Equitable Financial Life Insurance 10-Q 15 May 18 2018 Q1 Quarterly report Financial data

DOCUMENT AND ENTITY INFORMATION

DOCUMENT AND ENTITY INFORMATION - shares	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	May 15, 2018
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]
Document Type	10-Q
Document Period End Date	Mar. 31, 2018
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q1
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,018
Amendment Flag	false
Entity Registrant Name	AXA EQUITABLE LIFE INSURANCE CO
Entity Central Index Key	727,920
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Filer Category	Non-accelerated Filer
Entity Well Known Seasoned Issuer	No
Entity Common Stock Shares Outstanding		2,000,000

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET (UNA

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET (UNAUDITED) - USD ($) $ in Millions		Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
ASSETS
Fixed maturities available for sale, at fair value (amortized cost of $33,438 and $34,831)		$ 33,630	$ 36,358
Mortgage loans on real estate (net of valuation allowance of $7 and $8)		11,316	10,935
Real estate held for production of income	[1]	52	390
Policy loans		3,305	3,315
Other equity investments	[1]	1,217	1,351
Trading securities, at fair value		13,457	12,628
Other invested assets	[1]	3,574	3,121
Total investments		66,551	68,098
Cash and cash equivalents	[1]	3,797	3,409
Cash and securities segregated, at fair value		1,025	825
Broker-dealer related receivables		2,300	2,158
Deferred policy acquisition costs		4,826	4,547
Goodwill and other intangible assets, net		3,702	3,709
Amounts due from reinsurers		5,037	5,079
Loans to affiliates		702	703
GMIB reinsurance contract asset, at fair value		9,673	10,488
Other assets	[1]	4,943	4,432
Separate Accounts assets		119,868	122,537
Total Assets		222,424	225,985
LIABILITIES
Policyholders’ account balances		44,260	43,805
Future policy benefits and other policyholders’ liabilities		28,374	29,034
Broker-dealer related payables		459	764
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase		1,904	1,887
Customers related payables		2,549	2,229
Amounts due to reinsurers		94	134
Short-term and Long-term debt	[1]	490	769
Current and deferred income taxes		1,728	1,973
Other liabilities	[1]	3,041	2,663
Separate Accounts liabilities		119,868	122,537
Total liabilities		202,767	205,795
Redeemable noncontrolling interest	[1]	1,024	626
Commitments and contingent liabilities
AXA Equitable's equity:
Common stock, $1.25 par value; 2 million shares authorized, issued and outstanding		2	2
Capital in excess of par value		6,877	6,859
Retained earnings		8,824	9,010
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)		(158)	598
Total AXA Equitable’s equity		15,545	16,469
Noncontrolling interest		3,088	3,095
Total equity		18,633	19,564
Total Liabilities, Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest and Equity		$ 222,424	$ 225,985
[1]	See Note 2 for details of balances with variable interest entities.

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET (UN3

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET (UNAUDITED) (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Fixed maturities available for sale, amortized cost	$ 33,438
Mortgage loans on real estate, valuation allowances	$ 7	$ 8
Common stock par value (in dollars per share)	$ 1.25	$ 1.25
Common stock authorized (in shares)	2,000,000	2,000,000
Common stock issued (in shares)	2,000,000	2,000,000
Common stock outstanding (in shares)	2,000,000	2,000,000
Fixed Maturities
Fixed maturities available for sale, amortized cost	$ 33,438	$ 34,831

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCO

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (LOSS) (UNAUDITED) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Mar. 31, 2017
REVENUES
Policy charges and fee income	$ 869	$ 852
Premiums	223	232
Net derivative gains (losses)	(777)	(362)
Net investment income (loss)	548	630
Investment gains (losses), net:
Total other-than-temporary impairment losses	0	0
Other investment gains (losses), net	87	(11)
Total investment gains (losses), net	87	(11)
Investment management and service fees	1,057	956
Other income	24	17
Total revenues	2,031	2,314
BENEFITS AND OTHER DEDUCTIONS
Policyholders’ benefits	489	975
Interest credited to policyholders’ account balances	338	279
Compensation and benefits (includes $31 and $33 of deferred acquisition costs)	456	438
Commissions and distribution related payments (includes $100 and $115 of deferred acquisition costs)	371	382
Interest expense	11	5
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs (net of capitalization of $132 and $149)	10	29
Other operating costs and expenses (includes $1 and $1 of deferred acquisition costs)	440	381
Total benefits and other deductions	2,115	2,489
Income (loss) from continuing operations, before income taxes	(84)	(175)
Income tax (expense) benefit	44	121
Net income (loss)	(40)	(54)
Less: net (income) loss attributable to the noncontrolling interest	(154)	(118)
Net income (loss) attributable to AXA Equitable	$ (194)	$ (172)

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INC5

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (LOSS) (UNAUDITED) (PARENTHETICAL) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Mar. 31, 2017
Compensation and benefits
Deferred acquisition costs	$ 31	$ 33
Commissions and distribution related payments
Deferred acquisition costs	100	115
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs
Deferred policy acquisition costs	132	149
Other operating costs and expenses
Deferred acquisition costs	$ 1	$ 1

