reinsurance premiums and benefits, and an explicit cost of capital. The discount rate includes a margin to reflect the business and non-performance risk. Unobservable inputs include estimates for these items. The ILICO Closed Block policyholder liabilities and corresponding reinsurance recoverable are classified as Level 3. Universal life liabilities and other life benefits – We elected the fair value option for certain blocks of universal and other life business ceded to Global Atlantic. We use a present value of liability cash flows. Unobservable inputs include estimates of mortality, persistency, expenses, premium payments and a risk margin used in the discount rates that reflects the riskiness of the business. These universal life policyholder liabilities and corresponding reinsurance recoverable are classified as Level 3. Fair Value Option — The following represents the gains (losses) recorded for instruments for which we have elected the fair value option: Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 2015 Trading securities $ 63 $ (33 ) $ (313 ) Mortgage loans (1 ) — — Investment funds, including related party investment funds 30 5 (8 ) Future policy benefits (19 ) (25 ) 134 Total gains (losses) $ 73 $ (53 ) $ (187 ) Gains and losses on trading securities are recorded in investment related gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of income. For fair valu e option mortgage loans, we record interest income in net investment income and subsequent changes in fair value in investment related gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of income. Gains and losses related to investment funds, including related party investment funds, are recorded in net investment income on the consolidated statements of income. We record the change in fair value of future policy benefits to future policy and other policy benefits on the consolidated statements of income. The following summarizes information for fair value option mortgage loans: December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 Unpaid principal balance $ 40 $ 42 Mark to fair value 1 2 Fair value $ 41 $ 44 There were no fair value option mortgage loans 90 days or more past due as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 . Transfers Between Levels —Transfers into Level 3 generally represent securities that were valued using pricing sources which, due to changing market conditions, were less observable than in prior periods as indicated by the increased volatility, which was reflected in vendor prices obtained for individual securities. Additionally, changes in pricing sources also led to securities transferring into Level 3. Transfers out of Level 3 generally represent securities that were valued using pricing sources which, due to changing market conditions, were more observable than in prior periods as indicated by decreased volatility, which was reflected in vendor prices obtained for individual securities. Additionally, changes in pricing sources also led to securities transferring into Level 2. Transfers into or out of any level are assumed to occur at the end of the period. For the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 , there were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2. Level 3 Financial Instruments — The following is a reconciliation for all Level 3 assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis: Year ended December 31, 2017 Total realized and unrealized gains (losses) Transfers (In millions) Beginning Balance Included in income Included in OCI Purchases, issuances, sales and settlements, net In (Out) Ending Balance Total gains (losses) included in earnings 1 Assets AFS securities Fixed maturity U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions $ 5 $ 16 $ (1 ) $ (20 ) $ — $ — $ — $ — Foreign governments 14 — — — — (14 ) — — Corporate 370 13 15 177 29 (26 ) 578 — CLO 158 1 10 (31 ) 28 (102 ) 64 — ABS 1,160 26 29 163 93 (10 ) 1,461 — CMBS 152 1 (4 ) 28 51 (91 ) 137 — RMBS 17 1 1 2 289 (9 ) 301 — Equity securities 5 — — 3 — — 8 — Trading securities Fixed maturity U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions 17 — — — — — 17 — CLO 43 (4 ) — (12 ) — (10 ) 17 1 ABS — — — — 77 — 77 — RMBS 96 (19 ) — 70 195 — 342 7 Mortgage loans 44 (1 ) — (2 ) — — 41 (1 ) Investment funds — — — — 41 — 41 — Funds withheld at interest – embedded derivative 140 172 — — — — 312 — Investments in related parties AFS securities, fixed maturity, ABS 56 — 1 (10 ) — (47 ) — — Trading securities, CLO 195 (8 ) — (55 ) — (27 ) 105 (5 ) Reinsurance recoverable 1,692 132 — — — — 1,824 — Total Level 3 assets $ 4,164 $ 330 $ 51 $ 313 $ 803 $ (336 ) $ 5,325 $ 2 Liabilities Interest sensitive contract liabilities Embedded derivative $ (5,283 ) $ (1,758 ) $ — $ (395 ) $ — $ — $ (7,436 ) $ — Universal life benefits (883 ) (122 ) — — — — (1,005 ) — Future policy benefits AmerUs Closed Block (1,606 ) (19 ) — — — — (1,625 ) — ILICO Closed Block and life benefits (794 ) (9 ) — — — — (803 ) — Derivative liabilities (7 ) 2 — — — — (5 ) 2 Total Level 3 liabilities $ (8,573 ) $ (1,906 ) $ — $ (395 ) $ — $ — $ (10,874 ) $ 2 1 Related to instruments held at end of period. Year ended December 31, 2016 Total realized and unrealized gains (losses) Transfers (In millions) Beginning balance Included in income Included in OCI Purchases, issuances, sales and settlements, net In Out Ending balance Total gains (losses) included in earnings 1 Assets AFS securities Fixed maturity U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions $ — $ — $ — $ — $ 5 $ — $ 5 $ — Foreign governments 17 — (1 ) (2 ) — — 14 — Corporate 636 — 20 (36 ) — (250 ) 370 — CLO 517 4 55 (46 ) 72 (444 ) 158 — ABS 1,813 81 (12 ) (635 ) 104 (191 ) 1,160 — CMBS 67 1 — 39 91 (46 ) 152 — RMBS 758 3 19 (297 ) — (466 ) 17 — Equity securities 9 — — (4 ) — — 5 — Trading securities Fixed maturity U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions 17 — — — — — 17 — Corporate 16 — — (4 ) — (12 ) — 4 CLO 108 (2 ) — (63 ) — — 43 11 ABS 98 (16 ) — — — (82 ) — — RMBS 29 (23 ) — 144 — (54 ) 96 (9 ) Mortgage loans 48 — — (4 ) — — 44 — Funds withheld at interest – embedded derivative 36 104 — — — — 140 — Investments in related parties AFS securities Fixed maturity CLO 7 — 1 — — (8 ) — — ABS 60 — — (4 ) — — 56 — Trading securities, CLO 191 (33 ) — 7 30 — 195 23 Reinsurance recoverable 2,377 (685 ) — — — — 1,692 — Total Level 3 assets $ 6,804 $ (566 ) $ 82 $ (905 ) $ 302 $ (1,553 ) $ 4,164 $ 29 Liabilities Interest sensitive contract liabilities Embedded derivative $ (4,464 ) $ (324 ) $ — $ (495 ) $ — $ — $ (5,283 ) $ — Universal life benefits (1,464 ) 581 — — — — (883 ) — Future policy benefits AmerUs Closed Block (1,581 ) (25 ) — — — — (1,606 ) — ILICO Closed Block and life benefits (897 ) 103 — — — — (794 ) — Derivative liabilities (7 ) — — — — — (7 ) — Total Level 3 liabilities $ (8,413 ) $ 335 $ — $ (495 ) $ — $ — $ (8,573 ) $ — 1 Related to instruments held at end of period. The following represents the gross components of purchases, issuances, sales and settlements, net, shown above: Year ended December 31, 2017 (In millions) Purchases Issuances Sales Settlements Purchases, issuances, sales and settlements, net Assets AFS securities Fixed maturity U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions $ — $ — $ — $ (20 ) $ (20 ) Corporate 228 — (36 ) (15 ) 177 CLO 15 — (2 ) (44 ) (31 ) ABS 577 — — (414 ) 163 CMBS 29 — — (1 ) 28 RMBS 4 — — (2 ) 2 Equity securities 3 — — — 3 Trading securities, fixed maturity CLO 4 — (16 ) — (12 ) RMBS 70 — — — 70 Mortgage loans — — — (2 ) (2 ) Investments in related parties AFS securities, fixed maturity, ABS 5 — — (15 ) (10 ) Trading securities, CLO — — (55 ) — (55 ) Total Level 3 assets $ 935 $ — $ (109 ) $ (513 ) $ 313 Liabilities Interest sensitive contract liabilities Embedded derivative $ — $ (600 ) $ — $ 205 $ (395 ) Total Level 3 liabilities $ — $ (600 ) $ — $ 205 $ (395 ) Year ended December 31, 2016 (In millions) Purchases Issuances Sales Settlements Purchases, issuances, sales and settlements, net Assets AFS securities Fixed maturity Foreign governments $ — $ — $ — $ (2 ) $ (2 ) Corporate 95 — (68 ) (63 ) (36 ) CLO 24 — (29 ) (41 ) (46 ) ABS 261 — — (896 ) (635 ) CMBS 40 — — (1 ) 39 RMBS 8 — — (305 ) (297 ) Equity securities — — (4 ) — (4 ) Trading securities, fixed maturity Corporate — — — (4 ) (4 ) CLO 4 — (67 ) — (63 ) RMBS 144 — — — 144 Mortgage loans — — — (4 ) (4 ) Investments in related parties AFS securities, fixed maturity, ABS — — — (4 ) (4 ) Trading securities, CLO 33 — (26 ) — 7 Total Level 3 assets $ 609 $ — $ (194 ) $ (1,320 ) $ (905 ) Liabilities Interest sensitive contract liabilities Embedded derivative $ — $ (641 ) $ — $ 146 $ (495 ) Total Level 3 liabilities $ — $ (641 ) $ — $ 146 $ (495 ) Significant Unobservable Inputs — Significant unobservable inputs occur when we could not obtain or corroborate the quantitative detail of the inputs. This applies to AFS securities, trading securities, mortgage loans and certain derivatives, as well as embedded derivatives in liabilities. Additional significant unobservable inputs are described below. Fixed maturity securities – For certain fixed maturity securities, internal models are used to calculate the fair value. We use a discounted cash flow approach. The discount rate is the significant unobservable input due to the determined credit spread being internally developed, illiquid, or as a result of other adjustments made to the base rate. The base rate represents a market comparable rate for securities with similar characteristics. As of December 31, 2017 , discounts ranged from 2% to 6% , and as of December 31, 2016 , discounts ranged from 4% to 8% . This excludes assets for which significant unobservable inputs are not developed internally, primarily consisting of broker quotes. Interest sensitive contract liabilities – embedded derivative – Significant unobservable inputs we use in the fixed indexed annuities embedded derivative of the interest sensitive contract liabilities valuation include: 1. Non-performance risk – For contracts we issue, we use the credit spread from the U.S. treasury curve based on our public credit rating as of the valuation date. This represents our credit risk for use in the estimate of the fair value of embedded derivatives. For contracts reinsured through funds withheld reinsurance, the cedant company holds collateral against its exposure; therefore, immaterial non-performance risk is ascribed to these contracts. 2. Option budget – We assume future hedge costs in the derivative’s fair value estimate. The level of option budgets determines the future costs of the options and impacts future policyholder account value growth. 3. Policyholder behavior – We regularly review the lapse and withdrawal assumptions (surrender rate). These are based on our initial pricing assumptions updated for actual experience. Actual experience may be limited for recently issued products. The following summarizes the unobservable inputs for the embedded derivatives of fixed indexed annuities: December 31, 2017 (In millions, except for percentages) Fair value Valuation technique Unobservable inputs Input/range of Impact of an increase in the input on fair value Interest sensitive contract liabilities – fixed indexed annuities embedded derivatives $ 7,436 Option budget method Non-performance risk 0.2 % – 1.2% Decrease Option budget 0.7 % – 3.7% Increase Surrender rate 1.5 % – 19.4% Decrease December 31, 2016 (In millions, except for percentages) Fair value Valuation technique Unobservable inputs Input/range of Impact of an increase in the input on fair value Interest sensitive contract liabilities – fixed indexed annuities embedded derivatives $ 5,283 Option budget method Non-performance risk 0.7 % – 1.5% Decrease Option budget 0.8 % – 3.8% Increase Surrender rate 0.0 % – 16.3% Decrease Fair Value of Financial Instruments Not Carried at Fair Value — The following represents our financial instruments not carried at fair value on the consolidated balance sheets: December 31, 2017 (In millions) Carrying Value Fair Value NAV 1 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Assets Mortgage loans $ 6,192 $ 6,342 $ — $ — $ — $ 6,342 Investment funds 554 554 554 — — — Policy loans 530 530 — — 530 — Funds withheld at interest 6,773 6,773 — — — 6,773 Other investments 133 133 — — 58 75 Investments in related parties Investment funds 1,280 1,280 1,280 — — — Other investments 238 259 — — — 259 Total assets not carried at fair value $ 15,700 $ 15,871 $ 1,834 $ — $ 588 $ 13,449 Liabilities Interest sensitive contract liabilities $ 31,586 $ 31,656 $ — $ — $ — $ 31,656 Funds withheld liability 385 385 — — 385 — Total liabilities not carried at fair value $ 31,971 $ 32,041 $ — $ — $ 385 $ 31,656 1 Investments measured at NAV as a practical expedient in determining fair value have not been classified in the fair value hierarchy. December 31, 2016 (In millions) Carrying Value Fair Value NAV 1 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Assets Mortgage loans $ 5,426 $ 5,560 $ — $ — $ — $ 5,560 Investment funds 590 590 590 — — — Policy loans 602 602 — — 602 — Funds withheld at interest 6,398 6,398 — — — 6,398 Other investments 81 81 — — — 81 Investments in related parties Investment funds 1,198 1,198 1,198 — — — Other investments 237 262 — — — 262 Total assets not carried at fair value $ 14,532 $ 14,691 $ 1,788 $ — $ 602 $ 12,301 Liabilities Interest sensitive contract liabilities $ 27,628 $ 26,930 $ — $ — $ — $ 26,930 Funds withheld liability 374 374 — — 374 — Total liabilities not carried at fair value $ 28,002 $ 27,304 $ — $ — $ 374 $ 26,930 1 Investments measured at NAV as a practical expedient in determining fair value have not been classified in the fair value hierarchy. We estimate the fair value for financial instruments not carried at fair value using the same methods and assumptions as those we carry at fair value. The financial instruments presented above are reported at carrying value on the consolidated balance sheets; however, in the case of policy loans, funds withheld at interest and liability, and other investments, the carrying amount approximates fair value. Investment in related parties – Other investments – The fair value of related party other investments is determined using a discounted cash flow model using discount rates for similar investments. Interest sensitive contract liabilities – The carrying and fair value of interest sensitive contract liabilities above includes fixed indexed and traditional fixed annuities without mortality or morbidity risks, funding agreements and payout annuities without life contingencies. The embedded derivatives within fixed indexed annuities without mortality or morbidity risks are excluded, as they are carried at fair value. The valuation of these investment contracts is based on discounted cash flow methodologies using significant unobservable inputs. The estimated fair value is determined using current market risk-free interest rates, adding a spread to reflect our nonperformance risk and subtracting a risk margin to reflect uncertainty inherent in the projected cash flows.

Business Combinations

Business Combinations	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block]	6. Business Combinations Delta Lloyd Deutschland AG (DLD) —Effective October 1, 2015, we acquired 100% of the voting equity interests of DLD and $50 million of intercompany loans from Delta Lloyd N.V. for a cash purchase price of $74 million . DLD was a Germany-domiciled insurance group with an in force book of business primarily made up of participating long-duration savings products. We acquired DLD to expand our business into Germany. Following the acquisition, DLD was renamed Athene Deutschland GmbH. The following summarizes the fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the DLD acquisition: (In millions) October 1, 2015 Investments $ 5,539 Cash and cash equivalents 236 Accrued investment income 67 Reinsurance recoverable 4 Other assets 83 Total identifiable assets acquired 5,929 Interest sensitive contract liabilities 403 Future policy benefits 4,519 Other policy claims and benefits 55 Dividends payable to policyholders 771 Other liabilities 107 Total identifiable liabilities assumed 5,855 Net assets acquired $ 74 DLD contributed $129 million of revenue and $6 million of net income during the year ended December 31, 2015. Transaction costs incurred during the year ended December 31, 2015 for this acquisition were $15 million , and are included in policy and other operating expenses on the consolidated statements of income. The following unaudited pro forma revenue and net income assumes a January 1, 2014 acquisition date for DLD : (In millions) Year ended December 31, 2015 Revenue $ 3,004 Net income 579 See Note 1 – Business, Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies for further information regarding the subsequent deconsolidation of our German operations in 2018.

Reinsurance

Reinsurance	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Insurance [Abstract]
Reinsurance	7. Reinsurance The following summarizes the effect of reinsurance on premiums and future policy and other policy benefits on the consolidated statements of income: Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 2015 Premiums Direct $ 2,639 $ 448 $ 445 Reinsurance assumed 21 20 24 Reinsurance ceded (195 ) (228 ) (274 ) Total premiums $ 2,465 $ 240 $ 195 Future policy and other policy benefits Direct $ 3,350 $ 1,434 $ 1,030 Reinsurance assumed 37 82 42 Reinsurance ceded (224 ) (457 ) (554 ) Total future policy and other policy benefits $ 3,163 $ 1,059 $ 518 Reinsurance typically provides for recapture rights on the part of the ceding company for certain events of default. Additionally, some agreements require us to place assets in trust accounts for the benefit of the ceding entity. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , we held assets in trusts of $1,238 million and $1,148 million , respectively. Although we own the assets placed in trust, their use is restricted based on the trust agreement terms. If the statutory book value of the assets, or in certain cases fair value, in a trust declines because of impairments or other reasons, we may be required to contribute additional assets to the trust. In addition, the assets within a trust may be subject to a pledge in favor of the applicable reinsurance company. Global Atlantic ceded reinsurance transactions —We have a 100% coinsurance and assumption agreement with Global Atlantic. The agreement ceded all existing open block life insurance business issued by Athene Annuity and Life Company (AAIA), with the exception of enhanced guarantee universal life insurance products. We also entered into a 100% coinsurance agreement with Global Atlantic to cede all policy liabilities of the ILICO Closed Block. The ILICO Closed Block consists primarily of participating whole life insurance policies. We also have an excess of loss arrangement with Global Atlantic to reimburse us for any payments required from our general assets to meet the contractual obligations of the AmerUs Closed Block not covered by existing reinsurance through Athene Re USA IV. The AmerUs Closed Block consists primarily of participating whole life insurance policies. Since all liabilities were covered by the existing reinsurance at close, no reinsurance premiums were ceded. The assets backing the AmerUs Closed Block are managed, on AAIA’s behalf, by Goldman Sachs Asset Management, an affiliate of Global Atlantic. During the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 , we novated certain open blocks of business ceded to Global Atlantic, in accordance with the terms of the coinsurance and assumption agreement. The following summarizes the decreases in amounts on the consolidated balance sheets as a result of the novations: Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 Interest sensitive contract liabilities $ 945 $ 1,006 Future policy benefits 190 188 Policy loans 34 33 Reinsurance recoverable 1,101 1,161 During the third quarter of 2015, portions of the reinsurance agreements between us and Global Atlantic were amended to change the reinsurance agreements from funds withheld to coinsurance, which resulted in a $930 million decrease to funds withheld liability and a corresponding decrease to assets, primarily consisting of investments. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , Global Atlantic maintained a series of trust and custody accounts under the terms of these agreements with assets equal to or greater than a required aggregate statutory balance of $3,350 million and $4,122 million , respectively. Protective Life Insurance Company (Protective) ceded reinsurance transactions —We reinsured substantially all of the existing life and health business of Athene Annuity & Life Assurance Company (AADE) to Protective under a coinsurance agreement in 2011. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , Protective maintained a trust for our benefit with assets having a fair value of $1,688 million and $1,664 million , respectively. Ceded Reinsurance Transactions —The following summarizes our reinsurance recoverable from the following: December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 Global Atlantic $ 3,128 $ 3,914 Protective 1,693 1,723 Other 1 151 364 Reinsurance recoverable $ 4,972 $ 6,001 1 Represents all other reinsurers, with no single reinsurer having a carrying value in excess of 5% of total recoverable.

Deferred Acquisition Costs, Def

Deferred Acquisition Costs, Deferred Sales Inducements, and Value of Business Acquired	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Insurance [Abstract]
Deferred Acquisition Costs, Deferred Sales Inducements, and Value of Business Acquired	8. Deferred Acquisition Costs, Deferred Sales Inducements and Value of Business Acquired The following represents a rollforward of DAC, DSI and VOBA: (In millions) DAC DSI VOBA Total Balance at December 31, 2014 $ 424 $ 188 $ 1,610 $ 2,222 Additions 288 136 — 424 Unlocking (6 ) (2 ) (27 ) (35 ) Amortization (35 ) (19 ) (138 ) (192 ) Impact of unrealized investment (gains) losses 34 17 182 233 Balance at December 31, 2015 705 320 1,627 2,652 Additions 601 200 — 801 Unlocking (12 ) (3 ) (23 ) (38 ) Amortization (114 ) (36 ) (169 ) (319 ) Impact of unrealized investment (gains) losses (38 ) (19 ) (99 ) (156 ) Balance at December 31, 2016 1,142 462 1,336 2,940 Additions 493 161 — 654 Unlocking 13 4 (1 ) 16 Amortization (194 ) (67 ) (168 ) (429 ) Impact of unrealized investment (gains) losses (100 ) (40 ) (111 ) (251 ) Balance at December 31, 2017 $ 1,354 $ 520 $ 1,056 $ 2,930 The expected amortization of VOBA for the next five years is as follows: (In millions) Expected Amortization 2018 $ 127 2019 107 2020 94 2021 86 2022 80

Closed Block

Closed Block	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Insurance [Abstract]
Closed Block Disclosure [Text Block]	9. Closed Block We pay guaranteed benefits under all policies included in the Closed Blocks. In the event the performance of the Closed Blocks’ assets is insufficient to maintain dividend scales and interest credits, we may reduce the policyholder dividend scales. In the event dividends have been reduced to zero and the Closed Blocks’ assets remain insufficient to fund the Closed Blocks’ guaranteed benefits, we would use assets supporting open block policies or surplus to meet the contractual benefits of the Closed Blocks’ policyholders. The ILICO Closed Block has been ceded to Global Atlantic. Therefore, Global Atlantic would be required to provide funding for any asset insufficiency related to the ILICO Closed Block. Additionally, the AmerUs Closed Block has a letter of credit and tail risk reinsurance agreement in place that limits our exposure to potential asset insufficiency. We elected the fair value option for the AmerUs Closed Block. The fair value of liabilities of the AmerUs Closed Block was derived at election as the sum of the fair value of the AmerUs Closed Block assets plus our cost of capital in the AmerUs Closed Block. The cost of capital was then determined to be the present value of the projected release of required capital and future after tax earnings on required capital supporting the AmerUs Closed Block, discounted at a rate which represents a market participant’s required rate of return, less the initial required capital. At each reporting period, we record the fair value of the AmerUs Closed Block by adjusting the change in liabilities, exclusive of the cost of capital, to equal the change in assets. We do not record additional policyholder dividend obligations, as there are no future GAAP earnings available to the policyholders. The excess of the fair value of the liabilities over the fair value of the assets represents our cost of capital in the AmerUs Closed Block. The maximum amount of future earnings from the assets and liabilities of the AmerUs Closed Block is represented by the reduction in the cost of capital in future years based on the operations of the AmerUs Closed Block and recalculation of the cost of capital each reporting period. Summarized financial information of the AmerUs Closed Block is presented below. December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 Liabilities Future policy benefits $ 1,625 $ 1,607 Other policy claims and benefits 19 25 Dividends payable to policyholders 92 96 Other liabilities 15 23 Total liabilities 1,751 1,751 Assets Trading securities 1,377 1,380 Mortgage loans, net of allowances 41 44 Policy loans 168 183 Total investments 1,586 1,607 Cash and cash equivalents 48 23 Accrued investment income 36 27 Reinsurance recoverable 25 29 Other assets — 1 Total assets 1,695 1,687 Maximum future earnings to be recognized from AmerUs Closed Block $ 56 $ 64 The following represents the contribution from AmerUs Closed Block. Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 2015 Revenues Premiums $ 58 $ 24 $ 58 Net investment income 79 84 86 Investment related gains (losses) 61 42 (124 ) Total revenues 198 150 20 Benefits and Expenses Future policy and other policy benefits 144 107 (24 ) Dividends to policyholders 51 40 45 Total benefits and expenses 195 147 21 Contribution from (to) AmerUs Closed Block before income taxes 3 3 (1 ) Income tax expense (benefit) (5 ) 3 1 Contribution from (to) AmerUs Closed Block, net of income taxes $ 8 $ — $ (2 )

Debt

Debt	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Debt Disclosure [Text Block]	10. Debt Credit Facility —In 2016, AHL, ALRe and Athene USA entered into a five -year revolving credit agreement (Credit Facility) with Citibank, N.A., as administrative agent. The borrowing capacity under the Credit Facility is $1 billion . In connection with the Credit Facility, AHL and Athene USA guaranteed all of the obligations of AHL, ALRe and Athene USA under this facility, and ALRe guaranteed certain of the obligations of AHL and Athene USA under this facility. The Credit Facility contains various standard covenants with which we must comply, including the following: 1. Consolidated debt to capitalization ratio of not greater than 35% ; 2. Minimum consolidated net worth of no less than the sum of (a) $3.7 billion and (b) an amount equal to 50% of the net cash proceeds received in any equity issuances occurring after January 22, 2016; and 3. Restrictions on our ability to incur debt and liens and to declare or pay dividends, in each case with certain exceptions. As of December 31, 2017 , we had no amounts outstanding under the Credit Facility and were in compliance with all covenants under this facility. Interest accrues on outstanding borrowings at the London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) plus a margin or a base rate plus a margin, with the applicable margin varying based on AHL’s issuer credit rating. The Credit Facility has a commitment fee that is determined by reference to AHL’s issuer credit rating, and ranges from 0.15% to 0.50% of the unused commitment. As of December 31, 2017 , the commitment fee was equal to 0.225% of the unused commitment. Senior Notes —In the first quarter of 2018, AHL issued $1 billion of unsecured senior notes due in January 2028. The senior notes have a 4.125% coupon rate, payable semi-annually. The senior notes are callable at any time prior to October 12, 2027 by AHL, at a price equal to the greater of (1) 100% of the principal and any accrued and unpaid interest and (2) an amount equal to the sum of the present values of remaining scheduled payments, discounted from the scheduled payment date to the redemption date at the Treasury Rate (as defined in the prospectus supplement relating to the senior notes, dated January 9, 2018) plus 25 basis points, and any accrued and unpaid interest. Additionally, if our transaction with Voya Financial Inc. (Voya), as described further in Note 18 – Commitments and Contingencies , does not close, AHL will be required to redeem the senior notes at 101% of the principal and any accrued and unpaid interest.

Common Stock

Common Stock	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Equity [Abstract]
Common Stock	11. Common Stock We have six classes of common stock: Class A, Class B, Class M-1, Class M-2, Class M-3 and Class M-4. The Class M-1, Class M-2, Class M-3 and Class M-4 shares are collectively referred to as Class M shares. Class A shares collectively represent 55% of the total voting power of the Company. Class B shares collectively represent the remaining 45% of the total voting power of the Company, and are beneficially owned by shareholders who are members of the Apollo Group, as defined in our bye-laws. Class B shares can be converted to Class A shares on a one-to-one basis at any time upon notice to us. Class M shares are restricted, non-voting shares issued under equity incentive plans. Our bye-laws place certain restrictions on Class A shares such that (1) a holder of Class A shares, including its affiliates, cannot control greater than 9.9% of the total outstanding vote and if a holder of Class A shares were to control greater than 9.9% , then a holder’s voting power is automatically reduced to 9.9% and the other holders of Class A shares would vote the remainder on a prorated basis, (2) the total voting power held by members of our management and employees of the Apollo Group is limited to 3% and (3) Class A shares may be deemed non-voting when owned by a shareholder who owns Class B shares, has an equity interest in certain Apollo entities, or is a member of the Apollo Group. Share Activities 2017 • In the fourth quarter, a total of 21,403,203 Class B shares were converted into Class A shares pursuant to a distribution of common shares from AP Alternative Assets, L.P. (AAA) to AAA unitholders. • As a result of the lockup releases during the year, 1,260,894 Class B shares were converted into Class A shares. • During the year, we completed two follow-on offerings of our Class A common shares. Shareholders sold 50,255,000 existing Class A shares through the offerings. We did not sell any shares in the follow-on offerings. A total of 41,719,333 Class B shares were converted into Class A shares on a one-for-one basis in order to participate in the follow-on offerings. 2016 • We issued 3,098,946 Class A shares during the fourth quarter of 2016 from conversion of Class M-1, M-2, M-3 and M-4 shares and settlement of Class M-4 RSUs. All conversions were settled in shares net of the conversion price and, as a result, no proceeds were received from the conversions. • On December 14, 2016, we completed the initial public offering (IPO) of our Class A common shares. Shareholders sold 31,050,000 existing Class A shares through the offering. We did not sell any shares in the IPO. A total of 24,158,146 Class B shares were converted into Class A shares on a one-for-one basis in order to participate in the IPO. 2015 • We received $1,038 million to settle remaining capital commitments executed on April 4, 2014 in connection with a private placement offered to accredited investors. As a result, we issued 31,564,339 Class A shares and 8,369,230 Class B shares at $26.00 per share. • We received commitments and issued an additional 2,315,113 Class A shares at $26.02 per share, resulting in proceeds received of $60 million . • In satisfaction of our final obligations under the Transaction Advisory Services Agreement (TASA) earned by Apollo in 2014, we issued 2,311,853 Class B shares. As of December 31, 2017 , we had 150,000,000 shares of capital stock authorized which remain undesignated. The table below shows the changes in each class of shares issued and outstanding: Years ended December 31, 2017 2016 2015 Class A Beginning balance 77,319,381 50,151,265 15,752,736 Issued shares 731,490 3,360,471 34,498,220 Forfeited shares (4,660 ) (37,188 ) — Repurchased shares (42,937 ) (313,313 ) (99,691 ) Converted from Class B shares 64,383,430 24,158,146 — Ending balance 142,386,704 77,319,381 50,151,265 Class B Beginning balance 111,805,829 135,963,975 125,282,892 Issued shares — — 10,681,083 Converted to Class A shares (64,383,430 ) (24,158,146 ) — Ending balance 47,422,399 111,805,829 135,963,975 Class M-1 Beginning balance 3,474,205 5,198,273 5,198,273 Converted to Class A shares (85,315 ) (1,155,303 ) — Forfeited shares — (270,543 ) — Repurchased shares — (298,222 ) — Ending balance 3,388,890 3,474,205 5,198,273 Class M-2 Beginning balance 1,067,747 3,125,869 3,125,869 Converted to Class A shares (216,644 ) (1,788,998 ) — Forfeited shares — (161,474 ) — Repurchased shares — (107,650 ) — Ending balance 851,103 1,067,747 3,125,869 Class M-3 Beginning balance 1,346,300 3,110,000 3,350,000 Converted to Class A shares (240,300 ) (1,443,700 ) — Forfeited shares (14,000 ) (224,000 ) (216,000 ) Repurchased shares — (96,000 ) (24,000 ) Ending balance 1,092,000 1,346,300 3,110,000 Class M-4 Beginning balance 5,397,802 5,038,443 — Issued shares — 990,650 5,316,751 Converted to Class A shares (217,020 ) (79,031 ) — Forfeited shares (104,567 ) (452,528 ) (242,050 ) Repurchased shares (364,472 ) (99,732 ) (36,258 ) Ending balance 4,711,743 5,397,802 5,038,443

Stock-based Compensation

Stock-based Compensation	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block]	12. Stock-based Compensation We adopted share incentive plans in 2009, 2012 and 2014. The 2009 and 2012 share incentive plans were amended and restated in 2014 (2014 Modification), along with the adoption of the 2014 share incentive plan (2014 Plan). In 2016, we modified certain share agreements (2016 Modification) and adopted the 2016 share incentive plan (2016 Plan). With the adoption of the 2016 Plan, the 2009, 2012 and 2014 share incentive plans were frozen and no additional awards may be granted under those plans. The purpose of our s hare incentive plans is to provide an incentive to achieve long-term company goals and align the interests of our employees, our directors and AAM employees with those of our shareholders. See Note 17 – Related Parties regarding our relationship with AAM. Under the share incentive plans, we may issue nonqualified stock options, incentive stock options, rights to purchase shares, restricted shares, RSUs and other awards which may be settled in, or based upon, our common shares. The aggregate number of shares authorized for issuance under the 2016 Plan is 3,500,000 Class A shares. Shares issued upon settlement of an award are newly issued shares. Through the share incentive plans, we have issued the following categories of stock-based compensation: long-term incentive plan (LTIP) awards and Class M awards. LTIP awards —We issued awards consisting of time and performance-based RSUs and time-based stock options for Class A shares. RSUs represent a contractual right to receive Class A shares and may be settled in shares or cash at our election. Stock options represent a right to purchase Class A shares at a specified exercise price. Vesting – Time-based RSUs and stock options vest in one-third increments on the first through third anniversaries of the vesting inception date. The performance-based RSUs have three -year cliff vesting based on meeting company-specific performance thresholds. Contractual terms – Stock options expire on the tenth anniversary of the date of grant. Stock Options – A rollforward of activity for the year ended December 31, 2017 for stock options is as follows: (In millions, except share and per share data) Options Weighted Average Exercise Price Aggregate Intrinsic Value Outstanding at January 1, 2017 470,644 $ 33.95 Granted 322,981 51.31 Exercised (15,721 ) 33.95 Forfeited (19,496 ) 39.83 Outstanding at December 31, 2017 758,408 $ 41.19 Vested and expected to vest 1 at December 31, 2017 758,408 $ 41.19 $ 8 Exercisable at December 31, 2017 141,149 $ 33.95 $ 3 1 Expected to vest are unvested options for which the requisite service period has not been rendered but that are expected to vest based on the achievement of a performance condition. The weighted average grant date fair value of stock options granted during the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 was $9.44 and $5.83 , respectively. The total intrinsic value of stock options exercised during the year ended December 31, 2017 was $1 million . No options were exercised or exercisable during the year ended December 31, 2016 . Valuation Assumptions – We determine the fair value at grant date for stock options using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The following represents the assumptions used for the fair value at grant date: Years ended December 31, Assumptions used 2017 2016 Risk-free interest rate 1.5% 1.0% Expected dividend yield —% —% Expected volatility 25.0 % – 28.4% 25.0% Expected term (in years) 2.34 – 2.81 2.63 The risk-free interest rate is derived from U.S. Constant Maturity Treasury yield at the valuation date, with maturity corresponding to weighted-average expected term. The expected dividend yield is based on our historical and expected dividend payments, which have been zero to date. Absent sufficient historical experience of our shares being traded on a public market, we have estimated volatility of our share price based on the published historical volatilities of comparable publicly-traded companies over a period consistent with the expected life of the award being valued. The expected term represents the weighted average period of time that awards granted are expected to be outstanding as determined at the grant date of the award. RSUs – The following represents the activity of nonvested LTIP RSUs for the year ended December 31, 2017 : RSUs Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Nonvested at January 1, 2017 328,127 $ 33.95 Granted 245,010 51.28 Vested (40,940 ) 33.95 Forfeited (25,221 ) 39.88 Nonvested at December 31, 2017 506,976 $ 42.03 The fair value of the award is determined based on the fair value of our Class A shares on the grant date. The weighted average grant date fair value of LTIP RSUs granted during the year ended December 31, 2016 was $33.95 . During the year ended December 31, 2017 , the total intrinsic value of LTIP RSUs converted was $2 million . As of December 31, 2016 , no LTIP RSUs were vested. Class M awards — We have issued Class M shares and RSUs concurrently with the timing of capital raises, in order to align management incentives with shareholder investments. Class M shares function similar to options in that they are exchangeable into Class A shares upon payment of a conversion price and other conditions being met. The settlement value of the RSUs is based upon the value of the Class A shares at the time of settlement after deducting the conversion price of the RSUs. RSUs may be settled either in cash or Class A shares at our election. A portion of the Class M shares and RSUs is subject to time vesting conditions (Tranche 1), and the remainder is subject to certain performance-based vesting conditions (Tranche 2). Vesting conditions are further described below. The nature and terms of the Class M shares are generally consistent across each class. In October 2015, we issued Class M-4 shares with a different Tranche 2 performance condition than the original Class M-4 award. These shares are referred to as Class M-4 Prime. This vesting condition and any other significant differences between classes are separately identified in the following discussion. Class M share vesting – Tranche 1 shares generally vest in 20% increments on the first through fifth anniversaries of the earlier of the date of grant or vesting inception date. Tranche 1 shares also automatically vest upon the sale of the Company or change in control, prior to the participant’s termination or within six months following a qualifying termination. Unvested Tranche 1 shares are forfeited upon a participant’s termination. Tranche 2 awards vest if certain performance hurdles are met, described as follows: • Class M-4 (excluding M-4 Prime) – The vesting performance hurdle for Class M-4 shares is based on the rate of return and realized cash received by certain holders of our shares (Relevant Investors), as defined in the incentive plan, upon sale of their shares prior to or during an IPO or within a 15 month period thereafter. Vesting may also occur if the performance hurdles are met based on deemed sales by Relevant Investors on the dates 7.5 , 12 and 15 months after an IPO, and monthly thereafter, through the contractual term, at a price equal to the volume weighted average closing trading price during the 90 day period prior to such date. Based on the results of the performance hurdle calculations, the vesting percentages of the Tranche 2 awards can range from 0% to 100% . Upon a participant’s qualifying termination, unvested Tranche 2 awards remain outstanding and eligible to vest for a period of 18 months following the later of the IPO date or date of a qualifying termination. Any unvested Tranche 2 shares remaining at the end of this 18 month period are forfeited. See 2016 Modification below for further information on Tranche 2 awards vesting for M-1, M-2 and M-3 award agreements. • Class M-4 Prime – The vesting performance hurdle is based on the attainment of specified Class A share prices following an IPO. Vesting will also occur upon a sale of the Company or change in control in which Class A Shares are valued at the respective hurdle share price. Any unvested Tranche 2 shares remaining as of the tenth anniversary of the grant date are forfeited. Contractual Terms – Unvested Class M-4 shares will be forfeited on March 8, 2022. Although the Class M shares function similar to options, they are equity shares, and have dividend rights upon satisfaction of certain conditions and no expiration date once vested. Prior to vesting, if Class M shares are eligible for dividends, any dividends paid would accrue on the unvested M shares; however, if the M share is forfeited, the accrued dividend would also be forfeited. Conversion to Class A shares – Vested Class M shares are eligible for conversion to Class A shares subject to payment of the conversion price for each Class M share converted. A holder of vested Class M shares may elect to exchange vested shares for an equivalent number of Class A shares upon payment, in cash or shares, of the conversion price less the amount of any dividends paid by the Company on Class A shares subsequent to the granting of Class M shares. Following a conversion to Class A shares, shares can be sold subject to contractual transfer or legal restrictions, such as lockups, blackout periods or affiliate sale volume caps. 2016 Modification – On September 30, 2016, we modified Class M-1, M-2 and M-3 share agreements to vest all Tranche 2 performance-based shares. The compensation committee approved the modification given that vesting of the shares in the near future was probable. We also amended the conversion option, which previously allowed conversion of vested shares only subsequent to an IPO. Under the modified conversion terms, individuals with certain limited exceptions were able elect up to three conversion options including conversion at a specified date prior to an IPO, on the date of an IPO, or ratably each month for six months after an IPO. The modifications impacted 27 individuals. As a result of the modifications, we recorded an $83 million increase to additional paid-in capital, due to the reclassification of the Tranche 2 shares from liability awards to equity awards. We also recorded a $42 million charge to stock-based compensation expense and additional paid-in capital for the vesting of Tranche 2 shares, primarily related to the acceleration of previously unrecognized compensation expense. Valuation Assumptions for Class M Shares —The fair value of the Class M shares is determined using the Black-Scholes option pricing model, with application of a Monte-Carlo simulation to determine the value of the Tranche 2 Class M shares. No Tranche 2 Class M shares were granted during the year ended December 31, 2017 . Grant date assumptions used for valuation of Class M share awards for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 were: Years ended December 31, Assumptions used 2016 2015 Athene Class A share value $32.90 $34.23 Risk-free interest rate 0.5 % – 1.8% 0.9 % – 1.1% Expected dividend yield —% —% Expected volatility 30.0% 25.9% Expected term (in years) 3.00 2.42 The fair value of the Class A shares subsequent to our IPO is determined based on the publicly traded closing price on the New York Stock Exchange. During 2016 and 2015, prior to our IPO, the fair value was determined based on a GAAP book value multiple approach. Under this approach, we used a comparable peer set of public companies and their share price to book value ratio, less applicable discounts for lack of marketability of AHL, in order to determine the AHL Class A share price. The expected term represents the weighted average period of time that awards granted are expected to be outstanding. The expected term is determined from the modification date, the grant date or the period end date, depending on the accounting treatment for each award. In addition, the Tranche 2 Class M share assumptions include an estimate of the probability of the vesting conditions being met. This assumption is developed by using a Monte-Carlo simulation to generate the possible future value of the Company’s equity at a liquidity event to determine the percentage of Tranche 2 Class M shares that vest for each simulated path. The fair value of the Tranche 2 Class M shares is then estimated by averaging the value for all simulated paths and discounting the results at the risk-free interest rate to the valuation date. The basis for determining the remaining assumptions is consistent with those discussed for LTIP awards above. Award activity for Class M Shares —A rollforward of award activity for the year ended December 31, 2017 of the Class M shares is as follows: Tranche 1 Tranche 2 Total (In millions, except share and per share data) Class M Shares Weighted Average Conversion Price Aggregate Intrinsic Value Class M Shares Weighted Average Conversion Price Aggregate Intrinsic Value Class M Shares Weighted Average Conversion Price Outstanding at January 1, 2017 4,468,585 $ 18.27 6,347,832 $ 19.52 10,816,417 $ 19.00 Converted (447,123 ) 15.14 (249,065 ) 14.69 (696,188 ) 14.98 Forfeited (88,086 ) 25.66 (25,534 ) 33.13 (113,620 ) 27.34 Repurchased (51,272 ) 30.80 (246,386 ) 30.90 (297,658 ) 30.88 Outstanding at December 31, 2017 3,882,104 $ 18.30 5,826,847 $ 19.19 9,708,951 $ 18.83 Vested and expected to vest 1 at December 31, 2017 3,882,104 $ 18.30 $ 130 5,826,847 $ 19.19 $ 190 Convertible at December 31, 2017 2,791,394 $ 14.33 $ 104 4,385,045 $ 16.07 $ 156 1 Expected to vest are unvested shares for which the requisite service period has not been rendered but that are expected to vest based on the achievement of a performance condition. The following represents the activity of nonvested Class M shares for the year ended December 31, 2017 : Tranche 1 Tranche 2 Total Class M Shares Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Class M Shares Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Class M Shares Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Nonvested at January 1, 2017 1,837,043 $ 8.67 3,040,135 $ 11.36 4,877,178 $ 10.34 Vested (658,247 ) 10.31 (1,572,799 ) 9.15 (2,231,046 ) 9.49 Forfeited (88,086 ) 5.12 (25,534 ) 8.89 (113,620 ) 5.97 Nonvested at December 31, 2017 1,090,710 $ 7.97 1,441,802 $ 13.81 2,532,512 $ 11.29 The weighted average grant date fair value of Class M share awards granted during the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 was $10.43 and $8.66 , respectively. The total fair value of vested Tranche 1 Class M shares was $16 million , $92 million and $98 million during the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively. The total fair value of vested Tranche 2 Class M shares was $40 million , $122 million and $28 million during the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively. The total intrinsic value of M shares converted during the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 was $29 million and $117 million , respectively. No shares were converted or convertible during the year ended December 31, 2015 . Employee Stock Purchase Plan —Eligible employees may participate in our 2017 Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP), which provides the opportunity to purchase our Class A shares at a discount from the market price through payroll deductions. Pursuant to the ESPP, employees are permitted to purchase shares at a price equal to 85% of the fair value of such shares as determined by reference to the closing price of our Class A shares on the New York Stock Exchange on the last day of the relevant purchase period. Under the ESPP we may make available for sale up to 3,800,000 Class A shares over the term of the ESPP, which may extend for up to 10 years. During the year ended December 31, 2017 , we sold 13,266 shares under the ESPP for a weighted average price of $43.95 . We received proceeds of $1 million related to the sale of shares under the ESPP during the year ended December 31, 2017 . Compensation expense —Compensation expense is recognized based on the number of awards expected to vest, which represents the awards granted less actual forfeitures when they occur, if any. Class M shares with Tranche 1 vesting requirements are accounted for as equity awards and related compensation expense is recognized ratably over the vesting period. The expense for Tranche 1 shares issued to employees is calculated based on grant date fair value multiplied by the number of shares awarded. The expense for Tranche 1 shares issued to non-employees (i.e. AAM participants) is recognized initially at the grant date fair value multiplied by the number of shares. However, the fair value of the awards are revalued each reporting period through completion of counterparty performance to coincide with the fair value of the services provided by the non-employees. The result of the revaluation is recognized in the period in which the revaluation occurs. Employee and non-employee Tranche 2 shares, excluding M-4 Prime, are accounted for as liability awards. Compensation expense for all participants is remeasured each reporting period through settlement at the fair value of the awards, factoring in the probability of achieving the vesting targets described above. Upon vesting of Tranche 2 shares, the liability is reclassified to equity because the vesting condition which resulted in liability classification is no longer present, and is measured at fair value on the date of reclassification. Tranche 2 M-4 Prime shares are accounted for as equity awards with expense recognition having commenced upon completion of our IPO. Compensation expense is calculated based on the grant date fair value of such awards multiplied by the number of shares awarded. LTIP awards are accounted for as equity awards. Expense for time-based RSUs and options is recognized ratably over the vesting period based on the number of shares expected to vest. Expense for performance-based RSUs is further adjusted by the performance factor most likely to be achieved, as estimated by management at the end of the performance period. Components of stock compensation expense recorded on the consolidated statements of income are as follows: Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 2015 Class M – Tranche 1 $ 8 $ 11 $ 12 Class M – Tranche 2 21 69 50 LTIP and other equity awards 16 4 5 Stock-based compensation expense $ 45 $ 84 $ 67 As of December 31, 2017 , the Class M shares had unrecognized compensation cost of $9 million for Tranche 1 and $8 million for Tranche 2. The cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.3 years and 0.8 years , respectively. Unrecognized compensation cost of $15 million for LTIP awards is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 0.7 years .