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMP

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) (UNAUDITED) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Mar. 31, 2017
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ (40)	$ (54)
Other comprehensive income (loss) net of income taxes:
Foreign currency translation adjustment	(4)	35
Change in unrealized gains (losses), net of reclassification adjustment	(741)	92
Changes in defined benefit plan related items not yet recognized in periodic benefit cost, net of reclassification adjustment	(4)	0
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes	(749)	127
Comprehensive income (loss)	(789)	73
Less: Comprehensive (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interest	(161)	(125)
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to AXA Equitable	$ (950)	$ (52)

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EQUI

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EQUITY (UNAUDITED) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Total	Parent	Common Stock	Additional Paid-in Capital	Retained Earnings	Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to AXA Equitable	Noncontrolling Interest
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Impact of adoption of revenue recognition standard ASC 606				$ 0			$ 0
Beginning of year at Dec. 31, 2016				5,339	$ 6,150	$ 17	3,096
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Other changes				3			(11)
Net income (loss)	$ (172)
Stockholder dividends					0
Other comprehensive income (loss)	127					120	7
Repurchase of AB Holding units							(22)
Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest							118
Dividends paid to noncontrolling interest							(142)
End of year at Mar. 31, 2017	14,505	$ 11,459		5,342	5,978	137	3,046
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Common stock, at par value, beginning of year and end of period	2
Impact of adoption of revenue recognition standard ASC 606				8			25
Beginning of year at Dec. 31, 2017	19,564			6,859	9,010	598	3,095
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Deferred tax on dividend of AB Units				0
Other changes				18			5
Net income (loss)	(194)
Stockholder dividends					0
Other comprehensive income (loss)	(749)					(756)	7
Repurchase of AB Holding units							(2)
Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest							134
Dividends paid to noncontrolling interest							(176)
End of year at Mar. 31, 2018	18,633	$ 15,545		$ 6,877	$ 8,824	$ (158)	$ 3,088
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Common stock, at par value, beginning of year and end of period	$ 2		$ 2

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (UNAUDITED) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018		Mar. 31, 2017
Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ (40)		$ (54)
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:
Interest credited to policyholders’ account balances	(338)		(279)
Policy charges and fee income	(869)		(852)
Net derivative (gains) losses	777		362
Investment (gains) losses, net	(87)		11
Realized and unrealized (gains) losses on trading securities	63		(53)
Amortization of deferred compensation	12		8
Amortization of deferred sales commission	7		9
Other depreciation and amortization	(23)		36
Amortization of deferred cost of reinsurance asset	46		50
Amortization of other intangibles	8		8
Distributions from joint ventures and limited partnerships	25		26
Deferred policy acquisition costs	10		29
Changes in:
Net broker-dealer and customer related receivables/payables	283		288
Reinsurance recoverable	2		(23)
Segregated cash and securities, net	(208)		(310)
Future policy benefits	(191)		241
Current and deferred income taxes	(52)		(188)
Other, net	(122)		151
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities	(21)		18
Proceeds from the sale/maturity/prepayment of:
Fixed maturities, available for sale	3,238		864
Mortgage loans on real estate	68		209
Trading account securities	1,606		2,488
Other	54		56
Payment For Purchase/Origination Of Productive Assets [Abstract]
Fixed maturities, available for sale	(2,313)		(1,153)
Mortgage loans on real estate	(447)		(632)
Trading account securities	(2,595)		(3,622)
Other	(48)		(28)
Cash settlements related to derivative instruments	(14)		(908)
Change in short-term investments	396		254
Investment in capitalized software, leasehold improvements and EDP equipment	(24)		(18)
Other, net	(560)		43
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	(639)		(2,447)
Policyholders’ account balances:
Deposits	2,366		2,240
Withdrawals	(1,322)		(785)
Transfer (to) from Separate Accounts	(115)		176
Change in short-term financings	(76)		95
Change in collateralized pledged assets	(5)		714
Change in collateralized pledged liabilities	(31)		208
(Decrease) increase in overdrafts payable	7		50
Repurchase of AB Holding units	(2)		(31)
Redemptions of non-controlling interests of consolidated VIEs, net	373		(4)
Distribution to noncontrolling interests in consolidated subsidiaries	(176)		(145)
Increase (decrease) in Securities sold under agreement to repurchase	17		(212)
Other, net	4		0
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	1,040		2,306
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	8		8
Change in cash and cash equivalents	388		(115)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year	3,409	[1]	2,950
Cash and Cash Equivalents, End of Period	$ 3,797	[1]	$ 2,835
[1]	See Note 2 for details of balances with variable interest entities.

ORGANIZATION

ORGANIZATION	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Organization	ORGANIZATION A XA Equitable Life Insurance Company (“AXA Equitable” and, collectively with its consolidated subsidiaries, the “Company”) is a diversified financial services company. The Company is a direct, wholly-owned subsidiary of AXA Equitable Financial Services, LLC (“AEFS”). AEFS is a direct, wholly-owned subsidiary of AXA Financial, Inc. (“AXA Financial,” and collectively with its consolidated subsidiaries, “AXA Financial Group”). AXA Financial is a direct wholly-owned subsidiary of AXA Equitable Holdings, Inc. ("Holdings"). As of March 31, 2018, Holdings was a direct wholly-owned subsidiary of AXA S.A. (“AXA”), a French holding company for the AXA Group, a worldwide leader in life, property and casualty and health insurance and asset management. On May 14, 2018 , Holdings completed an initial public offering in which AXA sold a minority stake to the public. The accompanying consolidated financial statements represent the consolidated results and financial position of AXA Equitable and not the consolidated results and financial position of Holdings. The Company conducts operations in four segments: Individual Retirement, Group Retirement, Investment Management and Research, and Protection Solutions. The Company’s management evaluates the performance of each of these segments independently. • The Individual Retirement segment offers a diverse suite of variable annuity products which are primarily sold to affluent and high net worth individuals saving for retirement or seeking retirement income. • The Group Retirement segment offers tax-deferred investment and retirement plans sponsored by educational entities, municipalities and not-for-profit entities as well as small and medium-sized businesses. • The Investment Management and Research segment provides diversified investment management, research and related solutions globally to a broad range of clients through three main client channels—Institutional, Retail and Private Wealth Management—and distributes its institutional research products and solutions through Bernstein Research Services. The Investment Management and Research segment reflects the business of AllianceBernstein Holding L.P. (“AB Holding”), AllianceBernstein L.P. (“ABLP”) and their subsidiaries (collectively, “AB”). • The Protection Solutions segment includes the Company's life insurance and group employee benefits businesses. The life insurance business offers a variety of variable universal life, indexed universal life and term life products to help affluent and high net worth individuals, as well as small and medium-sized business owners, with their wealth protection, wealth transfer and corporate needs. Our group employee benefits business offers a suite of life, short- and long-term disability, dental and vision insurance products to small and medium-size businesses across the United States. Corporate and Other includes certain of the Company's financing and investment expenses. It also includes: the closed block of life insurance (the "Closed Block"), run-off group pension business, run-off health business, certain strategic investments and certain unallocated items, including capital and related investments, interest expense and corporate expense. AB’s results of operations are reflected in the Investment Management and Research segment. Accordingly, Corporate and Other does not include any items applicable to AB. At March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 , AXA Equitable’s economic interest in AB was 28.9 % and 29.0% . At March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 , respectively, AXA and its subsidiaries’ economic interest in AB was 64.4 % and 64.7% . The terms “ first quarter 2018 ” and “ first quarter 2017 ” refer to the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017 , respectively. The terms “ first three months of 2018 ” and “ first three months of 2017 ” refer to the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017 , respectively.