Earnings Per Share

Earnings Per Share	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Earnings Per Share	13. Earnings Per Share The following represents our basic and diluted EPS calculations: Year ended December 31, 2017 (In millions, except share and per share data) Class A Class B Class M-1 Class M-2 Class M-3 Class M-4 Net income available to AHL shareholders – basic $ 798 $ 605 $ 25 $ 5 $ 5 $ 10 Effect of stock compensation plans on allocated net income 20 — — — — — Net income available to AHL shareholders – diluted $ 818 $ 605 $ 25 $ 5 $ 5 $ 10 Basic weighted average shares outstanding 107,682,569 81,596,697 3,409,692 664,326 684,021 1,296,871 Dilutive effect of stock compensation plans 3,323,072 — — 250,426 546,943 1,611,526 Diluted weighted average shares outstanding 111,005,641 81,596,697 3,409,692 914,752 1,230,964 2,908,397 Earnings per share 1 Basic $ 7.41 $ 7.41 $ 7.41 $ 7.41 $ 7.41 $ 7.41 Diluted $ 7.37 $ 7.41 $ 7.41 $ 5.38 $ 4.12 $ 3.31 1 Calculated using whole figures. Years ended December 31, 2016 2015 (In millions, except share and per share data) Class A Class B Class M-1 Classes A and B Net income available to AHL shareholders – basic $ 214 $ 553 $ 1 $ 562 Effect of stock compensation plans on allocated net income 1 — — — Net income available to AHL shareholders – diluted $ 215 $ 553 $ 1 $ 562 Basic weighted average shares outstanding 52,086,945 134,445,840 218,324 175,091,802 Dilutive effect of stock compensation plans 1,443,531 — 4,246,074 86,846 Diluted weighted average shares outstanding 53,530,476 134,445,840 4,464,398 175,178,648 Earnings per share 1 Basic $ 4.11 $ 4.11 $ 4.11 $ 3.21 Diluted $ 4.02 $ 4.11 $ 0.20 $ 3.21 1 Calculated using whole figures. We use the two-class method for allocating net income available to AHL shareholders to each class of our common stock. Our Class M shares do not become eligible to participate in dividends until a return of investment (ROI) condition has been met for each class. Once eligible, each class of our common stock has equal dividend rights. Prior to the fourth quarter of 2016, the ROI condition had not been met for any of our Class M shares and, as a result, no earnings were attributable to those classes. In conjunction with our IPO in the fourth quarter of 2016, the ROI condition for Class M-1 was met. The ROI conditions were subsequently met for Class M-2 on March 28, 2017, and for Class M-3 and Class M-4 on April 20, 2017. For purposes of calculating basic weighted average shares outstanding and the allocation of basic income, shares are deemed to be participating in earnings for only the portion of the period after the condition is met. For purposes of calculating diluted weighted average shares outstanding, shares are deemed dilutive as of the beginning of the period. Dilutive shares are calculated using the treasury stock method. For Class A common shares, this method takes into account shares that can be settled into Class A common shares, net of a conversion price. The diluted EPS calculations for Class A shares excluded the following shares, RSUs and options: Years ended December 31, 2017 2016 2015 Antidilutive shares, RSUs and options excluded from diluted EPS calculation 50,886,246 113,497,613 — Shares, RSUs and options excluded from diluted EPS calculation as a performance condition had not been met 1,435,192 2,533,768 — Shares, RSUs and options excluded from diluted EPS calculation as issuance restrictions had not been satisfied as of the end of the year — — 16,653,624 Total shares, RSUs and options excluded from diluted EPS calculation 52,321,438 116,031,381 16,653,624 Note: Shares, RSUs and options are as of year end.

Accumulated Other Comprehensive

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Equity [Abstract]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	14. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income The following is a detail of AOCI: December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 AFS securities $ 2,577 $ 972 DAC, DSI, VOBA, future policy benefits and dividends payable to policyholders adjustments on AFS securities (744 ) (408 ) Noncredit component of OTTI losses on AFS securities (13 ) (17 ) Hedging instruments (95 ) 10 Pension adjustments (5 ) (4 ) Foreign currency translation adjustments 8 (12 ) Accumulated other comprehensive income, before taxes 1,728 541 Deferred income tax liability (313 ) (174 ) Accumulated other comprehensive income $ 1,415 $ 367 Changes in AOCI are presented below: Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 2015 Unrealized investment gains (losses) on AFS securities Unrealized investment gains (losses) on AFS securities $ 1,680 $ 1,397 $ (1,661 ) Change in DAC, DSI, VOBA, future policy benefits and dividends payable to policyholders adjustment (336 ) (499 ) 419 Less: Reclassification adjustment for gains (losses) realized in net income 1 75 20 72 Less: Income tax expense (benefit) 347 261 (428 ) Net unrealized investment gains (losses) on AFS securities 922 617 (886 ) Noncredit component of OTTI losses on AFS securities Noncredit component of OTTI losses on AFS securities (5 ) (9 ) (13 ) Less: Reclassification adjustment for losses realized in net income 1 (9 ) (7 ) (3 ) Less: Income tax expense 1 — (4 ) Net noncredit component of OTTI losses on AFS securities 3 (2 ) (6 ) Unrealized gains (losses) on hedging instruments Unrealized gains (losses) on hedging instruments (105 ) (5 ) 11 Less: Income tax expense (benefit) (22 ) (2 ) 4 Net unrealized gains (losses) on hedging instruments (83 ) (3 ) 7 Pension adjustments Pension adjustments (1 ) — 12 Less: Income tax expense (benefit) — — 4 Net pension adjustments (1 ) — 8 Foreign currency translation adjustments 20 (8 ) (4 ) Change in AOCI from comprehensive income 861 604 (881 ) Reclassification of taxes 2 187 — — Change in AOCI $ 1,048 $ 604 $ (881 ) 1 Recognized in investment related gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of income. 2 See discussion of ASU 2018-02 adoption in Note 1 – Business, Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies.

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	15. Income Taxes Income tax expense consists of the following: Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 2015 Current $ 5 $ (33 ) $ (19 ) Deferred 82 (19 ) 31 Income tax expense (benefit) $ 87 $ (52 ) $ 12 Income tax expense was calculated based on the following components of income before income taxes: Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 2015 Income before income taxes – Bermuda $ 1,237 $ 565 $ 508 Income before income taxes – Germany 25 16 8 Income before income taxes – U.S. 273 135 74 Income before income taxes $ 1,535 $ 716 $ 590 The expected tax provision computed on pre-tax income at the weighted average tax rate has been calculated as the sum of the pre-tax income in each jurisdiction multiplied by that jurisdiction’s applicable statutory tax rate. Statutory tax rates of 0% , 31% and 35% have been used for Bermuda, Germany and the United States, respectively, for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 . A reconciliation of the difference between the expected tax provision at the weighted average tax rate and income tax expense (benefit) is as follows: Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 2015 Expected tax provision computed on pre-tax income at weighted average income tax rate $ 104 $ 52 $ 28 Increase (decrease) in income taxes resulting from: Deferred tax valuation allowance (5 ) (116 ) (6 ) Prior year true-up (6 ) 8 2 Corporate owned life insurance (8 ) (7 ) (7 ) Stock compensation expense 5 5 — Change in statutory tax rates (7 ) — — State taxes and other 4 6 (5 ) Income tax expense (benefit) $ 87 $ (52 ) $ 12 Effective tax rate 6 % (7 )% 2 % The Tax Act was enacted on December 22, 2017 and made key changes to the U.S. tax law, including the reduction of the U.S. statutory tax rate from 35% to 21% . As such, the December 31, 2017 deferred tax balances were remeasured to reflect the reduction in rate and the resulting decrease to the net deferred tax liability is included in change in statutory tax rates of the reconciliation above. Total income taxes were as follows: Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 2015 Income tax expense (benefit) $ 87 $ (52 ) $ 12 Income tax expense (benefit) from OCI 326 259 (424 ) Total income taxes $ 413 $ 207 $ (412 ) Current income tax recoverable and deferred tax assets are included in other assets on the consolidated balance sheets, and current income tax payable and deferred tax liabilities are included in other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets. Current and deferred income tax assets and liabilities were as follows: December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 Current income tax recoverable $ 29 $ 107 Current income tax payable 9 1 Net current income tax recoverable $ 20 $ 106 Deferred tax assets $ 3 $ 372 Deferred tax liabilities 41 4 Net deferred tax assets (liabilities) $ (38 ) $ 368 Deferred income tax assets and liabilities consisted of the following: December 31, (In millions) 2017 1 2016 Deferred tax assets Insurance liabilities $ 1,322 $ 1,483 Net operating and capital loss carryforwards 151 221 Tax credits 6 18 VOBA 78 69 Fixed assets 26 — Employee benefits 36 52 Other 10 27 Total deferred tax assets 1,629 1,870 Valuation allowance 2 (64 ) (72 ) Deferred tax assets, after valuation allowance 1,565 1,798 Deferred tax liabilities Investments, including derivatives 781 668 Net unrealized gains on AFS 317 178 VOBA 328 346 DAC 174 232 Other 3 6 Total deferred tax liabilities 1,603 1,430 Net deferred tax assets (liabilities) $ (38 ) $ 368 1 Deferred tax balances were remeasured as of December 22, 2017 using the reduced U.S. statutory income tax rate as a result of the Tax Act. 2 A portion of the valuation allowance reduction was recorded in other comprehensive income. As of December 31, 2017 , we have gross deferred tax assets associated with U.S. federal and state net operating losses of $721 million , which will begin to expire in 2024 . The valuation allowance consists of the following: December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 U.S. federal and state net operating losses and other deferred tax assets $ 14 $ 22 German other deferred tax assets 50 50 Total valuation allowance $ 64 $ 72 During the third quarter of 2016, we identified a tax plan that, when implemented, will allow us to use a significant portion of the U.S. non-life insurance companies’ net operating losses and other deductible temporary differences. As a result, we released the corresponding deferred tax valuation allowance of $102 million , as it is more likely than not that these attributes will be realized. AHL and its Bermuda subsidiaries file protective U.S. income tax returns and its U.S. subsidiaries file income tax returns with the U.S. federal government and various U.S. state governments. AADE is not subject to U.S. federal and state examinations by tax authorities for years prior to 2007, while Athene Annuity & Life Assurance Company of New York (AANY) and Athene Life Insurance Company (ALIC) are not subject to examinations for years prior to 2011 and 2014, respectively. The Internal Revenue Service is currently auditing the 2013 consolidated tax return filed by Athene USA Corporation, and recently initiated a limited scope audit of the 2015 consolidated tax return filed by AADE. No material adverse proposed adjustments have been issued with respect to either exam. See discussion of ongoing tax examinations relating to Aviva USA and subsidiaries in Note 18 – Commitments and Contingencies . Under current Bermuda law, we are not required to pay any taxes in Bermuda on either income or capital gains. We have received an undertaking from the Bermuda Minister of Finance that, in the event of any such taxes being imposed, the Company will be exempted from taxation until the year 2035. Withholding taxes have not been provided on undistributed earnings of AHL’s U.S. and German subsidiaries as of December 31, 2017 or 2016 . Although withholding taxes may apply in the event a dividend is paid by AHL’s U.S. or German subsidiaries, we have not accrued withholding taxes as we do not intend to remit these earnings. The cumulative amount subject to withholding tax, if distributed, as well as the determination of the associated tax liability, is not practicable to compute; however, it may be material to the Company’s financial position and results of operations. Any dividends remitted to AHL from ALRe are not subject to withholding tax.

Statutory Requirements

Statutory Requirements	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Insurance [Abstract]
Insurance Disclosure [Text Block]	16. Statutory Requirements AHL’s insurance and reinsurance subsidiaries are subject to insurance laws and regulations in the jurisdictions in which they operate including Bermuda, all U.S. states, the District of Columbia and Germany. Certain regulations include restrictions that limit the dividends or other distributions, such as loans or cash advances, available to shareholders without prior approval of the insurance regulatory authorities. The differences between financial statements prepared for insurance regulatory authorities and GAAP financial statements vary by jurisdiction. Bermuda statutory requirements —ALRe is licensed by the Bermuda Monetary Authority (BMA) as a long term insurer and is subject to the Insurance Act 1978, as amended (Bermuda Insurance Act) and regulations promulgated thereunder. Effective January 1, 2016, the BMA implemented the Economic Balance Sheet (EBS) framework into the Bermuda Solvency Capital Requirement (BSCR), which was granted equivalency to the European Union’s Directive (2009/138/EC) (Solvency II). Under the Bermuda Insurance Act, ALRe is required to maintain minimum statutory capital and surplus to meet the minimum margin of solvency (MMS) and the Enhanced Capital Requirement (ECR). The MMS is equal to the greater of $8 million or 2% of the first $500 million of statutory assets plus 1.5% of statutory assets above $500 million . The ECR is calculated based on a risk-based capital model where risk factor charges are applied to the EBS. As of December 31, 2017 , the MMS and the ECR were $924 million and $2,181 million , respectively, and ALRe was in excess of these required minimums. Under the EBS framework, statutory financial statements are generally equivalent to GAAP financial statements, with the exception of permitted practices granted by the BMA. ALRe has permission in the statutory financial statements to use amortized cost instead of fair value as the basis for certain investments. Additionally, ALRe uses U.S. statutory reserving principles for the calculation of insurance reserves instead of GAAP, subject to the reserves being proved adequate based on cash flow testing. The impact to the statutory financial statements of these permitted practices is a decrease of $187 million to capital and surplus as of December 31, 2017 and a decrease of $1,281 million to statutory net income for the year ended December 31, 2017 . Under the Bermuda Insurance Act, ALRe is prohibited from paying a dividend in an amount exceeding 25% of the prior year’s statutory capital and surplus, unless at least two members of ALRe’s board of directors and its principal representative in Bermuda sign and submit to the BMA an affidavit attesting that a dividend in excess of this amount would not cause ALRe to fail to meet its relevant margins. In certain instances, ALRe would also be required to provide prior notice to the BMA in advance of the payment of dividends. In the event that such an affidavit is submitted to the BMA in accordance with the Bermuda Insurance Act, and further subject to ALRe meeting its MMS and ECR, ALRe is permitted to distribute up to the sum of 100% of statutory surplus and an amount less than 15% of statutory capital. Distributions in excess of this amount require the approval of the BMA. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , the maximum distribution ALRe was permitted to pay AHL without the need for prior approval was $5,022 million and $2,479 million , respectively. Germany statutory requirements —Our primary German insurance entity, Athene Lebensversicherung AG (ALV), is regulated by the Federal Financial Supervisory Authority of Germany as a private insurance undertaking and is subject to the Insurance Supervision Act and regulations promulgated thereunder. Effective January 1, 2016, ALV became subject to Solvency II minimum capital requirements (MCR) and solvency capital requirements (SCR) interpreted by the relevant regulatory authorities. ALV is obliged to meet these requirements in order to be able to fulfill, subject to a certain confidence level of 99.5% for SCR, or 85% for MCR, over a one -year period, all obligations arising from existing business, as well as the new business expected to be written over the following 12 months. Failure to maintain adequate capital levels may result in regulatory action. As of December 31, 2017 , statutory capital and surplus as calculated under Solvency II was $714 million , while MCR and SCR were $125 million and $278 million , respectively. ALV is restricted as to the payment of dividends pursuant to calculations, which are based upon the analysis of current euro swap rates against existing policyholder guarantees. As of December 31, 2017 , ALV did not exceed the relevant threshold and no amounts were available for distribution. U.S. statutory requirements —AHL’s regulated U.S. subsidiaries and the corresponding insurance regulatory authorities are as follows: Subsidiary Regulatory Authority AADE Delaware Department of Insurance ALIC Delaware Department of Insurance AANY New York Department of Financial Services ALICNY New York Department of Financial Services AAIA Iowa Insurance Division Structured Annuity Reinsurance Company (STAR) Iowa Insurance Division Athene Re USA IV State of Vermont Department of Financial Regulation Each entity’s statutory statements are presented on the basis of accounting practices determined by the respective regulatory authority. The regulatory authority recognizes only statutory accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the corresponding state for determining and reporting the financial condition and results of operations of an insurance company and for determining its solvency under insurance law. The maximum dividend these subsidiaries can pay to shareholders, without prior approval of the respective state insurance department, is subject to restrictions relating to statutory surplus or net gain from operations. The maximum dividend payment over a twelve-month period may not, without prior approval, be paid from a source other than earned surplus and may not exceed the greater of (1) the prior year’s net gain from operations or (2) 10% of policyholders’ surplus. Based on these restrictions, the maximum dividend AADE could pay to Athene USA, and ultimately to AHL’s shareholders, absent regulatory approval was $135 million and $127 million as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , respectively. Other requirements limit the amount that could be withdrawn from AADE and the maximum AADE could dividend while staying in compliance with these state regulations, which was $103 million and $80 million as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , respectively. Any dividends from AHL’s other U.S. statutory entities in excess of the amounts allowed for AADE would not be able to be remitted to AHL without regulatory approval from the Delaware Department of Insurance. Additionally, we have agreed with the Iowa Insurance Division not to cause AAIA to pay dividends until August 15, 2018; therefore, we currently consider AAIA’s dividend capacity as zero. As of December 31, 2017 , AHL’s U.S. subsidiaries’ solvency, liquidity and risk-based capital amounts were significantly in excess of the minimum levels required. In some instances, the states of domicile of our U.S. subsidiaries have adopted prescribed accounting practices that differ from the required accounting outlined in National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) Statutory Accounting Principles (SAP). These subsidiaries also have certain accounting practices permitted by the states of domicile that differ from those found in NAIC SAP. These prescribed and permitted practices are described as follows: AAIA – Among the products issued by AAIA are indexed universal life insurance and fixed indexed annuities. These products allow a portion of the premium to earn interest based on certain indices, primarily the S&P 500. We purchase call options, futures and variance swaps to hedge the growth in interest credited to the customer as a direct result of increases in the related index. The Iowa Insurance Division allows an insurer to elect (1) to use an amortized cost method to account for certain derivative instruments, such as call options, purchased to hedge the growth in interest credited to the customer on indexed insurance products and (2) to use an indexed annuity reserve calculation methodology under which call options associated with the current index interest crediting term are valued at zero. AAIA has elected to apply this option to its over-the-counter call options and reserve liabilities. As a result, AAIA’s statutory surplus decreased by $66 million and $17 million as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , respectively. Athene Re USA IV – AAIA has ceded the AmerUs Closed Block to Athene Re USA IV on a 100% funds withheld basis. A permitted practice in the State of Vermont allows Athene Re USA IV to include as admitted assets the face amount of all issued and outstanding letters of credit used to fund its reinsurance obligations to AAIA in its statutory financial statements. If Athene Re USA IV had not followed this permitted practice, then it would not have exceeded authorized control level risk based capital requirements. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , the face amount of the letters of credit was $153 million . Statutory reinsurance agreement – We have an agreement with Hannover Life Reassurance Company of America, which is treated as reinsurance under statutory accounting practices and as a financing arrangement under GAAP. The statutory surplus benefit under this agreement is eliminated under GAAP and the associated charges are recorded as risk charges and included in policy and other operating expenses on the consolidated statements of income. The transaction became effective October 1, 2016 and is a coinsurance agreement for statutory purposes covering 80% of the GLWB rider on 2016, 2017 and 2018 sales of certain fixed indexed annuity products. The reserve credit recorded on a statutory basis was $200 million and $91 million as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , respectively. Statutory capital and surplus and net income (loss) —The following table presents, for each of our insurance subsidiaries, the statutory capital and surplus and the statutory net income (loss), based on the most recently filed statutory financial statements filed with insurance regulators: Statutory capital & surplus Statutory net income (loss) December 31, Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 2017 2016 2015 ALRe $ 6,972 $ 6,124 $ 828 $ 460 $ 461 AADE 1,348 1,272 24 71 68 ALIC 80 79 1 1 1 AANY 268 231 29 1 8 ALICNY 76 78 6 10 14 AAIA 1,164 1,113 239 100 597 STAR 90 80 3 17 4 Athene Re USA IV 25 50 (3 ) 7 1

Related Parties

Related Parties	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Related Parties	17. Related Parties Athene Asset Management Investment related expenses – Substantially all of our investments, with the exception of the investments of ADKG, are managed by AAM, a subsidiary of AGM. AAM provides direct investment management, asset allocation, mergers and acquisition asset diligence and certain operational support services for our investment portfolio, including investment compliance, tax, legal and risk management support. As of December 31, 2017 , AAM directly managed $62,343 million of our investment portfolio assets, of which 90% are designated one or two (the two highest designations) by the NAIC. For the services it renders, AAM earns a fee on all assets managed in accounts owned by or related to us, including sub-advised assets, but excluding assets of ADKG and certain other limited exceptions. Additionally, AAM recharges the sub-advisory fees it incurs with respect to our sub-advised assets to us. Historically, AAM generally earned an annual fee of 0.40% of assets under management. In the second quarter of 2017, following shareholder approval of an amendment to our bye-laws, we entered into the Fifth Amended and Restated Fee Agreement (Revised Fee Agreement), retroactive to January 1, 2017. The Revised Fee Agreement amended certain fee arrangements we previously had in place with AAM to provide for, among other things, an annual fee of 0.30% (reduced from 0.40% ) on all assets that Apollo manages in accounts owned by us in the U.S. and Bermuda or in accounts supporting reinsurance ceded to our U.S. and Bermuda subsidiaries by third-party insurers (North American Accounts) in excess of $65,846 million (the level of assets in the North American Accounts as of December 31, 2016). The fee to be paid by us to AAM on the first $65,846 million of assets in the North American Accounts remains 0.40% per year, subject to certain discounts and exceptions. For certain assets which require specialized sourcing and underwriting capabilities, AAM has chosen to mandate sub-advisors rather than building out in-house capabilities. AAM has entered into Master Sub-Advisory Agreements (MSAAs) with certain Apollo affiliates to sub-advise AAM with respect to a portion of our assets, with the fees recharged to us, in addition to the gross fee paid to AAM as described above. The MSAAs cover services rendered by Apollo-affiliated sub-advisors relating to the following investments: December 31, (In millions, except for percentages) 2017 2016 Fixed maturity securities U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions $ — $ 5 Foreign governments 152 149 Corporate 2,934 2,032 CLO 5,166 4,727 ABS 681 911 CMBS 872 975 Mortgage loans 2,232 1,767 Investment funds 26 23 Trading securities 121 126 Funds withheld at interest 1,737 1,682 Other investments 75 81 Total assets sub-advised by Apollo affiliates $ 13,996 $ 12,478 Percent of assets sub-advised by Apollo affiliates to total AAM-managed assets 18 % 19 % During the second quarter of 2017, AAM and certain other Apollo affiliates entered into addendums to the MSAAs currently in effect, pursuant to which, with limited exceptions, Apollo will earn 0.40% per year on all assets in the North American Accounts explicitly sub-advised by Apollo up to $10,000 million , 0.35% per year on all assets in such accounts explicitly sub-advised by Apollo in excess of $10,000 million up to $12,441 million (the level of fee-paying sub-advised assets in the North American Accounts at December 31, 2016), 0.40% per year on all assets in such accounts explicitly sub-advised by Apollo in excess of $12,441 million up to $16,000 million , and 0.35% per year on all assets in such accounts explicitly sub-advised by Apollo in excess of $16,000 million . The addendums were retroactive to January 1, 2017. Apollo Asset Management Europe ADKG has an investment advisory agreement with Apollo Asset Management Europe (together with certain of its affiliates, AAME), also a subsidiary of AGM. AAME provides advisory services for all of ADKG’s investment portfolio other than operating cash, mortgage loans secured by residential and commercial properties that are not identified and advised by AAME, and assets related to unit-linked policies. Also excluded are assets held in German special investment funds managed or advised by Apollo, AAM and any of the respective affiliates of Apollo, AAM or AAME, to the extent the entity receives a management or advisory fee in connection with the fund. In providing these services, AAME has access to Apollo’s European expertise and capabilities. The ADKG investments sub-advised by AAME consist primarily of corporate and sovereign bonds, as compared to the more diverse range of assets managed by AAM or those held in the German special investment funds. As compensation for the investment advisory services rendered, AAME receives a fee of 0.10% per year on the assets it sub-advises. Affiliates of AAME receive an advisory fee of 0.35% per year on certain German special investment funds and our investment in a sub-fund of Apollo Capital Efficient Fund I (ACE fund), as well as a pro rata share of operating expenses up to 0.30% on the ACE fund. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , the German special investment funds totaled $1,190 million and $258 million , respectively, and the ACE fund totaled $97 million and $84 million , respectively. The fees incurred for management of these funds are included in sub-advisory fees in the table below. The following represents the assets sub-advised by AAME: December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 Fixed maturity securities Foreign governments $ 2,160 $ 2,062 Corporate 1,003 1,567 Equity securities 95 187 Investment funds 40 34 Policy loans 5 6 Real estate 624 541 Other investments 176 153 Cash and cash equivalents 50 25 Total assets sub-advised by AAME $ 4,153 $ 4,575 The following summarizes the asset management fees and sub-advisory fees we have incurred related to AAM, AAME and other Apollo affiliates: Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 2015 Asset management fees $ 261 $ 229 $ 226 Sub-advisory fees 57 66 42 The management and sub-advisory fees are included within net investment income on the consolidated statements of income. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , the management fees payable was $28 million and $28 million , respectively, and the sub-advisory fees payable was $13 million and $11 million , respectively. Both the management and sub-advisory fees payables are included in other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets. The investment management or advisory agreements with AAM or AAME have no stated term and any party can terminate upon notice. However, our bye-laws provide that we will not exercise our termination rights under the agreements until October 31, 2018 or any annual anniversary thereafter (each such date, an IMA Termination Election Date) and any termination thereon requires the approval of two-thirds of our Independent Directors (as defined in the bye-laws) and prior written notice thereof to Apollo of at least 30 days. If the Independent Directors make such election and such notice is timely delivered, the termination will be effective on the second anniversary of the applicable IMA Termination Election Date (an IMA Termination Effective Date). Notwithstanding the foregoing, (1) the Independent Directors may only elect to terminate an investment management agreement or advisory agreement on an IMA Termination Election Date if two-thirds of the Independent Directors determine in their sole discretion acting in good faith that either (i) there has been unsatisfactory long-term performance materially detrimental to us by Apollo or (ii) the fees being charged by Apollo are unfair and excessive compared to a comparable asset manager (provided, that in either case such Independent Directors must deliver notice of any such determination to Apollo and Apollo shall have until the applicable IMA Termination Effective Date to address such concerns, and provided, further, that in the case of such a determination that the fees being charged by Apollo are unfair and excessive, Apollo has the right to lower its fees to match the fees of such comparable asset manager) and (2) upon the determination by two-thirds of the Independent Directors, we may also terminate an investment management agreement or advisory agreement with Apollo as a result of either (i) a material violation of law relating to Apollo’s advisory business, or (ii) Apollo’s gross negligence, willful misconduct or reckless disregard of its obligations under the relevant agreement, and in either case (i) or (ii), the delivery at least 30 days’ prior written notice to Apollo of such termination and such termination will be effective at the end of such 30-day period. We have a management investment committee, which includes members of our senior management and reports to the risk committee of our board of directors. The committee focuses on strategic decisions involving our investment portfolio, such as approving investment limits, new asset classes and our allocation strategy, reviewing large asset transactions, as well as monitoring our credit risk, and the management of our assets and liabilities. A significant voting interest in the Company is held by shareholders who are members of the Apollo Group, as defined in our bye-laws. Also, James Belardi, our Chief Executive Officer, is also an employee of AAM, receives substantial remuneration from acting as Chief Executive Officer of AAM, and owns a 5% profits interest in AAM. Additionally, five of the twelve members of our board of directors are employees of or consultants to Apollo (including Mr. Belardi). In order to protect against potential conflicts of interest resulting from transactions into which we have entered and will continue to enter into with the Apollo Group, our bye-laws created a conflicts committee consisting of three of our directors who are not officers or employees of any member of the Apollo Group. The conflicts committee reviews and a majority of the committee members must approve material transactions between us and the Apollo Group, subject to certain exceptions. Other related party transactions —We have a loan purchase agreement with AmeriHome Mortgage Company, LLC (AmeriHome), an investee of A-A Mortgage, an equity method investee. The agreement allows us to purchase residential mortgage loans which they have purchased from correspondent sellers and pooled for sale in the secondary market. AmeriHome retains the servicing rights to the sold loans. We purchased $57 million , $22 million and $83 million of residential mortgage loans under this agreement during the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively. During the third quarter of 2016, we completed a series of transactions with Apollo Commercial Real Estate Finance, Inc. (ARI), a related party managed by an affiliate of Apollo. Pursuant to an agreement between ARI and Apollo Residential Mortgage, Inc. (AMTG), another related party managed by an Apollo affiliate, AMTG merged with and into ARI. In accordance with an Asset Purchase and Sale Agreement between us and ARI, we purchased $1,090 million of primarily non-agency RMBS from ARI subsequent to its merger with AMTG. We also provided ARI with a secured short-term $175 million loan to consummate the merger, which was subsequently repaid with the proceeds of the sale of such RMBS. Finally, subsequent to the merger, we purchased $20 million of ARI shares of common stock pursuant to a stock purchase agreement that required such purchase if ARI’s common stock price fell below a specified price, which was the per share value used in determining the purchase price under the merger agreement between ARI and AMTG, during the 30 trading days following the closing of the merger. On January 1, 2018, in order to align our interests with those of AGER, in connection with the Closing, we entered into a cooperation agreement with AGER, pursuant to which, among other things, (1) we will have the right to reinsure approximately 20% of the spread business written or reinsured by any insurance or reinsurance company owned or acquired by AGER, (2) AGER’s insurance subsidiaries will be required to purchase certain funding agreements and/or other spread instruments issued by our insurance subsidiaries, (3) we will provide the AGER Group with a right of first refusal to pursue acquisition and reinsurance transactions in Europe (other than the United Kingdom) and (4) the AGER Group will provide us and our subsidiaries with a right of first refusal to pursue acquisition and reinsurance transactions in North America and the United Kingdom.

Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies	18. Commitments and Contingencies Contingent Commitments —We had commitments to make investments, primarily capital contributions to investment funds, inclusive of the equity and financing transactions described below, of $2,358 million a nd $962 million as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , respectively. We expect most of our current commitments will be invested over the next five years; however, these commitments could become due any time upon counterparty request. In December 2017, we entered into a transaction with Voya, pursuant to which we agreed to reinsure approximately $19 billion of fixed annuities. Additionally, a consortium of investors, led by affiliates of Apollo, and certain other investors, agreed to purchase Voya Insurance and Annuity Company (VIAC), including its closed block variable annuity segment, and create a newly formed standalone entity, Venerable Holdings, Inc. (Venerable) that will be the holding company of VIAC. We committed to make a $75 million minority equity investment in VA Capital Company LLC, the holding company of Venerable, and provide financing to Venerable of $150 million , in each case, subject to certain closing adjustments. These transactions are expected to close in the second or third quarter of 2018, subject to regulatory approval and customary closing conditions. Funding Agreements —We are a member of the Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) and, through membership, we have issued funding agreements to the FHLB in exchange for cash advances. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , we had $573 million and $691 million , respectively, of funding agreements outstanding with the FHLB. We are required to provide collateral in excess of the funding agreements, considering any discounts to the securities posted and prepayment penalties. We have a funding agreement backed notes (FABN) program, which allows Athene Global Funding, a special-purpose, unaffiliated statutory trust, to offer up to $5 billion of its senior secured medium-term notes. Athene Global Funding uses the net proceeds from each sale to purchase one or more funding agreements from us. Funding agreements outstanding under this program had a carrying value of $2,996 million and $246 million as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , respectively. Pledged Assets and Funds in Trust (Restricted Assets)— The total restricted assets included on the consolidated balance sheets are as follows: December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 AFS securities Fixed maturity $ 1,572 $ 1,535 Equity 36 40 Investment funds 20 25 Mortgage loans 914 1,003 Short-term investments 10 15 Restricted cash 105 57 Total restricted assets $ 2,657 $ 2,675 The restricted assets are primarily related to reinsurance trusts established in accordance with coinsurance agreements and the FHLB funding agreements described above. Litigation, Claims and Assessments Husdon Matter –On June 12, 2015, Don Hudson, on behalf of himself and others similarly situated, filed a putative class action complaint against us in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California. The complaint, which was similar to complaints recently filed against other large insurance companies, primarily alleged that captive reinsurance and other transactions had the effect of misrepresenting the financial condition of Athene Annuity and Life Company (AAIA). The complaint purported to be brought on behalf of a class of purchasers of annuity products issued by AAIA between 2007 and the present and asserts claims against AHL, ALRe, AUSA and AAIA in addition to Apollo and AAM. There were also various allegations related to the purchase of Aviva USA and concerning entry into a modco transaction with ALRe in October 2013. The suit asserted claims of violation of the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act and sought compensatory damages, trebled, in an amount to be determined, costs and attorneys’ fees. On March 25, 2016, the matter was transferred to the United States District Court for the Southern District of Iowa (S.D. IA Court). On May 25, 2016, the court granted plaintiff’s motion to file an amended complaint dropping plaintiff Silva and defendant Aviva plc. We moved to dismiss the amended complaint on June 30, 2016. On May 11, 2017, the putative class action complaint filed by Don Hudson, on behalf of himself and others similarly situated, against us was dismissed in a written decision by the S.D. IA Court. Plaintiff did not appeal the district court’s decision and this matter is concluded. Griffiths Matter –On July 27, 2015, John Griffiths, on behalf of himself and others similarly situated, filed a putative class action complaint against us in the United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts. An amended complaint was filed on December 18, 2015. The complaint asserts claims against AHL, AAIA and Athene London Assignment Corporation (Athene London), in addition to an Aviva defendant. AHL is a named defendant due to its purchase of Aviva USA, and AAIA and Athene London are named as successors to Aviva Life Insurance Company and Aviva London Assignment Corporation, respectively. The complaint alleges a putative class of all persons who are the beneficial owners of assets which were used to purchase structured settlement annuities that Aviva Life Insurance Company, Aviva London Assignment Corporation, and Aviva International Insurance Limited (collectively, the Aviva Entities) or their predecessors, as applicable, delivered to purchasers on or after April 1, 2003 that were backed by a capital maintenance agreement issued by Aviva International Insurance Limited or its predecessor (the CMA). The complaint alleges that the Aviva Entities sold structured settlement annuities to the public on the basis that such products were backed by the CMA, which was alleged to be a source of great financial strength. The complaint further alleges that the Aviva Entities used the CMA to enhance the sales volume and raise the price of the annuities. The complaint claims that, as a result of Aviva USA’s sale to AHL, the CMA terminated. According to the complaint, no notice of this termination was provided to the owners of the structured settlement annuities. The complaint alleges that the termination of the CMA gave rise to claims for breach of contract, breach of fiduciary duty, promissory estoppel, and unjust enrichment. AHL and plaintiff recently agreed to a term sheet settlement on a class wide basis. Terms of the settlement, which is subject to court approval, include: (1) AHL entering into a capital maintenance agreement with Athene London requiring AHL to provide capital to Athene London upon a missed structured settlement payment that is not timely cured and (2) AHL paying a monetary amount that is immaterial to us. IRS Matters –The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) completed its examinations of the 2006 through 2010 Aviva USA tax years with Aviva USA agreeing to all proposed adjustments with two exceptions: (1) AAIA’s treatment of call options used to hedge fixed indexed annuity (FIA) liabilities for the tax years 2008–2010 and (2) the disallowance of offsetting tax deductions taken by AAIA and taxable income reported by the non-life subgroup with respect to unpaid independent marketing organization commissions. The first adjustment to which Aviva USA did not agree would disallow deductions of $191 million , $154 million and $76 million for 2008, 2009 and 2010, respectively. The second adjustment to which Aviva USA did not agree would increase non-life net operating losses and decrease AAIA net operating losses by $16 million in each of 2009 and 2010. Taxes, penalties and interest with respect to these two issues for the years under audit are subject to indemnification by Aviva plc under the Stock Purchase Agreement (SPA) between Aviva plc and AHL, dated December 21, 2012 assuming the SPA requirements are satisfied. Athene USA was unable to negotiate a favorable settlement of this issue with the IRS, and is contesting the adjustment in federal court. If the IRS position is upheld in federal court, Athene USA expects that it would owe tax of $120 million , plus interest, for tax years ending on or before October 2, 2013, which are subject to indemnification by Aviva plc as described above. The IRS also recently completed its examination of the 2011 through 2012 Aviva USA tax years, proposing adjustments that would increase taxable income by approximately $16 million in the aggregate for these two tax years. Athene USA agreed to all adjustments that were proposed with respect to those tax years except for adjustments relating to the same two issues that were not agreed to during the prior examination as discussed above. The first adjustment to which Athene USA did not agree would disallow deductions of $16 million in 2011 and increase deductions by $12 million in 2012. The second adjustment to which Athene USA did not agree would increase non-life net operating losses and decrease AAIA net operating losses by $15 million in 2011 and $12 million in 2012. Taxes, penalties and interest with respect to these two tax years are subject to indemnification by Aviva plc under the SPA, assuming the SPA requirements are satisfied. The treatment of FIA hedges is a recurring issue as to the timing of the related deductions and could affect the current income tax incurred in periods after October 2, 2013, which are not subject to indemnification by Aviva plc. Given that the disallowance of a deduction in one period results in an increased deduction in a future period, we do not expect that there will be any material impact to our financial condition resulting from this issue. Corporate-owned Life Insurance (COLI) Matter –In 2000 and 2001, two insurance companies which were subsequently merged into AAIA purchased from American General Life Insurance Company (American General) broad based variable COLI policies that, as of December 31, 2017 , had an asset value of $349 million , and is included in other assets on the consolidated balance sheets. In January 2012, the COLI policy administrator delivered to AAIA a supplement to the existing COLI policies and advised that American General and ZC Resource Investment Trust (ZC Trust) had unilaterally implemented changes set forth in the supplement that if effective, would: (1) potentially negatively impact the crediting rate for the policies and (2) change the exit and surrender protocols set forth in the policies. In March 2013, AAIA filed suit against American General, ZC Trust, and ZC Resource LLC in Chancery Court in Delaware, seeking, among other relief, a declaration that the changes set forth in the supplement were ineffectual and in breach of the parties’ agreement. The parties filed cross motions for judgment as a matter of law, and the court granted defendants’ motion and dismissed without prejudice on ripeness grounds. The issue that negatively impacts the crediting rate for one of the COLI policies has been triggered and we will pursue further adjudication. If the supplement is ultimately deemed to be effective, the purported changes to the policies could impair AAIA’s ability to access the value of guarantees associated with the policies. The value of the guarantees included within the asset value reflected above is $164 million as of December 31, 2017 . Holzer Matter –On September 12, 2016, Jack Holzer and Mary Bruesh-Holzer filed suit in Jackson County, Missouri against several defendants, including AADE, as successor-in-interest to Business Men’s Assurance Company of America. Mr. Holzer allegedly sustained injuries due to asbestos exposure from 1966–1973 while working in an office building in Kansas City, Missouri, then owned by Business Men’s Assurance Company of America. Plaintiffs assert strict liability and negligence claims against AADE, and AADE is one of the last remaining defendants. AADE is insured for costs, fees and compensatory damages under several primary and excess general liability policies issued to Business Men’s Assurance Company of America, and has rights to indemnity for costs, fees and damages, including punitive damages. The matter is calendared for trial on March 6, 2018. We do not currently expect this matter to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. However, in light of the inherent uncertainties involved in this matter, it is possible that the ultimate outcome could have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. Regulatory Matter –Our U.S. insurance subsidiaries have experienced increased service and administration complaints related to the conversion and administration of the block of life insurance business acquired in connection with our acquisition of Aviva USA and reinsured to affiliates of Global Atlantic by the TPA retained by such Global Atlantic affiliates to provide services on such policies, as well as on certain annuity policies that were on Aviva USA’s legacy policy administration systems that were also converted to and are being administered by the same TPA. On April 5, 2017, we received notification from the New York State Department of Financial Services (NYSDFS) that it planned to undertake a market conduct examination of ALICNY for the period of January 1, 2012 through March 31, 2017 (NYSDFS Market Conduct Examination), and on May 31, 2017, we received notification from the Texas Department of Insurance that it intended to undertake an enforcement proceeding, in each case, relating to the treatment of policyholders subject to our reinsurance agreements with affiliates of Global Atlantic and the conversion of such annuity policies, including the administration of such blocks by such TPA. On November 15, 2017, we received notification from the NYSDFS that its examination of ALICNY had resulted in the identification of a significant number of asserted violations of New York insurance law associated with the life block reinsured to affiliates of Global Atlantic, who have also been overseeing policyholder administration and the TPA servicing the policies in the block, with a significant number of such violations not subject to dispute by the relevant affiliates of Global Atlantic or by us. On January 30, 2018, we received a draft report regarding the NYSDFS Market Conduct Examination from the NYSDFS, which identified in more detail the violations asserted in the November 15, 2017 letter as well as certain other violations. We and Global Atlantic are currently in discussions with the NYSDFS to resolve this matter, but there is no assurance that we will be able to resolve this matter in a manner favorable to us. In addition to the foregoing, we have received inquiries, and expect to continue to receive inquiries, from other regulatory authorities regarding the conversion matter. It is possible that other jurisdictions may pursue similar formal examinations, inquiries or enforcement proceedings and that any examinations, inquiries and/or enforcement proceedings may result in fines, administrative penalties and payments to policyholders. We are not currently able to estimate the amount of any such fines, penalties or payments arising from these matters with reasonable certainty, but it is possible that such amounts may be material.

Segment Information

Segment Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment Information	19. Segment Information We operate our core business strategies out of one reportable segment, Retirement Services . In addition to Retirement Services , we report certain other operations in Corporate and Other. Retirement Services — Retirement Services is comprised of our United States and Bermuda operations, which issue and reinsure retirement savings products and institutional products. Retirement Services has retail operations, which provide annuity retirement solutions to our policyholders. Retirement Services also has reinsurance operations, which reinsure multi-year guaranteed annuities, fixed indexed annuities, traditional one-year guarantee fixed deferred annuities, immediate annuities and institutional products from our reinsurance partners. In addition, our institutional operations, including funding agreements and pension risk transfer obligations, are included in our Retirement Services segment. Corporate and Other — Corporate and Other includes certain other operations related to our corporate activities and our former German operations, which are primarily comprised of participating long-duration savings products. In addition to our former German operations, included in Corporate and Other are corporate allocated expenses, merger and acquisition costs, debt costs, certain integration and restructuring costs, certain stock-based compensation and intersegment eliminations. In Corporate and Other, we also hold capital in excess of the level of capital we hold in Retirement Services to support our operating strategy. See Note 1 – Business, Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies for discussion on the deconsolidation of our German operations in 2018. Financial Measures —Segment adjusted operating income and net investment earnings are internal measures used by the chief operating decision maker to evaluate and assess the results of our segments. Operating revenue is a component of adjusted operating income and excludes market volatility and adjustments for other non-operating activity. Our operating revenue equals our total revenue, adjusted to eliminate the impact of the following non-operating adjustments: • Change in fair values of derivatives and embedded derivatives – index annuities, net of offsets; • Investment gains (losses), net of offsets; • VIE expenses and noncontrolling interest; and • Other adjustments to revenues. The table below reconciles segment operating revenues to total revenues presented on the consolidated statements of income: Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 2015 Operating revenue by segment Retirement Services $ 5,960 $ 3,330 $ 2,979 Corporate and Other 368 268 112 Total segment operating revenues 6,328 3,598 3,091 Non-operating adjustments Change in fair values of derivatives and embedded derivatives – index annuities, net of offsets 1,990 324 (390 ) Investment gains (losses), net of offsets 461 164 (132 ) VIE expenses and noncontrolling interest — 13 33 Other adjustments to revenues (52 ) 6 16 Total non-operating adjustments 2,399 507 (473 ) Total revenues $ 8,727 $ 4,105 $ 2,618 Adjusted operating income is an internal measure used to evaluate our financial performance excluding market volatility and expenses related to integration, restructuring, stock compensation and certain other expenses. Our adjusted operating income equals net income available to AHL’s shareholders adjusted to eliminate the impact of the following non-operating adjustments: • Investment gains (losses), net of offsets; • Change in fair values of derivatives and embedded derivatives – index annuities, net of offsets; • Integration, restructuring and other non-operating expenses; • Stock-based compensation, excluding LTIP; and • Income tax (expense) benefit – non-operating. The table below reconciles segment adjusted operating income to net income available to Athene Holding Ltd. shareholders presented on the consolidated statements of income: Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 2015 Adjusted operating income by segment Retirement Services $ 1,092 $ 777 $ 767 Corporate and other 17 (49 ) (29 ) Total segment adjusted operating income 1,109 728 738 Non-operating adjustments Investment gains (losses), net of offsets 199 47 (56 ) Change in fair values of derivatives and embedded derivatives – index annuities, net of offsets 266 95 (25 ) Integration, restructuring and other non-operating expenses (68 ) (22 ) (58 ) Stock-based compensation, excluding LTIP (33 ) (82 ) (67 ) Income tax (expense) benefit – non-operating (25 ) 2 30 Total non-operating adjustments 339 40 (176 ) Net income available to Athene Holding Ltd. shareholders $ 1,448 $ 768 $ 562 Net investment earnings used to evaluate the performance of our segments is an internal measure that does not correspond to GAAP net investment income. Adjustments are made to GAAP net investment income to arrive at a net investment earnings measure that reflects the profitability of our core deferred annuities business. Accordingly, we adjust net investment income to include earnings from our consolidated VIEs and earnings on certain alternative investments (primarily CLOs) classified in investment related gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of income. Additionally, we adjust for impacts of reinsurance embedded derivatives on net investment income. The table below reconciles segment net investment earnings to net investment income presented on the consolidated statements of income: Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 2015 Net investment earnings by segment Retirement Services $ 3,241 $ 2,953 $ 2,574 Corporate and Other 182 77 36 Total net investment earnings 3,423 3,030 2,610 Adjustments to net investment income Reinsurance embedded derivative impacts (191 ) (189 ) (84 ) Net VIE earnings (77 ) (1 ) (67 ) Alternative income (gains) losses 20 39 42 Held for trading amortization 94 35 9 Total adjustments to arrive at net investment income (154 ) (116 ) (100 ) Net investment income $ 3,269 $ 2,914 $ 2,510 Adjusted operating income excludes the income tax impact of the taxable non-operating adjustments presented above. The income tax expense of non-operating income adjustments is comprised of the appropriate jurisdiction’s tax rate applied to the non-operating adjustments subject to income tax, as well as the amount recorded for the change in the U.S. statutory rate resulting from the recently enacted Tax Act. The table below reconciles segment provision for income taxes – operating to income tax expense presented on the consolidated statements of income: Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 2015 Provision for income taxes – operating by segment Retirement Services $ 64 $ (46 ) $ 39 Corporate and Other (2 ) (4 ) 3 Total segment income tax expense (benefit) – operating 62 (50 ) 42 Income tax (expense) benefit – non-operating 25 (2 ) (30 ) Income tax expense (benefit) $ 87 $ (52 ) $ 12 The following represents total assets by segment: December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 2015 Total assets by segment Retirement Services $ 91,335 $ 79,298 $ 73,702 Corporate and Other 8,412 7,401 7,144 Total assets $ 99,747 $ 86,699 $ 80,846 We market annuity products, primarily fixed rate and fixed indexed annuities. Deposits, which are generally not included in revenues on the consolidated statements of income, and premiums collected are as follows: Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 2015 Fixed indexed annuities $ 5,480 $ 5,322 $ 2,808 Fixed rate annuities 873 3,565 883 Payouts without life contingencies 106 107 166 Funding agreements 3,054 — 250 Life and other deposits 33 24 11 Total deposits 9,546 9,018 4,118 Payouts with life contingencies 2,211 21 53 Life and other premiums 254 219 142 Total premiums 2,465 240 195 Total premiums and deposits, net of ceded $ 12,011 $ 9,258 $ 4,313 Deposits and premiums collected by the geographical location are as follows: Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 2015 United States $ 11,156 $ 5,617 $ 3,097 Bermuda 652 3,429 1,135 Germany 203 212 81 Total premiums and deposits, net of ceded $ 12,011 $ 9,258 $ 4,313

Quarterly Results of Operations

Quarterly Results of Operations (Unaudited)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block]	20. Quarterly Results of Operations (Unaudited) The unaudited quarterly results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 are summarized in the table below: Three months ended (In millions, except per share data) March 31 June 30 September 30 December 31 2017 Total revenues $ 1,619 $ 1,763 $ 1,473 $ 3,872 Total benefits and expenses 1,213 1,426 1,179 3,374 Net income available to Athene Holding Ltd. shareholders 384 326 274 464 Earnings per share Basic – Classes A, B, M-1, M-2, M-3, and M-4 1 $ 2.00 $ 1.66 $ 1.40 $ 2.36 Diluted – Class A 1.92 1.65 1.39 2.35 Diluted – Class B 2.00 1.66 1.40 2.36 Diluted – Class M-1 2.00 1.66 1.40 2.36 Diluted – Class M-2 0.08 1.64 1.39 2.34 Diluted – Class M-3 N/A 1.00 1.07 2.10 Diluted – Class M-4 N/A 0.76 0.79 1.49 2016 Total revenues $ 722 $ 1,045 $ 1,272 $ 1,066 Total benefits and expenses 637 837 1,234 681 Net income available to Athene Holding Ltd. shareholders 85 193 126 364 Earnings per share Basic – Classes A, B and M-1 1 $ 0.46 $ 1.04 $ 0.68 $ 1.92 Diluted – Class A 0.46 1.04 0.68 1.78 Diluted – Class B 0.46 1.04 0.68 1.92 Diluted – Class M-1 N/A N/A N/A 0.46 Diluted – Classes M-2, M-3 and M-4 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A – Not applicable. 1 Class M-1 was eligible to participate in dividends beginning in the three months ended December 31, 2016, Class M-2 was eligible to participate in dividends beginning in the three months ended March 31, 2017, and Class M-3 and Class M-4 were eligible to participate in dividends beginning in the three months ended June 30, 2017. Prior to being eligible to participate in dividends, no earnings were attributable to those classes. See Note 13 – Earnings Per Share for further discussion. During the three months ended June 30, September 30, and December 31, 2017, we recorded out-of-period adjustments primarily related to DAC and VOBA amortization and actuarial reserves, which increased consolidated net income by $16 million , $16 million , and $21 million , respectively. The three months ended September 30 and December 31, 2017 include income tax adjustments which decreased income tax expense by $3 million and $14 million , respectively. These adjustments were primarily attributed to the consolidated statements of income for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015. We evaluated these out-of-period adjustments and determined they were not material to the consolidated financial statements for the current period, or any other previously reported period.

Schedule I Summary of Investmen

Schedule I Summary of Investments - Other Than Investments in Related Parties (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties [Abstract]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties [Text Block]	December 31, 2017 (In millions) Cost or Amortized Cost Fair Value Amount Shown on Consolidated Balance Sheet Available-for-sale securities Fixed maturity securities U.S government and agencies $ 63 $ 62 $ 62 U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions 996 1,165 1,165 Foreign governments 2,575 2,683 2,683 Public utilities 5,124 5,384 5,384 Other corporate 30,010 31,235 31,235 CLO 5,039 5,084 5,084 ABS 3,945 3,971 3,971 CMBS 1,994 2,021 2,021 RMBS 8,721 9,366 9,366 Redeemable preferred stock 39 41 41 Total fixed maturity securities 58,506 61,012 61,012 Equity securities Banks, trust and insurance companies common stock 37 37 37 Industrial, miscellaneous and all other common stock 130 129 129 Nonredeemable preferred stocks 104 111 111 Total equity securities 271 277 277 Total available-for-sale securities 58,777 $ 61,289 61,289 Trading securities, at fair value 2,475 2,709 Mortgage loans, net of allowances 6,232 6,233 Investment funds 693 699 Policy loans 530 530 Funds withheld at interest 7,085 7,085 Derivative assets 1,673 2,551 Real estate 624 624 Short-term investments, at fair value 201 201 Other investments 133 133 Total investments $ 78,423 $ 82,054

Schedule II - Condensed Financi

Schedule II - Condensed Financial Information of Registrant Condensed Financial Information of Parent (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Abstract]
Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Text Block]	1. Basis of Presentation The accompanying condensed financial statements of Athene Holding Ltd. (AHL) should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes of AHL and its subsidiaries (consolidated financial statements). For purposes of these condensed financial statements, AHL’s wholly owned and majority owned subsidiaries are presented under the equity method of accounting. Under this method, the assets and liabilities of subsidiaries are not consolidated. The investments in subsidiaries are recorded on the condensed balance sheets. The income from subsidiaries is reported on a net basis as equity earnings of subsidiaries on the condensed statements of income. 2. Intercompany Transactions Unsecured Revolving Notes Receivable — AHL has unsecured revolving notes receivable from subsidiaries Athene USA Corporation (Athene USA), AGER Bermuda Holding Ltd. (AGER) and Athene Life Re Ltd. (ALRe). The unsecured revolving notes receivable from Athene USA has a borrowing capacity of $250 million and $100 million and an outstanding balance of $16 million and $0 million as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , respectively. Interest accrues at the U.S. short-term applicable federal rate per year, and the balance is due on June 1, 2020 , or earlier at AHL’s request. The unsecured revolving notes receivable from AGER has a borrowing capacity of €25 million and an outstanding balance of $29 million as of December 31, 2017 . Interest accrues at the U.S. short-term applicable federal rate per year, and the balance is due on the date as of which AHL’s ownership percentage of AGER is reduced such that AGER and its subsidiaries are no longer consolidated subsidiaries of AHL, or earlier at AHL’s request. AHL deconsolidated AGER effective January 1, 2018. See Note 1 – Business, Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies to the consolidated financial statements for further information regarding the deconsolidation of AGER. In conjunction with the AGER deconsolidation, the outstanding balance was repaid to AHL in the first quarter of 2018. The unsecured revolving notes receivable from ALRe has a borrowing capacity of $250 million and had no outstanding balance as of December 31, 2017 . Interest accrues at a fixed rate of 1.25% and has a maturity date of June 1, 2020 , or earlier at AHL’s request. Unsecured Revolving Notes Payable — In addition to the unsecured revolving notes receivable described above, AHL has an unsecured revolving note payable with ALRe, which permits AHL to borrow an amount not to exceed $250 million with a fixed interest rate of 1.25% and a maturity date of June 1, 2020 . As of December 31, 2017 , there was no balance outstanding under this agreement. Funds in Trust (Restricted Assets)— AHL has agreed to maintain the authorized control level risk-based capital (RBC) of its subsidiary, Athene Life Insurance Company of New York (ALICNY), at an amount not less than 450%. As a result, AHL has established a separate backstop trust account with a fair value of $39 million and $36 million as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , respectively, consisting of available-for-sale investments and cash. If ALICNY’s authorized control level RBC falls below 450%, the funds in the backstop trust account would be used to replenish ALICNY’s authorized control level RBC to at least 450%. 3. Debt and Guarantees AHL has guaranteed certain of the obligations of Athene USA and ALRe in connection with its revolving credit facility. Additionally, AHL has issued senior notes in the first quarter of 2018. See Note 10 – Debt to the consolidated financial statements for further discussion on the credit facility and senior notes. 4. Dividends, Return of Capital and Capital Contributions There were no dividends or return of capital received from subsidiaries during the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 . See Note 16 – Statutory Requirements to the consolidated financial statements for additional information on subsidiary dividend restrictions.

Business, Basis of Presentati32

Business, Basis of Presentation, and Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block]	We have compensation plans under which stock-based awards may be granted to our employees and directors and employees of Athene Asset Management, L.P. (AAM) as described in Note 12 – Stock-based Compensation . We recognize the fair value of stock-based compensation over a participant’s requisite service period through a charge to compensation expense and a corresponding entry to equity or a liability based on vesting criteria and other pertinent terms of the awards. Stock-based awards are accounted for as equity awards in instances where the awards’ vesting are linked to a market, performance or service condition. Equity awards to employees are generally expensed based on the grant date fair value. For equity awards issued to non-employees, the fair value is remeasured through completion of counterparty performance. Employee and non-employee stock-based awards are accounted for as liabilities in instances where the awards’ vesting criteria are linked to a factor other than a market, performance or service condition. Liability awards are remeasured each reporting period until settlement. In the event of an award modification, we recognize any additional value arising from the modification as compensation cost and determine whether the modified award should be accounted for prospectively as an equity or liability award.
Policyholders' Dividend [Policy Text Block]	Participating policies entitle the policyholders to receive dividends based on actual interest, mortality, morbidity and expense experience for the year. Dividends are distributed to the policyholders through annual or terminal dividends which the Board of Directors of the applicable insurance subsidiary approves. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , 90% and 88% , respectively, of traditional life policies inclusive of ceded policies were paying dividends, and the related liability is recorded in dividends payable to policyholders on the consolidated balance sheets. Premiums related to policies paying dividends represented 52% , 45% and 22% of total life insurance direct premiums and deposits for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively. Traditional life policies inclusive of ceded policies represented 88% and 81% of the Company’s individual life policies in force as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , respectively. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , all of the non-separate account unit-linked policies were paying dividends, and the related liability is recorded in dividends payable to policyholders on the consolidated balance sheets. There were no material deposits related to non-separate account unit-linked policies paying dividends for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 . Non-separate account unit-linked policies represented an insignificant percentage of our interest sensitive contracts in force as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 . Policyholder dividend liabilities are recorded in dividends payable to policyholders on the consolidated balance sheets and policyholder dividends are recorded in dividends to policyholders on the consolidated statements of income. For participating policies issued by our German subsidiaries, dividends payable to policyholders includes an adjustment to recognize timing differences between GAAP and local statutory earnings that reverse and enter into future calculations of dividends to policyholders. Except for changes due to unrealized gains or losses on AFS securities, the change in this adjustment is recorded in dividends to policyholders on the consolidated statements of income. Changes in this adjustment due to unrealized gains or losses on AFS securities are recorded in OCI.
Other Policy Claims and Benefits, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Other policy claims and benefits include amounts payable relating to in course of settlements (ICOS) and incurred but not reported (IBNR) liabilities associated with interest sensitive contract liabilities and future policy benefits. For traditional life and universal life policies, ICOS claim liabilities are established when we are notified of the death of the policyholder but the claim has not been paid as of the reporting date. For immediate annuities and supplemental contracts, ICOS claim liabilities are established to accrue suspended benefit payments between the date of notification of death and the date of verification of death. We determine IBNR claim liabilities using studies of past experience. The time that elapses from the death or claim date to when the claim is reported to us can vary significantly by product type, but generally ranges between one to six months for life business. We estimate IBNR claims on an undiscounted basis, using actuarial estimates of historical claims expense, adjusted for current trends and conditions. These estimates are continually reviewed and the ultimate liability may vary significantly from the amount recognized.
Closed Block Accounting Policy [Policy Text Block]	Two closed blocks of policies were established in connection with the reorganization of two predecessor subsidiaries from mutual companies to stock companies, collectively referred to as the Closed Blocks, and individually referred to as the AmerUs Life Insurance Company (AmerUs) closed block (AmerUs Closed Block) and the Indianapolis Life Insurance Company (ILICO) closed block (ILICO Closed Block). Insurance policies which had a dividend scale in effect as of each closed block establishment date were included in the respective closed block. The Closed Blocks were designed to give reasonable assurance to owners of insurance policies included therein that, after the reorganization, assets would be available to maintain the dividend scales and interest credits in effect prior to the reorganization, if the experience underlying such scales and crediting continued. The assets, including related revenue, allocated to the Closed Blocks will accrue solely to the benefit of the policyholders included in the Closed Blocks until they no longer exist. A policyholder dividend obligation is required to be established for earnings in the Closed Blocks that are not available to the shareholders.
Interest Sensitive Contract Liabilities, Policy [Policy Text Block]	life-type policies and investment contracts include fixed indexed and traditional fixed annuities in the accumulation phase, funding agreements, universal life insurance, fixed indexed universal life insurance, unit-linked contracts and immediate annuities without significant mortality risk. We carry liabilities for fixed annuities, universal life insurance, unit-linked contracts and funding agreements at the account balances without reduction for potential surrender or withdrawal charges, except for a block of universal life business ceded to Global Atlantic Financial Group Limited (together with its subsidiaries, Global Atlantic) which we carry at fair value. Liabilities for immediate annuities without significant mortality risk are calculated as the present value of future liability cash flows and policy maintenance expenses discounted at contractual interest rates. For a discussion regarding our indexed products, refer above to the embedded derivative discussion. Changes in the interest sensitive contract liabilities, excluding deposits and withdrawals, are recorded in interest sensitive contract benefits or product charges on the consolidated statements of income. Interest sensitive contract liabilities are not reduced for amounts ceded under reinsurance agreements which are reported as reinsurance recoverable on the consolidated balance sheets.
Business Combinations Policy [Policy Text Block]	Business combination transactions are accounted for under the acquisition method. Accordingly, the purchase consideration is allocated to assets and liabilities based on their estimated fair value at the acquisition date. The consideration for the net assets acquired is determined prior to the assessment of the fair value of the net assets at the acquisition date. We have identified several intangible assets acquired in business combinations including VOBA, acquired distribution channels and state licenses. We value VOBA as described below under Deferred Acquisition Costs, Deferred Sales Inducements and Value of Business Acquired . We value distribution channels using the multi-period excess earnings method under the income approach and the state licenses using the market approach. Distribution channels and state licenses are included in other assets on the consolidated balance sheets.
Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block]	We invest in derivatives to hedge the risks experienced in our ongoing operations, such as equity risk, interest rate risk, cash flow risks or for other risk management purposes, which primarily involve managing liability risks associated with our indexed annuity products and reinsurance agreements. Derivatives are financial instruments whose values are derived from interest rates, foreign exchange rates, financial indices or other underlying notional amounts. Derivative assets and liabilities are carried at fair value on the consolidated balance sheets. We elect to present any derivatives subject to master netting provisions as a gross asset or liability and gross of collateral. Disclosures regarding balance sheet presentation of derivatives subject to master netting agreements are discussed in Note 3 – Derivative Instruments . We may designate derivatives as cash flow or fair value hedges. Hedge Documentation and Hedge Effectiveness – To qualify for hedge accounting, at the inception of the hedging relationship, we formally document our risk management objective and strategy for undertaking the hedging transaction, as well as our designation of the hedge as a cash flow or fair value hedge. In this documentation, we identify how the hedging instrument is expected to hedge the designated risks related to the hedged item, the method that will be used to retrospectively and prospectively assess the hedging instrument’s effectiveness and the method which will be used to measure ineffectiveness. A derivative designated as a hedging instrument must be assessed as being highly effective in offsetting the designated risk of the hedged item. Hedge effectiveness is formally assessed at inception and periodically throughout the life of the designated hedging relationship. For a cash flow hedge, changes in the fair value of the hedging derivative measured as effective are reported within AOCI, and the related gains or losses on the derivative are reclassified into the consolidated statements of income when the cash flows of the hedged item affect earnings. Any ineffectiveness is reported in investment related gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of income each reporting period as effectiveness is assessed. For a fair value hedge, changes in the fair value of the hedging derivative, including any amounts measured as ineffective, and changes in the fair value of the hedged item related to the designated risk being hedged, are reported on the consolidated statements of income according to the nature of the risk being hedged. We discontinue hedge accounting prospectively when: (1) we determine the derivative is no longer highly effective in offsetting changes in the estimated cash flows or fair value of a hedged item; (2) the derivative expires, is sold, terminated, or exercised; or (3) the derivative is de-designated as a hedging instrument. When hedge accounting is discontinued, the derivative continues to be carried on the consolidated balance sheets at fair value, with changes in fair value recognized in investment related gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of income. For a derivative not designated as a hedge, changes in the derivative’s fair value and any income received or paid on derivatives at the settlement date are included in investment related gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of income. Embedded Derivatives – We issue and reinsure products, primarily fixed indexed annuity products, or purchase investments that contain embedded derivatives. If we determine the embedded derivative has economic characteristics not clearly and closely related to the economic characteristics of the host contract, and a separate instrument with the same terms would qualify as a derivative instrument, the embedded derivative is bifurcated from the host contract and accounted for separately, unless the fair value option is elected on the host contract. Under the fair value option, bifurcation of the embedded derivative is not necessary as all related gains and losses on the host contract and derivative are included within investment related gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of income. Embedded derivatives are carried on the consolidated balance sheets at fair value in the same line item as the host contract. Fixed indexed annuity and indexed universal life insurance contracts allow the policyholder to elect a fixed interest rate return or an equity market component where interest credited is based on the performance of common stock market indices. The equity market option is an embedded derivative, similar to a call option. The benefit reserve is equal to the sum of the fair value of the embedded derivative and the host (or guaranteed) component of the contracts. The fair value of embedded derivatives is computed as the present value of benefits attributable to the excess of the projected policy contract values over the projected minimum guaranteed contract values. The projections of policy contract values are based on assumptions for future policy growth, which include assumptions for expected index credits on the next policy anniversary date, future equity option costs, volatility, interest rates and policyholder behavior. The projections of minimum guaranteed contract values include the same assumptions for policyholder behavior as were used to project policy contract values. For contracts we issue directly to policyholders, the embedded derivative cash flows are discounted using a rate that reflects our credit rating. For contracts assumed through funds withheld and modco reinsurance contracts, we do not use a credit spread as the funds are backed by the cedant’s collateral. The host contract is established at contract inception as the initial account value less the initial fair value of the embedded derivative and accreted over the policy’s life. The host contract accretion rate is updated each quarter so that the present value of actual and expected guaranteed cash flows is equal to the initial host value. Changes in the fair value of embedded derivatives associated with fixed indexed annuities and indexed universal life insurance contracts are included in interest sensitive contract benefits on the consolidated statements of income. Additionally, reinsurance agreements written on a funds withheld or modco basis contain embedded derivatives. The right to receive or obligation to pay the total return on the assets supporting the funds withheld at interest or funds withheld liability, respectively, represents a total return swap with a floating rate leg. The fair value of embedded derivatives on funds withheld and modco agreements is computed as the unrealized gain (loss) on the underlying assets and is included in the funds withheld at interest and funds withheld liability lines on the consolidated balance sheets for assumed and ceded agreements, respectively. The change in the fair value of the embedded derivatives is recorded in investment related gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of income. Assumed and ceded earnings from funds withheld at interest, funds withheld liability and changes in the fair value of embedded derivatives are reported in operating activities on the consolidated statements of cash flows. Contributions to and withdrawals from funds withheld at interest and funds withheld liability are reported in operating activities on the consolidated statements of cash flows.
Basis of Presentation
Use of Estimates	We have prepared the consolidated financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAP), which requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the period. Actual experience could materially differ from these estimates and assumptions. Our principal estimates impact: • fair value of investments; • impairment of investments and valuation allowances; • derivatives valuation, including embedded derivatives; • deferred acquisition costs (DAC), deferred sales inducements (DSI) and value of business acquired (VOBA); • future policy benefit reserves; • valuation allowances on deferred tax assets; and • stock-based compensation. Additional details around these principal estimates and assumptions are discussed in the significant accounting policies that follow and the related footnote disclosures.
Adopted Accounting Pronouncements and Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements	Adopted Accounting Pronouncements Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (ASU 2018-02) This update allows a reclassification from AOCI to retained earnings for stranded tax effects resulting from Public Law no. 115-97, an Act to provide for reconciliation pursuant to titles II and V of the concurrent resolution on the budget for fiscal year 2018 (Tax Act), which was enacted on December 22, 2017. The effect of a change in income tax rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities is required to be recognized in income on the date of enactment, even if the deferred tax was originally recorded in other comprehensive income. Prior to the adoption of this update, application of prior guidance resulted in an amount being stranded in AOCI related to the difference between historical and enacted tax rates. The update allows an entity to reclassify the difference related to the Tax Act from AOCI to retained earnings. The update is required to be adopted January 1, 2019, and early adoption is permitted for any interim or annual period for which financial statements have not yet been filed. We elected to early adopt this update effective October 1, 2017, and have elected to reclassify stranded amounts associated with the Tax Act, resulting in a reclassification of $187 million from AOCI to retained earnings. Stock Compensation – Scope of Modification Accounting (ASU 2017-09) The amendments in this update clarify and simplify when to apply modification accounting for a change to the terms or conditions of a share-based payment award. These amendments are required to be adopted prospectively to awards modified after the date of adoption. We elected to early adopt this update effective April 1, 2017, and the adoption did not have an impact on our consolidated financial statements. Receivables – Nonrefundable Fees and Other Costs (ASU 2017-08) The amendments in this update shorten the amortization period for certain callable debt securities held at a premium to the earliest call date. These amendments are required to be adopted on a modified retrospective basis. We elected to early adopt this update effective January 1, 2017, and the adoption did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. Business Combinations – Clarifying the Definition of a Business (ASU 2017-01) The amendments in this update clarify the definition of a business with the objective of assisting entities with evaluating whether transactions should be accounted for as acquisitions (or disposals) of assets or businesses. The definition of a business affects many areas of accounting including acquisitions, disposals, goodwill and consolidation. These amendments are required to be adopted prospectively to any transactions after the date of adoption. We elected to early adopt this update effective April 1, 2017, and the adoption did not have an impact on our consolidated financial statements. Consolidation – Interest Held through Related Parties under Common Control (ASU 2016-17) This update amends the consolidation guidance to change how indirect interests in VIEs are evaluated by a reporting entity when determining whether or not it is the primary beneficiary of that VIE. The primary beneficiary of a VIE is the reporting entity that has a controlling financial interest in a VIE and, therefore, consolidates the VIE. A reporting entity has an indirect interest in a VIE if it has a direct interest in a related party that, in turn, has a direct interest in the VIE. Previously, if a single decision maker and its related parties were under common control, the single decision maker was required to consider indirect interests held through related parties to be the equivalent of direct interests in their entirety. The amendments change the evaluation of indirect interests to be considered on a proportionate basis. We adopted this update effective January 1, 2017, and the adoption did not have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements. Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting (ASU 2016-09) This update simplifies several aspects of the accounting for share-based payment award transactions, including income tax consequences, forfeitures and classification on the statement of cash flows. The update requires entities to make an entity-wide accounting policy election to either estimate the number of awards that are expected to vest or account for forfeitures when they occur. We have elected to account for forfeitures when they occur. We adopted this update effective January 1, 2017, and the adoption did not have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements. Equity Method and Joint Ventures (ASU 2016-07) This update eliminates the retroactive adjustments to an investment upon it qualifying for the equity method of accounting as a result of an increase in the level of ownership interest or degree of influence by the investor. We adopted this update effective January 1, 2017, and the adoption did not have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements. Derivatives and Hedging – Contingent Put and Call Options (ASU 2016-06) This update is intended to clarify the requirements for assessing whether contingent call (put) options that can accelerate the payment of principal on debt instruments are clearly and closely related to debt hosts. We adopted this update effective January 1, 2017, and the adoption did not have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements. Derivatives and Hedging – Effects of Derivative Contract Novation (ASU 2016-05) This update is intended to clarify that a change in the counterparty to a derivative instrument that has been designated as the hedging instrument does not, in and of itself, require a de-designation of that hedging relationship provided all other hedge accounting criteria continue to be met. We adopted this update effective January 1, 2017, and the adoption did not have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements. Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements Derivatives and Hedging – Targeted Improvements (ASU 2017-12) The amendments in this update contain improvements to the financial reporting of hedging relationships that more closely reflect the economic results of an entity’s risk management activities in its financial statements. Additionally, the amendments in this update make certain targeted improvements to simplify the application of hedge accounting. We will be required to adopt this update effective January 1, 2019. Early adoption is permitted. We are currently evaluating the impact of this update on our consolidated financial statements. Gains and Losses from the Derecognition of Nonfinancial Assets (ASU 2017-05) The amendments in this update clarify the scope of asset derecognition guidance and accounting for partial sales of nonfinancial assets. We will adopt this update on a modified retrospective basis effective January 1, 2018. We do not expect the adoption of this update will have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements. Intangibles – Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment (ASU 2017-04) The amendments in this update simplify the subsequent measurement of goodwill by eliminating the comparison of the implied fair value of a reporting unit’s goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill to determine the goodwill impairment loss. With the adoption of this guidance, a goodwill impairment will be the amount by which a reporting unit’s carrying value exceeds its fair value, not to exceed the carrying amount of the goodwill allocated to that reporting unit. Entities will continue to have the option to perform a qualitative assessment to determine if a quantitative impairment test is necessary. We will be required to adopt this update prospectively effective January 1, 2020. Early adoption is permitted. We do not expect the adoption of this update will have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements. Revenue Recognition (ASU 2017-13, ASU 2016-20, ASU 2016-12, ASU 2016-11, ASU 2016-10, ASU 2016-08, ASU 2015-14 and ASU 2014-09) These updates are based on the core principle that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. These updates replace all general and most industry-specific revenue recognition guidance, excluding insurance contracts, leases, financial instruments and guarantees, which have been scoped out of these updates. Since the guidance does not apply to revenue on contracts accounted for under the financial instruments or insurance contracts standards, only a portion of our revenues are impacted by this guidance. We will adopt these updates on a modified retrospective basis effective January 1, 2018. We do not expect the adoption of these updates will have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements. Statement of Cash Flows – Restricted Cash (ASU 2016-18) This update requires amounts generally described as restricted cash or restricted cash equivalents be included with cash and cash equivalents when reconciling the beginning-of-period and end-of-period amounts shown on the consolidated statements of cash flows. We will be required to adopt this update retrospectively for each period presented effective January 1, 2018. The adoption of this update will require us to change the presentation on the consolidated statements of cash flows for restricted cash or restricted cash equivalents; however, we do not expect the adoption of this update will have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements. Income Taxes – Intra-Entity Transfers (ASU 2016-16) This update requires the immediate recognition of current and deferred income tax effects of intra-entity transfers of assets, other than inventory. Currently, recognition of the income tax consequence is not recognized until the asset is sold to an outside party. We will adopt this update on a modified retrospective basis effective January 1, 2018. We do not expect the adoption of this update will have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements. Statement of Cash Flows (ASU 2016-15) This update provides specific guidance to clarify how entities should classify certain cash receipts and cash payments on the statement of cash flows. The update also clarifies the application of the predominance principle when cash receipts and cash payments have aspects of more than one class of cash flows. We will adopt this update effective January 1, 2018. We do not expect the adoption of this update will have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements. Financial Instruments – Credit Losses (ASU 2016-13) This update is designed to reduce complexity by limiting the number of credit impairment models used for different assets. The model will result in accelerated credit loss recognition on assets held at amortized cost, which includes our commercial and residential mortgage investments. The identification of credit-deteriorated securities will include all assets that have experienced a more-than-insignificant deterioration in credit since origination. Additionally, any changes in the expected cash flows of credit-deteriorated securities will be recognized immediately in the income statement. Available-for-sale (AFS) fixed maturity securities are not in scope of the new credit loss model, but will undergo targeted improvements to the current reporting model including the establishment of a valuation allowance for credit losses versus the current direct write down approach. We will be required to adopt this update effective January 1, 2020. Early adoption is permitted effective January 1, 2019. We are currently evaluating the impact of this guidance on our consolidated financial statements. Leases (ASU 2018-1, ASU 2017-13 and ASU 2016-02) These updates are intended to increase transparency and comparability for lease transactions. A lessee is required to recognize an asset and a liability for all lease arrangements longer than 12 months. Lessor accounting is largely unchanged. We will be required to adopt these updates on a modified retrospective basis effective January 1, 2019. Early adoption is permitted. We have reviewed our existing lease contracts and our implementation efforts are primarily focused on assessing the financial impact of these updates on our consolidated financial statements. Financial Instruments – Recognition and Measurement (ASU 2016-01) This update changes the current accounting for certain equity investments, the presentation of changes in the fair value of liabilities measured under the fair value option due to instrument-specific credit risk, and certain disclosures. For liabilities measured under the fair value option, changes in fair value attributable to instrument-specific credit risk will no longer affect net income, but will be recognized separately in OCI. Additionally, this update requires equity investments to be measured at fair value with subsequent changes recognized in net income, except for those accounted for under the equity method or requiring consolidation. We currently recognize changes in fair value related to AFS equity securities in accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI) on the consolidated balance sheets. We will adopt this update effective January 1, 2018. Upon adoption, we will recognize a cumulative-effect increase to beginning retained earnings of $42 million and a corresponding decrease to AOCI.
Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Our consolidated financial statements include our wholly-owned subsidiaries, investees we control and any VIEs where we are the primary beneficiary. Investments in entities that we do not control, but have the ability to exercise significant influence over operating and financing decisions, other than investments for which we have elected the fair value option, are accounted for under the equity method. Intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated. For entities that are consolidated, but not 100% owned, we allocate a portion of the income or loss and corresponding equity to the owners other than the Company. We include the aggregate of the income or loss and corresponding equity that is not owned by the Company in noncontrolling interests in the consolidated financial statements. We report investments in related parties and assets and liabilities of consolidated VIEs separately, as further described in the accounting policies that follow. We have prepared the consolidated financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAP), which requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the period. Actual experience could materially differ from these estimates and assumptions. Our principal estimates impact: • fair value of investments; • impairment of investments and valuation allowances; • derivatives valuation, including embedded derivatives; • deferred acquisition costs (DAC), deferred sales inducements (DSI) and value of business acquired (VOBA); • future policy benefit reserves; • valuation allowances on deferred tax assets; and • stock-based compensation. Additional details around these principal estimates and assumptions are discussed in the significant accounting policies that follow and the related footnote disclosures. AGER Deconsolidation – In April 2017, in connection with a private offering, AGER entered into subscription agreements with AHL, certain affiliates of Apollo Global Management, LLC (AGM and, together with its subsidiaries, Apollo) and a number of other third-party investors pursuant to which AGER secured commitments from such parties to purchase new common shares in AGER (AGER Offering). In November 2017, the AGER board of directors approved resolutions authorizing the closing of the AGER Offering (Closing) to occur on January 1, 2018 and approving a capital call from all of the AGER investors, excluding us. In connection with the Closing and the issuance of shares in respect of the capital call, each of which occurred on January 1, 2018, our equity interest in AGER was exchanged for common shares of AGER. As a result, on January 1, 2018, we held 10% of the aggregate voting power of and less than 50% of the economic interest in AGER and, as such, it is thereafter held as an investment rather than a consolidated subsidiary.
Investment, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities – Fixed maturity securities includes bonds, collateralized loan obligations (CLO), asset-backed securities (ABS), residential mortgage-backed securities (RMBS), commercial mortgage-backed securities (CMBS) and redeemable preferred stock. Equity securities includes common stock, mutual funds and non-redeemable preferred stock. We classify fixed maturity and equity securities as available-for-sale (AFS) or trading at the time of purchase and subsequently carry them at fair value. Fair value hierarchy and valuation methodologies are discussed in Note 5 – Fair Value . Classification is dependent on a variety of factors including our expected holding period, election of the fair value option and asset and liability matching. AFS Securities – Unrealized gains and losses on AFS securities, net of tax and adjustments to DAC, DSI, VOBA and future policy benefits, if applicable, are generally reflected in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (AOCI) on the consolidated balance sheets. Unrealized gains or losses relating to identified risks within AFS securities in fair value hedging relationships are reflected in investment related gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of income. Trading Securities – We elected the fair value option for certain fixed maturity securities. These fixed maturity securities are classified as trading, with changes to fair value included in investment related gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of income. Although the securities are classified as trading, the trading activity related to these investments is primarily focused on asset and liability matching activities and is not intended to be an income strategy based on active trading. As such, the activity related to these investments on the consolidated statements of cash flows is classified as investing activities. Trading securities include mutual funds supporting unit-linked investment contracts. We generally record security transactions on a trade date basis, with any unsettled trades recorded in other assets or other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets. For those security transactions not recorded on a trade date basis, such as investment fund purchases, we record on a settlement date basis. Purchased Credit Impaired (PCI) Investments – We purchase certain structured securities, primarily RMBS and re-performing mortgage loans, having deterioration in credit quality since their issuance which meet the definition of PCI investments. We determined, based on our expectations as to the timing and amount of cash flows expected to be received, that it was probable at acquisition that we would not collect all contractually required payments, including both principal and interest, while also considering the effects of any prepayments for these PCI investments. Based on these assumptions, the difference between the undiscounted expected future cash flows of the PCI investment and the recorded investment represents the initial accretable yield, which is accreted into investment income, net of related expenses, over its remaining life on a level-yield basis. The difference between the contractually required payments on the PCI investment and the undiscounted expected future cash flows represents the non-accretable difference at acquisition. Over time, based on actual payments received and changes in estimates of undiscounted expected future cash flows, the accretable yield and the non-accretable difference can change. PCI investments are presented on the consolidated financial statements consistent with AFS securities or mortgage loans depending on the underlying investment. Quarterly, we evaluate the undiscounted expected future cash flows associated with PCI investments based on updates to key assumptions. Changes to undiscounted expected future cash flows due solely to the changes in the contractual benchmark interest rates on variable rate PCI investments will change the accretable yield prospectively. Declines in undiscounted expected future cash flows due to further credit deterioration, as well as changes in the expected timing of the cash flows, can result in the recognition of an other-than-temporary impairment (OTTI) charge for PCI securities or a valuation allowance for PCI loans. Significant increases in undiscounted expected future cash flows are recognized prospectively as an adjustment to the accretable yield. Mortgage Loans – Mortgage loans are primarily stated at unpaid principal balance, adjusted for any unamortized premium or discount, and net of valuation allowances. Interest income is accrued on the principal amount of the loan based on its contractual interest rate. We record amortization of premiums and discounts using the effective yield method and contractual cash flows on the underlying loan. We accrue interest on loans until it is probable we will not receive interest or the loan is 90 days past due. Interest income, amortization of premiums and discounts and prepayment fees are reported in net investment income on the consolidated statements of income. We have also elected the fair value option on a portion of our mortgage loans. Investment Funds – We invest in certain non-fixed income, alternative investments in the form of limited partnerships or similar legal structures (investment funds). For investment funds in which we have determined we are not the primary beneficiary, and therefore not required to consolidate, we typically record these investments using the equity method of accounting, where the cost is recorded as an investment in the fund, or we have elected the fair value option. Adjustments to the carrying amount reflect our pro rata ownership percentage of the operating results as indicated by net asset value (NAV) in the investment fund financial statements, which can be on a lag of up to three months when investee information is not received in a timely manner. We record our proportionate share of investment fund income within net investment income on the consolidated statements of income. Contributions paid or distributions received by us are recorded directly to the investment fund balance as an increase to carrying value or as a return of capital, thus reducing our carrying value. Policy Loans – Policy loans are funds provided to policyholders in return for a claim on the policy’s account value. The funds provided are limited to a specified percentage of the account balance. The majority of policy loans do not have a stated maturity and the balances and accrued interest are repaid with proceeds from the policy account balance. Policy loans are reported at the unpaid principal balance. Interest income is recorded as earned using the contract interest rate and is reported in net investment income on the consolidated statements of income. Funds Withheld at Interest – Funds withheld at interest represents a receivable for amounts contractually withheld by ceding companies in accordance with funds withheld coinsurance (funds withheld) and modified coinsurance (modco) reinsurance agreements in which we act as reinsurer. Generally, assets equal to statutory reserves are withheld and legally owned by the ceding company, and any excess or shortfall is settled periodically. The underlying agreements contain embedded derivatives as discussed below. Real Estate – Real estate investments are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is recorded on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful life of the asset, which is typically 40 years , and is included in net investment income on the consolidated statements of income. We periodically review our real estate investments for impairment and test for recoverability when events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value may not be recoverable and exceeds its estimated fair value. We recognize an impairment to fair value if the carrying amount of a property exceeds the expected undiscounted cash flows. Real estate investments for which we have committed to a plan to sell within one year and are actively marketing are classified as held for sale. Real estate held for sale is stated at the lower of depreciated cost as of the date we committed to a plan to sell or estimated fair value less expected disposition costs. Short-term Investments – Short-term investments consists of financial instruments with maturities of greater than three months but less than twelve months when purchased. Short-term debt securities are accounted for as trading or AFS consistent with our policies for those investments. Short-term loans are carried at amortized cost. Fair values are determined consistent with policies described in Note 5 – Fair Value for the respective investment type. Investment Income – We recognize investment income as it accrues or is legally due, net of investment management and custody fees. Investment income on fixed maturity securities includes coupon interest, as well as the amortization of any premium and the accretion of any discount. Investment income on equity securities represents dividend income and preferred coupons interest. Realized gains and losses on sales of investments are included in investment related gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of income. Realized gains and losses on investments sold are determined based on a first-in first-out method. Other-Than-Temporary Impairment – We identify fixed maturity and equity securities that could potentially have impairments that are other-than-temporary by monitoring market events for changes in market interest rates, credit issues, changes in business climate, management changes, litigation, government actions and other similar factors. Indicators of impairment may include changes in the issuers’ credit ratings and outlook, frequency of late payments, pricing levels, key financial ratios, financial statements, revenue forecasts and cash flow projections. We review all securities on a case-by-case basis to determine whether an other-than-temporary decline in value exists and whether losses should be recognized. We consider relevant facts and circumstances in evaluating whether a credit or interest rate-related impairment of a security is other-than-temporary. Relevant facts and circumstances include: (1) the extent and length of time the fair value has been below cost; (2) the reasons for the decline in fair value; (3) the issuer’s financial position and access to capital; and (4) for fixed maturity securities, our ability and intent to sell a security or whether it is more likely than not that we will be required to sell the security before the recovery of its cost or amortized cost which, in some cases, may extend to maturity and for equity securities, our ability and intent to hold the security for a period of time that allows for the recovery in value. To the extent we determine that a security is other-than-temporarily impaired, an impairment loss is recognized. The recognition of impairment losses on fixed maturity securities is dependent upon the facts and circumstances related to the specific security. If we intend to sell a security or it is more likely than not that we would be required to sell a security before the recovery of its cost or amortized cost less any recorded credit loss, we recognize a loss in other-than-temporary impairment losses on the consolidated statements of income for the difference between cost or amortized cost and fair value. If neither of these two conditions exists, then the recognition of the loss is bifurcated and we recognize the credit loss portion in other-than-temporary impairment losses on the consolidated statements of income and the non-credit loss portion in AOCI on the consolidated balance sheets. We estimate the amount of the credit loss component of a fixed maturity security impairment as the difference between amortized cost and the present value of the expected cash flows of the security. The present value is determined using the estimated cash flows discounted at the effective interest rate implicit to the security at the date of purchase or the current yield to accrete an asset-backed or floating rate security. The techniques and assumptions for establishing the estimated cash flows vary depending on the type of security. A structured security’s cash flow estimates are based on security-specific facts and circumstances that may include collateral characteristics, expectations of delinquency and default rates, loss severity, prepayments and structural support, including subordination and guarantees. A non-structured security’s cash flow estimates are derived from scenario-based outcomes of expected corporate restructurings or the disposition of assets using security-specific facts and circumstances including timing, security interests and loss severity. In periods after an OTTI is recognized on a fixed maturity security, we report the impaired security as if it had been purchased on the date it was impaired and continue to estimate the present value of the estimated cash flows of the security. Accordingly, the discount (or reduced premium) based on the new cost basis is accreted into net investment income over the remaining term of the fixed maturity security in a prospective manner based on the amount and timing of estimated future cash flows. We impair a mortgage loan when it is probable we will not collect all amounts due under the agreement. We establish a general valuation allowance on mortgage loans based on loss history. Additionally, we establish a valuation allowance on individual loans based on expected losses from future dispositions or settlement, including foreclosures. We calculate the allowance based on how much the carrying value exceeds one of these values: • the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s original effective interest rate; • the value of the loan’s collateral if it is in the process of foreclosure or otherwise collateral dependent; or • the loan’s fair value if the loan is being sold. We first apply any interest accrued or received on the net carrying amount of the impaired loan to the principal of the loan, and once the principal is repaid, we include amounts received in net investment income. We limit accrued interest income on impaired loans to 90 days of interest. Once accrued interest on the impaired loan is received, we recognize interest income on a cash basis. Loans deemed uncollectible or in foreclosure are charged off against the valuation allowances, and subsequent recoveries, if any, are credited to the valuation allowances. Changes in valuation allowances are reported in investment related gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of income. The cost of other invested assets is adjusted for impairments in value deemed to be other-than-temporary in the period in which the determination is made. These impairments are included within other-than-temporary impairment losses on the consolidated statements of income, and the cost basis of the investment securities is reduced accordingly. We do not change the revised cost basis for subsequent recoveries in value.
Consolidation, Variable Interest Entity, Policy [Policy Text Block]	An entity that does not have sufficient equity to finance its activities without additional financial support, or in which the equity investors, as a group, do not have the characteristics typically afforded to common shareholders is a VIE. The determination as to whether an entity qualifies as a VIE depends on the facts and circumstances surrounding each entity and may require significant judgment. Our investment funds generally qualify as VIEs and are evaluated for consolidation under the VIE model. We are required to consolidate a VIE if we are the primary beneficiary, defined as the variable interest holder with both the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the VIE’s economic performance and rights to receive benefits or obligations to absorb losses that could be potentially significant to the VIE. We determine whether we are the primary beneficiary of an entity based on a qualitative assessment of the VIE’s capital structure, contractual terms, nature of the VIE’s operations and purpose and our relative exposure to the related risks of the VIE. Since affiliates of Apollo, a related party, are the decision makers in certain of the investment funds, we and a member of our related party group may together have the characteristics of the primary beneficiary of an investment fund. In this situation, we have concluded we are not under common control, as defined by GAAP, with the related party, and therefore consolidate in the circumstances when substantially all of the activities of the VIE are conducted on our behalf. We reassess the VIE and primary beneficiary determinations on an ongoing basis. If we are not the primary beneficiary, but are able to exert significant influence over the VIE’s operations, we record the VIE as an equity method investment. If we are not able to exercise significant influence, generally on investment funds in which we own a less than a 3% interest, we elect the fair value option.
Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Goodwill, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Goodwill represents the excess of purchase consideration over the acquisition date fair value of net assets acquired and is included in the other assets on the consolidated balance sheets. Goodwill is not amortized but reviewed for impairment annually or more frequently if events occur or circumstances change indicating potential impairment has occurred. If the acquisition date fair value of the net assets acquired exceeds the purchase consideration in a business combination, a bargain purchase gain is recorded on the consolidated statements of income.
Reinsurance Accounting Policy [Policy Text Block]	We assume and cede insurance and investment contracts under coinsurance, funds withheld and modco. We follow reinsurance accounting for transactions that provide indemnification against loss or liability relating to insurance risk (risk transfer). To meet risk transfer requirements, a reinsurance agreement must include insurance risk consisting of underwriting, investment, timing risk and any other significant risks. Cessions under reinsurance do not discharge our obligations as the primary insurer, unless the requirements of assumption reinsurance have been met. We generally have the right of offset on reinsurance contracts, but have elected to present reinsurance settlement amounts due to and from the Company on a gross basis. Assets and liabilities assumed or ceded under coinsurance, funds withheld, or modco are presented gross on the consolidated balance sheets. For investment contracts, the change in assumed and ceded reserves, deposits and withdrawals are presented net in interest sensitive contract benefits on the consolidated statements of income. For insurance contracts, the change in assumed and ceded reserves and benefits are presented net in future policy and other policy benefits on the consolidated statements of income. Assumed or ceded premiums are included in premiums on the consolidated statements of income. Accounting for reinsurance requires the use of assumptions, particularly related to the future performance of the underlying business and the potential impact of counterparty credit risks. We attempt to minimize our counterparty credit risk through the structuring of the terms of our reinsurance agreements, including the use of trusts, and we monitor credit ratings of counterparties for signs of declining credit quality. When a ceding company does not report information on a timely basis, we record accruals based on the best available information at the time, which includes the reinsurance agreement terms and historical experience. We periodically compare actual and anticipated experience to the assumptions used to establish reinsurance assets and liabilities. See Note 7 – Reinsurance for more information. Funds Withheld and ModCo – For business assumed or ceded on a funds withheld or modco basis, a funds withheld segregated portfolio, comprised of invested assets and other assets is maintained by the ceding entity, which is sufficient to support the current balance of statutory reserves. The fair value of the funds withheld is recorded as a funds withheld asset or liability and any excess or shortfall in relation to statutory reserves is settled periodically.
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Cash and cash equivalents include deposits and short-term highly liquid investments with a maturity of less than 90 days from the date of acquisition. Amounts included are readily convertible to known amounts of cash and are subject to an insignificant risk of change in value.
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Restricted cash primarily consists of cash and cash equivalents held in funds in trust as part of certain coinsurance agreements to secure statutory reserves and liabilities of the coinsured parties. Restricted cash is reported separately on the consolidated balance sheets. Changes in the restricted cash balance are reported in investing activities on the consolidated statements of cash flows.
Investments in Related Parties, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Investments in related parties and associated earnings, other comprehensive income and cash flows are separately identified on the consolidated financial statements and accounted for consistently with the policies described above for each category of investment.
Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Costs related directly to the successful acquisition of new, or renewal of, insurance or investment contracts are deferred to the extent they are recoverable from future premiums or gross profits. These costs consist of commissions and policy issuance costs, as well as sales inducements credited to policyholder account balances, and are included in deferred acquisition costs, deferred sales inducements and value of business acquired on the consolidated balance sheets. We perform periodic tests to determine if the deferred costs remain recoverable, including at issue. If financial performance significantly deteriorates to the point where the deferred costs are not recoverable, we record a cumulative charge to the current period. Deferred costs related to universal life-type policies and investment contracts with significant revenue streams from sources other than investment of the policyholder funds are amortized over the lives of the policies, in relation to the present value of gross profits including investment spread margins, surrender charge income, policy administration, changes in the guaranteed lifetime withdrawal benefit (GLWB) and guaranteed minimum death benefit (GMDB) reserves and realized gains and losses on investments. Current period gross profits for fixed indexed annuities also include the change in fair value of both freestanding and embedded derivatives. Estimates of the future gross profits are based on assumptions using accepted actuarial methods. Each reporting period, we update estimated gross profits with actual gross profits as part of the amortization process and adjust the DAC and DSI balances due to the other comprehensive income (OCI) effects of unrealized investment gains and losses on AFS securities. We also periodically revise the key assumptions used in the calculation of the amortization of DAC and DSI which results in revisions to the estimated future gross profits. The effects of changes in assumptions are recorded as unlocking in the period in which the changes are made. Deferred costs related to investment contracts without significant revenue streams from sources other than investment of the policyholder funds are amortized using the effective interest method. The effective interest method amortizes the deferred costs by discounting the future liability cash flows at a break-even rate. The break-even rate is solved such that the present value of future liability cash flows is equal to the net liability at the inception of the contract.
Sales Inducements to Contract Holders, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Costs related directly to the successful acquisition of new, or renewal of, insurance or investment contracts are deferred to the extent they are recoverable from future premiums or gross profits. These costs consist of commissions and policy issuance costs, as well as sales inducements credited to policyholder account balances, and are included in deferred acquisition costs, deferred sales inducements and value of business acquired on the consolidated balance sheets. We perform periodic tests to determine if the deferred costs remain recoverable, including at issue. If financial performance significantly deteriorates to the point where the deferred costs are not recoverable, we record a cumulative charge to the current period. Deferred costs related to universal life-type policies and investment contracts with significant revenue streams from sources other than investment of the policyholder funds are amortized over the lives of the policies, in relation to the present value of gross profits including investment spread margins, surrender charge income, policy administration, changes in the guaranteed lifetime withdrawal benefit (GLWB) and guaranteed minimum death benefit (GMDB) reserves and realized gains and losses on investments. Current period gross profits for fixed indexed annuities also include the change in fair value of both freestanding and embedded derivatives. Estimates of the future gross profits are based on assumptions using accepted actuarial methods. Each reporting period, we update estimated gross profits with actual gross profits as part of the amortization process and adjust the DAC and DSI balances due to the other comprehensive income (OCI) effects of unrealized investment gains and losses on AFS securities. We also periodically revise the key assumptions used in the calculation of the amortization of DAC and DSI which results in revisions to the estimated future gross profits. The effects of changes in assumptions are recorded as unlocking in the period in which the changes are made. Deferred costs related to investment contracts without significant revenue streams from sources other than investment of the policyholder funds are amortized using the effective interest method. The effective interest method amortizes the deferred costs by discounting the future liability cash flows at a break-even rate. The break-even rate is solved such that the present value of future liability cash flows is equal to the net liability at the inception of the contract.
Present Value of Future Insurance Profits, Policy [Policy Text Block]	We establish VOBA for blocks of insurance contracts acquired through the acquisition of insurance entities. We record the fair value of the liabilities assumed in two components: reserves and VOBA. Reserves are established using our best estimate assumptions consistent with the policies described below for future policy benefits and interest sensitive contract liabilities. VOBA is the difference between the fair value of the liabilities and the reserves. VOBA can be either positive or negative. Any negative VOBA is recorded to the same financial statement line on the consolidated balance sheets as the associated reserves. Positive VOBA is recorded in deferred acquisition costs, deferred sales inducements and value of business acquired on the consolidated balance sheets. We perform periodic tests to determine if the VOBA remains recoverable. If financial performance significantly deteriorates to the point where VOBA is not recoverable, we record a cumulative charge to the current period. VOBA associated with investment contracts without significant revenue streams from sources other than investment of the policyholder funds is amortized using the effective interest method. VOBA associated with immediate annuity contracts classified as long duration contracts is amortized at a constant rate in relation to net policyholder liabilities. For universal life-type policies and investment contracts with significant revenue streams from sources other than investment of policyholder funds, VOBA is amortized in relation to the present value of estimated gross profits using methods consistent with those used to amortize DAC and DSI. Negative VOBA is amortized at a constant rate in relation to applicable net policyholder liabilities.
Future Policy Benefits Liability, Policy [Policy Text Block]	We issue contracts classified as long-duration, which includes endowments, term and whole life, accident and health, disability, and deferred and immediate annuit ies with life contingencies. Liabilities for non-participating long-duration contracts are established using accepted actuarial valuation methods which require the use of assumptions related to expenses, investment yields, mortality, morbidity and persistency, with a provision for adverse deviation, at the date of issue or acquisition. As of December 31, 2017 , the reserve investment yield assumptions for non-participating contracts range from 3.31% to 5.44% and are specific to our expected earned rate on the asset portfolio supporting the reserves. Liabilities for participating long-duration contracts are established using accepted actuarial valuation methods, which require the use of guaranteed interest and mortality assumptions. As of December 31, 2017 , the reserve guaranteed interest assumptions for participating contracts range from 0.90% to 4.00% and are based on interest rates guaranteed to our policyholders. We base other key assumptions, such as mortality and morbidity, on industry standard data adjusted to align with actual company experience, if necessary. For long-duration contracts, the assumptions are locked in at contract inception and only modified if we deem the reserves to be inadequate. We periodically review actual and anticipated experience compared to the assumptions used to establish policy benefits. If the net GAAP liability (gross reserves less DAC, DSI and VOBA) is less than the gross premium liability, impairment is deemed to have occurred, and the DAC, DSI and VOBA asset balances are reduced until the net GAAP liability is equal to the gross premium liability. If the DAC, DSI and VOBA asset balances are completely written off and the net GAAP liability is still less than the gross premium liability, then an additional liability is recorded to arrive at the gross premium liability. We issue and reinsure deferred annuity contracts which contain GLWB and GMDB riders. We establish future policy benefits for GLWB and GMDB by estimating the expected value of withdrawal and death benefits in excess of the projected account balance. We recognize the excess proportionally over the accumulation period based on total expected assessments. The methods we use to estimate the liabilities have assumptions about policyholder behavior, mortality and market conditions affecting the account balance growth. Future policy benefits includes liabilities for no-lapse guarantees on universal life insurance and fixed indexed universal life insurance. We establish future policy benefits for no-lapse guarantees by estimating the expected value of death benefits paid after policyholder account balances have been exhausted. We recognize these benefits proportionally over the life of the contracts based on total expected assessments. The methods we use to estimate the liabilities have assumptions about policyholder behavior, mortality and market conditions affecting the account balance growth. For the liabilities associated with GLWB and GMDB riders and no-lapse guarantees, each reporting period, we update expected excess benefits and assessments with actual excess benefits and assessments and adjust the liability balances due to the OCI effects of unrealized investment gains and losses on AFS securities. We also periodically revise the key assumptions used in the calculation of the liabilities which results in revisions to the expected excess benefits and assessments. The effects of changes in assumptions are recorded as unlocking in the period in which the changes are made. Changes in future policy benefits other than the adjustment for the OCI effects of unrealized investment gains and losses on AFS securities, are recorded in future policy and other policy benefits on the consolidated statements of income. Future policy benefits are not reduced for amounts ceded under reinsurance agreements which are reported as reinsurance recoverable on the consolidated balance sheets.
Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block]	We compute basic earnings per share (EPS) by dividing unrounded net income available to Athene Holding Ltd. shareholders by the weighted average number of common shares eligible for earnings and outstanding for the period. As a result, it may not be possible to recalculate EPS as presented in our consolidated financial statements. Diluted earnings per share includes the effect of all potentially dilutive instruments, such as common shares, options and restricted stock units (RSUs), outstanding during the period.
Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations Policy [Policy Text Block]	The accounts of foreign-based subsidiaries are measured using the functional currency of the subsidiary. Revenue and expenses of these businesses are translated into United States dollars at the average exchange rate for the period. Assets and liabilities are translated at the exchange rate as of the end of the reporting period. The resulting translation adjustments are included in equity as a component of AOCI. Gains or losses arising from transactions denominated in a currency other than the functional currency of the entity that is party to the transaction are included in net income.
Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Revenues for universal life-type policies and investment contracts, including surrender and market value adjustments, costs of insurance, policy administration, GMDB, GLWB and no-lapse guarantee charges, are earned when assessed against policyholder account balances during the period. Interest credited to policyholder account balances and the change in fair value of embedded derivatives within fixed indexed annuity contracts is included in interest sensitive contract benefits on the consolidated statements of income. For certain assumed reinsurance transactions involving in force blocks of business, the ceding company may pay a premium equal to the initial required reserve (future policy benefit). In such transactions, we net the expense associated with the establishment of the reserve against the premiums from the transaction in interest sensitive contract benefits on the consolidated statements of income. Premiums for long-duration contracts, including products with fixed and guaranteed premiums and benefits, are recognized as revenue when due from policyholders. When premiums are due over a significantly shorter period than the period over which benefits are provided, any gross premium in excess of the net premium (i.e., the portion of the gross premium required to provide for all expected future benefits and expenses) is generally deferred and recognized into revenue in a constant relationship to the benefit reserves. All insurance related revenue is reported net of reinsurance ceded.
Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block]	We compute income taxes using the asset and liability method, under which deferred income taxes are provided for the temporary differences between the financial statement carrying amounts and the tax basis of our assets and liabilities using estimated tax rates expected to be in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. Such temporary differences are primarily due to the tax basis of reserves, DAC, unrealized investment gains/losses, reinsurance related differences, embedded derivatives and net operating loss carryforwards. Changes in deferred income tax assets and liabilities associated with components of OCI are recorded directly to OCI. We evaluate the likelihood of realizing the benefit of our deferred tax assets and may record a valuation allowance if, based on all available evidence, we determine that it is more likely than not that some portion of the tax benefit will not be realized. We adjust the valuation allowance if, based on our evaluation, there is a change in the amount of deferred income tax assets that are deemed more likely than not to be realized. Changes in deferred tax assets and liabilities attributable to changes in enacted income tax rates are recorded through net income in the period of enactment. We recognize the tax benefit from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained on examination by the relevant taxing authorities, based on the technical merits of our position. We recognize any income tax interest and penalties in income tax expense.