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Significant Accounting Policies	SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB") issued new guidance that revises the recognition criteria for revenue arising from contracts with customers to provide goods or services, except when those revenue streams are from insurance and investment contracts, leases, rights and obligations that are in the scope of certain financial instruments (i.e., derivative contracts) and guarantees other than product or service warranties, for which existing revenue recognition requirements are not superseded by this guidance. On January 1, 2018, the Company adopted the new revenue recognition guidance on a modified retrospective basis and is providing in its first quarter 2018 reporting the additional disclosures required by the new standard. Adoption of this new guidance did not change the amounts or timing of the Company’s revenue recognition for base investment management and advisory fees, distribution revenues, shareholder servicing revenues, and broker-dealer revenues. However, some performance-based fees and carried-interest distributions, that prior to adoption were recognized when no risk of reversal remained, in certain instances under the new standard may be recognized earlier if it is probable that significant reversal will not occur. As a result, on January 1, 2018, the Company recognized a cumulative effect adjustment, net of tax, to increase opening equity attributable to AXA Equitable and the noncontrolling interest by approximately $8 million and $25 million , respectively, reflecting the impact of carried-interest distributions previously received by AB of approximately $78 million , net of revenue sharing payments to investment team members of approximately $43 million , for which it is probable that significant reversal will not occur and for which incremental tax is provided at AXA Equitable. In January 2016, the FASB issued new guidance related to the recognition and measurement of financial assets and financial liabilities. The new guidance primarily affects the accounting for equity investments, financial liabilities under the fair value option, and presentation and disclosure requirements for financial instruments. In addition, the FASB clarified guidance related to the valuation allowance assessment when recognizing deferred tax assets resulting from unrealized losses on available-for-sale (“AFS”) debt securities. The new guidance requires equity investments in unconsolidated entities, except those accounted for under the equity method, to be measured at fair value through earnings, thereby eliminating the AFS classification for equity securities with readily determinable fair values for which changes in fair value currently are reported in AOCI. On January 1, 2018, the Company adopted the new recognition requirements on a modified retrospective basis for changes in the fair value of AFS equity securities, resulting in no material reclassification adjustment from AOCI to opening retained earnings for the net unrealized gains, net of tax, related to approximately $13 million common stock securities and eliminated their designation as AFS equity securities. The new guidance does not apply to FHLB common stock and prohibits such investments from being classified as equity securities subject to the new guidance. Accordingly, the Company has classified its investment in the FHLB common stock as other invested assets at March 31, 2018. The Company’s investment assets held in the form of equity interests in unconsolidated entities, such as limited partnerships and limited liability companies, including hedge funds, private equity funds, and real estate-related funds, generally are accounted for under the equity method and were not impacted by this new guidance. The Company does not currently report any of its financial liabilities under the fair value option. In March 2017, the FASB issued new guidance on the presentation of net periodic pension and post-retirement benefit costs that requires retrospective disaggregation of the service cost component from the other components of net benefit costs on the income statement. The service cost component is required to be presented with other employee compensation costs in “income from operations,” and the remaining components are to be reported separately outside of income from operations. While this standard does not change the rules for how benefits costs are measured, it limits the amount eligible for capitalization on a prospective basis to the service cost component. On January 1, 2018, the Company adopted the change in the income statement presentation utilizing the practical expedient for determining the historical components of net benefits cost, resulting in no material impact to the consolidated financial statements. In addition, no changes to the Company’s capitalization policies with respect to benefits costs resulted from adoption of the new guidance. In May 2017, the FASB issued guidance on share-based payments. The amendment provides clarity intended to reduce diversity in practice and the cost and complexity of accounting for changes to the terms or conditions of share-based payment awards. The new guidance is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017 and requires prospective application to awards modified on or after the date of adoption. Adoption of this amendment on January 1, 2018 did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements. In August 2016, the FASB issued new guidance to simplify elements of cash flow classification. The new guidance is intended to reduce diversity in practice in how certain transactions are classified in the statement of cash flows. The new guidance is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017 and should be applied using a retrospective transition method. Adoption of this guidance did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements. Future Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements In February 2018, the FASB issued new guidance that will permit, but not require, entities to reclassify to retained earnings tax effects “stranded” in AOCI resulting from the change in federal tax rate enacted by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the “Tax Reform Act”) on December 22, 2017. An entity that elects this option must reclassify these stranded tax effects for all items in AOCI, including, but not limited to, AFS securities and employee benefits. Tax effects stranded in AOCI for other reasons, such as prior changes in tax law, may not be reclassified. While the new guidance provides entities the option to reclassify these amounts, new disclosures are required regardless of whether entities elect to do so. The new guidance is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2018, with early adoption permitted. Election can be made either to apply the new guidance retrospectively to each period in which the effect of the Tax Reform Act is recognized or in the period of adoption. Management currently is evaluating the options provided for adopting this guidance and the potential impacts on the Company’s consolidated financial statements. In August 2017, the FASB issued new guidance on accounting for hedging activities, intended to more closely align the financial statement reporting of hedging relationships to the economic results of an entity’s risk management activities. In addition, the new guidance makes certain targeted modifications to simplify the application of current hedge accounting guidance. The new guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018 and interim periods within those fiscal years, with early application permitted. The effect of adoption should be reflected as of the beginning of the fiscal year of adoption (that is, the initial application date). All transition requirements and elections should be applied to derivatives positions and hedging relationships existing on the date of adoption. Management currently is evaluating the impact that adoption of this guidance will have on the Company’s consolidated financial