Investments (Tables)

Investments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Investments Schedule [Abstract]
Available-for-sale Securities	December 31, 2017 (In millions) Cost or Amortized Cost Gross Unrealized Gains Gross Unrealized Losses Fair Value OTTI in AOCI Fixed maturity securities U.S. government and agencies $ 63 $ 1 $ (2 ) $ 62 $ — U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions 996 171 (2 ) 1,165 — Foreign governments 2,575 116 (8 ) 2,683 — Corporate 35,173 1,658 (171 ) 36,660 — CLO 5,039 53 (8 ) 5,084 — ABS 3,945 53 (27 ) 3,971 1 CMBS 1,994 48 (21 ) 2,021 1 RMBS 8,721 652 (7 ) 9,366 11 Total fixed maturity securities 58,506 2,752 (246 ) 61,012 13 Equity securities 271 7 (1 ) 277 — Total AFS securities 58,777 2,759 (247 ) 61,289 13 Fixed maturity securities – related party CLO 353 7 — 360 — ABS 46 — — 46 — Total fixed maturity securities – related party 399 7 — 406 — Total AFS securities including related party $ 59,176 $ 2,766 $ (247 ) $ 61,695 $ 13 December 31, 2016 (In millions) Cost or Amortized Cost Gross Unrealized Gains Gross Unrealized Losses Fair Value OTTI in AOCI Fixed maturity securities U.S. government and agencies $ 59 $ 1 $ — $ 60 $ — U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions 1,024 117 (1 ) 1,140 — Foreign governments 2,098 143 (6 ) 2,235 — Corporate 29,433 901 (314 ) 30,020 2 CLO 4,950 14 (142 ) 4,822 — ABS 2,980 25 (69 ) 2,936 — CMBS 1,835 38 (26 ) 1,847 — RMBS 8,731 313 (71 ) 8,973 15 Total fixed maturity securities 51,110 1,552 (629 ) 52,033 17 Equity securities 319 35 (1 ) 353 — Total AFS securities 51,429 1,587 (630 ) 52,386 17 Fixed maturity securities – related party CLO 284 1 (6 ) 279 — ABS 57 — (1 ) 56 — Total fixed maturity securities – related party 341 1 (7 ) 335 — Equity securities – related party 20 — — 20 — Total AFS securities – related party 361 1 (7 ) 355 — Total AFS securities including related party $ 51,790 $ 1,588 $ (637 ) $ 52,741 $ 17
Available-for-sale Securities by Contractual Maturity	The amortized cost and fair value of fixed maturity AFS securities, including related party, are shown by contractual maturity below: December 31, 2017 (In millions) Amortized Cost Fair Value Due in one year or less $ 972 $ 975 Due after one year through five years 8,543 8,699 Due after five years through ten years 11,224 11,548 Due after ten years 18,068 19,348 CLO, ABS, CMBS and RMBS 19,699 20,442 Total AFS fixed maturity securities 58,506 61,012 Fixed maturity securities – related party, CLO and ABS 399 406 Total AFS fixed maturity securities including related party $ 58,905 $ 61,418
Fair Values and Unrealized Losses on Available-for-sale Securities	The following summarizes the fair value and gross unrealized losses for AFS securities, including related party, aggregated by class of security and length of time the fair value has remained below cost or amortized cost: December 31, 2017 Less than 12 months 12 months or greater Total (In millions) Fair Value Gross Unrealized Losses Fair Value Gross Fair Value Gross Fixed maturity securities U.S. government and agencies $ 34 $ (1 ) $ 9 $ (1 ) $ 43 $ (2 ) U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions 50 (1 ) 39 (1 ) 89 (2 ) Foreign governments 435 (6 ) 76 (2 ) 511 (8 ) Corporate 3,992 (49 ) 2,457 (122 ) 6,449 (171 ) CLO 414 (2 ) 340 (6 ) 754 (8 ) ABS 515 (5 ) 549 (22 ) 1,064 (27 ) CMBS 460 (8 ) 179 (13 ) 639 (21 ) RMBS 506 (3 ) 210 (4 ) 716 (7 ) Total fixed maturity securities 6,406 (75 ) 3,859 (171 ) 10,265 (246 ) Equity securities 134 (1 ) — — 134 (1 ) Total AFS securities 6,540 (76 ) 3,859 (171 ) 10,399 (247 ) Fixed maturity securities – related party CLO 29 — — — 29 — ABS 42 — — — 42 — Total fixed maturity securities – related party 71 — — — 71 — Total AFS securities including related party $ 6,611 $ (76 ) $ 3,859 $ (171 ) $ 10,470 $ (247 ) December 31, 2016 Less than 12 months 12 months or greater Total (In millions) Fair Value Gross Unrealized Losses Fair Value Gross Unrealized Losses Fair Value Gross Unrealized Losses Fixed maturity securities U.S. government and agencies $ 1 $ — $ — $ — $ 1 $ — U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions 85 (1 ) 2 — 87 (1 ) Foreign governments 137 (5 ) 9 (1 ) 146 (6 ) Corporate 6,136 (228 ) 1,113 (86 ) 7,249 (314 ) CLO 388 (2 ) 3,102 (140 ) 3,490 (142 ) ABS 865 (17 ) 767 (52 ) 1,632 (69 ) CMBS 576 (18 ) 183 (8 ) 759 (26 ) RMBS 1,143 (19 ) 1,727 (52 ) 2,870 (71 ) Total fixed maturity securities 9,331 (290 ) 6,903 (339 ) 16,234 (629 ) Equity securities 179 (1 ) — — 179 (1 ) Total AFS securities 9,510 (291 ) 6,903 (339 ) 16,413 (630 ) Fixed maturity securities – related party CLO 68 — 100 (6 ) 168 (6 ) ABS — — 56 (1 ) 56 (1 ) Total fixed maturity securities – related party 68 — 156 (7 ) 224 (7 ) Equity securities – related party 14 — — — 14 — Total AFS securities – related party 82 — 156 (7 ) 238 (7 ) Total AFS securities including related party $ 9,592 $ (291 ) $ 7,059 $ (346 ) $ 16,651 $ (637 )
Other-than-temporary Impairments on Available-for-sale Securities	The following table represents a rollforward of the cumulative amounts recognized on the consolidated statements of income for OTTI related to pre-tax credit loss impairments on AFS fixed maturity securities, for which a portion of the securities’ total OTTI was recognized in AOCI: Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 2015 Beginning balance $ 16 $ 22 $ 8 Initial impairments – credit loss OTTI recognized on securities not previously impaired 17 8 19 Additional impairments – credit loss OTTI recognized on securities previously impaired — 3 1 Reduction in impairments from securities sold, matured or repaid (13 ) (9 ) (2 ) Reduction for credit loss that no longer has a portion of the OTTI loss recognized in AOCI (6 ) (8 ) (4 ) Ending balance $ 14 $ 16 $ 22
Net Investment Income	Net investment income by asset class consists of the following: Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 2015 AFS securities Fixed maturity securities $ 2,579 $ 2,293 $ 2,051 Equity securities 10 9 7 Trading securities 204 238 196 Mortgage loans, net of allowances 371 355 320 Investment funds 211 178 111 Funds withheld at interest 148 82 54 Other 78 62 44 Investment revenue 3,601 3,217 2,783 Investment expenses (332 ) (303 ) (273 ) Net investment income $ 3,269 $ 2,914 $ 2,510
Investment Related Gains (Losses)	Investment related gains (losses) by asset class consists of the following: Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 2015 AFS fixed maturity securities Gross realized gains on investment activity $ 169 $ 138 $ 150 Gross realized losses on investment activity (72 ) (54 ) (86 ) Net realized investment gains on fixed maturity securities 97 84 64 AFS equity securities Gross realized gains on investment activity 55 — — Gross realized losses on investment activity (1 ) — — Net realized investment gains on equity securities 54 — — Net realized investment gains (losses) on trading securities 63 (33 ) (228 ) Derivative gains (losses) 2,377 596 (277 ) Other gains (losses) (19 ) 5 11 Investment related gains (losses) $ 2,572 $ 652 $ (430 )
Purchased Credit Impaired (PCI) Investments	The following table summarizes our PCI investments: December 31, 2017 2016 1 2017 2016 1 (In millions) Fixed maturity securities Mortgage loans Contractually required payments receivable $ 9,690 $ 8,912 $ 1,140 $ 303 Less: Cash flows expected to be collected 2 (8,188 ) (7,948 ) (1,090 ) (290 ) Non-accretable difference $ 1,502 $ 964 $ 50 $ 13 Cash flows expected to be collected 2 $ 8,188 $ 7,948 $ 1,090 $ 290 Less: Amortized cost (6,168 ) (5,868 ) (817 ) (220 ) Accretable difference $ 2,020 $ 2,080 $ 273 $ 70 Fair value $ 6,703 $ 6,049 $ 844 $ 221 Outstanding balance 8,026 7,275 946 249 1 Balances have been revised for immaterial misstatements to be comparable to current year balances. 2 Represents the undiscounted principal and interest cash flows expected. During the respective year, we acquired PCI investments with the following amounts at the time of purchase: December 31, 2017 2016 1 2017 2016 1 (In millions) Fixed maturity securities Mortgage loans Contractually required payments receivable $ 2,161 $ 2,407 $ 894 $ 304 Cash flows expected to be collected 1,790 2,053 857 290 Fair value 1,428 1,497 633 220 1 Balances have been revised for immaterial misstatements to be comparable to current year balances. The following table summarizes the activity for the accretable yield on PCI investments: 2017 2016 1 2017 2016 1 (In millions) Fixed maturity securities Mortgage loans Beginning balance at January 1 $ 2,080 $ 1,753 $ 70 $ — Purchases of PCI investments, net of sales 264 534 216 70 Accretion (400 ) (325 ) (24 ) — Net reclassification from (to) non-accretable difference 76 118 11 — Ending balance at December 31 $ 2,020 $ 2,080 $ 273 $ 70 1 Balances have been revised for immaterial misstatements to be comparable to current year balances.
Mortgage Loans, Net	Mortgage loans, net of allowances, consists of the following: December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 Commercial mortgage loans $ 5,223 $ 5,058 Commercial mortgage loans under development 24 74 Total commercial mortgage loans 5,247 5,132 Residential mortgage loans 986 338 Mortgage loans, net of allowances $ 6,233 $ 5,470 The distribution of commercial mortgage loans, including those under development, net of valuation allowances, by property type and geographic region, is as follows: December 31, 2017 2016 (In millions, except for percentages) Net Carrying Value Percentage of Total Net Carrying Value Percentage of Total Property type Office building $ 1,187 22.6 % $ 1,217 23.7 % Retail 1,223 23.3 % 1,135 22.1 % Hotels 928 17.7 % 1,025 20.0 % Industrial 944 18.0 % 742 14.5 % Apartment 525 10.0 % 616 12.0 % Other commercial 440 8.4 % 397 7.7 % Total commercial mortgage loans $ 5,247 100.0 % $ 5,132 100.0 % U.S. Region East North Central $ 643 12.3 % $ 450 8.8 % East South Central 144 2.7 % 158 3.1 % Middle Atlantic 909 17.3 % 628 12.2 % Mountain 492 9.4 % 543 10.6 % New England 162 3.1 % 194 3.8 % Pacific 991 18.9 % 833 16.2 % South Atlantic 873 16.6 % 1,284 25.0 % West North Central 233 4.4 % 306 6.0 % West South Central 655 12.5 % 662 12.9 % Total U.S. Region 5,102 97.2 % 5,058 98.6 % International Region 145 2.8 % 74 1.4 % Total commercial mortgage loans $ 5,247 100.0 % $ 5,132 100.0 %
Aging of the Commercial Mortgage Loan Portfolio	The following provides the aging of our commercial mortgage loan portfolio, including those under development, net of valuation allowances: December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 Current (less than 30 days past due) $ 5,247 $ 5,111 Over 90 days past due — 21 Total commercial mortgage loans $ 5,247 $ 5,132
Credit Quality Indicators of the Commercial Mortgage Portfolio	The following represents the debt service coverage ratio of the commercial mortgage loan portfolio, excluding those under development, net of valuation allowances: December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 Greater than 1.20x $ 4,742 $ 4,378 1.00x – 1.20x 297 353 Less than 1.00x 184 327 Commercial mortgage loans $ 5,223 $ 5,058 The following represents the loan-to-value ratio of the commercial mortgage loan portfolio, excluding those under development, net of valuation allowances: December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 Less than 50% $ 1,841 $ 1,787 50% to 60% 1,390 1,337 61% to 70% 1,691 1,401 71% to 100% 301 492 Greater than 100% — 41 Commercial mortgage loans $ 5,223 $ 5,058

Derivative Instruments (Tables)

Derivative Instruments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Notional Amount and Fair Value of Derivative Instruments	The following table presents the notional amount and fair value of derivative instruments: December 31, 2017 2016 Notional Amount Fair Value Notional Amount Fair Value (In millions) Assets Liabilities Assets Liabilities Derivatives designated as hedges Foreign currency swaps 928 $ 1 $ 99 289 $ 11 $ 4 Interest rate swaps 302 — — 302 — 14 Total derivatives designated as hedges 1 99 11 18 Derivatives not designated as hedges Equity options 31,460 2,500 19 26,822 1,336 — Futures 1,134 7 — — 9 — Total return swaps 114 5 — 41 2 — Foreign currency swaps 41 21 3 43 5 — Interest rate swaps 385 — 2 568 1 5 Credit default swaps 10 — 5 10 — 7 Foreign currency forwards 1,139 17 6 805 6 10 Embedded derivatives Funds withheld — 312 22 — 140 6 Interest sensitive contract liabilities — — 7,436 — — 5,283 Total derivatives not designated as hedges 2,862 7,493 1,499 5,311 Total derivatives $ 2,863 $ 7,592 $ 1,510 $ 5,329
Gains (Losses) on Derivatives and Related Hedged Items	The following table represents the gains and losses on derivatives and the related hedged items in fair value hedge relationships, recorded in interest sensitive contract benefits on the consolidated statements of income: Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 Gains (losses) recognized on derivative $ 2 $ (14 ) Gains (losses) recognized on hedged item (2 ) 14 Ineffectiveness recognized on fair value hedges $ — $ —
Gains (Losses) Related to Derivatives Not Designated as Hedges	The following is a summary of the gains (losses) related to derivatives not designated as hedges: Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 2015 Equity options $ 1,939 $ 325 $ (372 ) Futures (24 ) (19 ) (3 ) Swaps 27 18 8 Foreign currency forwards 28 (2 ) 21 Embedded derivatives on funds withheld 407 274 69 Amounts recognized in investment related gains (losses) 2,377 596 (277 ) Embedded derivatives in indexed annuity products 1 (1,758 ) (324 ) 171 Total gains (losses) for derivatives not designated as hedges $ 619 $ 272 $ (106 ) 1 Included in interest sensitive contract benefits.
Estimated Fair Value of Net Derivative and Other Financial Assets	The estimated fair value of our net derivative and other financial assets and liabilities after the application of master netting agreements and collateral were as follows: Gross amounts not offset on the consolidated balance sheets (In millions) Gross amount recognized 1 Financial instruments 2 Collateral received/pledged Net amount Off-balance sheet securities collateral 3 Net amount after securities collateral December 31, 2017 Derivative assets $ 2,551 $ (59 ) $ (2,323 ) $ 169 $ (221 ) $ (52 ) Derivative liabilities (134 ) 59 63 (12 ) — (12 ) December 31, 2016 Derivative assets $ 1,370 $ (8 ) $ (1,383 ) $ (21 ) $ (26 ) $ (47 ) Derivative liabilities (40 ) 8 25 (7 ) — (7 ) 1 The gross amounts of recognized derivative assets and derivative liabilities are reported on the consolidated balance sheets. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016, amounts not subject to master netting or similar agreements were immaterial. 2 Represents amounts offsetting derivative assets and derivative liabilities that are subject to an enforceable master netting agreement or similar agreement that are not netted against the gross derivative assets or gross derivative liabilities for presentation on the consolidated balance sheets. 3 For non-cash collateral received, we do not recognize the collateral on our balance sheet unless the obligor (transferor) has defaulted under the terms of the secured contract and is no longer entitled to redeem the pledged asset. Amounts do not include any excess of collateral pledged or received.
Estimated Fair Value of Net Derivative and Other Financial Liabilities	The estimated fair value of our net derivative and other financial assets and liabilities after the application of master netting agreements and collateral were as follows: Gross amounts not offset on the consolidated balance sheets (In millions) Gross amount recognized 1 Financial instruments 2 Collateral received/pledged Net amount Off-balance sheet securities collateral 3 Net amount after securities collateral December 31, 2017 Derivative assets $ 2,551 $ (59 ) $ (2,323 ) $ 169 $ (221 ) $ (52 ) Derivative liabilities (134 ) 59 63 (12 ) — (12 ) December 31, 2016 Derivative assets $ 1,370 $ (8 ) $ (1,383 ) $ (21 ) $ (26 ) $ (47 ) Derivative liabilities (40 ) 8 25 (7 ) — (7 ) 1 The gross amounts of recognized derivative assets and derivative liabilities are reported on the consolidated balance sheets. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016, amounts not subject to master netting or similar agreements were immaterial. 2 Represents amounts offsetting derivative assets and derivative liabilities that are subject to an enforceable master netting agreement or similar agreement that are not netted against the gross derivative assets or gross derivative liabilities for presentation on the consolidated balance sheets. 3 For non-cash collateral received, we do not recognize the collateral on our balance sheet unless the obligor (transferor) has defaulted under the terms of the secured contract and is no longer entitled to redeem the pledged asset. Amounts do not include any excess of collateral pledged or received.

Variable Interest Entities (Tab

Variable Interest Entities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Schedule of VIE	The following table presents the carrying value by ownership percentage of investment funds where we elected the fair value option, including related party investment funds and investment funds owned by consolidated VIEs: December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 Ownership Percentage 3% – 49% $ 590 $ 562 Less than 3% 134 99 Fair value option investment funds $ 724 $ 661 The following summarizes our investment funds, including related party investment funds and investment funds owned by consolidated VIEs: December 31, 2017 2016 (In millions, except for percentages and years) Carrying value Percent of total Remaining life in years Carrying value Percent of total Remaining life in years Investment funds Private equity $ 271 38.8 % 0 – 7 $ 268 38.9 % 0 – 7 Real estate and other real assets 161 23.0 % 1 – 7 118 17.2 % 0 – 4 Natural resources 4 0.6 % 1 – 1 5 0.7 % 1 – 2 Hedge funds 61 8.7 % 0 – 3 72 10.4 % 0 – 3 Credit funds 202 28.9 % 0 – 5 226 32.8 % 0 – 5 Total investment funds 699 100.0 % 689 100.0 % Investment funds – related parties Private equity – A-A Mortgage 1 403 30.8 % 5 – 5 343 28.6 % 3 – 3 Private equity – other 180 13.7 % 0 – 10 131 11.0 % 0 – 10 Real estate and other real assets 297 22.7 % 0 – 7 247 20.6 % 1 – 4 Natural resources 74 5.6 % 4 – 6 49 4.1 % 5 – 5 Hedge funds 93 7.1 % 9 – 9 192 16.0 % 9 – 9 Credit funds 263 20.1 % 2 – 4 236 19.7 % 2 – 3 Total investment funds – related parties 1,310 100.0 % 1,198 100.0 % Investment funds owned by consolidated VIEs Private equity – MidCap 2 528 92.5 % N/A 524 91.4 % N/A Credit funds 21 3.7 % 0 – 3 38 6.7 % 0 – 3 Real estate and other real assets 22 3.8 % 2 – 3 11 1.9 % 2 – 3 Total investment funds owned by consolidated VIEs 571 100.0 % 573 100.0 % Total investment funds including related parties and funds owned by consolidated VIEs $ 2,580 $ 2,460 1 A-A Mortgage Opportunities, LP (A-A Mortgage) is a platform to originate residential mortgage loans and mortgage servicing rights. 2 Our total investment in MidCap, including amounts advanced under credit facilities, totaled $766 million and $761 million as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively, which was less than 10% of total AHL shareholder’s equity at December 31, 2017, but greater than 10% at December 31, 2016. The following is a reconciliation for all VIE Level 3 assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis: Year ended December 31, 2017 (In millions) Beginning Balance Total realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in income Purchases Sales Transfers in (out) Ending Balance Total gains (losses) included in earnings 1 Assets of consolidated variable interest entities Trading securities Fixed maturity securities $ 50 $ 1 $ — $ (3 ) $ — $ 48 $ 1 Equity securities 43 (16 ) 1 — — 28 (16 ) Investment funds 38 1 1 (19 ) — 21 1 Total Level 3 assets of consolidated VIEs $ 131 $ (14 ) $ 2 $ (22 ) $ — $ 97 $ (14 ) 1 Related to instruments held at end of period. Year ended December 31, 2016 (In millions) Beginning Balance Total realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in income Purchases Sales Transfers in (out) Ending Balance Total gains (losses) included in earnings 1 Assets of consolidated variable interest entities Trading securities Fixed maturity securities $ 53 $ (1 ) $ — $ (2 ) $ — $ 50 $ (1 ) Equity securities 38 3 2 — — 43 3 Investment funds 2 34 7 17 (20 ) — 38 — Total Level 3 assets of consolidated VIEs $ 125 $ 9 $ 19 $ (22 ) $ — $ 131 $ 2 1 Related to instruments held at end of period. 2 Prior period balances have been revised for immaterial misstatements to be comparable to current year balances. The following summarizes the carrying value and maximum loss exposure of these non-consolidated investments: December 31, 2017 2016 (In millions) Carrying Value Maximum Loss Exposure Carrying Value Maximum Loss Exposure Investment funds $ 699 $ 1,036 $ 689 $ 1,026 Investment in related parties – investment funds 1,310 2,598 1,198 1,485 Assets of consolidated variable interest entities – investment funds 571 594 573 593 Investment in fixed maturity securities 21,022 20,278 19,171 19,090 Investment in related parties – fixed maturity securities 713 792 530 536 Total non-consolidated investments $ 24,315 $ 25,298 $ 22,161 $ 22,730 The following table presents the carrying value by ownership percentage of equity method investment funds, including related party investment funds and investment funds owned by consolidated VIEs: December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 Ownership Percentage 100% $ 35 $ 27 50% – 99% 520 478 3% – 49% 1,301 1,294 Equity method investment funds $ 1,856 $ 1,799 The following represents the gains (losses) recorded for instruments within the consolidated VIEs for which we have elected the fair value option: Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 2015 Trading securities Fixed maturity securities $ 1 $ (1 ) $ (5 ) Equity securities 9 (78 ) (4 ) Investment funds 5 49 12 Total gains (losses) $ 15 $ (30 ) $ 3 The following represents the hierarchy for assets and liabilities of our consolidated VIEs measured at fair value on a recurring basis: December 31, 2017 (In millions) Total NAV 1 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Assets of consolidated variable interest entities Investments AFS securities Equity securities $ 142 $ — $ 142 $ — $ — Trading securities Fixed maturity securities 48 — — — 48 Equity securities 98 — 70 — 28 Investment funds 549 528 — — 21 Cash and cash equivalents 4 — 4 — — Total assets of consolidated VIEs measured at fair value $ 841 $ 528 $ 216 $ — $ 97 1 Investments measured at NAV as a practical expedient in determining fair value have not been classified in the fair value hierarchy. December 31, 2016 (In millions) Total NAV 1 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Assets of consolidated variable interest entities Investments AFS securities Equity securities $ 161 $ — $ 161 $ — $ — Trading securities Fixed maturity securities 50 — — — 50 Equity securities 117 — 74 — 43 Investment funds 562 524 — — 38 Cash and cash equivalents 14 — 14 — — Total assets of consolidated VIEs measured at fair value $ 904 $ 524 $ 249 $ — $ 131 1 Investments measured at NAV as a practical expedient in determining fair value have not been classified in the fair value hierarchy.

Fair Value (Tables)

Fair Value (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on Recurring Basis	The following represents the hierarchy for our assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis: December 31, 2017 (In millions) Total NAV 1 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Assets AFS securities Fixed maturity securities U.S. government and agencies $ 62 $ — $ 26 $ 36 $ — U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions 1,165 — — 1,165 — Foreign governments 2,683 — — 2,683 — Corporate 36,660 — — 36,082 578 CLO 5,084 — — 5,020 64 ABS 3,971 — — 2,510 1,461 CMBS 2,021 — — 1,884 137 RMBS 9,366 — — 9,065 301 Total AFS fixed maturity securities 61,012 — 26 58,445 2,541 Equity securities 277 — 18 251 8 Total AFS securities 61,289 — 44 58,696 2,549 Trading securities Fixed maturity securities U.S. government and agencies 3 — 3 — — U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions 138 — — 121 17 Corporate 1,475 — — 1,475 — CLO 27 — — 10 17 ABS 94 — — 17 77 CMBS 51 — — 51 — RMBS 408 — — 66 342 Total trading fixed maturity securities 2,196 — 3 1,740 453 Equity securities 513 — — 513 — Total trading securities 2,709 — 3 2,253 453 Mortgage loans 41 — — — 41 Investment funds 145 104 — — 41 Funds withheld at interest – embedded derivative 312 — — — 312 Derivative assets 2,551 — 7 2,544 — Short-term investments 201 — 40 161 — Cash and cash equivalents 4,888 — 4,888 — — Restricted cash 105 — 105 — — Investments in related parties AFS, fixed maturity securities CLO 360 — — 360 — ABS 46 — — 46 — Total AFS securities – related party 406 — — 406 — Trading securities CLO 132 — — 27 105 ABS 175 — — 175 — Total trading securities – related party 307 — — 202 105 Investment funds 30 30 — — — Short-term investments 52 — — 52 — Reinsurance recoverable 1,824 — — — 1,824 Total assets measured at fair value $ 74,860 $ 134 $ 5,087 $ 64,314 $ 5,325 (Continued) December 31, 2017 (In millions) Total NAV 1 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Liabilities Interest sensitive contract liabilities Embedded derivative $ 7,436 $ — $ — $ — $ 7,436 Universal life benefits 1,005 — — — 1,005 Unit-linked contracts 488 — — 488 — Future policy benefits AmerUs Closed Block 1,625 — — — 1,625 ILICO Closed Block and life benefits 803 — — — 803 Derivative liabilities 134 — — 129 5 Funds withheld liability – embedded derivative 22 — — 22 — Total liabilities measured at fair value $ 11,513 $ — $ — $ 639 $ 10,874 1 Investments measured at NAV as a practical expedient in determining fair value have not been classified in the fair value hierarchy. (Concluded) December 31, 2016 (In millions) Total NAV 1 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Assets AFS securities Fixed maturity securities U.S. government and agencies $ 60 $ — $ 29 $ 31 $ — U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions 1,140 — — 1,135 5 Foreign governments 2,235 — — 2,221 14 Corporate 30,020 — — 29,650 370 CLO 4,822 — — 4,664 158 ABS 2,936 — — 1,776 1,160 CMBS 1,847 — — 1,695 152 RMBS 8,973 — — 8,956 17 Total AFS fixed maturity securities 52,033 — 29 50,128 1,876 Equity securities 353 — 79 269 5 Total AFS securities 52,386 — 108 50,397 1,881 Trading securities Fixed maturity securities U.S. government and agencies 3 — 3 — — U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions 137 — — 120 17 Corporate 1,423 — — 1,423 — CLO 43 — — — 43 ABS 82 — — 82 — CMBS 81 — — 81 — RMBS 387 — — 291 96 Total trading fixed maturity securities 2,156 — 3 1,997 156 Equity securities 425 — — 425 — Total trading securities 2,581 — 3 2,422 156 (Continued) December 31, 2016 (In millions) Total NAV 1 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Mortgage loans 44 — — — 44 Investment funds 99 99 — — — Funds withheld at interest – embedded derivative 140 — — — 140 Derivative assets 1,370 — 9 1,361 — Short-term investments 189 — 19 170 — Cash and cash equivalents 2,445 — 2,445 — — Restricted cash 57 — 57 — — Investments in related parties AFS, fixed maturity securities CLO 279 — — 279 — ABS 56 — — — 56 Total AFS fixed maturity securities 335 — — 279 56 AFS, equity securities 20 — 20 — — Total AFS securities – related party 355 — 20 279 56 Trading securities, CLO 195 — — — 195 Reinsurance recoverable 1,692 — — — 1,692 Total assets measured at fair value $ 61,553 $ 99 $ 2,661 $ 54,629 $ 4,164 Liabilities Interest sensitive contract liabilities Embedded derivative $ 5,283 $ — $ — $ — $ 5,283 Universal life benefits 883 — — — 883 Unit-linked contracts 408 — — 408 — Future policy benefits AmerUs Closed Block 1,606 — — — 1,606 ILICO Closed Block and life benefits 794 — — — 794 Derivative liabilities 40 — — 33 7 Funds withheld liability – embedded derivative 6 — — 6 — Total liabilities measured at fair value $ 9,020 $ — $ — $ 447 $ 8,573 1 Investments measured at NAV as a practical expedient in determining fair value have not been classified in the fair value hierarchy. (Concluded)
Summary of Fair Value Option	The following represents the gains (losses) recorded for instruments for which we have elected the fair value option: Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 2015 Trading securities $ 63 $ (33 ) $ (313 ) Mortgage loans (1 ) — — Investment funds, including related party investment funds 30 5 (8 ) Future policy benefits (19 ) (25 ) 134 Total gains (losses) $ 73 $ (53 ) $ (187 ) The following summarizes information for fair value option mortgage loans: December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 Unpaid principal balance $ 40 $ 42 Mark to fair value 1 2 Fair value $ 41 $ 44
Reconciliation of Level 3 Assets Measured on a Recurring Basis	The following is a reconciliation for all Level 3 assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis: Year ended December 31, 2017 Total realized and unrealized gains (losses) Transfers (In millions) Beginning Balance Included in income Included in OCI Purchases, issuances, sales and settlements, net In (Out) Ending Balance Total gains (losses) included in earnings 1 Assets AFS securities Fixed maturity U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions $ 5 $ 16 $ (1 ) $ (20 ) $ — $ — $ — $ — Foreign governments 14 — — — — (14 ) — — Corporate 370 13 15 177 29 (26 ) 578 — CLO 158 1 10 (31 ) 28 (102 ) 64 — ABS 1,160 26 29 163 93 (10 ) 1,461 — CMBS 152 1 (4 ) 28 51 (91 ) 137 — RMBS 17 1 1 2 289 (9 ) 301 — Equity securities 5 — — 3 — — 8 — Trading securities Fixed maturity U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions 17 — — — — — 17 — CLO 43 (4 ) — (12 ) — (10 ) 17 1 ABS — — — — 77 — 77 — RMBS 96 (19 ) — 70 195 — 342 7 Mortgage loans 44 (1 ) — (2 ) — — 41 (1 ) Investment funds — — — — 41 — 41 — Funds withheld at interest – embedded derivative 140 172 — — — — 312 — Investments in related parties AFS securities, fixed maturity, ABS 56 — 1 (10 ) — (47 ) — — Trading securities, CLO 195 (8 ) — (55 ) — (27 ) 105 (5 ) Reinsurance recoverable 1,692 132 — — — — 1,824 — Total Level 3 assets $ 4,164 $ 330 $ 51 $ 313 $ 803 $ (336 ) $ 5,325 $ 2 Liabilities Interest sensitive contract liabilities Embedded derivative $ (5,283 ) $ (1,758 ) $ — $ (395 ) $ — $ — $ (7,436 ) $ — Universal life benefits (883 ) (122 ) — — — — (1,005 ) — Future policy benefits AmerUs Closed Block (1,606 ) (19 ) — — — — (1,625 ) — ILICO Closed Block and life benefits (794 ) (9 ) — — — — (803 ) — Derivative liabilities (7 ) 2 — — — — (5 ) 2 Total Level 3 liabilities $ (8,573 ) $ (1,906 ) $ — $ (395 ) $ — $ — $ (10,874 ) $ 2 1 Related to instruments held at end of period. Year ended December 31, 2016 Total realized and unrealized gains (losses) Transfers (In millions) Beginning balance Included in income Included in OCI Purchases, issuances, sales and settlements, net In Out Ending balance Total gains (losses) included in earnings 1 Assets AFS securities Fixed maturity U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions $ — $ — $ — $ — $ 5 $ — $ 5 $ — Foreign governments 17 — (1 ) (2 ) — — 14 — Corporate 636 — 20 (36 ) — (250 ) 370 — CLO 517 4 55 (46 ) 72 (444 ) 158 — ABS 1,813 81 (12 ) (635 ) 104 (191 ) 1,160 — CMBS 67 1 — 39 91 (46 ) 152 — RMBS 758 3 19 (297 ) — (466 ) 17 — Equity securities 9 — — (4 ) — — 5 — Trading securities Fixed maturity U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions 17 — — — — — 17 — Corporate 16 — — (4 ) — (12 ) — 4 CLO 108 (2 ) — (63 ) — — 43 11 ABS 98 (16 ) — — — (82 ) — — RMBS 29 (23 ) — 144 — (54 ) 96 (9 ) Mortgage loans 48 — — (4 ) — — 44 — Funds withheld at interest – embedded derivative 36 104 — — — — 140 — Investments in related parties AFS securities Fixed maturity CLO 7 — 1 — — (8 ) — — ABS 60 — — (4 ) — — 56 — Trading securities, CLO 191 (33 ) — 7 30 — 195 23 Reinsurance recoverable 2,377 (685 ) — — — — 1,692 — Total Level 3 assets $ 6,804 $ (566 ) $ 82 $ (905 ) $ 302 $ (1,553 ) $ 4,164 $ 29 Liabilities Interest sensitive contract liabilities Embedded derivative $ (4,464 ) $ (324 ) $ — $ (495 ) $ — $ — $ (5,283 ) $ — Universal life benefits (1,464 ) 581 — — — — (883 ) — Future policy benefits AmerUs Closed Block (1,581 ) (25 ) — — — — (1,606 ) — ILICO Closed Block and life benefits (897 ) 103 — — — — (794 ) — Derivative liabilities (7 ) — — — — — (7 ) — Total Level 3 liabilities $ (8,413 ) $ 335 $ — $ (495 ) $ — $ — $ (8,573 ) $ — 1 Related to instruments held at end of period. The following represents the gross components of purchases, issuances, sales and settlements, net, shown above: Year ended December 31, 2017 (In millions) Purchases Issuances Sales Settlements Purchases, issuances, sales and settlements, net Assets AFS securities Fixed maturity U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions $ — $ — $ — $ (20 ) $ (20 ) Corporate 228 — (36 ) (15 ) 177 CLO 15 — (2 ) (44 ) (31 ) ABS 577 — — (414 ) 163 CMBS 29 — — (1 ) 28 RMBS 4 — — (2 ) 2 Equity securities 3 — — — 3 Trading securities, fixed maturity CLO 4 — (16 ) — (12 ) RMBS 70 — — — 70 Mortgage loans — — — (2 ) (2 ) Investments in related parties AFS securities, fixed maturity, ABS 5 — — (15 ) (10 ) Trading securities, CLO — — (55 ) — (55 ) Total Level 3 assets $ 935 $ — $ (109 ) $ (513 ) $ 313 Liabilities Interest sensitive contract liabilities Embedded derivative $ — $ (600 ) $ — $ 205 $ (395 ) Total Level 3 liabilities $ — $ (600 ) $ — $ 205 $ (395 )
Reconciliation of Level 3 Liabilities Measured on a Recurring Basis	The following is a reconciliation for all Level 3 assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis: Year ended December 31, 2017 Total realized and unrealized gains (losses) Transfers (In millions) Beginning Balance Included in income Included in OCI Purchases, issuances, sales and settlements, net In (Out) Ending Balance Total gains (losses) included in earnings 1 Assets AFS securities Fixed maturity U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions $ 5 $ 16 $ (1 ) $ (20 ) $ — $ — $ — $ — Foreign governments 14 — — — — (14 ) — — Corporate 370 13 15 177 29 (26 ) 578 — CLO 158 1 10 (31 ) 28 (102 ) 64 — ABS 1,160 26 29 163 93 (10 ) 1,461 — CMBS 152 1 (4 ) 28 51 (91 ) 137 — RMBS 17 1 1 2 289 (9 ) 301 — Equity securities 5 — — 3 — — 8 — Trading securities Fixed maturity U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions 17 — — — — — 17 — CLO 43 (4 ) — (12 ) — (10 ) 17 1 ABS — — — — 77 — 77 — RMBS 96 (19 ) — 70 195 — 342 7 Mortgage loans 44 (1 ) — (2 ) — — 41 (1 ) Investment funds — — — — 41 — 41 — Funds withheld at interest – embedded derivative 140 172 — — — — 312 — Investments in related parties AFS securities, fixed maturity, ABS 56 — 1 (10 ) — (47 ) — — Trading securities, CLO 195 (8 ) — (55 ) — (27 ) 105 (5 ) Reinsurance recoverable 1,692 132 — — — — 1,824 — Total Level 3 assets $ 4,164 $ 330 $ 51 $ 313 $ 803 $ (336 ) $ 5,325 $ 2 Liabilities Interest sensitive contract liabilities Embedded derivative $ (5,283 ) $ (1,758 ) $ — $ (395 ) $ — $ — $ (7,436 ) $ — Universal life benefits (883 ) (122 ) — — — — (1,005 ) — Future policy benefits AmerUs Closed Block (1,606 ) (19 ) — — — — (1,625 ) — ILICO Closed Block and life benefits (794 ) (9 ) — — — — (803 ) — Derivative liabilities (7 ) 2 — — — — (5 ) 2 Total Level 3 liabilities $ (8,573 ) $ (1,906 ) $ — $ (395 ) $ — $ — $ (10,874 ) $ 2 1 Related to instruments held at end of period. Year ended December 31, 2016 Total realized and unrealized gains (losses) Transfers (In millions) Beginning balance Included in income Included in OCI Purchases, issuances, sales and settlements, net In Out Ending balance Total gains (losses) included in earnings 1 Assets AFS securities Fixed maturity U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions $ — $ — $ — $ — $ 5 $ — $ 5 $ — Foreign governments 17 — (1 ) (2 ) — — 14 — Corporate 636 — 20 (36 ) — (250 ) 370 — CLO 517 4 55 (46 ) 72 (444 ) 158 — ABS 1,813 81 (12 ) (635 ) 104 (191 ) 1,160 — CMBS 67 1 — 39 91 (46 ) 152 — RMBS 758 3 19 (297 ) — (466 ) 17 — Equity securities 9 — — (4 ) — — 5 — Trading securities Fixed maturity U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions 17 — — — — — 17 — Corporate 16 — — (4 ) — (12 ) — 4 CLO 108 (2 ) — (63 ) — — 43 11 ABS 98 (16 ) — — — (82 ) — — RMBS 29 (23 ) — 144 — (54 ) 96 (9 ) Mortgage loans 48 — — (4 ) — — 44 — Funds withheld at interest – embedded derivative 36 104 — — — — 140 — Investments in related parties AFS securities Fixed maturity CLO 7 — 1 — — (8 ) — — ABS 60 — — (4 ) — — 56 — Trading securities, CLO 191 (33 ) — 7 30 — 195 23 Reinsurance recoverable 2,377 (685 ) — — — — 1,692 — Total Level 3 assets $ 6,804 $ (566 ) $ 82 $ (905 ) $ 302 $ (1,553 ) $ 4,164 $ 29 Liabilities Interest sensitive contract liabilities Embedded derivative $ (4,464 ) $ (324 ) $ — $ (495 ) $ — $ — $ (5,283 ) $ — Universal life benefits (1,464 ) 581 — — — — (883 ) — Future policy benefits AmerUs Closed Block (1,581 ) (25 ) — — — — (1,606 ) — ILICO Closed Block and life benefits (897 ) 103 — — — — (794 ) — Derivative liabilities (7 ) — — — — — (7 ) — Total Level 3 liabilities $ (8,413 ) $ 335 $ — $ (495 ) $ — $ — $ (8,573 ) $ — 1 Related to instruments held at end of period. The following represents the gross components of purchases, issuances, sales and settlements, net, shown above: Year ended December 31, 2017 (In millions) Purchases Issuances Sales Settlements Purchases, issuances, sales and settlements, net Assets AFS securities Fixed maturity U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions $ — $ — $ — $ (20 ) $ (20 ) Corporate 228 — (36 ) (15 ) 177 CLO 15 — (2 ) (44 ) (31 ) ABS 577 — — (414 ) 163 CMBS 29 — — (1 ) 28 RMBS 4 — — (2 ) 2 Equity securities 3 — — — 3 Trading securities, fixed maturity CLO 4 — (16 ) — (12 ) RMBS 70 — — — 70 Mortgage loans — — — (2 ) (2 ) Investments in related parties AFS securities, fixed maturity, ABS 5 — — (15 ) (10 ) Trading securities, CLO — — (55 ) — (55 ) Total Level 3 assets $ 935 $ — $ (109 ) $ (513 ) $ 313 Liabilities Interest sensitive contract liabilities Embedded derivative $ — $ (600 ) $ — $ 205 $ (395 ) Total Level 3 liabilities $ — $ (600 ) $ — $ 205 $ (395 )
Gross Components of Purchases, Sales, Issuances and Settlements, net	Year ended December 31, 2017 (In millions) Purchases Issuances Sales Settlements Purchases, issuances, sales and settlements, net Assets AFS securities Fixed maturity U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions $ — $ — $ — $ (20 ) $ (20 ) Corporate 228 — (36 ) (15 ) 177 CLO 15 — (2 ) (44 ) (31 ) ABS 577 — — (414 ) 163 CMBS 29 — — (1 ) 28 RMBS 4 — — (2 ) 2 Equity securities 3 — — — 3 Trading securities, fixed maturity CLO 4 — (16 ) — (12 ) RMBS 70 — — — 70 Mortgage loans — — — (2 ) (2 ) Investments in related parties AFS securities, fixed maturity, ABS 5 — — (15 ) (10 ) Trading securities, CLO — — (55 ) — (55 ) Total Level 3 assets $ 935 $ — $ (109 ) $ (513 ) $ 313 Liabilities Interest sensitive contract liabilities Embedded derivative $ — $ (600 ) $ — $ 205 $ (395 ) Total Level 3 liabilities $ — $ (600 ) $ — $ 205 $ (395 ) Year ended December 31, 2016 (In millions) Purchases Issuances Sales Settlements Purchases, issuances, sales and settlements, net Assets AFS securities Fixed maturity Foreign governments $ — $ — $ — $ (2 ) $ (2 ) Corporate 95 — (68 ) (63 ) (36 ) CLO 24 — (29 ) (41 ) (46 ) ABS 261 — — (896 ) (635 ) CMBS 40 — — (1 ) 39 RMBS 8 — — (305 ) (297 ) Equity securities — — (4 ) — (4 ) Trading securities, fixed maturity Corporate — — — (4 ) (4 ) CLO 4 — (67 ) — (63 ) RMBS 144 — — — 144 Mortgage loans — — — (4 ) (4 ) Investments in related parties AFS securities, fixed maturity, ABS — — — (4 ) (4 ) Trading securities, CLO 33 — (26 ) — 7 Total Level 3 assets $ 609 $ — $ (194 ) $ (1,320 ) $ (905 ) Liabilities Interest sensitive contract liabilities Embedded derivative $ — $ (641 ) $ — $ 146 $ (495 ) Total Level 3 liabilities $ — $ (641 ) $ — $ 146 $ (495 )
Summary of the Unobservable Inputs for the Embedded Derivative of Fixed Indexed Annuities	The following summarizes the unobservable inputs for the embedded derivatives of fixed indexed annuities: December 31, 2017 (In millions, except for percentages) Fair value Valuation technique Unobservable inputs Input/range of Impact of an increase in the input on fair value Interest sensitive contract liabilities – fixed indexed annuities embedded derivatives $ 7,436 Option budget method Non-performance risk 0.2 % – 1.2% Decrease Option budget 0.7 % – 3.7% Increase Surrender rate 1.5 % – 19.4% Decrease December 31, 2016 (In millions, except for percentages) Fair value Valuation technique Unobservable inputs Input/range of Impact of an increase in the input on fair value Interest sensitive contract liabilities – fixed indexed annuities embedded derivatives $ 5,283 Option budget method Non-performance risk 0.7 % – 1.5% Decrease Option budget 0.8 % – 3.8% Increase Surrender rate 0.0 % – 16.3% Decrease
Summary of Financial Instruments Not Carried at Fair Value on the Balance Sheet	The following represents our financial instruments not carried at fair value on the consolidated balance sheets: December 31, 2017 (In millions) Carrying Value Fair Value NAV 1 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Assets Mortgage loans $ 6,192 $ 6,342 $ — $ — $ — $ 6,342 Investment funds 554 554 554 — — — Policy loans 530 530 — — 530 — Funds withheld at interest 6,773 6,773 — — — 6,773 Other investments 133 133 — — 58 75 Investments in related parties Investment funds 1,280 1,280 1,280 — — — Other investments 238 259 — — — 259 Total assets not carried at fair value $ 15,700 $ 15,871 $ 1,834 $ — $ 588 $ 13,449 Liabilities Interest sensitive contract liabilities $ 31,586 $ 31,656 $ — $ — $ — $ 31,656 Funds withheld liability 385 385 — — 385 — Total liabilities not carried at fair value $ 31,971 $ 32,041 $ — $ — $ 385 $ 31,656 1 Investments measured at NAV as a practical expedient in determining fair value have not been classified in the fair value hierarchy. December 31, 2016 (In millions) Carrying Value Fair Value NAV 1 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Assets Mortgage loans $ 5,426 $ 5,560 $ — $ — $ — $ 5,560 Investment funds 590 590 590 — — — Policy loans 602 602 — — 602 — Funds withheld at interest 6,398 6,398 — — — 6,398 Other investments 81 81 — — — 81 Investments in related parties Investment funds 1,198 1,198 1,198 — — — Other investments 237 262 — — — 262 Total assets not carried at fair value $ 14,532 $ 14,691 $ 1,788 $ — $ 602 $ 12,301 Liabilities Interest sensitive contract liabilities $ 27,628 $ 26,930 $ — $ — $ — $ 26,930 Funds withheld liability 374 374 — — 374 — Total liabilities not carried at fair value $ 28,002 $ 27,304 $ — $ — $ 374 $ 26,930 1 Investments measured at NAV as a practical expedient in determining fair value have not been classified in the fair value hierarchy.

Business Combinations (Tables)

Business Combinations (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Business Combination - Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed	The following summarizes the fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the DLD acquisition: (In millions) October 1, 2015 Investments $ 5,539 Cash and cash equivalents 236 Accrued investment income 67 Reinsurance recoverable 4 Other assets 83 Total identifiable assets acquired 5,929 Interest sensitive contract liabilities 403 Future policy benefits 4,519 Other policy claims and benefits 55 Dividends payable to policyholders 771 Other liabilities 107 Total identifiable liabilities assumed 5,855 Net assets acquired $ 74
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block]	The following unaudited pro forma revenue and net income assumes a January 1, 2014 acquisition date for DLD : (In millions) Year ended December 31, 2015 Revenue $ 3,004 Net income 579

Reinsurance (Tables)

Reinsurance (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Insurance [Abstract]
Ceded Credit Risk [Table Text Block]	Ceded Reinsurance Transactions —The following summarizes our reinsurance recoverable from the following: December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 Global Atlantic $ 3,128 $ 3,914 Protective 1,693 1,723 Other 1 151 364 Reinsurance recoverable $ 4,972 $ 6,001 1 Represents all other reinsurers, with no single reinsurer having a carrying value in excess of 5% of total recoverable.
Schedule of Novated Balances [Table Text Block]	During the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 , we novated certain open blocks of business ceded to Global Atlantic, in accordance with the terms of the coinsurance and assumption agreement. The following summarizes the decreases in amounts on the consolidated balance sheets as a result of the novations: Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 Interest sensitive contract liabilities $ 945 $ 1,006 Future policy benefits 190 188 Policy loans 34 33 Reinsurance recoverable 1,101 1,161
Effects of Reinsurance [Table Text Block]	The following summarizes the effect of reinsurance on premiums and future policy and other policy benefits on the consolidated statements of income: Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 2015 Premiums Direct $ 2,639 $ 448 $ 445 Reinsurance assumed 21 20 24 Reinsurance ceded (195 ) (228 ) (274 ) Total premiums $ 2,465 $ 240 $ 195 Future policy and other policy benefits Direct $ 3,350 $ 1,434 $ 1,030 Reinsurance assumed 37 82 42 Reinsurance ceded (224 ) (457 ) (554 ) Total future policy and other policy benefits $ 3,163 $ 1,059 $ 518

Deferred Acquisition Costs, D39

Deferred Acquisition Costs, Deferred Sales Inducements, and Value of Business Acquired (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Insurance [Abstract]
Deferred Acquisition Costs	The following represents a rollforward of DAC, DSI and VOBA: (In millions) DAC DSI VOBA Total Balance at December 31, 2014 $ 424 $ 188 $ 1,610 $ 2,222 Additions 288 136 — 424 Unlocking (6 ) (2 ) (27 ) (35 ) Amortization (35 ) (19 ) (138 ) (192 ) Impact of unrealized investment (gains) losses 34 17 182 233 Balance at December 31, 2015 705 320 1,627 2,652 Additions 601 200 — 801 Unlocking (12 ) (3 ) (23 ) (38 ) Amortization (114 ) (36 ) (169 ) (319 ) Impact of unrealized investment (gains) losses (38 ) (19 ) (99 ) (156 ) Balance at December 31, 2016 1,142 462 1,336 2,940 Additions 493 161 — 654 Unlocking 13 4 (1 ) 16 Amortization (194 ) (67 ) (168 ) (429 ) Impact of unrealized investment (gains) losses (100 ) (40 ) (111 ) (251 ) Balance at December 31, 2017 $ 1,354 $ 520 $ 1,056 $ 2,930 The expected amortization of VOBA for the next five years is as follows: (In millions) Expected Amortization 2018 $ 127 2019 107 2020 94 2021 86 2022 80
Deferred Sales Inducements	The following represents a rollforward of DAC, DSI and VOBA: (In millions) DAC DSI VOBA Total Balance at December 31, 2014 $ 424 $ 188 $ 1,610 $ 2,222 Additions 288 136 — 424 Unlocking (6 ) (2 ) (27 ) (35 ) Amortization (35 ) (19 ) (138 ) (192 ) Impact of unrealized investment (gains) losses 34 17 182 233 Balance at December 31, 2015 705 320 1,627 2,652 Additions 601 200 — 801 Unlocking (12 ) (3 ) (23 ) (38 ) Amortization (114 ) (36 ) (169 ) (319 ) Impact of unrealized investment (gains) losses (38 ) (19 ) (99 ) (156 ) Balance at December 31, 2016 1,142 462 1,336 2,940 Additions 493 161 — 654 Unlocking 13 4 (1 ) 16 Amortization (194 ) (67 ) (168 ) (429 ) Impact of unrealized investment (gains) losses (100 ) (40 ) (111 ) (251 ) Balance at December 31, 2017 $ 1,354 $ 520 $ 1,056 $ 2,930 The expected amortization of VOBA for the next five years is as follows: (In millions) Expected Amortization 2018 $ 127 2019 107 2020 94 2021 86 2022 80

Closed Block (Tables)

Closed Block (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Insurance [Abstract]
Schedule of Closed Block Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]	Summarized financial information of the AmerUs Closed Block is presented below. December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 Liabilities Future policy benefits $ 1,625 $ 1,607 Other policy claims and benefits 19 25 Dividends payable to policyholders 92 96 Other liabilities 15 23 Total liabilities 1,751 1,751 Assets Trading securities 1,377 1,380 Mortgage loans, net of allowances 41 44 Policy loans 168 183 Total investments 1,586 1,607 Cash and cash equivalents 48 23 Accrued investment income 36 27 Reinsurance recoverable 25 29 Other assets — 1 Total assets 1,695 1,687 Maximum future earnings to be recognized from AmerUs Closed Block $ 56 $ 64
Closed Block Operations, Net Results [Table Text Block]	The following represents the contribution from AmerUs Closed Block. Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 2015 Revenues Premiums $ 58 $ 24 $ 58 Net investment income 79 84 86 Investment related gains (losses) 61 42 (124 ) Total revenues 198 150 20 Benefits and Expenses Future policy and other policy benefits 144 107 (24 ) Dividends to policyholders 51 40 45 Total benefits and expenses 195 147 21 Contribution from (to) AmerUs Closed Block before income taxes 3 3 (1 ) Income tax expense (benefit) (5 ) 3 1 Contribution from (to) AmerUs Closed Block, net of income taxes $ 8 $ — $ (2 )

Common Stock (Tables)

Common Stock (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Equity [Abstract]
Schedule of Stock by Class [Table Text Block]	The table below shows the changes in each class of shares issued and outstanding: Years ended December 31, 2017 2016 2015 Class A Beginning balance 77,319,381 50,151,265 15,752,736 Issued shares 731,490 3,360,471 34,498,220 Forfeited shares (4,660 ) (37,188 ) — Repurchased shares (42,937 ) (313,313 ) (99,691 ) Converted from Class B shares 64,383,430 24,158,146 — Ending balance 142,386,704 77,319,381 50,151,265 Class B Beginning balance 111,805,829 135,963,975 125,282,892 Issued shares — — 10,681,083 Converted to Class A shares (64,383,430 ) (24,158,146 ) — Ending balance 47,422,399 111,805,829 135,963,975 Class M-1 Beginning balance 3,474,205 5,198,273 5,198,273 Converted to Class A shares (85,315 ) (1,155,303 ) — Forfeited shares — (270,543 ) — Repurchased shares — (298,222 ) — Ending balance 3,388,890 3,474,205 5,198,273 Class M-2 Beginning balance 1,067,747 3,125,869 3,125,869 Converted to Class A shares (216,644 ) (1,788,998 ) — Forfeited shares — (161,474 ) — Repurchased shares — (107,650 ) — Ending balance 851,103 1,067,747 3,125,869 Class M-3 Beginning balance 1,346,300 3,110,000 3,350,000 Converted to Class A shares (240,300 ) (1,443,700 ) — Forfeited shares (14,000 ) (224,000 ) (216,000 ) Repurchased shares — (96,000 ) (24,000 ) Ending balance 1,092,000 1,346,300 3,110,000 Class M-4 Beginning balance 5,397,802 5,038,443 — Issued shares — 990,650 5,316,751 Converted to Class A shares (217,020 ) (79,031 ) — Forfeited shares (104,567 ) (452,528 ) (242,050 ) Repurchased shares (364,472 ) (99,732 ) (36,258 ) Ending balance 4,711,743 5,397,802 5,038,443

Stock-based Compensation (Table

Stock-based Compensation (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Stock Option Award Activity	Stock Options – A rollforward of activity for the year ended December 31, 2017 for stock options is as follows: (In millions, except share and per share data) Options Weighted Average Exercise Price Aggregate Intrinsic Value Outstanding at January 1, 2017 470,644 $ 33.95 Granted 322,981 51.31 Exercised (15,721 ) 33.95 Forfeited (19,496 ) 39.83 Outstanding at December 31, 2017 758,408 $ 41.19 Vested and expected to vest 1 at December 31, 2017 758,408 $ 41.19 $ 8 Exercisable at December 31, 2017 141,149 $ 33.95 $ 3 1 Expected to vest are unvested options for which the requisite service period has not been rendered but that are expected to vest based on the achievement of a performance condition.
Valuation Assumptions	Valuation Assumptions for Class M Shares —The fair value of the Class M shares is determined using the Black-Scholes option pricing model, with application of a Monte-Carlo simulation to determine the value of the Tranche 2 Class M shares. No Tranche 2 Class M shares were granted during the year ended December 31, 2017 . Grant date assumptions used for valuation of Class M share awards for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 were: Years ended December 31, Assumptions used 2016 2015 Athene Class A share value $32.90 $34.23 Risk-free interest rate 0.5 % – 1.8% 0.9 % – 1.1% Expected dividend yield —% —% Expected volatility 30.0% 25.9% Expected term (in years) 3.00 2.42 Valuation Assumptions – We determine the fair value at grant date for stock options using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The following represents the assumptions used for the fair value at grant date: Years ended December 31, Assumptions used 2017 2016 Risk-free interest rate 1.5% 1.0% Expected dividend yield —% —% Expected volatility 25.0 % – 28.4% 25.0% Expected term (in years) 2.34 – 2.81 2.63
LTIP RSUs Nonvested Award Activity	RSUs – The following represents the activity of nonvested LTIP RSUs for the year ended December 31, 2017 : RSUs Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Nonvested at January 1, 2017 328,127 $ 33.95 Granted 245,010 51.28 Vested (40,940 ) 33.95 Forfeited (25,221 ) 39.88 Nonvested at December 31, 2017 506,976 $ 42.03
M Share Award Activity	Award activity for Class M Shares —A rollforward of award activity for the year ended December 31, 2017 of the Class M shares is as follows: Tranche 1 Tranche 2 Total (In millions, except share and per share data) Class M Shares Weighted Average Conversion Price Aggregate Intrinsic Value Class M Shares Weighted Average Conversion Price Aggregate Intrinsic Value Class M Shares Weighted Average Conversion Price Outstanding at January 1, 2017 4,468,585 $ 18.27 6,347,832 $ 19.52 10,816,417 $ 19.00 Converted (447,123 ) 15.14 (249,065 ) 14.69 (696,188 ) 14.98 Forfeited (88,086 ) 25.66 (25,534 ) 33.13 (113,620 ) 27.34 Repurchased (51,272 ) 30.80 (246,386 ) 30.90 (297,658 ) 30.88 Outstanding at December 31, 2017 3,882,104 $ 18.30 5,826,847 $ 19.19 9,708,951 $ 18.83 Vested and expected to vest 1 at December 31, 2017 3,882,104 $ 18.30 $ 130 5,826,847 $ 19.19 $ 190 Convertible at December 31, 2017 2,791,394 $ 14.33 $ 104 4,385,045 $ 16.07 $ 156 1 Expected to vest are unvested shares for which the requisite service period has not been rendered but that are expected to vest based on the achievement of a performance condition.
Nonvested Share Activity	The following represents the activity of nonvested Class M shares for the year ended December 31, 2017 : Tranche 1 Tranche 2 Total Class M Shares Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Class M Shares Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Class M Shares Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Nonvested at January 1, 2017 1,837,043 $ 8.67 3,040,135 $ 11.36 4,877,178 $ 10.34 Vested (658,247 ) 10.31 (1,572,799 ) 9.15 (2,231,046 ) 9.49 Forfeited (88,086 ) 5.12 (25,534 ) 8.89 (113,620 ) 5.97 Nonvested at December 31, 2017 1,090,710 $ 7.97 1,441,802 $ 13.81 2,532,512 $ 11.29
Stock-based Compensation Expense	Components of stock compensation expense recorded on the consolidated statements of income are as follows: Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 2015 Class M – Tranche 1 $ 8 $ 11 $ 12 Class M – Tranche 2 21 69 50 LTIP and other equity awards 16 4 5 Stock-based compensation expense $ 45 $ 84 $ 67

Earnings Per Share (Tables)

Earnings Per Share (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share	The following represents our basic and diluted EPS calculations: Year ended December 31, 2017 (In millions, except share and per share data) Class A Class B Class M-1 Class M-2 Class M-3 Class M-4 Net income available to AHL shareholders – basic $ 798 $ 605 $ 25 $ 5 $ 5 $ 10 Effect of stock compensation plans on allocated net income 20 — — — — — Net income available to AHL shareholders – diluted $ 818 $ 605 $ 25 $ 5 $ 5 $ 10 Basic weighted average shares outstanding 107,682,569 81,596,697 3,409,692 664,326 684,021 1,296,871 Dilutive effect of stock compensation plans 3,323,072 — — 250,426 546,943 1,611,526 Diluted weighted average shares outstanding 111,005,641 81,596,697 3,409,692 914,752 1,230,964 2,908,397 Earnings per share 1 Basic $ 7.41 $ 7.41 $ 7.41 $ 7.41 $ 7.41 $ 7.41 Diluted $ 7.37 $ 7.41 $ 7.41 $ 5.38 $ 4.12 $ 3.31 1 Calculated using whole figures. Years ended December 31, 2016 2015 (In millions, except share and per share data) Class A Class B Class M-1 Classes A and B Net income available to AHL shareholders – basic $ 214 $ 553 $ 1 $ 562 Effect of stock compensation plans on allocated net income 1 — — — Net income available to AHL shareholders – diluted $ 215 $ 553 $ 1 $ 562 Basic weighted average shares outstanding 52,086,945 134,445,840 218,324 175,091,802 Dilutive effect of stock compensation plans 1,443,531 — 4,246,074 86,846 Diluted weighted average shares outstanding 53,530,476 134,445,840 4,464,398 175,178,648 Earnings per share 1 Basic $ 4.11 $ 4.11 $ 4.11 $ 3.21 Diluted $ 4.02 $ 4.11 $ 0.20 $ 3.21 1 Calculated using whole figures.
Shares Excluded from Dilutive Earnings Per Share	The diluted EPS calculations for Class A shares excluded the following shares, RSUs and options: Years ended December 31, 2017 2016 2015 Antidilutive shares, RSUs and options excluded from diluted EPS calculation 50,886,246 113,497,613 — Shares, RSUs and options excluded from diluted EPS calculation as a performance condition had not been met 1,435,192 2,533,768 — Shares, RSUs and options excluded from diluted EPS calculation as issuance restrictions had not been satisfied as of the end of the year — — 16,653,624 Total shares, RSUs and options excluded from diluted EPS calculation 52,321,438 116,031,381 16,653,624 Note: Shares, RSUs and options are as of year end.

Accumulated Other Comprehensi44

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Equity [Abstract]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	The following is a detail of AOCI: December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 AFS securities $ 2,577 $ 972 DAC, DSI, VOBA, future policy benefits and dividends payable to policyholders adjustments on AFS securities (744 ) (408 ) Noncredit component of OTTI losses on AFS securities (13 ) (17 ) Hedging instruments (95 ) 10 Pension adjustments (5 ) (4 ) Foreign currency translation adjustments 8 (12 ) Accumulated other comprehensive income, before taxes 1,728 541 Deferred income tax liability (313 ) (174 ) Accumulated other comprehensive income $ 1,415 $ 367 Changes in AOCI are presented below: Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 2015 Unrealized investment gains (losses) on AFS securities Unrealized investment gains (losses) on AFS securities $ 1,680 $ 1,397 $ (1,661 ) Change in DAC, DSI, VOBA, future policy benefits and dividends payable to policyholders adjustment (336 ) (499 ) 419 Less: Reclassification adjustment for gains (losses) realized in net income 1 75 20 72 Less: Income tax expense (benefit) 347 261 (428 ) Net unrealized investment gains (losses) on AFS securities 922 617 (886 ) Noncredit component of OTTI losses on AFS securities Noncredit component of OTTI losses on AFS securities (5 ) (9 ) (13 ) Less: Reclassification adjustment for losses realized in net income 1 (9 ) (7 ) (3 ) Less: Income tax expense 1 — (4 ) Net noncredit component of OTTI losses on AFS securities 3 (2 ) (6 ) Unrealized gains (losses) on hedging instruments Unrealized gains (losses) on hedging instruments (105 ) (5 ) 11 Less: Income tax expense (benefit) (22 ) (2 ) 4 Net unrealized gains (losses) on hedging instruments (83 ) (3 ) 7 Pension adjustments Pension adjustments (1 ) — 12 Less: Income tax expense (benefit) — — 4 Net pension adjustments (1 ) — 8 Foreign currency translation adjustments 20 (8 ) (4 ) Change in AOCI from comprehensive income 861 604 (881 ) Reclassification of taxes 2 187 — — Change in AOCI $ 1,048 $ 604 $ (881 ) 1 Recognized in investment related gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of income. 2 See discussion of ASU 2018-02 adoption in Note 1 – Business, Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies.

Income Taxes Income Tax Expense

Income Taxes Income Tax Expense (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	Total income taxes were as follows: Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 2015 Income tax expense (benefit) $ 87 $ (52 ) $ 12 Income tax expense (benefit) from OCI 326 259 (424 ) Total income taxes $ 413 $ 207 $ (412 ) Income tax expense consists of the following: Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 2015 Current $ 5 $ (33 ) $ (19 ) Deferred 82 (19 ) 31 Income tax expense (benefit) $ 87 $ (52 ) $ 12
Schedule of Income before Income Tax	Income tax expense was calculated based on the following components of income before income taxes: Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 2015 Income before income taxes – Bermuda $ 1,237 $ 565 $ 508 Income before income taxes – Germany 25 16 8 Income before income taxes – U.S. 273 135 74 Income before income taxes $ 1,535 $ 716 $ 590
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation	The expected tax provision computed on pre-tax income at the weighted average tax rate has been calculated as the sum of the pre-tax income in each jurisdiction multiplied by that jurisdiction’s applicable statutory tax rate. Statutory tax rates of 0% , 31% and 35% have been used for Bermuda, Germany and the United States, respectively, for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 . A reconciliation of the difference between the expected tax provision at the weighted average tax rate and income tax expense (benefit) is as follows: Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 2015 Expected tax provision computed on pre-tax income at weighted average income tax rate $ 104 $ 52 $ 28 Increase (decrease) in income taxes resulting from: Deferred tax valuation allowance (5 ) (116 ) (6 ) Prior year true-up (6 ) 8 2 Corporate owned life insurance (8 ) (7 ) (7 ) Stock compensation expense 5 5 — Change in statutory tax rates (7 ) — — State taxes and other 4 6 (5 ) Income tax expense (benefit) $ 87 $ (52 ) $ 12 Effective tax rate 6 % (7 )% 2 %
Schedule of Gross Current and Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities	Current income tax recoverable and deferred tax assets are included in other assets on the consolidated balance sheets, and current income tax payable and deferred tax liabilities are included in other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets. Current and deferred income tax assets and liabilities were as follows: December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 Current income tax recoverable $ 29 $ 107 Current income tax payable 9 1 Net current income tax recoverable $ 20 $ 106 Deferred tax assets $ 3 $ 372 Deferred tax liabilities 41 4 Net deferred tax assets (liabilities) $ (38 ) $ 368
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities	Deferred income tax assets and liabilities consisted of the following: December 31, (In millions) 2017 1 2016 Deferred tax assets Insurance liabilities $ 1,322 $ 1,483 Net operating and capital loss carryforwards 151 221 Tax credits 6 18 VOBA 78 69 Fixed assets 26 — Employee benefits 36 52 Other 10 27 Total deferred tax assets 1,629 1,870 Valuation allowance 2 (64 ) (72 ) Deferred tax assets, after valuation allowance 1,565 1,798 Deferred tax liabilities Investments, including derivatives 781 668 Net unrealized gains on AFS 317 178 VOBA 328 346 DAC 174 232 Other 3 6 Total deferred tax liabilities 1,603 1,430 Net deferred tax assets (liabilities) $ (38 ) $ 368 1 Deferred tax balances were remeasured as of December 22, 2017 using the reduced U.S. statutory income tax rate as a result of the Tax Act. 2 A portion of the valuation allowance reduction was recorded in other comprehensive income.
Summary of Valuation Allowance	The valuation allowance consists of the following: December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 U.S. federal and state net operating losses and other deferred tax assets $ 14 $ 22 German other deferred tax assets 50 50 Total valuation allowance $ 64 $ 72

Statutory Requirements (Tables)

Statutory Requirements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Insurance [Abstract]
Statutory Accounting Practices Disclosure [Table Text Block]	Statutory capital and surplus and net income (loss) —The following table presents, for each of our insurance subsidiaries, the statutory capital and surplus and the statutory net income (loss), based on the most recently filed statutory financial statements filed with insurance regulators: Statutory capital & surplus Statutory net income (loss) December 31, Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 2017 2016 2015 ALRe $ 6,972 $ 6,124 $ 828 $ 460 $ 461 AADE 1,348 1,272 24 71 68 ALIC 80 79 1 1 1 AANY 268 231 29 1 8 ALICNY 76 78 6 10 14 AAIA 1,164 1,113 239 100 597 STAR 90 80 3 17 4 Athene Re USA IV 25 50 (3 ) 7 1

Related Parties (Tables)

Related Parties (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Schedule of Related Party Transactions	The following summarizes the asset management fees and sub-advisory fees we have incurred related to AAM, AAME and other Apollo affiliates: Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 2015 Asset management fees $ 261 $ 229 $ 226 Sub-advisory fees 57 66 42 December 31, (In millions, except for percentages) 2017 2016 Fixed maturity securities U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions $ — $ 5 Foreign governments 152 149 Corporate 2,934 2,032 CLO 5,166 4,727 ABS 681 911 CMBS 872 975 Mortgage loans 2,232 1,767 Investment funds 26 23 Trading securities 121 126 Funds withheld at interest 1,737 1,682 Other investments 75 81 Total assets sub-advised by Apollo affiliates $ 13,996 $ 12,478 Percent of assets sub-advised by Apollo affiliates to total AAM-managed assets 18 % 19 % The following represents the assets sub-advised by AAME: December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 Fixed maturity securities Foreign governments $ 2,160 $ 2,062 Corporate 1,003 1,567 Equity securities 95 187 Investment funds 40 34 Policy loans 5 6 Real estate 624 541 Other investments 176 153 Cash and cash equivalents 50 25 Total assets sub-advised by AAME $ 4,153 $ 4,575

Commitments and Contingencies (

Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Restricted Pledged Assets and Funds in Trust	The total restricted assets included on the consolidated balance sheets are as follows: December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 AFS securities Fixed maturity $ 1,572 $ 1,535 Equity 36 40 Investment funds 20 25 Mortgage loans 914 1,003 Short-term investments 10 15 Restricted cash 105 57 Total restricted assets $ 2,657 $ 2,675

Segment Information (Tables)

Segment Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Reconciliation of Segment Operating Revenues to Consolidation	The table below reconciles segment operating revenues to total revenues presented on the consolidated statements of income: Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 2015 Operating revenue by segment Retirement Services $ 5,960 $ 3,330 $ 2,979 Corporate and Other 368 268 112 Total segment operating revenues 6,328 3,598 3,091 Non-operating adjustments Change in fair values of derivatives and embedded derivatives – index annuities, net of offsets 1,990 324 (390 ) Investment gains (losses), net of offsets 461 164 (132 ) VIE expenses and noncontrolling interest — 13 33 Other adjustments to revenues (52 ) 6 16 Total non-operating adjustments 2,399 507 (473 ) Total revenues $ 8,727 $ 4,105 $ 2,618
Reconciliation of Segment Operating Income to Consolidation	The table below reconciles segment adjusted operating income to net income available to Athene Holding Ltd. shareholders presented on the consolidated statements of income: Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 2015 Adjusted operating income by segment Retirement Services $ 1,092 $ 777 $ 767 Corporate and other 17 (49 ) (29 ) Total segment adjusted operating income 1,109 728 738 Non-operating adjustments Investment gains (losses), net of offsets 199 47 (56 ) Change in fair values of derivatives and embedded derivatives – index annuities, net of offsets 266 95 (25 ) Integration, restructuring and other non-operating expenses (68 ) (22 ) (58 ) Stock-based compensation, excluding LTIP (33 ) (82 ) (67 ) Income tax (expense) benefit – non-operating (25 ) 2 30 Total non-operating adjustments 339 40 (176 ) Net income available to Athene Holding Ltd. shareholders $ 1,448 $ 768 $ 562
Reconciliation of Segment Net Investment Income	The table below reconciles segment provision for income taxes – operating to income tax expense presented on the consolidated statements of income: Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 2015 Provision for income taxes – operating by segment Retirement Services $ 64 $ (46 ) $ 39 Corporate and Other (2 ) (4 ) 3 Total segment income tax expense (benefit) – operating 62 (50 ) 42 Income tax (expense) benefit – non-operating 25 (2 ) (30 ) Income tax expense (benefit) $ 87 $ (52 ) $ 12 The table below reconciles segment provision for income taxes – operating to income tax expense presented on the consolidated statements of income: Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 2015 Provision for income taxes – operating by segment Retirement Services $ 64 $ (46 ) $ 39 Corporate and Other (2 ) (4 ) 3 Total segment income tax expense (benefit) – operating 62 (50 ) 42 Income tax (expense) benefit – non-operating 25 (2 ) (30 ) Income tax expense (benefit) $ 87 $ (52 ) $ 12 The table below reconciles segment net investment earnings to net investment income presented on the consolidated statements of income: Years ended December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 2015 Net investment earnings by segment Retirement Services $ 3,241 $ 2,953 $ 2,574 Corporate and Other 182 77 36 Total net investment earnings 3,423 3,030 2,610 Adjustments to net investment income Reinsurance embedded derivative impacts (191 ) (189 ) (84 ) Net VIE earnings (77 ) (1 ) (67 ) Alternative income (gains) losses 20 39 42 Held for trading amortization 94 35 9 Total adjustments to arrive at net investment income (154 ) (116 ) (100 ) Net investment income $ 3,269 $ 2,914 $ 2,510
Total Assets by Segment	The following represents total assets by segment: December 31, (In millions) 2017 2016 2015 Total assets by segment Retirement Services $ 91,335 $ 79,298 $ 73,702 Corporate and Other 8,412 7,401 7,144 Total assets $ 99,747 $ 86,699 $ 80,846

Quarterly Results of Operatio50

Quarterly Results of Operations (Unaudited) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block]	The unaudited quarterly results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 are summarized in the table below: Three months ended (In millions, except per share data) March 31 June 30 September 30 December 31 2017 Total revenues $ 1,619 $ 1,763 $ 1,473 $ 3,872 Total benefits and expenses 1,213 1,426 1,179 3,374 Net income available to Athene Holding Ltd. shareholders 384 326 274 464 Earnings per share Basic – Classes A, B, M-1, M-2, M-3, and M-4 1 $ 2.00 $ 1.66 $ 1.40 $ 2.36 Diluted – Class A 1.92 1.65 1.39 2.35 Diluted – Class B 2.00 1.66 1.40 2.36 Diluted – Class M-1 2.00 1.66 1.40 2.36 Diluted – Class M-2 0.08 1.64 1.39 2.34 Diluted – Class M-3 N/A 1.00 1.07 2.10 Diluted – Class M-4 N/A 0.76 0.79 1.49 2016 Total revenues $ 722 $ 1,045 $ 1,272 $ 1,066 Total benefits and expenses 637 837 1,234 681 Net income available to Athene Holding Ltd. shareholders 85 193 126 364 Earnings per share Basic – Classes A, B and M-1 1 $ 0.46 $ 1.04 $ 0.68 $ 1.92 Diluted – Class A 0.46 1.04 0.68 1.78 Diluted – Class B 0.46 1.04 0.68 1.92 Diluted – Class M-1 N/A N/A N/A 0.46 Diluted – Classes M-2, M-3 and M-4 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A – Not applicable. 1 Class M-1 was eligible to participate in dividends beginning in the three months ended December 31, 2016, Class M-2 was eligible to participate in dividends beginning in the three months ended March 31, 2017, and Class M-3 and Class M-4 were eligible to participate in dividends beginning in the three months ended June 30, 2017. Prior to being eligible to participate in dividends, no earnings were attributable to those classes. See Note 13 – Earnings Per Share for further discussion.

Business, Basis of Presentati51

Business, Basis of Presentation, and Significant Accounting Policies Narrative (Details) $ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Jan. 01, 2018USD ($)
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Number of Days Interest is Past Due for Nonaccrual Status		90 days
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used for Depreciation		40 years
Maximum Period Interest is Accrued		90 days
Variable Interest Entity, Qualitative or Quantitative Information, Election of Fair Value Option, Ownership Percentage		3.00%
Closed Block, Number of Predecessor Entities Reorganized		2
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Number of Closed Block Policies		2
Reclassification of taxes		$ 0
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Reclassification of taxes	[1]	187
Retained earnings
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Reclassification of taxes	[1]	$ (187)
Nonparticipating Life Insurance Policy | Minimum
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Liability for Future Policy Benefits, Interest Rate		3.31%
Nonparticipating Life Insurance Policy | Maximum
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Liability for Future Policy Benefits, Interest Rate		5.44%
Participating Life Insurance Policy | Minimum
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Liability for Future Policy Benefits, Interest Rate		0.90%
Participating Life Insurance Policy | Maximum
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Liability for Future Policy Benefits, Interest Rate		4.00%
Life Insurance Product Line
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Percentage of Participating Policies Paying Dividends		90.00%	88.00%
Participating Policy, Percentage of Premium Income		52.00%	45.00%	22.00%
Participating Policies as Percentage of Gross Insurance in Force		88.00%	81.00%
Life Insurance Product Line | Minimum
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Period for Liability Reporting		1 month
Life Insurance Product Line | Maximum
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Period for Liability Reporting		6 months
Future | Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Reclassification of taxes					$ (42)
Future | Retained earnings
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Reclassification of taxes					$ 42
[1]	See discussion of Accounting Standards Update 2018-02 adoption in Note 1 – Business, Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies.