statements. In March 2017, the FASB issued guidance that requires certain premiums on callable debt securities to be amortized to the earliest call date and is intended to better align interest income recognition with the manner in which market participants price these instruments. The new guidance is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2018 with early adoption permitted and is to be applied on a modified retrospective basis. Management currently is evaluating the impact that adoption of this guidance will have on the Company’s consolidated financial statements. In June 2016, the FASB issued new guidance related to the accounting for credit losses on financial instruments. The new guidance introduces an approach based on expected losses to estimate credit losses on certain types of financial instruments. It also modifies the impairment model for available-for-sale debt securities and provides for a simplified accounting model for purchased financial assets with credit deterioration since their origination. The new guidance is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2019 with early adoption permitted for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2018. Management currently is evaluating the impact that adoption of this guidance will have on the Company’s consolidated financial statements. In February 2016, the FASB issued revised guidance to lease accounting that will require lessees to recognize on the balance sheet a “right-of-use” asset and a lease liability for virtually all lease arrangements, including those embedded in other contracts. The new lease accounting model will continue to distinguish between capital and operating leases. The current straight-line pattern for the recognition of rent expense on an operating lease is expected to remain substantially unchanged by the new guidance but instead will be comprised of amortization of the right-of-use asset and interest cost on the related lease obligation, thereby resulting in an income statement presentation similar to a financing arrangement or capital lease. Lessor accounting will remain substantially unchanged from the current model but has been updated to align with certain changes made to the lessee model. The new guidance is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2018, with early adoption permitted. The transition provisions require application on a modified retrospective approach at the beginning of the earliest comparative period presented in the financial statements (that is, January 1, 2017). Extensive quantitative and qualitative disclosures, including significant judgments made by management, will be required to provide greater insight into the extent of revenue and expense recognized and expected to be recognized from existing lease contracts and arrangements. Management currently is evaluating the impact that adoption of this guidance will have on the Company’s consolidated financial statements. Revenue Recognition Investment Management and Service Fees and Related Expenses Reported as Investment management and service fees in the Company’s consolidated statements of income (loss) are investment advisory and service fees, distribution revenues, and institutional research services revenues principally emerging from the Investment Management and Research segment. Also included are investment management and administrative service fees earned by AXA Equitable Funds Management Group, LLC (“AXA Equitable FMG”) and reported in the Retirement and Protection segment as well as certain asset-based fees associated with insurance contracts. Investment management, advisory, and service fees AB provides asset management services by managing customer assets and seeking to deliver returns to investors. Similarly, AXA Equitable FMG provides investment management and administrative services, such as fund accounting and compliance services, to AXA Premier VIP Trust (“VIP Trust”), EQ Advisors Trust (“EQAT”) and 1290 Funds as well as two private investment trusts established in the Cayman Islands, AXA Allocation Funds Trust and AXA Offshore Multimanager Funds Trust (collectively, the “Other AXA Trusts”). The contracts supporting these revenue streams create a distinct, separately identifiable performance obligation for each day the assets are managed for the performance of a series of services that are substantially the same and have the same pattern of transfer to the customer. Accordingly, these investment management, advisory, and service base fees are recorded over time as services are performed and entitle the Company to variable consideration. Base fees, generally calculated as a percentage of assets under management ("AUM"), are recognized as revenue at month-end when the transaction price no longer is variable and the value of the consideration is determined. These fees are not subject to claw back and there is minimal probability that a significant reversal of the revenue recorded will occur. Certain investment advisory contracts of AB, including those associated with hedge funds or other alternative investments, provide for a performance-based fee (including carried interest), in addition to a base advisory fee, calculated either as a percentage of absolute investment results or a percentage of investment results in excess of a stated benchmark over a specified period of time. These performance-based fees are forms of variable consideration and therefore, are excluded from the transaction price until it becomes probable there will not be significant reversal of the cumulative revenue recognized. At each reporting date, the Company evaluates constraining factors surrounding the variable consideration to determine the extent to which, if any, revenues associated with the performance-based fee can be recognized. Constraining factors impacting the amount of variable consideration included in the transaction price are, by example, contractual claw-back provisions, the length of time of the uncertainty, the number and range of possible amounts, the probability of significant fluctuations in the fund's market value, and the level in which the fund’s value exceeds the contractual threshold required to earn such a fee and the materiality of the amount being evaluated. Prior to adoption of the new revenue recognition guidance on January 1, 2018, the Company recognized performance-based fees at the end of the applicable measurement period when no risk of reversal remained, and carried-interest distributions received as deferred revenues until no risk of reversal remained. Sub-advisory and sub-administrative expenses associated with these services are calculated and recorded as the related services are performed in Other operating costs and expense in the consolidated statements of income (loss) as the Company is acting in a principal capacity in these transactions and, as such, reflects these revenues and expenses on a gross basis. Research services Research services revenue principally consists of brokerage transaction charges received by Sanford C. Bernstein & Co. LLC (“SCB LLC”) and Sanford C. Bernstein Limited (“SCBL”) for providing equity research services to institutional clients. Brokerage commissions for trade execution services and related expenses are recorded on a trade-date basis when the performance obligations are satisfied. Generally, the transaction price is agreed upon at the point of each trade and based upon the number of shares traded or the value of the consideration traded. Research revenues are recognized when the transaction price is quantified, collectability is assured, and significant reversal of such revenue is not probable. Distribution services Revenues from distribution services include fees received as partial reimbursement of expenses incurred in connection with the sale of certain AB sponsored mutual funds, and for the distribution primarily of EQAT and VIP Trust shares to separate accounts in connection with the sale of variable life and annuity contracts. The amount and timing of revenues recognized from performance of these distribution services often is dependent upon the contractual arrangements with the customer and the specific product sold as further described below. Most open-end management investment companies, such as U.S. funds, EQAT and VIP Trust, and 1290 funds, have adopted a plan under Rule 12b-1 of the Investment Company Act that allows for certain share classes to pay out of assets, distribution and service fees for the distribution and sale of their shares (“12b-1 fees”). These open-end management companies have such agreements with the Company, and the Company has selling and distribution agreements pursuant to which it pays sales commissions to the financial intermediaries that distribute the shares. These agreements may be terminated by either party upon notice (generally 30 days) and do not obligate the financial intermediary to sell any specific amount of shares. The Company records 12b-1 fees monthly based upon a percentage of the net asset value (“NAV”) of the funds. At month-end, the variable consideration of the transaction price is no longer constrained as the NAV can be calculated and the value of consideration is determined. These services are separate and distinct from other asset management services as the customer can benefit from these services independently of other services. The Company accrues the corresponding 12b-1 fees paid to sub-distributors monthly as the expenses are incurred. The Company is acting in a principal capacity in these transactions; as such, revenues and expenses are recorded on a gross basis in the consolidated statements of income (loss). AB sponsored mutual funds offer back-end load shares in limited instances and charge the investor a contingent deferred sales charge ("CDSC") if the investment is redeemed within a certain period. The variable consideration for these contracts is contingent upon the timing of the redemption by the investor and the value of the sales proceeds. Due to these constraining factors, the Company excludes the CDSC fee from the transaction price until the investor redeems the investment. Upon redemption, the cash consideration received for these contractual arrangements is recorded as a reduction of unamortized deferred sales commissions. AB’s Luxembourg subsidiary, the management company for most of its non-U.S. funds earns a management fee which is accrued daily and paid monthly, at an annual rate, based on the average daily net assets of the fund. With respect to certain share classes, the management fee also may contain a component paid to distributors and other financial intermediaries and service providers to cover shareholder servicing and other administrative expenses (also referred to as an “All-in-Fee”). Based on the conclusion that asset management is distinct from distribution, the Company allocates a portion of the investment and advisory fee to distribution revenues for the servicing component based on standalone selling prices. Other revenues Also reported as Investment management and service fees in the Company’s consolidated statements of income (loss) are other revenues from contracts with customers, primarily consisting of shareholder servicing fees, mutual fund reimbursements, and other brokerage income. Shareholder services, including transfer agency, administration, and recordkeeping are provided by AB to company-sponsored mutual funds. The consideration for these services is based on a percentage of the NAV of the fund or a fixed-fee based on the number of shareholder accounts being serviced. The revenues are recorded at month-end when the constraining factors involved with determining NAV or the numbers of shareholders’ accounts are resolved. Other income Revenues from contracts with customers reported as Other income in the Company’s consolidated statements of income (loss) primarily consist of commission and expense reimbursements related to business reinsured with affiliates and distribution fees received by the Company’s subsidiary broker-dealer for sales of affiliate insurers’ life insurance and annuity products. These revenues are recognized at month-end when constraining factors, such as premiums ceded and product mix, are resolved and the value of consideration is determined. Contract Assets and Liabilities The Company applies the practical expedient for contracts that have an original duration of one year or less. Accordingly, the Company accrues the incremental costs of obtaining a contract when incurred and does not consider the time value of money. At March 31, 2018 there are no material balances of contract assets and contract liabilities; as such, no further disclosures are necessary. Accounting and Consolidation of VIEs A VIE must be consolidated by its primary beneficiary, which generally is defined as the party that has a controlling financial interest in the VIE. The Company is deemed to have a controlling financial interest in a VIE if it has (i) the power to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly affect the VIE’s economic performance, and (ii) the obligation to absorb losses of the VIE or the right to receive income from the VIE that potentially could be significant to the VIE. For purposes of evaluating (ii) above, fees paid to the Company as a decision maker or service provider are excluded if the fees are compensation for services provided commensurate with the level of effort required to be performed and the arrangement includes only customary terms, conditions or amounts present in arrangements for similar services negotiated at arm’s length. If the Company has a variable interest in an entity that is determined not to be a VIE, the entity then is evaluated for consolidation under the voting interest entity (“VOE”) model. For limited partnerships and similar entities, the Company is deemed to have a controlling financial interest in a VOE, and would be required to consolidate the entity, if the Company owns a majority of the entity’s kick-out rights through voting limited partnership interests and other limited partners do not hold substantive participating rights (or other rights that would indicate that the Company does not control the entity). For entities other than limited partnerships, the Company is deemed to have a controlling financial interest in a VOE if it owns a majority voting interest in the entity. The analysis performed to identify variable interests held, determine whether entities are VIEs or VOEs, and evaluate whether the Company has a controlling financial interest in such entities requires the exercise of judgment and is updated on a continuous basis as circumstances change or new entities are developed. The primary beneficiary evaluation generally is performed qualitatively based on all facts and circumstances, including consideration of economic interests in the VIE held directly and indirectly through related parties and entities under common control, as well as quantitatively, as appropriate. At March 31, 2018 , the Company held approximately $1,130 million of investment assets in the form of equity interests issued by non-corporate legal entities determined under the new guidance to be VIEs, such as limited partnerships and limited liability companies, including hedge funds, private equity funds, and real estate-related funds. As an equity investor, the Company is considered to have a variable interest in each of these VIEs as a result of its participation in the risks and/or rewards these funds were designed to create by their defined portfolio objectives and strategies. Primarily through qualitative assessment, including consideration of related party interests or other financial arrangements, if any, the Company was not identified as primary beneficiary of any of these VIEs, largely due to its inability to direct the activities that most significantly impact their economic performance. Consequently, the Company continues to reflect these equity interests in the consolidated balance sheet as Other equity investments and to apply the equity method of accounting for these positions. The net assets of these non-consolidated VIEs are approximately $ 163,426 million, and the Company’s maximum exposure to loss