Investments - Schedule of AFS S

Investments - Schedule of AFS Securities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) and Related Party
Fixed maturity securities
Cost or Amortized Cost	$ 58,506	$ 51,110
Gross Unrealized Gains	2,752	1,552
Gross Unrealized Losses	(246)	(629)
Fair Value	61,012	52,033
OTTI in AOCI	13	17
Equity securities
Cost or Amortized Cost	271	319
Gross Unrealized Gains	7	35
Gross Unrealized Losses	(1)	(1)
Fair Value	277	353
Total AFS securities
Cost or Amortized Cost	58,777	51,429
Gross Unrealized Gains	2,759	1,587
Gross Unrealized Losses	(247)	(630)
Fair Value	61,289	52,386
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) and Related Party | U.S. government and agencies
Fixed maturity securities
Cost or Amortized Cost	63	59
Gross Unrealized Gains	1	1
Gross Unrealized Losses	(2)	0
Fair Value	62	60
OTTI in AOCI	0	0
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) and Related Party | U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions
Fixed maturity securities
Cost or Amortized Cost	996	1,024
Gross Unrealized Gains	171	117
Gross Unrealized Losses	(2)	(1)
Fair Value	1,165	1,140
OTTI in AOCI	0	0
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) and Related Party | Foreign governments
Fixed maturity securities
Cost or Amortized Cost	2,575	2,098
Gross Unrealized Gains	116	143
Gross Unrealized Losses	(8)	(6)
Fair Value	2,683	2,235
OTTI in AOCI	0	0
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) and Related Party | Corporate
Fixed maturity securities
Cost or Amortized Cost	35,173	29,433
Gross Unrealized Gains	1,658	901
Gross Unrealized Losses	(171)	(314)
Fair Value	36,660	30,020
OTTI in AOCI	0	2
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) and Related Party | CLO
Fixed maturity securities
Cost or Amortized Cost	5,039	4,950
Gross Unrealized Gains	53	14
Gross Unrealized Losses	(8)	(142)
Fair Value	5,084	4,822
OTTI in AOCI	0	0
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) and Related Party | ABS
Fixed maturity securities
Cost or Amortized Cost	3,945	2,980
Gross Unrealized Gains	53	25
Gross Unrealized Losses	(27)	(69)
Fair Value	3,971	2,936
OTTI in AOCI	1	0
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) and Related Party | CMBS
Fixed maturity securities
Cost or Amortized Cost	1,994	1,835
Gross Unrealized Gains	48	38
Gross Unrealized Losses	(21)	(26)
Fair Value	2,021	1,847
OTTI in AOCI	1	0
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) and Related Party | RMBS
Fixed maturity securities
Cost or Amortized Cost	8,721	8,731
Gross Unrealized Gains	652	313
Gross Unrealized Losses	(7)	(71)
Fair Value	9,366	8,973
OTTI in AOCI	11	15
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE)
Fixed maturity securities
Cost or Amortized Cost	58,905
Fair Value	61,418
OTTI in AOCI	13	17
Total AFS securities
Cost or Amortized Cost	59,176	51,790
Gross Unrealized Gains	2,766	1,588
Gross Unrealized Losses	(247)	(637)
Fair Value	61,695	52,741
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Related Party
Fixed maturity securities
Cost or Amortized Cost	399	341
Gross Unrealized Gains	7	1
Gross Unrealized Losses	0	(7)
Fair Value	406	335
OTTI in AOCI	0	0
Equity securities
Cost or Amortized Cost	0	20
Gross Unrealized Gains		0
Gross Unrealized Losses		0
Fair Value	0	20
Total AFS securities
Cost or Amortized Cost		361
Gross Unrealized Gains		1
Gross Unrealized Losses		(7)
Fair Value		355
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Related Party | CLO
Fixed maturity securities
Cost or Amortized Cost	353	284
Gross Unrealized Gains	7	1
Gross Unrealized Losses	0	(6)
Fair Value	360	279
OTTI in AOCI	0	0
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Related Party | ABS
Fixed maturity securities
Cost or Amortized Cost	46	57
Gross Unrealized Gains	0	0
Gross Unrealized Losses	0	(1)
Fair Value	46	56
OTTI in AOCI	$ 0	$ 0

Investments - Maturities of AFS

Investments - Maturities of AFS Securities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) and Related Party
Amortized Cost
Due in one year or less	$ 972
Due after one year through five years	8,543
Due after five years through ten years	11,224
Due after ten years	18,068
CLO, ABS, CMBS and RMBS	19,699
Cost or Amortized Cost	58,506	$ 51,110
Fair Value
Due in one year or less	975
Due after one year through five years	8,699
Due after five years through ten years	11,548
Due after ten years	19,348
CLO, ABS, CMBS and RMBS	20,442
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	61,012	52,033
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE)
Amortized Cost
Cost or Amortized Cost	58,905
Fair Value
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	61,418
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Related Party
Amortized Cost
CLO, ABS, CMBS and RMBS	399
Cost or Amortized Cost	399	341
Fair Value
CLO, ABS, CMBS and RMBS	406
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	$ 406	$ 335

Investments - Unrealized Losses

Investments - Unrealized Losses on AFS Securities (Details) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)security	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) and Related Party
Fair Value
Less than 12 months	$ 6,540	$ 9,510
12 months or greater	3,859	6,903
Total	10,399	16,413
Gross Unrealized Losses
Less than 12 months	(76)	(291)
12 months or greater	(171)	(339)
Total	$ (247)	(630)
Securities in unrealized loss position | security	1,639
Securities in unrealized loss position, great than 12 months | security	591
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) and Related Party | U.S. government and agencies
Fair Value
Less than 12 months	$ 34	1
12 months or greater	9	0
Total	43	1
Gross Unrealized Losses
Less than 12 months	(1)	0
12 months or greater	(1)	0
Total	(2)	0
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) and Related Party | U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions
Fair Value
Less than 12 months	50	85
12 months or greater	39	2
Total	89	87
Gross Unrealized Losses
Less than 12 months	(1)	(1)
12 months or greater	(1)	0
Total	(2)	(1)
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) and Related Party | Foreign governments
Fair Value
Less than 12 months	435	137
12 months or greater	76	9
Total	511	146
Gross Unrealized Losses
Less than 12 months	(6)	(5)
12 months or greater	(2)	(1)
Total	(8)	(6)
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) and Related Party | Corporate
Fair Value
Less than 12 months	3,992	6,136
12 months or greater	2,457	1,113
Total	6,449	7,249
Gross Unrealized Losses
Less than 12 months	(49)	(228)
12 months or greater	(122)	(86)
Total	(171)	(314)
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) and Related Party | CLO
Fair Value
Less than 12 months	414	388
12 months or greater	340	3,102
Total	754	3,490
Gross Unrealized Losses
Less than 12 months	(2)	(2)
12 months or greater	(6)	(140)
Total	(8)	(142)
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) and Related Party | ABS
Fair Value
Less than 12 months	515	865
12 months or greater	549	767
Total	1,064	1,632
Gross Unrealized Losses
Less than 12 months	(5)	(17)
12 months or greater	(22)	(52)
Total	(27)	(69)
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) and Related Party | CMBS
Fair Value
Less than 12 months	460	576
12 months or greater	179	183
Total	639	759
Gross Unrealized Losses
Less than 12 months	(8)	(18)
12 months or greater	(13)	(8)
Total	(21)	(26)
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) and Related Party | RMBS
Fair Value
Less than 12 months	506	1,143
12 months or greater	210	1,727
Total	716	2,870
Gross Unrealized Losses
Less than 12 months	(3)	(19)
12 months or greater	(4)	(52)
Total	(7)	(71)
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) and Related Party | Total fixed maturity securities
Fair Value
Less than 12 months	6,406	9,331
12 months or greater	3,859	6,903
Total	10,265	16,234
Gross Unrealized Losses
Less than 12 months	(75)	(290)
12 months or greater	(171)	(339)
Total	(246)	(629)
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) and Related Party | Equity securities
Fair Value
Less than 12 months	134	179
12 months or greater	0	0
Total	134	179
Gross Unrealized Losses
Less than 12 months	(1)	(1)
12 months or greater	0	0
Total	(1)	(1)
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE)
Fair Value
Less than 12 months	6,611	9,592
12 months or greater	3,859	7,059
Total	10,470	16,651
Gross Unrealized Losses
Less than 12 months	(76)	(291)
12 months or greater	(171)	(346)
Total	$ (247)	(637)
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Related Party
Fair Value
Less than 12 months		82
12 months or greater		156
Total		238
Gross Unrealized Losses
Less than 12 months		0
12 months or greater		(7)
Total		(7)
Securities in unrealized loss position | security	4
Securities in unrealized loss position, great than 12 months | security	0
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Related Party | CLO
Fair Value
Less than 12 months	$ 29	68
12 months or greater	0	100
Total	29	168
Gross Unrealized Losses
Less than 12 months	0	0
12 months or greater	0	(6)
Total	0	(6)
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Related Party | ABS
Fair Value
Less than 12 months	42	0
12 months or greater	0	56
Total	42	56
Gross Unrealized Losses
Less than 12 months	0	0
12 months or greater	0	(1)
Total	0	(1)
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Related Party | Total fixed maturity securities
Fair Value
Less than 12 months	71	68
12 months or greater	0	156
Total	71	224
Gross Unrealized Losses
Less than 12 months	0	0
12 months or greater	0	(7)
Total	$ 0	(7)
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Related Party | Equity securities
Fair Value
Less than 12 months		14
12 months or greater		0
Total		14
Gross Unrealized Losses
Less than 12 months		0
12 months or greater		0
Total		$ 0

Investments - OTTI AFS Securiti

Investments - OTTI AFS Securities (Details) - Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Other than Temporary Impairment, Credit Losses Recognized in Earnings [Line Items]
Net other-than-temporary impairment losses	$ 33	$ 30	$ 30
Net other-than-temporary-impairment, Portion Recognized in Earnings, Net Intent to Sell	5
Other-than-Temporary-Impairment, Investments, Portion Recognized in Earnings, Net Credit Related	28
Other-than-temporary-impairment losses, portion not bifurcated into AOCI	11
Other than Temporary Impairment, Credit Losses Recognized in Earnings [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	16	22	8
Initial impairments – credit loss OTTI recognized on securities not previously impaired	17	8	19
Additional impairments – credit loss OTTI recognized on securities previously impaired	0	3	1
Reduction in impairments from securities sold, matured or repaid	(13)	(9)	(2)
Ending balance	14	16	22
Other than Temporary Impairment, Credit Losses Recognized in Earnings, Reductions, Change in Status	$ (6)	$ (8)	$ (4)

Investments - Net Investment In

Investments - Net Investment Income (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Net Investment Income [Line Items]
Net investment income	$ 3,269	$ 2,914	$ 2,510
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE)
Net Investment Income [Line Items]
Investment revenue	3,601	3,217	2,783
Investment expenses	(332)	(303)	(273)
Net investment income	3,269	2,914	2,510
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | AFS securities | Total fixed maturity securities
Net Investment Income [Line Items]
Investment revenue	2,579	2,293	2,051
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | AFS securities | Equity securities
Net Investment Income [Line Items]
Investment revenue	10	9	7
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Trading securities
Net Investment Income [Line Items]
Investment revenue	204	238	196
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Mortgage loans, net of allowances
Net Investment Income [Line Items]
Investment revenue	371	355	320
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Investment funds
Net Investment Income [Line Items]
Investment revenue	211	178	111
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Funds withheld at interest
Net Investment Income [Line Items]
Investment revenue	148	82	54
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Other
Net Investment Income [Line Items]
Investment revenue	$ 78	$ 62	$ 44

Investments - Investment Relate

Investments - Investment Related Gains (Losses) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Gain (Loss) on Investments [Line Items]
Mortgage loan valuation allowance	$ 2	$ 2
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE)
AFS fixed maturity securities
Net realized investment gains (losses) on trading securities	63	(33)	$ (228)
Derivative gains (losses)	2,377	596	(277)
Other gains (losses)	(19)	5	11
Investment related gains (losses)	2,572	652	(430)
Proceeds from sale of available-for-sale securities	6,023	4,662	6,899
Trading securities, unrealized holding gain (loss)	139	38	(133)
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Total fixed maturity securities
AFS fixed maturity securities
Gross realized gains on investment activity	169	138	150
Gross realized losses on investment activity	(72)	(54)	(86)
Net realized investment gains on fixed maturity securities	97	84	64
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Equity securities
AFS fixed maturity securities
Gross realized gains on investment activity	55	0	0
Gross realized losses on investment activity	(1)	0	0
Net realized investment gains on fixed maturity securities	54	0	0
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Related Party
AFS fixed maturity securities
Investment related gains (losses)	(16)	(38)	(19)
Trading securities, unrealized holding gain (loss)	$ (3)	$ (10)	$ (10)

Investments - Purchase Credit I

Investments - Purchase Credit Impaired (PCI) Investments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Fixed maturity securities
Contractually required payments receivable	$ 9,690	$ 8,912
Expected cash flows	8,188	7,948
Less: Amortized cost	(6,168)	(5,868)
Accretable difference	2,020	2,080	$ 1,753
Fair value	6,703	6,049
Outstanding balance	8,026	7,275
Mortgage loans
Contractually required payments receivable	1,140	303
Expected cash flows	1,090	290
Carrying value	817	220
Accretable difference	273	70	$ 0
Fair value	844	221
Outstanding balance	946	249
Fixed Maturities
Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer, Period End Summary [Line Items]
Non-accretable difference	1,502	964
Mortgages loans
Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer, Period End Summary [Line Items]
Non-accretable difference	$ 50	$ 13

Investments - PCI Securities Ac

Investments - PCI Securities Acquired During the Period (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Fixed maturity securities
Contractually required payments receivable	$ 2,161	$ 2,407
Cash flows expected to be collected	1,790	2,053
Fair value	1,428	1,497
Mortgage loans
Contractually required payments receivable	894	304
Cash flows expected to be collected	857	290
Fair value	$ 633	$ 220

Investments - PCI Securities 60

Investments - PCI Securities Accretable Yield (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Fixed Maturity Securities Accretable Yield Activity
Beginning balance at January 1	$ 2,080	$ 1,753
Purchases of PCI investments, net of sales	264	534
Accretion	(400)	(325)
Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer Accounted for as Debt Securities, Accretable Yield, Reclassifications from Nonaccretable Difference	76	118
Ending balance at December 31	2,020	2,080
Mortgage Loans Accretable Yield Activity
Beginning balance at January 1	70	0
Purchases of PCI investments, net of sales	216	70
Accretion	(24)	0
Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer Not Accounted for as Debt Securities, Accretable Yield, Reclassifications (to) from Nonaccretable Difference	11	0
Ending balance at December 31	$ 273	$ 70

Investments - Mortgage Loans, N

Investments - Mortgage Loans, Net (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Mortgage loans, net of allowances	$ 6,233	$ 5,470
Commercial mortgage loans
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Mortgage loans, net of allowances	5,247	5,132
Commercial mortgage loans | Commercial mortgage loans
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Mortgage loans, net of allowances	5,223	5,058
Commercial mortgage loans | Commercial mortgage loans under development
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Mortgage loans, net of allowances	24	74
Residential mortgage loans
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Mortgage loans, net of allowances	$ 986	$ 338

Investments - Mortgage Loans,62

Investments - Mortgage Loans, Net by Property Type and Geographic Region (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Mortgage loans, net of allowances	$ 6,233	$ 5,470
Commercial mortgage loans
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Mortgage loans, net of allowances	$ 5,247	$ 5,132
Commercial mortgage loans | Property Type Concentration Risk | Mortgage Loans, Net
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Percentage of Total	100.00%	100.00%
Commercial mortgage loans | Geographic Concentration Risk | Mortgage Loans, Net
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Percentage of Total	100.00%	100.00%
Commercial mortgage loans | Total U.S. Region
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Mortgage loans, net of allowances	$ 5,102	$ 5,058
Commercial mortgage loans | Total U.S. Region | Geographic Concentration Risk | Mortgage Loans, Net
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Percentage of Total	97.20%	98.60%
Commercial mortgage loans | East North Central
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Mortgage loans, net of allowances	$ 643	$ 450
Commercial mortgage loans | East North Central | Geographic Concentration Risk | Mortgage Loans, Net
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Percentage of Total	12.30%	8.80%
Commercial mortgage loans | East South Central
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Mortgage loans, net of allowances	$ 144	$ 158
Commercial mortgage loans | East South Central | Geographic Concentration Risk | Mortgage Loans, Net
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Percentage of Total	2.70%	3.10%
Commercial mortgage loans | Middle Atlantic
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Mortgage loans, net of allowances	$ 909	$ 628
Commercial mortgage loans | Middle Atlantic | Geographic Concentration Risk | Mortgage Loans, Net
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Percentage of Total	17.30%	12.20%
Commercial mortgage loans | Mountain
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Mortgage loans, net of allowances	$ 492	$ 543
Commercial mortgage loans | Mountain | Geographic Concentration Risk | Mortgage Loans, Net
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Percentage of Total	9.40%	10.60%
Commercial mortgage loans | New England
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Mortgage loans, net of allowances	$ 162	$ 194
Commercial mortgage loans | New England | Geographic Concentration Risk | Mortgage Loans, Net
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Percentage of Total	3.10%	3.80%
Commercial mortgage loans | Pacific
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Mortgage loans, net of allowances	$ 991	$ 833
Commercial mortgage loans | Pacific | Geographic Concentration Risk | Mortgage Loans, Net
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Percentage of Total	18.90%	16.20%
Commercial mortgage loans | South Atlantic
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Mortgage loans, net of allowances	$ 873	$ 1,284
Commercial mortgage loans | South Atlantic | Geographic Concentration Risk | Mortgage Loans, Net
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Percentage of Total	16.60%	25.00%
Commercial mortgage loans | West North Central
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Mortgage loans, net of allowances	$ 233	$ 306
Commercial mortgage loans | West North Central | Geographic Concentration Risk | Mortgage Loans, Net
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Percentage of Total	4.40%	6.00%
Commercial mortgage loans | West South Central
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Mortgage loans, net of allowances	$ 655	$ 662
Commercial mortgage loans | West South Central | Geographic Concentration Risk | Mortgage Loans, Net
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Percentage of Total	12.50%	12.90%
Commercial mortgage loans | International Region
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Mortgage loans, net of allowances	$ 145	$ 74
Commercial mortgage loans | International Region | Geographic Concentration Risk | Mortgage Loans, Net
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Percentage of Total	2.80%	1.40%
Commercial mortgage loans | Hotels
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Mortgage loans, net of allowances	$ 928	$ 1,025
Commercial mortgage loans | Hotels | Property Type Concentration Risk | Mortgage Loans, Net
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Percentage of Total	17.70%	20.00%
Commercial mortgage loans | Retail
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Mortgage loans, net of allowances	$ 1,223	$ 1,135
Commercial mortgage loans | Retail | Property Type Concentration Risk | Mortgage Loans, Net
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Percentage of Total	23.30%	22.10%
Commercial mortgage loans | Office building
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Mortgage loans, net of allowances	$ 1,187	$ 1,217
Commercial mortgage loans | Office building | Property Type Concentration Risk | Mortgage Loans, Net
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Percentage of Total	22.60%	23.70%
Commercial mortgage loans | Industrial
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Mortgage loans, net of allowances	$ 944	$ 742
Commercial mortgage loans | Industrial | Property Type Concentration Risk | Mortgage Loans, Net
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Percentage of Total	18.00%	14.50%
Commercial mortgage loans | Apartment
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Mortgage loans, net of allowances	$ 525	$ 616
Commercial mortgage loans | Apartment | Property Type Concentration Risk | Mortgage Loans, Net
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Percentage of Total	10.00%	12.00%
Commercial mortgage loans | Other commercial
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Mortgage loans, net of allowances	$ 440	$ 397
Commercial mortgage loans | Other commercial | Property Type Concentration Risk | Mortgage Loans, Net
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Percentage of Total	8.40%	7.70%
Residential mortgage loans
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Mortgage loans, net of allowances	$ 986	$ 338
Residential mortgage loans | California | Geographic Concentration Risk | Mortgage Loans, Net
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Percentage of Total	34.30%	38.90%
Residential mortgage loans | Florida | Geographic Concentration Risk | Mortgage Loans, Net
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Percentage of Total	15.60%	9.10%
Residential mortgage loans | New York | Geographic Concentration Risk | Mortgage Loans, Net
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Percentage of Total	6.00%	5.10%
Residential mortgage loans | Other U.S. States | Geographic Concentration Risk | Mortgage Loans, Net
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Percentage of Total	44.10%	46.90%

Investments - Mortgage Loans,63

Investments - Mortgage Loans, Net Past Due (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Investments Schedule [Abstract]
Mortgage loan valuation allowance	$ 2	$ 2
Non-performing mortgage loans	28
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due [Line Items]
Mortgage loans, net of allowances	6,233	5,470
Commercial mortgage loans
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due [Line Items]
Current (less than 30 days past due)	5,247	5,111
Mortgage loans, net of allowances	5,247	5,132
Commercial mortgage loans | Over 90 days past due
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due [Line Items]
Past due	$ 0	$ 21

Investments - Mortgage Loans, L

Investments - Mortgage Loans, Loan to Value Ratio (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Mortgage loans, net of allowances	$ 6,233	$ 5,470
Commercial mortgage loans
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Mortgage loans, net of allowances	5,247	5,132
Commercial mortgage loans | Commercial mortgage loans, excluding loans under development
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Mortgage loans, net of allowances	5,223	5,058
Commercial mortgage loans | Commercial mortgage loans, excluding loans under development | Less than 50%
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Mortgage loans, net of allowances	1,841	1,787
Commercial mortgage loans | Commercial mortgage loans, excluding loans under development | 50% to 60%
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Mortgage loans, net of allowances	1,390	1,337
Commercial mortgage loans | Commercial mortgage loans, excluding loans under development | 61% to 70%
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Mortgage loans, net of allowances	1,691	1,401
Commercial mortgage loans | Commercial mortgage loans, excluding loans under development | 71% to 100%
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Mortgage loans, net of allowances	301	492
Commercial mortgage loans | Commercial mortgage loans, excluding loans under development | Greater than 100%
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Mortgage loans, net of allowances	$ 0	$ 41

Investments - Mortgage Loans, D

Investments - Mortgage Loans, Debt Service Coverage Ratio (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Mortgage loans, net of allowances	$ 6,233	$ 5,470
Commercial mortgage loans
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Mortgage loans, net of allowances	5,247	5,132
Commercial mortgage loans | Commercial mortgage loans, excluding loans under development
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Mortgage loans, net of allowances	5,223	5,058
Commercial mortgage loans | Commercial mortgage loans, excluding loans under development | Greater than 1.20x
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Mortgage loans, net of allowances	4,742	4,378
Commercial mortgage loans | Commercial mortgage loans, excluding loans under development | 1.00x – 1.20x
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Mortgage loans, net of allowances	297	353
Commercial mortgage loans | Commercial mortgage loans, excluding loans under development | Less than 1.00x
Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items]
Mortgage loans, net of allowances	$ 184	$ 327

Derivative Instruments - Summar

Derivative Instruments - Summary of Notional and Fair Value of Derivative Assets and Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Derivative [Line Items]
Total derivative assets, including embedded derivatives, fair value	$ 2,863	$ 1,510
Total derivative liabilities, including embedded derivatives, fair value	7,592	5,329
Derivatives designated as hedges
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative assets, fair value	1	11
Derivative liabilities, fair value	99	18
Derivatives designated as hedges | Foreign currency swaps
Derivative [Line Items]
Notional Amount	928	289
Derivative assets, fair value	1	11
Derivative liabilities, fair value	99	4
Derivatives designated as hedges | Interest rate swaps
Derivative [Line Items]
Notional Amount	302	302
Derivative assets, fair value	0	0
Derivative liabilities, fair value	0	14
Derivatives not designated as hedges
Derivative [Line Items]
Total derivative assets, including embedded derivatives, fair value	2,862	1,499
Total derivative liabilities, including embedded derivatives, fair value	7,493	5,311
Derivatives not designated as hedges | Foreign currency swaps
Derivative [Line Items]
Notional Amount	41	43
Derivative assets, fair value	21	5
Derivative liabilities, fair value	3	0
Derivatives not designated as hedges | Interest rate swaps
Derivative [Line Items]
Notional Amount	385	568
Derivative assets, fair value	0	1
Derivative liabilities, fair value	2	5
Derivatives not designated as hedges | Equity options
Derivative [Line Items]
Notional Amount	31,460	26,822
Derivative assets, fair value	2,500	1,336
Derivative liabilities, fair value	19	0
Derivatives not designated as hedges | Futures
Derivative [Line Items]
Notional Amount	1,134	0
Derivative assets, fair value	7	9
Derivative liabilities, fair value	0	0
Derivatives not designated as hedges | Total return swaps
Derivative [Line Items]
Notional Amount	114	41
Derivative assets, fair value	5	2
Derivative liabilities, fair value	0	0
Derivatives not designated as hedges | Credit default swaps
Derivative [Line Items]
Notional Amount	10	10
Derivative assets, fair value	0	0
Derivative liabilities, fair value	5	7
Derivatives not designated as hedges | Foreign currency forwards
Derivative [Line Items]
Notional Amount	1,139	805
Derivative assets, fair value	17	6
Derivative liabilities, fair value	6	10
Derivatives not designated as hedges | Embedded derivatives | Funds withheld
Derivative [Line Items]
Notional Amount	0	0
Embedded derivative assets, fair value	312	140
Embedded derivative liabilities, fair value	22	6
Derivatives not designated as hedges | Embedded derivatives | Interest sensitive contract liabilities
Derivative [Line Items]
Notional Amount	0	0
Embedded derivative assets, fair value	0	0
Embedded derivative liabilities, fair value	$ 7,436	$ 5,283

Derivative Instruments - Fair v

Derivative Instruments - Fair value hedging (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Gains (losses) recognized on derivative	$ 2	$ (14)
Gains (losses) recognized on hedged item	(2)	14
Ineffectiveness recognized on fair value hedges	$ 0	$ 0

Derivative Instruments - Gains

Derivative Instruments - Gains (Losses) on Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Derivative [Line Items]
Total gains (losses) for derivatives not designated as hedges	$ 619	$ 272	$ (106)
Investment related gains (losses)
Derivative [Line Items]
Total gains (losses) for derivatives not designated as hedges	2,377	596	(277)
Investment related gains (losses) | Equity options
Derivative [Line Items]
Total gains (losses) for derivatives not designated as hedges	1,939	325	(372)
Investment related gains (losses) | Futures
Derivative [Line Items]
Total gains (losses) for derivatives not designated as hedges	(24)	(19)	(3)
Investment related gains (losses) | Swap
Derivative [Line Items]
Total gains (losses) for derivatives not designated as hedges	27	18	8
Investment related gains (losses) | Foreign currency forwards
Derivative [Line Items]
Total gains (losses) for derivatives not designated as hedges	28	(2)	21
Investment related gains (losses) | Embedded derivatives
Derivative [Line Items]
Total gains (losses) for derivatives not designated as hedges	407	274	69
Interest sensitive contract benefits | Embedded derivatives
Derivative [Line Items]
Total gains (losses) for derivatives not designated as hedges	$ (1,758)	$ (324)	$ 171

Derivative Instruments - Offset

Derivative Instruments - Offsetting Assets and Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Offsetting Derivative Assets
Gross amount recognized	$ 2,551	$ 1,370
Gross amounts not offset on the consolidated balance sheets, financial instruments	(59)	(8)
Gross amounts not offset on the consolidated balance sheets, collateral received/pledged	(2,323)	(1,383)
Net amount	169	(21)
Off-balance sheet securities collateral	(221)	(26)
Net amount after securities collateral	(52)	(47)
Offsetting Derivative Liabilities
Gross amount recognized	(134)	(40)
Gross amounts not offset on the consolidated balance sheets, financial instruments	59	8
Gross amounts not offset on the consolidated balance sheets, collateral received/pledged	63	25
Net amount	(12)	(7)
Off-balance sheet securities collateral	0	0
Net amount after securities collateral	$ (12)	$ (7)

Derivative Instruments - Narrat

Derivative Instruments - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Derivative [Line Items]
Credit Risk Derivative Liabilities, at Fair Value	$ 5,000,000	$ 7,000,000
Credit Derivative, Maximum Exposure, Undiscounted	10,000,000	10,000,000
Additional Collateral, Aggregate Fair Value	0	0
Cash flow hedges | Derivatives designated as hedges | Foreign currency swaps
Derivative [Line Items]
Foreign currency swap gains (losses)	(105,000,000)	(5,000,000)	$ 9,000,000
Foreign currency swap gain (loss) reclassified to income	0	0	0
Gain (loss) on cash flow hedge ineffectiveness	0	$ 0	$ 0
Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified within Twelve Months	$ 0

Variable Interest Entities - Fa

Variable Interest Entities - Fair Value Hierarchy of Consolidated VIEs (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Trading securities
Investment funds	$ 2,580	$ 2,460
Variable Interest Entities
Trading securities
Investment funds	571	573
Recurring | Variable Interest Entities | Level 1
Available-for-sale securities
Equity securities	142	161
Trading securities
Fixed maturity securities	0	0
Equity securities	70	74
Investment funds	0	0
Cash and cash equivalents	4	14
Total assets not carried at fair value	216	249
Recurring | Variable Interest Entities | Level 2
Available-for-sale securities
Equity securities	0	0
Trading securities
Fixed maturity securities	0	0
Equity securities	0	0
Investment funds	0	0
Cash and cash equivalents	0	0
Total assets not carried at fair value	0	0
Recurring | Variable Interest Entities | Level 3
Available-for-sale securities
Equity securities	0	0
Trading securities
Fixed maturity securities	48	50
Equity securities	28	43
Investment funds	21	38
Cash and cash equivalents	0	0
Total assets not carried at fair value	97	131
Fair Value | Recurring | Variable Interest Entities
Available-for-sale securities
Equity securities	142	161
Trading securities
Fixed maturity securities	48	50
Equity securities	98	117
Investment funds	549	562
Cash and cash equivalents	4	14
Total assets not carried at fair value	841	904
Investment funds | Recurring
Trading securities
Alternative investments	528	524
Investment funds | Recurring | Variable Interest Entities
Trading securities
Alternative investments	$ 528	$ 524

Variable Interest Entities - Ro

Variable Interest Entities - Rollforward of Level 3 Fair Value (Details) - Variable Interest Entities - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	$ 131	$ 125
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in income	(14)	9
Purchases	2	19
Sales	(22)	(22)
Transfers in (out)	0	0
Ending Balance	97	131
Total gains (losses) included in earnings	(14)	2
Investment funds
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	38	34
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in income	1	7
Purchases	1	17
Sales	(19)	(20)
Transfers in (out)	0	0
Ending Balance	21	38
Total gains (losses) included in earnings	1	0
Total fixed maturity securities | Trading securities
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	50	53
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in income	1	(1)
Purchases	0	0
Sales	(3)	(2)
Transfers in (out)	0	0
Ending Balance	48	50
Total gains (losses) included in earnings	1	(1)
Equity securities | Trading securities
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	43	38
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in income	(16)	3
Purchases	1	2
Sales	0	0
Transfers in (out)	0	0
Ending Balance	28	43
Total gains (losses) included in earnings	$ (16)	$ 3

Variable Interest Entities - As

Variable Interest Entities - Assets for Which Fair Value Option Was Elected (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Total gains (losses)	$ 73	$ (53)	$ (187)
Variable Interest Entities
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Total gains (losses)	15	(30)	3
Variable Interest Entities | Trading securities | Total fixed maturity securities
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Total gains (losses)	1	(1)	(5)
Variable Interest Entities | Trading securities | Equity securities
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Total gains (losses)	9	(78)	(4)
Variable Interest Entities | Investment funds
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Total gains (losses)	$ 5	$ 49	$ 12

Variable Interest Entities - Ca

Variable Interest Entities - Carrying Value and Exposure of Non-Consolidated VIEs (Details) - Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Carrying Value	$ 24,315	$ 22,161
Maximum Loss Exposure	25,298	22,730
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Related Party | Total fixed maturity securities
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Carrying Value	713	530
Maximum Loss Exposure	792	536
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) and Related Party | Total fixed maturity securities
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Carrying Value	21,022	19,171
Maximum Loss Exposure	20,278	19,090
Investment funds
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Carrying Value	571	573
Maximum Loss Exposure	594	593
Investment funds | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Related Party
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Carrying Value	1,310	1,198
Maximum Loss Exposure	2,598	1,485
Investment funds | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) and Related Party
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Carrying Value	699	689
Maximum Loss Exposure	$ 1,036	$ 1,026

Variable Interest Entities - Su

Variable Interest Entities - Summary of Consolidated VIE Investment Funds (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Investment funds	$ 2,580	$ 2,460
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Related Party
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Investment funds	$ 1,310	$ 1,198
Percent of total	100.00%	100.00%
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Private equity | Related Party
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Investment funds	$ 403	$ 343
Percent of total	30.80%	28.60%
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Private equity – other | Related Party
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Investment funds	$ 180	$ 131
Percent of total	13.70%	11.00%
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Real estate and other real assets | Related Party
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Investment funds	$ 297	$ 247
Percent of total	22.70%	20.60%
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Natural resources | Related Party
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Investment funds	$ 74	$ 49
Percent of total	5.60%	4.10%
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Hedge funds | Related Party
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Investment funds	$ 93	$ 192
Percent of total	7.10%	16.00%
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Credit funds | Related Party
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Investment funds	$ 263	$ 236
Percent of total	20.10%	19.70%
Variable Interest Entities
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Investment funds	$ 571	$ 573
Percent of total	100.00%	100.00%
Variable Interest Entities | Related Party
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Investment funds	$ 571	$ 562
Variable Interest Entities | Private equity
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Investment funds	$ 528	$ 524
Percent of total	92.50%	91.40%
Variable Interest Entities | Real estate and other real assets
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Investment funds	$ 22	$ 11
Percent of total	3.80%	1.90%
Variable Interest Entities | Credit funds
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Investment funds	$ 21	$ 38
Percent of total	3.70%	6.70%
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) and Related Party
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Investment funds	$ 699	$ 689
Percent of total	100.00%	100.00%
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) and Related Party | Private equity
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Investment funds	$ 271	$ 268
Percent of total	38.80%	38.90%
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) and Related Party | Real estate and other real assets
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Investment funds	$ 161	$ 118
Percent of total	23.00%	17.20%
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) and Related Party | Natural resources
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Investment funds	$ 4	$ 5
Percent of total	0.60%	0.70%
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) and Related Party | Hedge funds
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Investment funds	$ 61	$ 72
Percent of total	8.70%	10.40%
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) and Related Party | Credit funds
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Investment funds	$ 202	$ 226
Percent of total	28.90%	32.80%
Minimum | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Private equity | Related Party
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Life of underlying funds	5 years	3 years
Minimum | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Private equity – other | Related Party
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Life of underlying funds	0 years	0 years
Minimum | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Real estate and other real assets | Related Party
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Life of underlying funds	0 years	1 year
Minimum | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Natural resources | Related Party
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Life of underlying funds	4 years	5 years
Minimum | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Hedge funds | Related Party
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Life of underlying funds	9 years	9 years
Minimum | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Credit funds | Related Party
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Life of underlying funds	2 years	2 years
Minimum | Variable Interest Entities | Real estate and other real assets
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Life of underlying funds	2 years	2 years
Minimum | Variable Interest Entities | Credit funds
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Life of underlying funds	0 years	0 years
Minimum | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) and Related Party | Private equity
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Life of underlying funds	0 years	0 years
Minimum | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) and Related Party | Real estate and other real assets
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Life of underlying funds	1 year	0 years
Minimum | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) and Related Party | Natural resources
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Life of underlying funds	1 year	1 year
Minimum | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) and Related Party | Hedge funds
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Life of underlying funds	0 years	0 years
Minimum | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) and Related Party | Credit funds
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Life of underlying funds	0 years	0 years
Maximum | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Private equity | Related Party
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Life of underlying funds	5 years	3 years
Maximum | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Private equity – other | Related Party
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Life of underlying funds	10 years	10 years
Maximum | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Real estate and other real assets | Related Party
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Life of underlying funds	7 years	4 years
Maximum | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Natural resources | Related Party
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Life of underlying funds	6 years	5 years
Maximum | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Hedge funds | Related Party
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Life of underlying funds	9 years	9 years
Maximum | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Credit funds | Related Party
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Life of underlying funds	4 years	3 years
Maximum | Variable Interest Entities | Real estate and other real assets
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Life of underlying funds	3 years	3 years
Maximum | Variable Interest Entities | Credit funds
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Life of underlying funds	3 years	3 years
Maximum | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) and Related Party | Private equity
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Life of underlying funds	7 years	7 years
Maximum | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) and Related Party | Real estate and other real assets
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Life of underlying funds	7 years	4 years
Maximum | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) and Related Party | Natural resources
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Life of underlying funds	1 year	2 years
Maximum | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) and Related Party | Hedge funds
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Life of underlying funds	3 years	3 years
Maximum | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) and Related Party | Credit funds
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Life of underlying funds	5 years	5 years

Variable Interest Entities - In

Variable Interest Entities - Investments by Ownership Percentage (Details) - Investment funds - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Equity method investment funds	$ 1,856	$ 1,799
100%
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Equity method investment funds	35	27
50% – 99%
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Equity method investment funds	520	478
3% – 49%
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Equity method investment funds	$ 1,301	$ 1,294

Variable Interest Entities - 77

Variable Interest Entities - Investments by Ownership Percentage with Fair Value Election (Details) - Investment funds - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Fair value option investment funds	$ 724	$ 661
3% – 49%
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Fair value option investment funds	590	562
Less than 3%
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Fair value option investment funds	$ 134	$ 99

Variable Interest Entities - Na

Variable Interest Entities - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended			12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Oct. 06, 2017
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Participation interest liability		$ 14,000,000		$ 14,000,000	$ 14,000,000
Assets, Level 1 to Level 2 transfers		0		0	0
Fair Value, Liabilities, Level 1 to Level 2 Transfers, Amount		0		0	0
Fair Value, Assets, Level 2 to Level 1 Transfers, Amount		0		0	0
Fair Value, Liabilities, Level 2 to Level 1 Transfers, Amount		0		0	0
Variable Interest Entities
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Trading securities, unrealized holding loss included in income statement				(29,000,000)	78,000,000	$ 33,000,000
Assets, Level 1 to Level 2 transfers		0		0	0
Fair Value, Liabilities, Level 1 to Level 2 Transfers, Amount		0		0	0
Fair Value, Assets, Level 2 to Level 1 Transfers, Amount		0		0	0
Fair Value, Liabilities, Level 2 to Level 1 Transfers, Amount		0		0	0
NCL LLC | Variable Interest Entities
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Membership interest			100.00%
Sprint | Variable Interest Entities
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Membership interest	100.00%
CMBS-I and CMBS-II [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Repayments of Other Debt		500,000,000
Partners' Capital Account, Return of Capital		167,000,000
Caesars Entertainment Corporation | CoInvest VI | Variable Interest Entities
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
CEC shares owed to debtors							$ 42,000,000
Investment owned, balance (in shares)							5,465,733
Investment funds
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Investment funds		11,000,000		22,000,000	11,000,000
Related Party | MidCap Holdings [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Equity Method Investments, Including Credit Facility Advances		$ 761,000,000		$ 766,000,000	$ 761,000,000

Variable Interest Entities Summ

Variable Interest Entities Summarized Financial Information of Equity Method Investees (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Net Income (Loss)	$ 1,475	$ 694	$ 1,050
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Assets	19,729	21,033
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Liabilities	6,566	7,340
Equity Method Investment Summarized Financial Information, Equity	$ 13,163	$ 13,693

Fair Value - Assets and Liabili

Fair Value - Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Trading securities
Mortgage loans	$ 6,233	$ 5,470
Investment funds	2,580	2,460
Reinsurance recoverable	4,972	6,001
Recurring | Investment funds
Trading securities
Alternative investments	528	524
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE)
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	61,418
Fair Value	61,695	52,741
Trading securities
Restricted cash	105	57
Reinsurance recoverable	4,972	6,001
Liabilities
Interest sensitive contract liabilities	67,708	61,532
Future policy benefits	17,507	14,592
Derivative liabilities	134	40
Funds withheld liability	407	380
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Related Party
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	406	335
Equity securities	0	20
Fair Value		355
Trading securities
Total trading securities	307	195
Investment funds	1,310	1,198
Short-term investments	52	0
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | CLO | Related Party
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	360	279
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | ABS | Related Party
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	46	56
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring
Trading securities
Alternative investments	134	99
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Investment funds
Trading securities
Alternative investments	104	99
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Investment funds | Related Party
Trading securities
Alternative investments	30
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 1
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	26	29
Equity securities	18	79
Fair Value	44	108
Trading securities
Fixed maturity securities	3	3
Equity securities	0	0
Total trading securities	3	3
Mortgage loans	0	0
Investment funds	0	0
Derivative assets	7	9
Short-term investments	40	19
Cash and cash equivalents	4,888	2,445
Restricted cash	105	57
Reinsurance recoverable	0	0
Total assets not carried at fair value	5,087	2,661
Liabilities
Derivative liabilities	0	0
Total liabilities measured at fair value	0	0
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 1 | Related Party
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities		0
Equity securities		20
Fair Value	0	20
Trading securities
Total trading securities	0
Investment funds	0
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 1 | Universal life
Liabilities
Interest sensitive contract liabilities	0	0
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 1 | Unit-linked contracts
Liabilities
Interest sensitive contract liabilities	0	0
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 1 | AmerUs Closed Block
Liabilities
Future policy benefits	0	0
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 1 | ILICO Closed Block and life benefits
Liabilities
Future policy benefits	0	0
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 1 | Embedded derivatives
Trading securities
Funds withheld at interest	0	0
Liabilities
Interest sensitive contract liabilities	0	0
Funds withheld liability	0	0
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 1 | U.S. government and agencies
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	26	29
Trading securities
Fixed maturity securities	3	3
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 1 | U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	0	0
Trading securities
Fixed maturity securities	0	0
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 1 | Foreign governments
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	0	0
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 1 | Corporate
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	0	0
Trading securities
Fixed maturity securities	0	0
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 1 | CLO
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	0	0
Trading securities
Fixed maturity securities	0	0
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 1 | CLO | Related Party
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	0	0
Trading securities
Total trading securities	0	0
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 1 | ABS
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	0	0
Trading securities
Fixed maturity securities	0	0
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 1 | ABS | Related Party
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	0	0
Trading securities
Total trading securities	0
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 1 | CMBS
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	0	0
Trading securities
Fixed maturity securities	0	0
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 1 | RMBS
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	0	0
Trading securities
Fixed maturity securities	0	0
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 2
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	58,445	50,128
Equity securities	251	269
Fair Value	58,696	50,397
Trading securities
Fixed maturity securities	1,740	1,997
Equity securities	513	425
Total trading securities	2,253	2,422
Mortgage loans	0	0
Investment funds	0	0
Derivative assets	2,544	1,361
Short-term investments	161	170
Cash and cash equivalents	0	0
Restricted cash	0	0
Reinsurance recoverable	0	0
Total assets not carried at fair value	64,314	54,629
Liabilities
Derivative liabilities	129	33
Total liabilities measured at fair value	639	447
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 2 | Related Party
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities		279
Equity securities		0
Fair Value	406	279
Trading securities
Total trading securities	202
Investment funds	0
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 2 | Universal life
Liabilities
Interest sensitive contract liabilities	0	0
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 2 | Unit-linked contracts
Liabilities
Interest sensitive contract liabilities	488	408
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 2 | AmerUs Closed Block
Liabilities
Future policy benefits	0	0
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 2 | ILICO Closed Block and life benefits
Liabilities
Future policy benefits	0	0
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 2 | Embedded derivatives
Trading securities
Funds withheld at interest	0	0
Liabilities
Interest sensitive contract liabilities	0	0
Funds withheld liability		6
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 2 | U.S. government and agencies
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	36	31
Trading securities
Fixed maturity securities	0	0
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 2 | U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	1,165	1,135
Trading securities
Fixed maturity securities	121	120
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 2 | Foreign governments
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	2,683	2,221
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 2 | Corporate
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	36,082	29,650
Trading securities
Fixed maturity securities	1,475	1,423
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 2 | CLO
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	5,020	4,664
Trading securities
Fixed maturity securities	10	0
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 2 | CLO | Related Party
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	360	279
Trading securities
Total trading securities	27	0
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 2 | ABS
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	2,510	1,776
Trading securities
Fixed maturity securities	17	82
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 2 | ABS | Related Party
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	46	0
Trading securities
Total trading securities	175
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 2 | CMBS
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	1,884	1,695
Trading securities
Fixed maturity securities	51	81
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 2 | RMBS
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	9,065	8,956
Trading securities
Fixed maturity securities	66	291
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 3
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	2,541	1,876
Equity securities	8	5
Fair Value	2,549	1,881
Trading securities
Fixed maturity securities	453	156
Equity securities	0	0
Total trading securities	453	156
Mortgage loans	41	44
Investment funds	41	0
Derivative assets	0	0
Short-term investments	0	0
Cash and cash equivalents	0	0
Restricted cash	0	0
Reinsurance recoverable	1,824	1,692
Total assets not carried at fair value	5,325	4,164
Liabilities
Derivative liabilities	5	7
Total liabilities measured at fair value	10,874	8,573
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 3 | Related Party
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities		56
Equity securities		0
Fair Value	0	56
Trading securities
Total trading securities	105
Investment funds	0
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 3 | Universal life
Liabilities
Interest sensitive contract liabilities	1,005	883
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 3 | Unit-linked contracts
Liabilities
Interest sensitive contract liabilities	0	0
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 3 | AmerUs Closed Block
Liabilities
Future policy benefits	1,625	1,606
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 3 | ILICO Closed Block and life benefits
Liabilities
Future policy benefits	803	794
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 3 | Embedded derivatives
Trading securities
Funds withheld at interest		140
Liabilities
Interest sensitive contract liabilities	7,436	5,283
Funds withheld liability	0	0
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 3 | U.S. government and agencies
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	0	0
Trading securities
Fixed maturity securities	0	0
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 3 | U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	0	5
Trading securities
Fixed maturity securities	17	17
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 3 | Foreign governments
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	0	14
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 3 | Corporate
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	578	370
Trading securities
Fixed maturity securities	0	0
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 3 | CLO
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	64	158
Trading securities
Fixed maturity securities	17	43
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 3 | CLO | Related Party
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	0	0
Trading securities
Total trading securities	105	195
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 3 | ABS
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	1,461	1,160
Trading securities
Fixed maturity securities	77	0
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 3 | ABS | Related Party
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	0	56
Trading securities
Total trading securities	0
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 3 | CMBS
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	137	152
Trading securities
Fixed maturity securities	0	0
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 3 | RMBS
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	301	17
Trading securities
Fixed maturity securities	342	96
Fair Value | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE)
Trading securities
Mortgage loans	6,342	5,560
Investment funds	554	590
Alternative investments	1,834	1,788
Funds withheld at interest	6,773	6,398
Total assets not carried at fair value	15,871	14,691
Liabilities
Interest sensitive contract liabilities	31,656	26,930
Funds withheld liability	385	374
Fair Value | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Related Party
Trading securities
Investment funds	1,280	1,198
Fair Value | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Investment funds
Trading securities
Alternative investments	554	590
Fair Value | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Investment funds | Related Party
Trading securities
Alternative investments	1,280	1,198
Fair Value | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Level 1
Trading securities
Mortgage loans	0	0
Investment funds	0	0
Funds withheld at interest	0	0
Total assets not carried at fair value	0	0
Liabilities
Interest sensitive contract liabilities	0	0
Funds withheld liability	0	0
Fair Value | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Level 1 | Related Party
Trading securities
Investment funds	0	0
Fair Value | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Level 2
Trading securities
Mortgage loans	0	0
Investment funds	0	0
Funds withheld at interest	0	0
Total assets not carried at fair value	588	602
Liabilities
Interest sensitive contract liabilities	0	0
Funds withheld liability	385	374
Fair Value | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Level 2 | Related Party
Trading securities
Investment funds	0	0
Fair Value | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Level 3
Trading securities
Mortgage loans	6,342	5,560
Investment funds	0	0
Funds withheld at interest	6,773	6,398
Total assets not carried at fair value	13,449	12,301
Liabilities
Interest sensitive contract liabilities	31,656	26,930
Funds withheld liability	0	0
Fair Value | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Level 3 | Related Party
Trading securities
Investment funds	0	0
Fair Value | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	61,012	52,033
Equity securities	277	353
Fair Value	61,289	52,386
Trading securities
Fixed maturity securities	2,196	2,156
Equity securities	513	425
Total trading securities	2,709	2,581
Mortgage loans	41	44
Investment funds	145	99
Derivative assets	2,551	1,370
Short-term investments	201	189
Cash and cash equivalents	4,888	2,445
Restricted cash	105	57
Reinsurance recoverable	1,824	1,692
Total assets not carried at fair value	74,860	61,553
Liabilities
Interest sensitive contract liabilities	8,929	6,574
Future policy benefits	2,428	2,400
Derivative liabilities	134	40
Funds withheld liability	22	6
Total liabilities measured at fair value	11,513	9,020
Fair Value | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Related Party
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities		335
Equity securities		20
Fair Value	406	355
Trading securities
Total trading securities	307
Investment funds	30	0
Short-term investments	52
Fair Value | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Universal life
Liabilities
Interest sensitive contract liabilities	1,005	883
Fair Value | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Unit-linked contracts
Liabilities
Interest sensitive contract liabilities	488	408
Fair Value | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | AmerUs Closed Block
Liabilities
Future policy benefits	1,625	1,606
Fair Value | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | ILICO Closed Block and life benefits
Liabilities
Future policy benefits	803	794
Fair Value | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Embedded derivatives
Trading securities
Funds withheld at interest	312	140
Liabilities
Interest sensitive contract liabilities	7,436	5,283
Funds withheld liability	22	6
Fair Value | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | U.S. government and agencies
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	62	60
Trading securities
Fixed maturity securities	3	3
Fair Value | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	1,165	1,140
Trading securities
Fixed maturity securities	138	137
Fair Value | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Foreign governments
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	2,683	2,235
Fair Value | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Corporate
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	36,660	30,020
Trading securities
Fixed maturity securities	1,475	1,423
Fair Value | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | CLO
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	5,084	4,822
Trading securities
Fixed maturity securities	27	43
Fair Value | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | CLO | Related Party
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	360	279
Trading securities
Total trading securities	132	195
Fair Value | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | ABS
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	3,971	2,936
Trading securities
Fixed maturity securities	94	82
Fair Value | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | ABS | Related Party
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	46	56
Trading securities
Total trading securities	175
Fair Value | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | CMBS
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	2,021	1,847
Trading securities
Fixed maturity securities	51	81
Fair Value | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | RMBS
Available-for-sale securities
Total AFS fixed maturity securities	9,366	8,973
Trading securities
Fixed maturity securities	408	$ 387
Fair Value | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 1 | Related Party
Trading securities
Short-term investments	0
Fair Value | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 2 | Related Party
Trading securities
Short-term investments	52
Fair Value | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 3 | Related Party
Trading securities
Short-term investments	0
Funds withheld at interest | Derivatives not designated as hedges | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 2 | Embedded derivatives
Liabilities
Funds withheld liability	22
Funds withheld at interest | Derivatives not designated as hedges | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Recurring | Level 3 | Embedded derivatives
Trading securities
Funds withheld at interest	$ 312

Fair Value - Fair Value Option

Fair Value - Fair Value Option (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items]
Total gains (losses)	$ 73	$ (53)	$ (187)
Mortgage loans
Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items]
Total gains (losses)	(1)	0	0
Unpaid principal balance	40	42
Mark to fair value	1	2
Fair value	41	44
Trading securities
Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items]
Total gains (losses)	63	(33)	(313)
Investment funds
Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items]
Total gains (losses)	30	5	(8)
Future policy benefits
Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items]
Total gains (losses)	$ (19)	$ (25)	$ 134

Fair Value - Reconciliation of

Fair Value - Reconciliation of Level 3 Financial Instruments (Details) - Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	$ 4,164	$ 6,804
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in income	330	(566)
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses), Included in OCI	51	82
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)	313	(905)
Transfer In	803	302
Transfers (Out)	(336)	(1,553)
Ending Balance	5,325	4,164
Total gains (losses) included in earnings	2	29
Beginning Balance	(8,573)	(8,413)
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses), Included in income	(1,906)	335
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses), Included in OCI	0	0
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements), Liabilities	(395)	(495)
Transfers In	0	0
Transfers (Out)	0	0
Ending Balance	(10,874)	(8,573)
Total gains (losses) included in earnings	2	0
AFS securities | Equity Securities
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	5	9
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in income	0	0
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses), Included in OCI	0	0
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)	3	(4)
Transfer In	0	0
Transfers (Out)	0	0
Ending Balance	8	5
Total gains (losses) included in earnings	0	0
AFS securities | U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions | Fixed Maturity Securities
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	5	0
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in income	16	0
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses), Included in OCI	(1)	0
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)	(20)	0
Transfer In	0	5
Transfers (Out)	0	0
Ending Balance	0	5
Total gains (losses) included in earnings	0	0
AFS securities | Foreign governments | Fixed Maturity Securities
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	14	17
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in income	0	0
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses), Included in OCI	0	(1)
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)	0	(2)
Transfer In	0	0
Transfers (Out)	(14)	0
Ending Balance	0	14
Total gains (losses) included in earnings	0	0
AFS securities | Corporate | Fixed Maturity Securities
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	370	636
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in income	13	0
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses), Included in OCI	15	20
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)	177	(36)
Transfer In	29	0
Transfers (Out)	(26)	(250)
Ending Balance	578	370
Total gains (losses) included in earnings	0	0
AFS securities | CLO | Fixed Maturity Securities
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	158	517
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in income	1	4
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses), Included in OCI	10	55
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)	(31)	(46)
Transfer In	28	72
Transfers (Out)	(102)	(444)
Ending Balance	64	158
Total gains (losses) included in earnings	0	0
AFS securities | CLO | Fixed Maturity Securities | Related Party
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	0	7
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in income		0
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses), Included in OCI		1
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)		0
Transfer In		0
Transfers (Out)		(8)
Ending Balance		0
Total gains (losses) included in earnings		0
AFS securities | ABS | Fixed Maturity Securities
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	1,160	1,813
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in income	26	81
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses), Included in OCI	29	(12)
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)	163	(635)
Transfer In	93	104
Transfers (Out)	(10)	(191)
Ending Balance	1,461	1,160
Total gains (losses) included in earnings	0	0
AFS securities | ABS | Fixed Maturity Securities | Related Party
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	56	60
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in income	0	0
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses), Included in OCI	1	0
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)	(10)	(4)
Transfer In	0	0
Transfers (Out)	(47)	0
Ending Balance	0	56
Total gains (losses) included in earnings	0	0
AFS securities | CMBS | Fixed Maturity Securities
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	152	67
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in income	1	1
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses), Included in OCI	(4)	0
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)	28	39
Transfer In	51	91
Transfers (Out)	(91)	(46)
Ending Balance	137	152
Total gains (losses) included in earnings	0	0
AFS securities | RMBS | Fixed Maturity Securities
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	17	758
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in income	1	3
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses), Included in OCI	1	19
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)	2	(297)
Transfer In	289	0
Transfers (Out)	(9)	(466)
Ending Balance	301	17
Total gains (losses) included in earnings	0	0
Trading securities | U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions | Fixed Maturity Securities
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	17	17
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in income	0	0
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses), Included in OCI	0	0
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)	0	0
Transfer In	0	0
Transfers (Out)	0	0
Ending Balance	17	17
Total gains (losses) included in earnings	0	0
Trading securities | Corporate | Fixed Maturity Securities
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	0	16
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in income		0
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses), Included in OCI		0
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)		(4)
Transfer In		0
Transfers (Out)		(12)
Ending Balance		0
Total gains (losses) included in earnings		4
Trading securities | CLO | Related Party
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)	(55)	7
Trading securities | CLO | Fixed Maturity Securities
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	43	108
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in income	(4)	(2)
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses), Included in OCI	0	0
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)	(12)	(63)
Transfer In	0	0
Transfers (Out)	(10)	0
Ending Balance	17	43
Total gains (losses) included in earnings	1	11
Trading securities | CLO | Fixed Maturity Securities | Related Party
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	195	191
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in income	(8)	(33)
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses), Included in OCI	0	0
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)	(55)	7
Transfer In	0	30
Transfers (Out)	(27)	0
Ending Balance	105	195
Total gains (losses) included in earnings	(5)	23
Trading securities | ABS | Fixed Maturity Securities
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	0	98
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in income	0	(16)
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses), Included in OCI	0	0
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)	0	0
Transfer In	77	0
Transfers (Out)	0	(82)
Ending Balance	77	0
Total gains (losses) included in earnings	0	0
Trading securities | RMBS | Fixed Maturity Securities
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	96	29
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in income	(19)	(23)
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses), Included in OCI	0	0
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)	70	144
Transfer In	195	0
Transfers (Out)	0	(54)
Ending Balance	342	96
Total gains (losses) included in earnings	7	(9)
Investment funds
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	0
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in income	0
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses), Included in OCI	0
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)	0
Transfer In	41
Transfers (Out)	0
Ending Balance	41	0
Total gains (losses) included in earnings	0
Mortgage loans
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	44	48
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in income	(1)	0
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses), Included in OCI	0	0
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)	(2)	(4)
Transfer In	0	0
Transfers (Out)	0	0
Ending Balance	41	44
Total gains (losses) included in earnings	(1)	0
Reinsurance recoverable
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	1,692	2,377
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in income	132	(685)
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses), Included in OCI	0	0
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)	0	0
Transfer In	0	0
Transfers (Out)	0	0
Ending Balance	1,824	1,692
Total gains (losses) included in earnings	0	0
Embedded derivatives | Funds withheld at interest
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	140	36
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in income	172	104
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses), Included in OCI	0	0
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)	0	0
Transfer In	0	0
Transfers (Out)	0	0
Ending Balance	312	140
Total gains (losses) included in earnings	0	0
Interest sensitive contract liabilities | Universal life
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	(883)	(1,464)
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses), Included in income	(122)	581
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses), Included in OCI	0	0
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements), Liabilities	0	0
Transfers In	0	0
Transfers (Out)	0	0
Ending Balance	(1,005)	(883)
Total gains (losses) included in earnings	0	0
Interest sensitive contract liabilities | Embedded derivatives
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	(5,283)	(4,464)
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses), Included in income	(1,758)	(324)
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses), Included in OCI	0	0
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements), Liabilities	(395)	(495)
Transfers In	0	0
Transfers (Out)	0	0
Ending Balance	(7,436)	(5,283)
Total gains (losses) included in earnings	0	0
Future policy benefits | AmerUs Closed Block
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	(1,606)	(1,581)
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses), Included in income	(19)	(25)
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses), Included in OCI	0	0
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements), Liabilities	0	0
Transfers In	0	0
Transfers (Out)	0	0
Ending Balance	(1,625)	(1,606)
Total gains (losses) included in earnings	0	0
Future policy benefits | ILICO Closed Block and life benefits
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	(794)	(897)
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses), Included in income	(9)	103
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses), Included in OCI	0	0
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements), Liabilities	0	0
Transfers In	0	0
Transfers (Out)	0	0
Ending Balance	(803)	(794)
Total gains (losses) included in earnings	0	0
Derivative liabilities
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	(7)	(7)
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses), Included in income	2	0
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses), Included in OCI	0	0
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements), Liabilities	0	0
Transfers In	0	0
Transfers (Out)	0	0
Ending Balance	(5)	(7)
Total gains (losses) included in earnings	$ 2	$ 0

Fair Value - Gross Components o

Fair Value - Gross Components of Purchases, Sales, Issuances and Settlements, net (Details) - Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Purchases	$ 935	$ 609
Sales	(109)	(194)
Settlements	(513)	(1,320)
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)	313	(905)
Purchases	0	0
Issuances	(600)	(641)
Sales	0	0
Settlements	205	146
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements), Liabilities	(395)	(495)
AFS securities | Equity securities
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Purchases	3
Sales		(4)
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)	3	(4)
AFS securities | U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions | Fixed Maturity Securities
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Purchases	0
Sales	0
Settlements	(20)
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)	(20)	0
AFS securities | Foreign governments | Fixed Maturity Securities
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Purchases		0
Sales		0
Settlements		(2)
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)	0	(2)
AFS securities | Corporate | Fixed Maturity Securities
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Purchases	228	95
Sales	(36)	(68)
Settlements	(15)	(63)
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)	177	(36)
AFS securities | CLO | Fixed Maturity Securities
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Purchases	15	24
Sales	(2)	(29)
Settlements	(44)	(41)
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)	(31)	(46)
AFS securities | CLO | Fixed Maturity Securities | Related Party
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)		0
AFS securities | ABS | Fixed Maturity Securities
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Purchases	577	261
Sales	0	0
Settlements	(414)	(896)
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)	163	(635)
AFS securities | ABS | Fixed Maturity Securities | Related Party
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Purchases	5	0
Sales	0	0
Settlements	(15)	(4)
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)	(10)	(4)
AFS securities | RMBS | Fixed Maturity Securities
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Purchases	4	8
Settlements	(2)	(305)
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)	2	(297)
AFS securities | CMBS | Fixed Maturity Securities
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Purchases	29	40
Settlements	(1)	(1)
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)	28	39
Trading securities | U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions | Fixed Maturity Securities
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)	0	0
Trading securities | Corporate | Fixed Maturity Securities
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Sales		0
Settlements		(4)
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)		(4)
Trading securities | CLO | Related Party
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Purchases	0	33
Sales	(55)	(26)
Settlements	0	0
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)	(55)	7
Trading securities | CLO | Fixed Maturity Securities
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Purchases	4	4
Sales	(16)	(67)
Settlements	0	0
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)	(12)	(63)
Trading securities | CLO | Fixed Maturity Securities | Related Party
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)	(55)	7
Trading securities | ABS | Fixed Maturity Securities
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)	0	0
Trading securities | RMBS | Fixed Maturity Securities
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Purchases	70	144
Sales	0	0
Settlements	0	0
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)	70	144
Mortgage loans
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Settlements	(2)	(4)
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)	(2)	(4)
Interest sensitive contract liabilities | Embedded derivatives
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Purchases	0	0
Issuances	(600)	(641)
Sales	0	0
Settlements	205	146
Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements), Liabilities	$ (395)	$ (495)

Fair Value - Summary of Unobser

Fair Value - Summary of Unobservable Inputs for the Embedded Derivatives of Interest Sensitive Contract Liabilities (Details) - Interest sensitive contract liabilities - Embedded derivatives - Level 3 - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Fair Value Inputs, Liabilities, Quantitative Information [Line Items]
Total liabilities measured at fair value	$ 7,436	$ 5,283
Income Approach Valuation Technique | Minimum
Fair Value Inputs, Liabilities, Quantitative Information [Line Items]
Non-performance risk	0.20%	0.70%
Option budget	0.70%	0.80%
Surrender rate	1.50%	0.00%
Income Approach Valuation Technique | Maximum
Fair Value Inputs, Liabilities, Quantitative Information [Line Items]
Non-performance risk	1.20%	1.50%
Option budget	3.70%	3.80%
Surrender rate	19.40%	16.30%

Fair Value - Financial Instrume

Fair Value - Financial Instruments Not Carried at Fair Value (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Assets
Mortgage loans	$ 6,233	$ 5,470
Investment funds	2,580	2,460
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE)
Liabilities
Interest sensitive contract liabilities	67,708	61,532
Funds withheld liability	407	380
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Carrying Value
Assets
Mortgage loans	6,192	5,426
Investment funds	554	590
Policy loans	530	602
Funds withheld at interest	6,773	6,398
Other investments	133	81
Total assets not carried at fair value	15,700	14,532
Liabilities
Interest sensitive contract liabilities	31,586	27,628
Funds withheld liability	385	374
Total liabilities not carried at fair value	31,971	28,002
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Fair Value
Assets
Mortgage loans	6,342	5,560
Investment funds	1,834	1,788
Investment funds	554	590
Policy loans	530	602
Funds withheld at interest	6,773	6,398
Other investments	133	81
Total assets not carried at fair value	15,871	14,691
Liabilities
Interest sensitive contract liabilities	31,656	26,930
Funds withheld liability	385	374
Total liabilities not carried at fair value	32,041	27,304
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Level 1 | Fair Value
Assets
Mortgage loans	0	0
Investment funds	0	0
Policy loans	0	0
Funds withheld at interest	0	0
Other investments	0	0
Total assets not carried at fair value	0	0
Liabilities
Interest sensitive contract liabilities	0	0
Funds withheld liability	0	0
Total liabilities not carried at fair value	0	0
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Level 3 | Fair Value
Assets
Mortgage loans	6,342	5,560
Investment funds	0	0
Policy loans	0	0
Funds withheld at interest	6,773	6,398
Other investments	75	81
Total assets not carried at fair value	13,449	12,301
Liabilities
Interest sensitive contract liabilities	31,656	26,930
Funds withheld liability	0	0
Total liabilities not carried at fair value	31,656	26,930
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Level 2 | Fair Value
Assets
Mortgage loans	0	0
Investment funds	0	0
Policy loans	530	602
Funds withheld at interest	0	0
Other investments	58	0
Total assets not carried at fair value	588	602
Liabilities
Interest sensitive contract liabilities	0	0
Funds withheld liability	385	374
Total liabilities not carried at fair value	385	374
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Related Party
Assets
Investment funds	1,310	1,198
Other investments	238	237
Short-term investments	52	0
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Related Party | Carrying Value
Assets
Investment funds	1,280	1,198
Other investments	238	237
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Related Party | Fair Value
Assets
Investment funds	1,280	1,198
Other investments	259	262
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Related Party | Level 1 | Fair Value
Assets
Investment funds	0	0
Other investments	0	0
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Related Party | Level 3 | Fair Value
Assets
Investment funds	0	0
Other investments	259	262
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Related Party | Level 2 | Fair Value
Assets
Investment funds	0	0
Other investments	0	0
Investment funds | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Fair Value
Assets
Investment funds	554	590
Investment funds | Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE) | Related Party | Fair Value
Assets
Investment funds	$ 1,280	$ 1,198

Fair Value - Narrative (Details

Fair Value - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Fair Value Inputs, Assets, Quantitative Information [Line Items]
Assets, Level 1 to Level 2 transfers	$ 0	$ 0
Fair Value, Liabilities, Level 1 to Level 2 Transfers, Amount	0	0
Fair Value, Assets, Level 2 to Level 1 Transfers, Amount	0	0
Fair Value, Liabilities, Level 2 to Level 1 Transfers, Amount	$ 0	0
Fixed Maturity Securities | Minimum
Fair Value Inputs, Assets, Quantitative Information [Line Items]
Discount rate	2.00%
Fixed Maturity Securities | Maximum
Fair Value Inputs, Assets, Quantitative Information [Line Items]
Discount rate	6.00%
Mortgage loans
Fair Value Inputs, Assets, Quantitative Information [Line Items]
Fair value option, loans, 90 days or more past due	$ 0	$ 0

Business Combinations Business

Business Combinations Business Combination - Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed (Details) - Delta Lloyd Deutschland [Member] $ in Millions	Oct. 01, 2015USD ($)
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Assets [Abstract]
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Financial Assets	$ 5,539
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Cash and Equivalents	236
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Accrued Investment Income	67
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Reinsurance Recoverable	4
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Reinsurance Recoverable	83
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Assets	5,929
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Liabilities [Abstract]
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Interest Sensitive Contract Liability	403
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Future Policy Benefits	4,519
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Other Policy Claims and Benefits	55
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Dividends Payable to Policyholders	771
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Other	107
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Liabilities	5,855
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net	$ 74

Business Combinations Pro Forma

Business Combinations Pro Forma Information (Details) - Delta Lloyd Deutschland [Member] $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Revenue	$ 3,004
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income (Loss)	$ 579

Business Combinations Narrative

Business Combinations Narrative (Details) - Delta Lloyd Deutschland [Member] - USD ($) $ in Millions	Oct. 01, 2015	Dec. 31, 2015
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Business Combination, Acquired Intercompany Loans Forgiven	$ 50
Business Combination, Consideration Transferred	$ 74
Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Revenue of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual		$ 129
Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Earnings or Loss of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual		6
Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs		$ 15
Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired	100.00%

Reinsurance Effects of Reinsura

Reinsurance Effects of Reinsurance (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Summary of Reinsurance Effect on the Statements of Income [Abstract]
Direct Premiums Earned	$ 2,639	$ 448	$ 445
Assumed Premiums Earned	21	20	24
Ceded Premiums Earned	(195)	(228)	(274)
Premiums	2,465	240	195
Policyholder Benefits and Claims Incurred, Direct	3,350	1,434	1,030
Policyholder Benefits and Claims Incurred, Assumed	37	82	42
Policyholder Benefits and Claims Incurred, Ceded	(224)	(457)	(554)
Future policy and other policy benefits	$ 3,163	$ 1,059	$ 518

Reinsurance Schedule of Novated

Reinsurance Schedule of Novated Balances (Details) - Global Atlantic - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Schedule of Novated Balances [Line Items]
Decrease to interest sensitive contract liabilities	$ 945	$ 1,006
Decrease to future policy benefits	190	188
Decrease to policy loans	34	33
Decrease to reinsurance recoverable	$ 1,101	$ 1,161

Reinsurance Ceded Credit Risk (

Reinsurance Ceded Credit Risk (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]
Reinsurance recoverable (portion at fair value: 2017 – $1,824 and 2016 – $1,692)	$ 4,972	$ 6,001
Global Atlantic
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]
Reinsurance recoverable (portion at fair value: 2017 – $1,824 and 2016 – $1,692)	3,128	3,914
Protective Life [Member]
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]
Reinsurance recoverable (portion at fair value: 2017 – $1,824 and 2016 – $1,692)	1,693	1,723
Other Reinsurer [Member]
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]
Reinsurance recoverable (portion at fair value: 2017 – $1,824 and 2016 – $1,692)	$ 151	$ 364

Reinsurance Narrative (Details)

Reinsurance Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Effects of Reinsurance [Line Items]
Assets Held-in-trust		$ 1,238	$ 1,148
Global Atlantic
Effects of Reinsurance [Line Items]
Assets Held-in-trust		3,350	4,122
Increase (Decrease) to Funds Withheld Liability	$ 930
Protective Life [Member]
Effects of Reinsurance [Line Items]
Assets Held-in-trust		$ 1,688	$ 1,664

Deferred Acquisition Costs, D94

Deferred Acquisition Costs, Deferred Sales Inducements, and Value of Business Acquired - Roll Forward of DAC, DSI, and VOBA (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
DAC
Beginning balance	$ 1,142	$ 705	$ 424
Additions	493	601	288
Unlocking	13	(12)	(6)
Amortization	(194)	(114)	(35)
Impact of unrealized investment (gains) losses	(100)	(38)	34
Ending balance	1,354	1,142	705
DSI
Beginning balance	462	320	188
Additions	161	200	136
Unlocking	4	(3)	(2)
Amortization	(67)	(36)	(19)
Impact of unrealized investment (gains) losses	(40)	(19)	17
Ending balance	520	462	320
VOBA
Beginning balance	1,336	1,627	1,610
Additions	0	0	0
Unlocking	(1)	(23)	(27)
Amortization	(168)	(169)	(138)
Impact of unrealized investment (gains) losses	(111)	(99)	182
Ending balance	1,056	1,336	1,627
Total
Beginning balance	2,940	2,652	2,222
Additions	654	801	424
Unlocking	16	(38)	(35)
Amortization	(429)	(319)	(192)
Impact of unrealized investment (gains) losses	(251)	(156)	233
Ending balance	$ 2,930	$ 2,940	$ 2,652

Deferred Acquisition Costs, D95

Deferred Acquisition Costs, Deferred Sales Inducements, and Value of Business Acquired Expected Amortization of VOBA (Details) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)
Insurance [Abstract]
Present Value of Future Insurance Profits, Amortization Expense, Year One	$ 127
Present Value of Future Insurance Profits, Amortization Expense, Year Two	107
Present Value of Future Insurance Profits, Amortization Expense, Year Three	94
Present Value of Future Insurance Profits, Amortization Expense, Year Four	86
Present Value of Future Insurance Profits, Amortization Expense, Year Five	$ 80

Closed Block Schedule of Closed

Closed Block Schedule of Closed Block Assets and Liabilities (Details) - AmerUs Closed Block - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Closed Block [Line Items]
Closed Block Liabilities, Future Policy Benefits and Policyholder Account Balances	$ 1,625	$ 1,607
Closed Block Liabilities, Other Policyholder Funds	19	25
Closed Block Liabilities, Policyholder Dividends Payable	92	96
Closed Block Liabilities, Other Closed Block Liabilities	15	23
Closed Block Liabilities	1,751	1,751
Assets Designated to Closed Block, Trading Securities, Debt	1,377	1,380
Assets Designated to Closed Block, Mortgage Loans on Real Estate	41	44
Assets Designated to Closed Block, Policy Loans	168	183
Assets Designated to Closed Block, Investments	1,586	1,607
Assets Designated to Closed Block, Cash and Cash Equivalents	48	23
Assets Designated to Closed Block, Accrued Investment Income	36	27
Assets Designated to Closed Block, Reinsurance Recoverable	25	29
Assets Designated to Closed Block, Other Closed Block Assets	0	1
Assets Designated to Closed Block	1,695	1,687
Excess of Reported Closed Block Liabilities over Assets Designated to Closed Block	$ 56	$ 64

Closed Block Results of Operati

Closed Block Results of Operations (Details) - AmerUs Closed Block - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Closed Block [Line Items]
Closed Block Operations, Premiums	$ 58	$ 24	$ 58
Closed Block Operations, Net Investment Income	79	84	86
Closed Block Operations, Realized Investment Gains (Losses)	61	42	(124)
Closed Block Operations, Revenue	198	150	20
Closed Block Operations, Policyholder Benefits	144	107	(24)
Closed Block Operations, Policyholder Dividends	51	40	45
Closed Block Operations, Benefits and Expense	195	147	21
Closed Block Operations, Results before Income Taxes	3	3	(1)
Closed Block Operations, Income Taxes	(5)	3	1
Closed Block Operations, Net Results	$ 8	$ 0	$ (2)

Debt (Details)

Debt (Details) - Revolving Credit Facility - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Term			5 years
Maximum borrowing capacity	$ 1,000	$ 1,000
Line of Credit Facility, Covenant Terms, Maximum Consolidated Debt to Capitalization Ratio		35.00%
Line of Credit Facility, Covenant Terms, Consolidated Net Worth Requirement, Amount	3,700	$ 3,700
Line of Credit Facility, Covenant Terms, Consolidated Net Worth Requirement, Percentage of Cash Received from Subsequent Equity Issuances		50.00%
Long-term Line of Credit	$ 0	$ 0
Line of Credit Facility, Unused Capacity, Commitment Fee Percentage	0.225%
Minimum
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of Credit Facility, Unused Capacity, Commitment Fee Percentage		0.15%
Maximum
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of Credit Facility, Unused Capacity, Commitment Fee Percentage		0.50%

Debt Senior Note Issuance (Deta

Debt Senior Note Issuance (Details) - Subsequent Event [Member] - Senior Notes $ in Billions	Jan. 09, 2018USD ($)
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	$ 1
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	4.125%

Common Stock Schedule of Stock

Common Stock Schedule of Stock by Class (Details) - shares	Dec. 14, 2016	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Common Class A
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Common stock outstanding (in shares)		77,319,381	142,386,704	77,319,381	50,151,265	15,752,736
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues		3,098,946	731,490	3,360,471	34,498,220
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Restricted Stock Award, Forfeited			(4,660)	(37,188)	0
Stock Repurchased During Period, Shares			(42,937)	(313,313)	(99,691)
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Conversion of Convertible Securities	24,158,146		64,383,430	24,158,146	0
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Nonvested Options Forfeited, Number of Shares			(19,496)
Common Class B
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Common stock outstanding (in shares)		111,805,829	47,422,399	111,805,829	135,963,975	125,282,892
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues			0	0	10,681,083
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Conversion of Convertible Securities	(24,158,146)		(64,383,430)	(24,158,146)	0
Common Class M-1
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Common stock outstanding (in shares)		3,474,205	3,388,890	3,474,205	5,198,273	5,198,273
Stock Repurchased During Period, Shares			0	(298,222)	0
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Conversion of Convertible Securities			(85,315)	(1,155,303)	0
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Nonvested Options Forfeited, Number of Shares			0	(270,543)	0
Common Class M-2
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Common stock outstanding (in shares)		1,067,747	851,103	1,067,747	3,125,869	3,125,869
Stock Repurchased During Period, Shares			0	(107,650)	0
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Conversion of Convertible Securities			(216,644)	(1,788,998)	0
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Nonvested Options Forfeited, Number of Shares			0	(161,474)	0
Common Class M-3
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Common stock outstanding (in shares)		1,346,300	1,092,000	1,346,300	3,110,000	3,350,000
Stock Repurchased During Period, Shares			0	(96,000)	(24,000)
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Conversion of Convertible Securities			(240,300)	(1,443,700)	0
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Nonvested Options Forfeited, Number of Shares			(14,000)	(224,000)	(216,000)
Common Class M-4
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Common stock outstanding (in shares)		5,397,802	4,711,743	5,397,802	5,038,443	0
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues			0	990,650	5,316,751
Stock Repurchased During Period, Shares			(364,472)	(99,732)	(36,258)
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Conversion of Convertible Securities			(217,020)	(79,031)	0
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Nonvested Options Forfeited, Number of Shares			(104,567)	(452,528)	(242,050)

Common Stock - Narrative (Detai

Common Stock - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	Dec. 14, 2016	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Number of Classes of Common Stock				6
Stock-based compensation expense				$ 45	$ 84	$ 67
Common Stock, Voting Rights, Maximum Voting Power for Single Shareholder				9.90%
Common Stock, Voting Rights, Maximum Voting Power for Related Party Group				3.00%
Common Stock, Additional Shares Authorized		150,000,000		150,000,000
Common Class B
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Common Stock, Voting Rights, Percent of Total Voting Power				45.00%
Shares issued from conversion of securities (in shares)	24,158,146			64,383,430	24,158,146	0
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues				0	0	10,681,083
Common Class A
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Common Stock, Voting Rights, Percent of Total Voting Power				55.00%
Shares issued from conversion of securities (in shares)	(24,158,146)			(64,383,430)	(24,158,146)	0
Shares Sold by Existing Shareholders, Follow on Offering				50,255,000
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues			3,098,946	731,490	3,360,471	34,498,220
Shares Sold by Existing Shareholders, Initial Public Offering	31,050,000
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Number of shares reserved for issuance		3,800,000		3,800,000
Discounted stock purchase price		85.00%		85.00%
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues				13,266
Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock				$ 1
Private Placement [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock						$ 1,038
Private Placement [Member] | Common Class B
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues						8,369,230
Shares Issued, Price Per Share						$ 26
Private Placement [Member] | Common Class A
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues						31,564,339
Shares Issued, Price Per Share						$ 26
Second Private Placement [Member] | Common Class A
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues						2,315,113
Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock						$ 60
Shares Issued, Price Per Share						$ 26.02
Related Party | Common Class B
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues						2,311,853
AP Alternative Assets, L.P. [Member] | Common Class B
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Shares issued from conversion of securities (in shares)		21,403,203
AP Alternative Assets, L.P. [Member] | Common Class A
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Shares issued from conversion of securities (in shares)		(21,403,203)
Follow-on Offerings [Member] | Common Class B
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Shares issued from conversion of securities (in shares)				41,719,333
Follow-on Offerings [Member] | Common Class A
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Shares issued from conversion of securities (in shares)				(41,719,333)
Lockup Releases [Member] | Common Class B
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Shares issued from conversion of securities (in shares)				1,260,894
Lockup Releases [Member] | Common Class A
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Shares issued from conversion of securities (in shares)				(1,260,894)

Stock-based Compensation Stock

Stock-based Compensation Stock Option Award Activity (Details) - Common Class A - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number	758,408	470,644
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 41.19	$ 33.95
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross	322,981
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 51.31
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period	(15,721)	0
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 33.95
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Nonvested Options Forfeited, Number of Shares	(19,496)
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 39.83
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Number	758,408
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 41.19
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Aggregate Intrinsic Value	$ 8
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number	141,149
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 33.95
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value	$ 3

Stock-based Compensation LTIP V

Stock-based Compensation LTIP Valuation Assumptions (Details) - Common Class A	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Stock option valuation assumptions [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate	1.50%	1.00%
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate	0.00%	0.00%
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate		25.00%
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term		2 years 7 months 18 days
Maximum
Stock option valuation assumptions [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate	28.40%
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term	2 years 296 days
Minimum
Stock option valuation assumptions [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate	25.00%
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term	2 years 124 days

Stock-based Compensation LTIP R

Stock-based Compensation LTIP RSUs Nonvested Award Activity (Details) - Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number	506,976	328,127
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$ 42.03	$ 33.95
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period	245,010
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$ 51.28	$ 33.95
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period	(40,940)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$ 33.95
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period	(25,221)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$ 39.88

Stock-based Compensation M Shar

Stock-based Compensation M Share Valuation Assumptions (Details) - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Common Class A
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross	322,981
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate	0.00%	0.00%
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate		25.00%
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term		2 years 7 months 18 days
Share Price		$ 32.90	$ 34.23
Common Class M
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate, Minimum		0.50%	0.90%
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate, Maximum		1.80%	1.10%
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate		0.00%	0.00%
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate		30.00%	25.90%
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term		3 years	2 years 5 months
Common Class M | Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche Two [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross	0

Stock-based Compensation M S106

Stock-based Compensation M Share Award Activity (Details) - Common Class M - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period	(696,188)
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 14.98
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period	(113,620)
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 27.34
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Other Increases (Decreases) in Period	(297,658)
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Other Share Increase (Decrease) in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 30.88
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number	9,708,951	10,816,417
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 18.83	$ 19
Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche One [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period	(447,123)
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 15.14
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period	(88,086)
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 25.66
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Other Increases (Decreases) in Period	(51,272)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Number	3,882,104
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 18.30
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Aggregate Intrinsic Value	$ 130
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number	2,791,394
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 14.33
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value	$ 104
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Other Share Increase (Decrease) in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 30.80
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number	3,882,104	4,468,585
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 18.30	$ 18.27
Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche Two [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross	0
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period	(249,065)
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 14.69
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period	(25,534)
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 33.13
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Other Increases (Decreases) in Period	(246,386)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Number	5,826,847
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 19.19
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Aggregate Intrinsic Value	$ 190
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number	4,385,045
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 16.07
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value	$ 156
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Other Share Increase (Decrease) in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 30.90
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number	5,826,847	6,347,832
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 19.19	$ 19.52

Stock-based Compensation M S107

Stock-based Compensation M Share Nonvested Award Activity (Details) - Common Class M - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Intrinsic Value	$ 29	$ 117	$ 0
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number	2,532,512	4,877,178
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested, Number of Shares	(2,231,046)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$ 9.49
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Nonvested Options Forfeited, Number of Shares	(113,620)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 11.29	$ 10.34
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value		$ 10.43	$ 8.66
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Nonvested Options Forfeited, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$ 5.97
Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche One [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number	1,090,710	1,837,043
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested, Number of Shares	(658,247)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$ 10.31
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Nonvested Options Forfeited, Number of Shares	(88,086)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 7.97	$ 8.67
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested in Period, Fair Value	$ 16	$ 92	$ 98
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Nonvested Options Forfeited, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$ 5.12
Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche Two [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number	1,441,802	3,040,135
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross	0
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested, Number of Shares	(1,572,799)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$ 9.15
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Nonvested Options Forfeited, Number of Shares	(25,534)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 13.81	$ 11.36
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested in Period, Fair Value	$ 40	$ 122	$ 28
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Nonvested Options Forfeited, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$ 8.89

Stock-based Compensation Stock-

Stock-based Compensation Stock-based Compensation Expense (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation expense	$ 45	$ 84	$ 67
Common Class M | Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche One [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation expense	$ 8	11	12
Unrecognized share-based compensation expense, period for recognition	1 year 95 days
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense	$ 9
Common Class M | Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche Two [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation expense	$ 21	69	50
Unrecognized share-based compensation expense, period for recognition	299 days
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense	$ 8
Long Term Incentive Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation expense	$ 16	$ 4	$ 5
Unrecognized share-based compensation expense, period for recognition	270 days
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense	$ 15

Stock-based Compensation Narrat

Stock-based Compensation Narrative (Details) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	Sep. 30, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016shares	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)$ / sharesshares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation | $			$ 50	$ 153	$ 17
Common Class A
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value | $ / shares			$ 9.44	$ 5.83
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number | shares			141,149
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Intrinsic Value | $			$ 1
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period | shares			15,721	0
Employee Stock Purchase Plan, Number of Shares Sold | shares		3,098,946	731,490	3,360,471	34,498,220
Common Class M
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value | $ / shares				$ 10.43	$ 8.66
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Intrinsic Value | $			$ 29	$ 117	$ 0
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period | shares			696,188
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Performance Criteria, Period Following Sale of Shares, Occurring Prior To or During Initial Public Offering			15 months
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Performance Criteria, Period Following Initial Public Offering, Period One			7 months 15 days 5 hours
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Performance Criteria, Period Following Initial Public Offering, Period Two			12 months
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Performance Criteria, Period Following Initial Public Offering, Period Three			15 months
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Performance Criteria, Rolling Trading Days Used to Determine Vesting			90 days
Common Class M | Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche One, Period One [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Rights, Percentage			20.00%
Common Class M | Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche One [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Unrecognized share-based compensation expense | $			$ 9
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested in Period, Fair Value | $			$ 16	92	98
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number | shares			2,791,394
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period | shares			447,123
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Eligible Vesting Period, Following Qualifying Termination			6 months
Unrecognized share-based compensation expense, period for recognition			1 year 95 days
Common Class M | Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche One, Period One [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Rights, Percentage			20.00%
Common Class M | Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche One, Period Three [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Rights, Percentage			20.00%
Common Class M | Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche One, Period Four [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Rights, Percentage			20.00%
Common Class M | Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche One, Period Five [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Rights, Percentage			20.00%
Common Class M | Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche Two [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Unrecognized share-based compensation expense | $			$ 8
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested in Period, Fair Value | $			$ 40	$ 122	$ 28
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number | shares			4,385,045
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period | shares			249,065
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Eligible Vesting Period, Following Qualifying Termination			18 months
Unrecognized share-based compensation expense, period for recognition			299 days
Common Class M | Minimum | Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche Two [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Rights, Percentage			0.00%
Common Class M | Maximum | Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche Two [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Rights, Percentage			100.00%
Restricted Stock [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period			3 years
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value | $ / shares			$ 51.28	$ 33.95
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Vested | $			$ 2	$ 0
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period | shares			245,010
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Discounted stock purchase price			85.00%
Employee Stock Purchase Plan, Number of Shares Sold | shares			13,266
Employee Stock Purchase Plan, Weighted Average Sale Price | $ / shares			$ 43.95
Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock | $			$ 1
Number of shares reserved for issuance | shares			3,800,000
2016 Share Incentive Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of shares reserved for issuance | shares			3,500,000
2016 Modification [Member] | Common Class M
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Plan Modification, Number of Employees Affected	27
Stock-based compensation | $	$ 83
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Plan Modification, Incremental Compensation Cost | $	$ 42
Long Term Incentive Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Unrecognized share-based compensation expense | $			$ 15
Unrecognized share-based compensation expense, period for recognition			270 days

Earnings Per Share - Schedule o

Earnings Per Share - Schedule of EPS (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2017		Dec. 31, 2016		Dec. 31, 2015
Common Class A
Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items]
Net income available to AHL shareholders – basic									$ 798		$ 214
Effect of stock compensation plans on allocated net income									20		1
Net income available to AHL shareholders – diluted									$ 818		$ 215
Basic weighted average shares outstanding (in shares)									107,682,569		52,086,945
Dilutive effect of stock compensation plans (in shares)									3,323,072		1,443,531
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding (in shares)									111,005,641		53,530,476
Earnings per share
Basic (in USD per share)	$ 2.36	$ 1.40	$ 1.66	$ 2	$ 1.92	$ 0.68	$ 1.04	$ 0.46	$ 7.41	[1]	$ 4.11	[1]	$ 3.21	[1]
Diluted (in USD per share)	2.35	1.39	1.65	1.92	1.78	0.68	1.04	0.46	$ 7.37		$ 4.02		3.21
Common Class B
Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items]
Net income available to AHL shareholders – basic									$ 605		$ 553
Effect of stock compensation plans on allocated net income									0		0
Net income available to AHL shareholders – diluted									$ 605		$ 553
Basic weighted average shares outstanding (in shares)									81,596,697		134,445,840
Dilutive effect of stock compensation plans (in shares)									0		0
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding (in shares)									81,596,697		134,445,840
Earnings per share
Basic (in USD per share)	2.36	1.40	1.66	2	1.92	0.68	1.04	0.46	$ 7.41		$ 4.11		3.21	[1]
Diluted (in USD per share)	2.36	1.40	1.66	2	1.92	$ 0.68	$ 1.04	$ 0.46	$ 7.41		$ 4.11		$ 3.21
Common Class M-1
Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items]
Net income available to AHL shareholders – basic									$ 25		$ 1
Effect of stock compensation plans on allocated net income									0		0
Net income available to AHL shareholders – diluted									$ 25		$ 1
Basic weighted average shares outstanding (in shares)									3,409,692		218,324
Dilutive effect of stock compensation plans (in shares)									0		4,246,074
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding (in shares)									3,409,692		4,464,398
Earnings per share
Basic (in USD per share)	2.36	1.40	1.66	2	1.92				$ 7.41		$ 4.11
Diluted (in USD per share)	2.36	1.40	1.66	2	$ 0.46				$ 7.41	[1]	$ 0.20
Common Class A and B [Member]
Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items]
Net income available to AHL shareholders – basic													$ 562
Effect of stock compensation plans on allocated net income													0
Net income available to AHL shareholders – diluted													$ 562
Basic weighted average shares outstanding (in shares)													175,091,802
Dilutive effect of stock compensation plans (in shares)													86,846
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding (in shares)													175,178,648
Common Class M-2
Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items]
Net income available to AHL shareholders – basic									$ 5
Effect of stock compensation plans on allocated net income									0
Net income available to AHL shareholders – diluted									$ 5
Basic weighted average shares outstanding (in shares)									664,326
Dilutive effect of stock compensation plans (in shares)									250,426
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding (in shares)									914,752
Earnings per share
Basic (in USD per share)	2.36	1.40	1.66	2					$ 7.41
Diluted (in USD per share)	2.34	1.39	1.64	$ 0.08					$ 5.38	[1]
Common Class M-3
Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items]
Net income available to AHL shareholders – basic									$ 5
Effect of stock compensation plans on allocated net income									0
Net income available to AHL shareholders – diluted									$ 5
Basic weighted average shares outstanding (in shares)									684,021
Dilutive effect of stock compensation plans (in shares)									546,943
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding (in shares)									1,230,964
Earnings per share
Basic (in USD per share)	2.36	1.40	1.66						$ 7.41
Diluted (in USD per share)	2.10	1.07	1						$ 4.12	[1]
Common Class M-4
Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items]
Net income available to AHL shareholders – basic									$ 10
Effect of stock compensation plans on allocated net income									0
Net income available to AHL shareholders – diluted									$ 10
Basic weighted average shares outstanding (in shares)									1,296,871
Dilutive effect of stock compensation plans (in shares)									1,611,526
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding (in shares)									2,908,397
Earnings per share
Basic (in USD per share)	2.36	1.40	1.66						$ 7.41
Diluted (in USD per share)	$ 1.49	$ 0.79	$ 0.76						$ 3.31	[1]
[1]	Basic and diluted earnings per share for Class M-1 was applicable only for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016. Basic and diluted earnings per share for Class M-2, M-3 and M-4 were applicable only for the year ended December 31, 2017. See Note 13 – Earnings Per Share for further discussion.