from its direct involvement with these VIEs is the carrying value of its investment of $ 1,130 million at March 31, 2018 . Except for approximately $ 758 million of unfunded commitments at March 31, 2018 , the Company has no further economic interest in these VIEs in the form of guarantees, derivatives, credit enhancements or similar instruments and obligations. At March 31, 2018 , the Company consolidated one real estate joint venture for which it was identified as primary beneficiary under the VIE model. The consolidated entity is jointly owned by AXA Equitable and AXA France and holds an investment in a real estate venture. Included in the Company’s consolidated balance sheet at March 31, 2018 , are total assets of $ 36 million related to this VIE, primarily resulting from the consolidated presentation of $ 36 million of real estate held for production of income. In addition, real estate held for production of income reflects $ 16 million as related to two non-consolidated joint ventures at March 31, 2018 . Included in the Company's consolidated balance sheet at March 31, 2018 are assets of $ 2,447 million , liabilities of $ 1,219 million and redeemable non-controlling interest of $ 982 million associated with the consolidation of AB-sponsored investment funds under the VIE model. Also included in the Company's consolidated balance sheets are assets of $ 135 million , liabilities of $ 4 million and redeemable non-controlling interest of $ 10 million from consolidation of AB-sponsored investment funds under the VOE model. The assets of these consolidated funds are presented within Other invested assets and cash and cash equivalents, and liabilities of these consolidated funds are presented with other liabilities on the face of the Company's consolidated balance sheet at March 31, 2018 ; ownership interests not held by the Company relating to consolidated VIEs and VOEs are presented either as redeemable or non-redeemable noncontrolling interest, as appropriate. The Company is not required to provide financial support to these company-sponsored investment funds, and only the assets of such funds are available to settle each fund's liabilities. As of March 31, 2018 , the net assets of investment products sponsored by AB that are nonconsolidated VIEs are approximately $ 83,900 million and the Company’s maximum exposure to loss from its direct involvement with these VIEs is its investment of $ 8 million at March 31, 2018 . The Company has no further commitments to or economic interest in these VIEs. Impact of the Tax Reform Act On December 22, 2017, President Trump signed into law the Tax Reform Act, a broad overhaul of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code that changes long-standing provisions governing the taxation of U.S. corporations, including life insurance companies. The Tax Reform Act reduces the federal corporate income tax rate to 21% beginning in 2018 and repeals the corporate alternative minimum tax (“AMT”) while keeping existing AMT credits. It also includes changes to the dividends received deduction ("DRD"), insurance reserves and tax DAC, and measures affecting our international operations, such as a one-time transitional tax on some of the accumulated earnings of our foreign subsidiaries (within our Investment Management and Research segment). As a result of the Tax Reform Act, our new effective tax rate is expected to be approximately 19% , driven mainly by the new federal corporate tax rate of 21% and the Dividends Received Deduction (“DRD”) benefit. We expect the Tax Reform Act to have both positive and negative impacts on our consolidated balance sheet. On the one hand, as a one-time effect, the lower tax rate resulted in a reduction to the value of our deferred tax assets. On the other hand, the Tax Reform Act repeals the corporate AMT and, subject to certain limitations, allows us to use our AMT credits going forward, which will result in a reduction of our tax liability. We expect the tax liability on the earnings of our foreign subsidiaries will decrease going forward. In 2017, we recorded a one-time estimated decrease to net income of $23 million due to the estimated transitional tax on some of the accumulated earnings of these subsidiaries. Overall, we expect the Tax Reform Act to have a net positive economic impact on us. At December 31, 2017, we recorded a provisional estimate of the income tax effects related to Tax Reform. During the period ended March 31, 2018, we have not recorded any changes to this estimate. We continue to evaluate this new and complicated piece of legislation, assess the magnitude of the various impacts and monitor potential regulatory changes related to this reform. Assumption Updates and Model Changes There were no assumption changes in the first quarters of 2018 or 2017. Revision of Prior Period Financial Statements Management identified errors in its previously issued financial statements. These errors primarily relate to errors in the calculation of policyholders’ benefit reserves for the Company’s life products and the calculation of DAC amortization for certain variable and interest sensitive life products. Based upon quantitative and qualitative factors, management determined that the impact of the errors was not material to the consolidated financial statements as of and for the three months ended March 31, 2017. In order to improve the consistency and comparability of the financial statements, management revised the consolidated statements of income (loss) for the quarter ended 2017. In addition, in the third quarter of 2017, the Company voluntarily changed to fair value accounting for variable annuity products with the Guaranteed Minimum Income Benefits feature with a no-lapse guarantee ("GMIBNLG") as a retrospective change in accounting principle (the "Accounting Change"). Changes in the estimated fair value of the embedded derivative is reported in Net derivative gains (losses). The Company believes that the new method of accounting for the GMIBNLG as an embedded derivative at fair value more accurately reflects the economics of the NLG feature and is more meaningful to users of our financial statements. The following tables present line items for March 31, 2017 financial information that has been affected by the revisions and the Accounting Change. This information has been corrected from the information previously presented in the in the first quarter 2017 Form 10-Q. For these items, the tables detail the amounts as previously reported, the impact upon those line items due to the revisions, as revised after the revisions, the impacts of the Accounting Change and the amounts as currently revised. As Previously Reported Impact of Revisions As Revised and Adjusted Herein Impact of Accounting Change As Revised (In millions) As of March 31, 2017 Assets: Other equity investments $ 1,463 $ (23 ) $ 1,440 $ — $ 1,440 Other invested assets 2,050 34 2,084 — 2,084 Total investments 60,406 11 60,417 — 60,417 DAC 4,068 367 4,435 526 4,961 Amounts due from reinsurers 4,639 8 4,647 — 4,647 Guaranteed minimum income benefit 9,795 3 9,798 — 9,798 Total Assets $ 209,098 $ 389 $ 209,487 $ 526 $ 210,013 Liabilities: Policyholders' account balance $ 40,308 $ (16 ) $ 40,292 $ — $ 40,292 Future policyholders' benefits and other policyholders' liabilities 25,496 51 25,547 3,144 28,691 Current and deferred taxes 3,523 120 3,643 (917 ) 2,726 Other liabilities 2,496 (3 ) 2,493 — 2,493 Total Liabilities 192,712 152 192,864 2,227 195,091 Equity: Retained Earnings 7,411 232 7,643 (1,665 ) 5,978 Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) 179 (6 ) 173 (36 ) 137 AXA Equitable Equity 12,934 226 13,160 (1,701 ) 11,459 Noncontrolling interest 3,035 11 3,046 — 3,046 Equity 15,969 237 16,206 (1,701 ) 14,505 Total Liabilities and Equity $ 209,098 $ 389 $ 209,487 $ 526 $ 210,013 As Previously Reported Impact of Revisions As Revised and Adjusted Herein Impact of Accounting Change As Revised (In millions) Three Months Ended March 31, 2017 Statements of Income (Loss): Revenues: Policy charges and fee income $ 896 $ 23 $ 919 $ (67 ) $ 852 Premiums 225 7 232