Earnings Per Share - Shares Exc

Earnings Per Share - Shares Excluded from Dilutive Calculation (Details) - shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Shares excluded from dilutive shares outstanding (in shares)	52,321,438	116,031,381	16,653,624
Common Class A
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Antidilutive shares (in shares)	50,886,246	113,497,613	0
Shares excluded from dilutive shares outstanding due to performance conditions (in shares)	1,435,192	2,533,768	0
Shares excluded from dilutive shares outstanding due to restrictions (in shares)	0	0	16,653,624

Accumulated Other Comprehens112

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income - Detail of AOCI (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive income, before taxes	$ 1,728	$ 541
Deferred income tax liability	(313)	(174)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	1,415	367
AFS securities
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive income, before taxes	2,577	972
DAC, DSI, VOBA, future policy benefits and dividends payable to policyholders adjustments on AFS securities
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive income, before taxes	(744)	(408)
Noncredit component of OTTI losses on AFS securities
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive income, before taxes	(13)	(17)
Hedging instruments
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive income, before taxes	(95)	10
Pension adjustments
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive income, before taxes	(5)	(4)
Foreign currency translation adjustments
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive income, before taxes	$ 8	$ (12)

Accumulated Other Comprehens113

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income - Changes in AOCI (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Income tax expense (benefit)		$ (326)	$ (259)	$ 424
Other comprehensive income (loss), after tax		861	604	(881)
Reclassification of taxes		0
Change in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income		1,048	604	(881)
Unrealized investment gains (losses) on AFS securities
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Other comprehensive income (loss), before reclassifications, before tax		1,680	1,397	(1,661)
DAC, DSI, VOBA, and future policy benefit adjustment on AFS securities
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Other comprehensive income (loss), before reclassifications, before tax		(336)	(499)	419
Unrealized gains (losses) on AFS securities, including DAC, DSI, VOBA, and future policy benefits
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Reclassification adjustment for gains (losses) realized in net income		75	20	72
Income tax expense (benefit)		347	261	(428)
Other comprehensive income (loss), after tax		922	617	(886)
Noncredit component of OTTI losses on AFS securities
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Other comprehensive income (loss), before reclassifications, before tax		(5)	(9)	(13)
Reclassification adjustment for gains (losses) realized in net income		(9)	(7)	(3)
Income tax expense (benefit)		1	0	(4)
Other comprehensive income (loss), after tax		3	(2)	(6)
Unrealized gains (losses) on hedging instruments
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Other comprehensive income (loss), before reclassifications, before tax		(105)	(5)	11
Income tax expense (benefit)		(22)	(2)	4
Other comprehensive income (loss), after tax		(83)	(3)	7
Pension adjustments
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Other comprehensive income (loss), before reclassifications, before tax		(1)	0	12
Income tax expense (benefit)		0	0	4
Other comprehensive income (loss), after tax		(1)	0	8
Foreign currency translation adjustments
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Other comprehensive income (loss), after tax		20	(8)	(4)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Other comprehensive income (loss), after tax		861	$ 604	$ (881)
Reclassification of taxes	[1]	$ 187
[1]	See discussion of Accounting Standards Update 2018-02 adoption in Note 1 – Business, Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies.

Income Taxes Components of Inco

Income Taxes Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	$ 5	$ (33)	$ (19)
Deferred income tax expense (benefit)	82	(19)	31
Income tax expense (benefit)	$ 87	$ (52)	$ 12

Income Taxes Schedule of Income

Income Taxes Schedule of Income Before Income Tax (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Income Tax Holiday [Line Items]
Income before income taxes	$ 1,535	$ 716	$ 590
Domestic Tax Authority [Member] | Office of the Tax Commissioner, Bermuda [Member]
Income Tax Holiday [Line Items]
Income before income taxes	1,237	565	508
Foreign Tax Authority [Member] | Federal Ministry of Finance, Germany [Member]
Income Tax Holiday [Line Items]
Income before income taxes	25	16	8
Foreign Tax Authority [Member] | Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
Income Tax Holiday [Line Items]
Income before income taxes	$ 273	$ 135	$ 74

Income Taxes Schedule of Effect

Income Taxes Schedule of Effective Tax Rate Reconciliation (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Jan. 01, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Amount [Abstract]
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Amount		$ 104	$ 52	$ 28
Increase (decrease) in income taxes resulting from:
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance, Amount		(5)	(116)	(6)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Prior Year Income Taxes, Amount		(6)	8	2
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Exempt Income, Amount		(8)	(7)	(7)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Share-based Compensation Cost, Amount		5	5	0
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Enacted Tax Rate, Amount		(7)	0	0
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Amount		4	6	(5)
Income tax expense (benefit)		$ 87	$ (52)	$ 12
Effective Tax Rate		6.00%	(7.00%)	2.00%
Domestic Tax Authority [Member] | Office of the Tax Commissioner, Bermuda [Member]
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent [Abstract]
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent		0.00%
Foreign Tax Authority [Member] | Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent [Abstract]
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent		35.00%
Foreign Tax Authority [Member] | Internal Revenue Service (IRS) | Scenario, Forecast
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent [Abstract]
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent	21.00%
Foreign Tax Authority [Member] | Federal Ministry of Finance, Germany [Member]
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent [Abstract]
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent		31.00%

Income Taxes Schedule of Inc117

Income Taxes Schedule of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income tax expense (benefit)	$ 87	$ (52)	$ 12
Income tax expense (benefit) related to other comprehensive income	326	259	(424)
Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Intraperiod Tax Allocation	$ 413	$ 207	$ (412)

Income Taxes Schedule of Deferr

Income Taxes Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Deferred Tax Assets, Gross
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Policyholder Liabilities	$ 1,322	$ 1,483
Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards	151	221
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Credit Carryforwards	6	18
Deferred Tax Assets, Value of Business Acquired	78	69
Deferred Tax Assets, Property, Plant and Equipment	26	0
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Employee Compensation	36	52
Deferred Tax Assets, Other	10	27
Deferred Tax Assets, Gross	1,629	1,870
Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance	(64)	(72)
Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance	1,565	1,798
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross [Abstract]
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Investments	781	668
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other Comprehensive Income	317	178
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Value of Business Acquired	328	346
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Deferred Expense, Deferred Policy Acquisition Cost	174	232
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other	3	6
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross	1,603	1,430
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net	$ 38
Deferred Tax Assets, Net		$ 368

Income Taxes Summary of Valuati

Income Taxes Summary of Valuation Allowance (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Valuation Allowance [Line Items]
Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance	$ 64	$ 72
United States Federal and State Net Operating Losses [Member]
Valuation Allowance [Line Items]
Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance	14	22
German Other Deferred Tax Assets [Member]
Valuation Allowance [Line Items]
Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance	$ 50	$ 50

Income Taxes Schedule of Gross

Income Taxes Schedule of Gross Current and Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Income Tax Assets and Liabilities [Line Items]
Income Taxes Receivable	$ 20	$ 106
Deferred Tax Assets, Net		368
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net	(38)
Other Assets [Member]
Income Tax Assets and Liabilities [Line Items]
Income Taxes Receivable	29	107
Deferred Tax Assets, Net	3	372
Other Liabilities [Member]
Income Tax Assets and Liabilities [Line Items]
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net	(41)	(4)
Taxes Payable	$ 9	$ 1

Income Taxes - Narrative (Detai

Income Taxes - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Jan. 01, 2018	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Valuation Allowance [Line Items]
Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards			$ 721
Effective Tax Rate			6.00%	(7.00%)	2.00%
Valuation Allowance, Operating Loss Carryforwards [Member]
Valuation Allowance [Line Items]
Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Increase (Decrease), Amount		$ 102
Internal Revenue Service (IRS) | Foreign Tax Authority [Member]
Valuation Allowance [Line Items]
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent			35.00%
Scenario, Forecast | Internal Revenue Service (IRS) | Foreign Tax Authority [Member]
Valuation Allowance [Line Items]
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent	21.00%

Statutory Requirements Statutor

Statutory Requirements Statutory Capital and Surplus and Net Income (Loss) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Athene Life Re Ltd. [Member] | Bermuda
Statutory Accounting Practices [Line Items]
Statutory Accounting Practices, Statutory Capital and Surplus, Balance	$ 6,972	$ 6,124
Statutory Accounting Practices, Statutory Net Income Amount	828	460	$ 461
Athene Annuity & Life Assurance Company [Member] | Delaware
Statutory Accounting Practices [Line Items]
Statutory Accounting Practices, Statutory Capital and Surplus, Balance	1,348	1,272
Statutory Accounting Practices, Statutory Net Income Amount	24	71	68
Athene Life Insurance Company [Member] | Delaware
Statutory Accounting Practices [Line Items]
Statutory Accounting Practices, Statutory Capital and Surplus, Balance	80	79
Statutory Accounting Practices, Statutory Net Income Amount	1	1	1
Athene Annuity and Life Assurance Company of New York [Member] | New York
Statutory Accounting Practices [Line Items]
Statutory Accounting Practices, Statutory Capital and Surplus, Balance	268	231
Statutory Accounting Practices, Statutory Net Income Amount	29	1	8
Athene Life Insurance Company of New York (ALICNY) [Member] | New York
Statutory Accounting Practices [Line Items]
Statutory Accounting Practices, Statutory Capital and Surplus, Balance	76	78
Statutory Accounting Practices, Statutory Net Income Amount	6	10	14
Athene Annuity and Life Company [Member] | Iowa
Statutory Accounting Practices [Line Items]
Statutory Accounting Practices, Statutory Capital and Surplus, Balance	1,164	1,113
Statutory Accounting Practices, Statutory Net Income Amount	239	100	597
Structured Annuity Reinsurance Company (STAR) [Member] | Iowa
Statutory Accounting Practices [Line Items]
Statutory Accounting Practices, Statutory Capital and Surplus, Balance	90	80
Statutory Accounting Practices, Statutory Net Income Amount	3	17	4
Athene Re USA IV [Member] | Vermont
Statutory Accounting Practices [Line Items]
Statutory Accounting Practices, Statutory Capital and Surplus, Balance	25	50
Statutory Accounting Practices, Statutory Net Income Amount	$ (3)	$ 7	$ 1

Statutory Requirements Narrativ

Statutory Requirements Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Statutory Accounting Practices [Line Items]
Reinsurance Reserve Credit	$ 200	$ 91
Athene Life Re Ltd. [Member] | Bermuda
Statutory Accounting Practices [Line Items]
Statutory Accounting Practices, Minimum Solvency Margin Required	$ 8
Statutory Accounting Practices, Minimum Solvency Margin, Percentage of Assets Threshold	2.00%
Statutory Accounting Practices, Minimum Solvency Margin, Assets Threshold	$ 500
Statutory Accounting Practices, Minimum Solvency Margin, Percentage of Assets In Excess of Threshold	1.50%
Statutory Accounting Practices, Minimum Solvency Margin, Balance	$ 924
Statutory Accounting Practices, Enhanced Capital Requirement, Balance	2,181
Statutory Accounting Practices, Permitted Practice, Increase (Decrease) To Capital And Surplus	(187)
Statutory Accounting Practices, Permitted Practice, Increase (Decrease) To Statutory Net Income	(1,281)
Statutory Accounting Practices, Statutory Amount Available for Dividend Payments without Regulatory Approval	5,022	2,479
Statutory Accounting Practices, Statutory Capital and Surplus, Balance	6,972	6,124
Athene Lebensversicherung AG [Member] | GERMANY
Statutory Accounting Practices [Line Items]
Statutory Accounting Practices Minimum Capital Requirement	125
Statutory Accounting Practices, Solvency Capital Requirement	278
Statutory Accounting Practices, Statutory Capital and Surplus, Balance	714
Athene Annuity & Life Assurance Company [Member] | Delaware
Statutory Accounting Practices [Line Items]
Statutory Accounting Practices, Statutory Amount Available for Dividend Payments	103	80
Statutory Accounting Practices, Statutory Amount Available for Dividend Payments without Regulatory Approval	135	127
Statutory Accounting Practices, Statutory Capital and Surplus, Balance	1,348	1,272
Athene Annuity and Life Company [Member] | Iowa
Statutory Accounting Practices [Line Items]
Statutory Accounting Practices, Permitted Practice, Amount	(66)	(17)
Statutory Accounting Practices, Statutory Capital and Surplus, Balance	1,164	1,113
Athene Re USA IV [Member] | Vermont
Statutory Accounting Practices [Line Items]
Statutory Accounting Practices, Statutory Capital and Surplus, Balance	25	50
Line of Credit [Member] | Athene Re USA IV [Member] | Vermont
Statutory Accounting Practices [Line Items]
Statutory Accounting Practices, Permitted Practice, Amount	$ 153	$ 153

Related Parties - Summary of As

Related Parties - Summary of Assets Sub-Advised by Affiliates (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions		Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Mortgage loans		$ 6,233	$ 5,470
Investment funds		2,580	2,460
Cash and cash equivalents	[1]	4,892	2,459	$ 2,720	$ 2,671
Total assets		99,747	86,699	$ 80,846
Apollo affiliates | Related party | Assets sub-advised
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Mortgage loans		2,232	1,767
Investment funds		26	23
Trading securities		121	126
Funds withheld at interest		1,737	1,682
Other investments		75	81
Total assets		$ 13,996	$ 12,478
Percent of assets sub-advised by Apollo affiliates to total AAM-managed assets		18.00%	19.00%
Apollo affiliates | U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions | Related party | Assets sub-advised
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities		$ 0	$ 5
Apollo affiliates | Foreign governments | Related party | Assets sub-advised
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities		152	149
Apollo affiliates | Corporate | Related party | Assets sub-advised
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities		2,934	2,032
Apollo affiliates | CLO | Related party | Assets sub-advised
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities		5,166	4,727
Apollo affiliates | ABS | Related party | Assets sub-advised
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities		681	911
Apollo affiliates | CMBS | Related party | Assets sub-advised
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities		872	975
Apollo Asset Management Europe | Related party | Assets sub-advised
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Equity securities		95	187
Investment funds		40	34
Policy loans		5	6
Real estate		624	541
Other investments		176	153
Cash and cash equivalents		50	25
Total assets		4,153	4,575
Apollo Asset Management Europe | Foreign governments | Related party | Assets sub-advised
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities		2,160	2,062
Apollo Asset Management Europe | Corporate | Related party | Assets sub-advised
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities		$ 1,003	$ 1,567
[1]	Includes cash and cash equivalents of consolidated variable interest entities

Related Parties - Management Fe

Related Parties - Management Fees Incurred (Details) - Related party - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Asset management fees
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Expenses from transactions with related parties	$ 261	$ 229	$ 226
Sub-advisory fees
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Expenses from transactions with related parties	$ 57	$ 66	$ 42

Related Parties - Other Related

Related Parties - Other Related Party Transactions (Details) - Related Party - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Assets Purchased from Apollo Residential Mortgage Inc. [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related party purchases	$ 1,090
Short-term Loan [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Loans and Leases Receivable, Related Parties	175
Purchased Apollo Residential Mortgage Inc. Shares [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related party purchases	$ 20
Commitment to Purchase Apollo Commercial Real Estate Finance Inc. Shares [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Convertible, Threshold Consecutive Trading Days	30 days
AmeriHome | Purchase of Residential Mortgage Loans Under Agreement
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related party purchases		$ 57	$ 22	$ 83

Related Parties - Narrative (De

Related Parties - Narrative (Details) - Related Party $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)director	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Number of directors on the conflicts committee | director	3
Apollo Capital Efficient Fund I Advisory Fee
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Management fee payable, percentage	0.35%
Management fees associated with investment funds
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Due to related parties	$ 28	$ 28
Sub-advisory fees associated with investment funds management
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Due to related parties	13	$ 11
Athene Asset Management | Portfolio Management Agreement
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Investment portfolio assets managed by affiliates	$ 62,343
Investment portfolio assets, percentage rated at one or two by the NAIC	90.00%
Management fee payable, percentage		0.40%
Amended Management Fee, Percentage, Assets up to $65,846 million	0.40%
Amended Management Fee, Percentage, Assets in Excess of $65,846 million	0.30%
Amended Management Fee, Threshold	$ 65,846
Apollo Asset Management Europe | Apollo Asset Management Europe sub-advisory agreement
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Management fee payable, percentage	0.10%
Apollo affiliates | German Special Investment Fund Advisory Fee
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Investment portfolio assets managed by affiliates	$ 1,190	$ 258
Management fee payable, percentage	0.35%
Apollo affiliates | Apollo Capital Efficient Fund I Advisory Fee
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Investment portfolio assets managed by affiliates	$ 97	84
Pro rata share of operating expenses	0.30%
Apollo affiliates | Sub-advisory fees associated with investment funds management
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Amended Sub-Advisory Fee, Percentage, Assets up to $10,000 million	0.40%
Amended Sub-Advisory Fee, Percentage, Assets in excess of $10,000 million up to $12,441 million	0.35%
Amended Sub-Advisory Fee, Percentage, Assets in excess of $12,441 million up to $16,000 million	0.40%
Amended Sub-Advisory Fee, Percentage, Assets in excess of $16,000 million	0.35%
Amended Sub-Advisory Fee, Threshold One	$ 10,000
Amended Sub-Advisory Fee, Threshold Two	12,441
Amended Sub-Advisory Fee, Threshold Three	16,000
AmeriHome | Purchase of Residential Mortgage Loans Under Agreement
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related Party Transaction, Purchases from Related Party	$ 57	$ 22	$ 83

Commitments and Contingencies -

Commitments and Contingencies - Pledged Assets and Funds in Trust (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Financial Instruments Owned and Pledged as Collateral [Line Items]
Investment funds	$ 20	$ 25
Mortgage loans	914	1,003
Short-term investments	10	15
Total restricted assets	2,657	2,675
Fixed Maturity Securities
Financial Instruments Owned and Pledged as Collateral [Line Items]
Available-for-sale securities	1,572	1,535
Equity Securities
Financial Instruments Owned and Pledged as Collateral [Line Items]
Available-for-sale securities	36	40
Consolidated Entity Excluding Variable Interest Entities (VIE)
Financial Instruments Owned and Pledged as Collateral [Line Items]
Restricted cash	$ 105	$ 57

Commitments and Contingencie129

Commitments and Contingencies - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Other Commitments [Line Items]
Advances from FHLB	$ 573	$ 691
COLI asset value	349
Value of guarantees on COLI	164
Capital Contributions
Other Commitments [Line Items]
Investment commitment	2,358	962
Voya Financial Inc. [Member]
Other Commitments [Line Items]
Investment commitment	19,000
VA Capital Company LLC [Member] | Equity Method Investments [Member]
Other Commitments [Line Items]
Investment commitment	75
Venerable Holdings, Inc. [Member] | Loans [Member]
Other Commitments [Line Items]
Investment commitment	150
Athene Global Funding | Senior Notes
Other Commitments [Line Items]
Maximum borrowing capacity	5,000
Athene Global Funding | Funding Agreements
Other Commitments [Line Items]
Interest sensitive contract liabilities	2,996	$ 246
Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
Other Commitments [Line Items]
Income tax examination, estimate of possible loss	120
Tax Year 2008 | Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
Other Commitments [Line Items]
Proposed disallowance of income tax deduction	191
Tax Year 2009 | Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
Other Commitments [Line Items]
Proposed disallowance of income tax deduction	154
Proposed decrease in net operating loss	16
Tax Year 2010 | Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
Other Commitments [Line Items]
Proposed disallowance of income tax deduction	76
Proposed decrease in net operating loss	16
Tax Year 2011 | Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
Other Commitments [Line Items]
Proposed disallowance of income tax deduction	16
Proposed decrease in net operating loss	15
Tax Year 2012 | Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
Other Commitments [Line Items]
Proposed increase in income tax deductions	12
Proposed decrease in net operating loss	12
Tax Year 2011 and 2012 | Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
Other Commitments [Line Items]
Proposed Increase to Taxable Income	$ 16

Segment Information - Reconcili

Segment Information - Reconciliation of Segment Operating Revenues to Consolidation (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues	$ 3,872	$ 1,473	$ 1,763	$ 1,619	$ 1,066	$ 1,272	$ 1,045	$ 722	$ 8,727	$ 4,105	$ 2,618
Operating Segments
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues									6,328	3,598	3,091
Operating Segments | Retirement Services
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues									5,960	3,330	2,979
Operating Segments | Corporate and Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues									368	268	112
Non-operating adjustments
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues									2,399	507	(473)
Change in fair values of derivatives and embedded derivatives – index annuities, net of offsets									1,990	324	(390)
Investment gains (losses), net of offsets									461	164	(132)
VIE expenses and noncontrolling interest									0	13	33
Other Nonoperating Income									$ (52)	$ 6	$ 16

Segment Information - Reconc131

Segment Information - Reconciliation of Segment Operating Income to Consolidation (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Operating Profit (Loss) from Segment to Consolidated [Line Items]
Income tax (expense) benefit – non-operating									$ (87)	$ 52	$ (12)
Net income available to Athene Holding Ltd. shareholders	$ 464	$ 274	$ 326	$ 384	$ 364	$ 126	$ 193	$ 85	1,448	768	562
Operating Segments
Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Operating Profit (Loss) from Segment to Consolidated [Line Items]
Income tax (expense) benefit – non-operating									(62)	50	(42)
Net income available to Athene Holding Ltd. shareholders									1,109	728	738
Operating Segments | Retirement Services
Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Operating Profit (Loss) from Segment to Consolidated [Line Items]
Income tax (expense) benefit – non-operating									(64)	46	(39)
Net income available to Athene Holding Ltd. shareholders									1,092	777	767
Operating Segments | Corporate and Other
Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Operating Profit (Loss) from Segment to Consolidated [Line Items]
Income tax (expense) benefit – non-operating									2	4	(3)
Net income available to Athene Holding Ltd. shareholders									17	(49)	(29)
Non-operating adjustments
Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Operating Profit (Loss) from Segment to Consolidated [Line Items]
Investment gains (losses), net of offsets									199	47	(56)
Change in fair values of derivatives and embedded derivatives – index annuities, net of offsets									1,990	324	(390)
Loss on Derivative Instruments, Net of Expenses, Pretax									(266)	(95)	25
Integration, restructuring and other non-operating expenses									(68)	(22)	(58)
Stock-based compensation, excluding LTIP									(33)	(82)	(67)
Income tax (expense) benefit – non-operating									(25)	2	30
Net income available to Athene Holding Ltd. shareholders									$ 339	$ 40	$ (176)

Segment Information - Reconc132

Segment Information - Reconciliation of Segment Net Investment Income (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net investment income	$ 3,269	$ 2,914	$ 2,510
Operating Segments
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net investment income	3,423	3,030	2,610
Operating Segments | Retirement Services
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net investment income	3,241	2,953	2,574
Operating Segments | Corporate and Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net investment income	182	77	36
Non-operating adjustments
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net investment income	(154)	(116)	(100)
Reinsurance Embedded Derivative Gain (Loss)	(191)	(189)	(84)
Income (Loss) from Variable Interest Entities, Net	(77)	(1)	(67)
Alternative Income Gain (Loss)	20	39	42
Other Adjustment to Net Investment Income	$ 94	$ 35	$ 9

Segment Information - Reconc133

Segment Information - Reconciliation of Segment Income Tax Expense (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Segment Reporting, Other Significant Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Income tax expense (benefit)	$ 87	$ (52)	$ 12
Operating Segments
Segment Reporting, Other Significant Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Income tax expense (benefit)	62	(50)	42
Non-operating adjustments
Segment Reporting, Other Significant Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Income tax expense (benefit)	25	(2)	(30)
Retirement Services | Operating Segments
Segment Reporting, Other Significant Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Income tax expense (benefit)	64	(46)	39
Corporate and Other | Operating Segments
Segment Reporting, Other Significant Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Income tax expense (benefit)	$ (2)	$ (4)	$ 3

Segment Information - Assets by

Segment Information - Assets by Segment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Total assets	$ 99,747	$ 86,699	$ 80,846
Retirement Services
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Total assets	91,335	79,298	73,702
Corporate and Other
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Total assets	$ 8,412	$ 7,401	$ 7,144

Segment Information - Narrative

Segment Information - Narrative (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017segment
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Number of reportable segments	1

Segment Information Premiums an

Segment Information Premiums and Deposits by Product (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Annuity Deposit Revenue, Gross	$ 9,546	$ 9,018	$ 4,118
Premiums	2,465	240	195
Premiums and Annuity Deposits	12,011	9,258	4,313
Fixed Indexed Annuity [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Annuity Deposit Revenue, Gross	5,480	5,322	2,808
Fixed Rate Annuity [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Annuity Deposit Revenue, Gross	873	3,565	883
Payouts Without Life Contingency [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Annuity Deposit Revenue, Gross	106	107	166
Funding Agreements
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Annuity Deposit Revenue, Gross	3,054	0	250
Life Insurance Product Line
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Annuity Deposit Revenue, Gross	33	24	11
Premiums	254	219	142
Payouts With Life Contingency [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Premiums	$ 2,211	$ 21	$ 53

Segment Information Premiums137

Segment Information Premiums and Deposits by Geographic Location (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Premiums and Annuity Deposits	$ 12,011	$ 9,258	$ 4,313
Total U.S. Region
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Premiums and Annuity Deposits	11,156	5,617	3,097
Bermuda
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Premiums and Annuity Deposits	652	3,429	1,135
GERMANY
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Premiums and Annuity Deposits	$ 203	$ 212	$ 81

Quarterly Results of Operati138

Quarterly Results of Operations (Unaudited) - Quarterly Results of Operations (Unaudited) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2017		Dec. 31, 2016		Dec. 31, 2015
Quarterly Results of Operations [Line Items]
Revenues	$ 3,872	$ 1,473	$ 1,763	$ 1,619	$ 1,066	$ 1,272	$ 1,045	$ 722	$ 8,727		$ 4,105		$ 2,618
Total benefits and expenses	3,374	1,179	1,426	1,213	681	1,234	837	637	7,192		3,389		2,028
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent	$ 464	$ 274	$ 326	$ 384	$ 364	$ 126	$ 193	$ 85	$ 1,448		$ 768		$ 562
Common Class A
Quarterly Results of Operations [Line Items]
Diluted (in USD per share)	$ 2.35	$ 1.39	$ 1.65	$ 1.92	$ 1.78	$ 0.68	$ 1.04	$ 0.46	$ 7.37		$ 4.02		$ 3.21
Basic (in USD per share)	2.36	1.40	1.66	2	1.92	0.68	1.04	0.46	7.41	[1]	4.11	[1]	3.21	[1]
Common Class B
Quarterly Results of Operations [Line Items]
Diluted (in USD per share)	2.36	1.40	1.66	2	1.92	0.68	1.04	0.46	7.41		4.11		3.21
Basic (in USD per share)	2.36	1.40	1.66	2	1.92	$ 0.68	$ 1.04	$ 0.46	7.41		4.11		$ 3.21	[1]
Common Class M-1
Quarterly Results of Operations [Line Items]
Diluted (in USD per share)	2.36	1.40	1.66	2	0.46				7.41	[1]	0.20
Basic (in USD per share)	2.36	1.40	1.66	2	$ 1.92				7.41		$ 4.11
Common Class M-2
Quarterly Results of Operations [Line Items]
Diluted (in USD per share)	2.34	1.39	1.64	0.08					5.38	[1]
Basic (in USD per share)	2.36	1.40	1.66	$ 2					7.41
Common Class M-3
Quarterly Results of Operations [Line Items]
Diluted (in USD per share)	2.10	1.07	1						4.12	[1]
Basic (in USD per share)	2.36	1.40	1.66						7.41
Common Class M-4
Quarterly Results of Operations [Line Items]
Diluted (in USD per share)	1.49	0.79	0.76						3.31	[1]
Basic (in USD per share)	$ 2.36	$ 1.40	$ 1.66						$ 7.41
[1]	Basic and diluted earnings per share for Class M-1 was applicable only for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016. Basic and diluted earnings per share for Class M-2, M-3 and M-4 were applicable only for the year ended December 31, 2017. See Note 13 – Earnings Per Share for further discussion.

Quarterly Results of Operati139

Quarterly Results of Operations (Unaudited) - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017
OverstatementofNetIncome [Member]
Error Corrections and Prior Period Adjustments Restatement [Line Items]
Quantifying Misstatement in Current Year Financial Statements, Amount	$ 21	$ 16	$ 16
OverstatementofIncomeTax [Member]
Error Corrections and Prior Period Adjustments Restatement [Line Items]
Quantifying Misstatement in Current Year Financial Statements, Amount	$ 14	$ 3

Schedule I Summary of Invest140

Schedule I Summary of Investments - Other Than Investments in Related Parties (Details) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Cost	$ 78,423
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Carrying Amount	82,054
Available-for-sale securities
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Cost	58,777
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Fair Value	61,289
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Carrying Amount	61,289
Available-for-sale securities | U.S. government and agencies
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Cost	63
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Fair Value	62
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Carrying Amount	62
Available-for-sale securities | U.S. state, municipal and political subdivisions
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Cost	996
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Fair Value	1,165
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Carrying Amount	1,165
Available-for-sale securities | Foreign Government Debt [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Cost	2,575
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Fair Value	2,683
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Carrying Amount	2,683
Available-for-sale securities | Public Utility, Bonds [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Cost	5,124
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Fair Value	5,384
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Carrying Amount	5,384
Available-for-sale securities | Other Corporate Bonds [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Cost	30,010
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Fair Value	31,235
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Carrying Amount	31,235
Available-for-sale securities | CLO
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Cost	5,039
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Fair Value	5,084
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Carrying Amount	5,084
Available-for-sale securities | ABS
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Cost	3,945
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Fair Value	3,971
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Carrying Amount	3,971
Available-for-sale securities | CMBS
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Cost	1,994
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Fair Value	2,021
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Carrying Amount	2,021
Available-for-sale securities | RMBS
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Cost	8,721
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Fair Value	9,366
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Carrying Amount	9,366
Available-for-sale securities | Redeemable Preferred Stock [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Cost	39
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Fair Value	41
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Carrying Amount	41
Available-for-sale securities | Fixed Maturities
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Cost	58,506
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Fair Value	61,012
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Carrying Amount	61,012
Available-for-sale securities | Banks, Trust and Insurance, Equities [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Cost	37
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Fair Value	37
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Carrying Amount	37
Available-for-sale securities | Industrial, Miscellaneous, and All Others [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Cost	130
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Fair Value	129
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Carrying Amount	129
Available-for-sale securities | Nonredeemable Preferred Stock [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Cost	104
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Fair Value	111
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Carrying Amount	111
Available-for-sale securities | Equity Securities, Investment Summary [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Cost	271
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Fair Value	277
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Carrying Amount	277
Trading securities
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Cost	2,475
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Carrying Amount	2,709
Mortgage loans, net of allowances
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Cost	6,232
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Carrying Amount	6,233
Investment funds
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Cost	693
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Carrying Amount	699
Policy loans
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Cost	530
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Carrying Amount	530
Funds withheld at interest
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Cost	7,085
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Carrying Amount	7,085
Derivative
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Cost	1,673
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Carrying Amount	2,551
Real estate
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Cost	624
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Carrying Amount	624
Short-term Investments
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Cost	201
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Carrying Amount	201
Other investments
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Cost	133
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Carrying Amount	$ 133

Schedule II - Condensed Fina141

Schedule II - Condensed Financial Information of Registrant Condensed Balance Sheet - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions		Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive income		$ 1,415	$ 367
Cash and cash equivalents	[1]	4,892	2,459	$ 2,720	$ 2,671
Total assets		99,747	86,699	80,846
Total liabilities		90,539	79,840
Additional paid-in capital		3,472	3,421
Retained earnings		4,321	3,070
Total Athene Holding Ltd. shareholders’ equity		9,208	6,858
Total liabilities and equity		99,747	86,699
Parent Company [Member]
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities		38	28
Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Amortized Cost Basis		35	27
Accumulated other comprehensive income		1,415	367
Cash and cash equivalents		142	189	$ 260	$ 61
Other assets		3	15
Intercompany Note Receivable		44	0
Intercompany Receivable		2	0
Intercompany Investments		9,118	6,665
Total assets		9,347	6,897
Payables for collateral on derivatives		0	6
Other Liabilities		132	32
Intercompany Payable		7	1
Total liabilities		139	39
Additional paid-in capital		3,472	3,421
Retained earnings		4,321	3,070
Total Athene Holding Ltd. shareholders’ equity		9,208	6,858
Total liabilities and equity		$ 9,347	$ 6,897
Common Class A
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Common stock outstanding (in shares)		142,386,704	77,319,381	50,151,265	15,752,736
Common stock		$ 0	$ 0
Common Class A | Parent Company [Member]
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Common stock issued (in shares)		142,386,704	77,319,381
Common stock, par value (in USD per share)		$ 0.001	$ 0.001
Common stock outstanding (in shares)		142,386,704	77,319,381
Common stock authorized (in shares)		425,000,000	425,000,000
Common stock		$ 0	$ 0
Common Class B
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Common stock outstanding (in shares)		47,422,399	111,805,829	135,963,975	125,282,892
Common stock		$ 0	$ 0
Common Class B | Parent Company [Member]
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Common stock issued (in shares)		47,422,399	111,805,829
Common stock, par value (in USD per share)		$ 0.001	$ 0.001
Common stock outstanding (in shares)		47,422,399	111,805,829
Common stock authorized (in shares)		325,000,000	325,000,000
Common stock		$ 0	$ 0
Common Class M-1
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Common stock outstanding (in shares)		3,388,890	3,474,205	5,198,273	5,198,273
Common stock		$ 0	$ 0
Common Class M-1 | Parent Company [Member]
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Common stock issued (in shares)		3,388,890	3,474,205
Common stock, par value (in USD per share)		$ 0.001	$ 0.001
Common stock outstanding (in shares)		3,388,890	3,474,205
Common stock authorized (in shares)		7,109,560	7,109,560
Common stock		$ 0	$ 0
Common Class M-2
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Common stock outstanding (in shares)		851,103	1,067,747	3,125,869	3,125,869
Common stock		$ 0	$ 0
Common Class M-2 | Parent Company [Member]
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Common stock issued (in shares)		851,103	1,067,747
Common stock, par value (in USD per share)		$ 0.001	$ 0.001
Common stock outstanding (in shares)		851,103	1,067,747
Common stock authorized (in shares)		5,000,000	5,000,000
Common stock		$ 0	$ 0
Common Class M-3
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Common stock outstanding (in shares)		1,092,000	1,346,300	3,110,000	3,350,000
Common stock		$ 0	$ 0
Common Class M-3 | Parent Company [Member]
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Common stock issued (in shares)		1,092,000	1,346,300
Common stock, par value (in USD per share)		$ 0.001	$ 0.001
Common stock outstanding (in shares)		1,092,000	1,346,300
Common stock authorized (in shares)		7,500,000	7,500,000
Common stock		$ 0	$ 0
Common Class M-4
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Common stock outstanding (in shares)		4,711,743	5,397,802	5,038,443	0
Common stock		$ 0	$ 0
Common Class M-4 | Parent Company [Member]
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Common stock issued (in shares)		4,711,743	5,397,802
Common stock, par value (in USD per share)		$ 0.001	$ 0.001
Common stock outstanding (in shares)		4,711,743	5,397,802
Common stock authorized (in shares)		7,500,000	7,500,000
Common stock		$ 0	$ 0
[1]	Includes cash and cash equivalents of consolidated variable interest entities

Schedule II - Condensed Fina142

Schedule II - Condensed Financial Information of Registrant Condensed Income Statement - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Net investment income									$ 3,269	$ 2,914	$ 2,510
Total revenues	$ 3,872	$ 1,473	$ 1,763	$ 1,619	$ 1,066	$ 1,272	$ 1,045	$ 722	8,727	4,105	2,618
Total benefits and expenses	3,374	1,179	1,426	1,213	681	1,234	837	637	7,192	3,389	2,028
Income tax expense (benefit)									87	(52)	12
Net income available to Athene Holding Ltd. shareholders	$ 464	$ 274	$ 326	$ 384	$ 364	$ 126	$ 193	$ 85	1,448	768	562
Comprehensive income (loss) available to Athene Holding Ltd. shareholders									2,309	1,372	(319)
Parent Company [Member]
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Net investment income									5	10	0
Investment related gains (losses)									(7)	4	0
Total revenues									(2)	14	0
Policy and other operating expenses (related party: 2017 – $13, 2016 – $22 and 2015 – $18)									142	145	130
Total benefits and expenses									142	145	130
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Equity Earnings in Subsidiaries									(144)	(131)	(130)
Income tax expense (benefit)									0	0	0
Income (Loss) from Subsidiaries, Net of Tax									1,592	899	692
Net income available to Athene Holding Ltd. shareholders									1,448	768	562
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent									861	604	(881)
Comprehensive income (loss) available to Athene Holding Ltd. shareholders									2,309	1,372	(319)
Parent Company [Member] | Related Party
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Net investment income									3	8	(5)
Policy and other operating expenses (related party: 2017 – $13, 2016 – $22 and 2015 – $18)									$ 8	$ 16	$ 16

Schedule II - Condensed Fina143

Schedule II - Condensed Financial Information of Registrant Condensed Cash Flow - USD ($) $ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Net Investment Income		$ 3,170	$ 1,199	$ 1,049
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities		(5,817)	(2,602)	(52)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities		5,048	1,155	(944)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents		2,433	(261)	49
Cash and cash equivalents	[1]	4,892	2,459	2,720	$ 2,671
Interest Paid		0	9	22
Parent Company [Member]
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Net Investment Income		(54)	(45)	(82)
Payments to Acquire Additional Interest in Subsidiaries		0	(34)	(506)
Intercompany Receipts on Loans to Subsidiary		0	20	188
Intercompany Payments to Fund Loans to Subsidiary		(44)	0	(103)
Payments to Acquire Notes Receivable		0	0	(5)
Proceeds from Sale and Maturity of Available-for-sale Securities		9	5	17
Fixed maturity securities (related party: 2017 – $(186), 2016 – $(82) and 2015 – $(64))		(17)	(3)	(423)
Cash settlement of derivatives		(8)	5	0
Other investing activities, net		82	(5)	0
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities		22	(12)	(832)
Proceeds from Contributed Capital		1	1	1,116
Net change in cash collateral posted for derivative transactions		(6)	6	0
Repurchase of common stock		(10)	(21)	(3)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities		(15)	(14)	1,113
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents		(47)	(71)	199
Cash and cash equivalents		142	189	260	$ 61
Non-cash Capital Contribution to Related Party		0	0	708
Capital Issued as Payment of Liabilities		$ 0	$ 0	$ 2
[1]	Includes cash and cash equivalents of consolidated variable interest entities

Schedule II - Condensed Fina144

Schedule II - Condensed Financial Information of Registrant Condensed Footnotes of Parent € in Millions, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017EUR (€)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Assets Held-in-trust	$ 1,238		$ 1,148
Parent Company [Member]
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Cash Dividends Paid to Parent Company	0
Intercompany Note Receivable	44		0
Assets Held-in-trust	39		36
Athene Life Re Ltd. [Member] | Parent Company [Member]
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Intercompany Note Receivable	$ 0
Intercompany Note Receivable Interest Rate	1.25%	1.25%
Maximum borrowing capacity	$ 250
Line of Credit Facility, Interest Rate at Period End	1.25%	1.25%
Revolving note receivable, borrowing capacity	$ 250
Long-term Line of Credit	0
Athene USA Corporation [Member] | Parent Company [Member]
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Intercompany Note Receivable	16		0
Revolving note receivable, borrowing capacity	250		$ 100
AGER Burmuda Holding Ltd. [Member] | Parent Company [Member]
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Intercompany Note Receivable	$ 29
Revolving note receivable, borrowing capacity | €		€ 25

Schedule III - Supplementary In

Schedule III - Supplementary Insurance Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Line Items]
Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs, Deferred Sales Inducements, and Present Value of Future Profits	$ 2,930	$ 2,940	$ 2,652
Supplementary Insurance Information, Liability for Future Policy Benefits, Losses, Claims and Loss Expense Reserves	85,215	76,124	71,836
Supplementary Insurance Information, Other Policy Claims and Benefits Payable	211	217	234
Supplementary Insurance Information, Premium Revenue	2,465	240	195
Supplementary Insurance Information, Net Investment Income	3,269	2,914	2,510
Supplementary Insurance Information, Benefits, Claims, Losses and Settlement Expense	6,170	2,431	1,256
Supplementary Insurance Information, Amortization of Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs and Value of Business Acquired	350	318	206
Supplementary Insurance Information, Other Operating Expense	672	627	549
Retirement Services
Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Line Items]
Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs, Deferred Sales Inducements, and Present Value of Future Profits	2,930	2,940	2,652
Supplementary Insurance Information, Liability for Future Policy Benefits, Losses, Claims and Loss Expense Reserves	80,377	71,810	67,211
Supplementary Insurance Information, Other Policy Claims and Benefits Payable	137	148	167
Supplementary Insurance Information, Premium Revenue	2,286	53	121
Supplementary Insurance Information, Net Investment Income	3,087	2,837	2,475
Supplementary Insurance Information, Benefits, Claims, Losses and Settlement Expense	5,831	2,165	1,150
Supplementary Insurance Information, Amortization of Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs and Value of Business Acquired	350	318	206
Supplementary Insurance Information, Other Operating Expense	444	430	402
Corporate and Other
Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Line Items]
Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs, Deferred Sales Inducements, and Present Value of Future Profits	0	0	0
Supplementary Insurance Information, Liability for Future Policy Benefits, Losses, Claims and Loss Expense Reserves	4,838	4,314	4,625
Supplementary Insurance Information, Other Policy Claims and Benefits Payable	74	69	67
Supplementary Insurance Information, Premium Revenue	179	187	74
Supplementary Insurance Information, Net Investment Income	182	77	35
Supplementary Insurance Information, Benefits, Claims, Losses and Settlement Expense	339	266	106
Supplementary Insurance Information, Amortization of Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs and Value of Business Acquired	0	0	0
Supplementary Insurance Information, Other Operating Expense	$ 228	$ 197	$ 147

Schedule IV - Reinsurance (Deta

Schedule IV - Reinsurance (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies, by Product Segment [Line Items]
Life Insurance in Force, Gross	$ 43,267	$ 56,356	$ 77,994
Life Insurance in Force, Ceded	49,860	63,894	82,284
Life Insurance in Force, Assumed	8,551	9,591	10,123
Life Insurance in Force, Net	$ 1,958	$ 2,053	$ 5,833
Life Insurance in Force, Percentage Assumed to Net	436.70%	467.20%	173.50%
Direct Premiums Earned	$ 2,639	$ 448	$ 445
Ceded Premiums Earned	195	228	274
Assumed Premiums Earned	21	20	24
Premiums	$ 2,465	$ 240	$ 195
Premiums, Percentage Assumed to Net	0.90%	8.30%	12.30%

Schedule V - Valuation and Qual

Schedule V - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Valuation Allowance of Deferred Tax Assets [Member]
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Balance	$ 64	$ 72	$ 193	$ 133
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Additions for Charges to Cost and Expense	9	0	7
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Reserves of Businesses Acquired	0	0	66
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Deductions	(17)	(121)	(13)
Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses [Member]
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Balance	2	2	2	$ 1
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Additions for Charges to Cost and Expense	0	0	0
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Reserves of Businesses Acquired	0	0	1
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Deductions	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0