INVESTMENTS

INVESTMENTS	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]
Investments	INVESTMENTS Fixed Maturities and Equity Securities The following table provides information relating to fixed maturities and equity securities classified as AFS: Available-for-Sale Securities by Classification Amortized Gross Unrealized Gross Unrealized Fair OTTI (3) (in millions) March 31, 2018: Fixed Maturity Securities: Public corporate $ 14,613 $ 467 $ 236 $ 14,844 $ — Private corporate 7,044 114 100 7,058 — U.S. Treasury, government and agency 10,196 219 390 10,025 — States and political subdivisions 414 56 1 469 — Foreign governments 396 21 9 408 — Residential mortgage-backed (1) 221 12 — 233 — Asset-backed (2) 89 1 3 87 2 Redeemable preferred stock 465 45 4 506 — Total at March 31, 2018 $ 33,438 $ 935 $ 743 $ 33,630 $ 2 As a result of the adoption of the Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities standard on January 1, 2018 (Financial Instruments Recognition and Measurement Standard), equity securities are no longer classified and accounted for as available for sale securities. Amortized Gross Unrealized Gross Unrealized Fair OTTI (3) (in millions) December 31, 2017: Fixed Maturity Securities: Public corporate $ 13,645 $ 725 $ 25 $ 14,345 $ — Private corporate 6,951 217 31 7,137 — U.S. Treasury, government and agency 12,644 676 185 13,135 — States and political subdivisions 414 67 — 481 — Foreign governments 387 27 5 409 — Residential mortgage-backed (1) 236 15 — 251 — Asset-backed (2) 93 3 — 96 2 Redeemable preferred stock 461 44 1 504 — Total Fixed Maturities 34,831 1,774 247 36,358 2 Equity securities 157 — — 157 — Total at December 31, 2017 $ 34,988 $ 1,774 $ 247 $ 36,515 $ 2 (1) Includes publicly traded agency pass-through securities and collateralized obligations. (2) Includes credit-tranched securities collateralized by sub-prime mortgages and other asset types and credit tenant loans. (3) Amounts represent OTTI losses in AOCI, which were not included in income (loss) in accordance with current accounting guidance. The contractual maturities of AFS fixed maturities at March 31, 2018 are shown in the table below. Bonds not due at a single maturity date have been included in the table in the final year of maturity. Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because borrowers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties. Available-for-Sale Fixed Maturities Contractual Maturities at March 31, 2018 Amortized Cost Fair Value (in millions) Due in one year or less $ 1,303 $ 1,312 Due in years two through five 7,045 7,183 Due in years six through ten 9,550 9,508 Due after ten years 14,765 14,801 Subtotal 32,663 32,804 Residential mortgage-backed securities 221 233 Asset-backed securities 89 87 Redeemable preferred stock 465 506 Total $ 33,438 $ 33,630 The following table shows proceeds from sales, gross gains (losses) from sales and OTTI for AFS fixed maturities during the first quarters of 2018 and 2017 : Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 2017 (in millions) Proceeds from sales $ 3,428 $ 414 Gross gains on sales $ 127 $ 19 Gross losses on sales $ (41 ) $ (20 ) Total OTTI $ — $ — Non-credit losses recognized in OCI — — Credit losses recognized in net income (loss) $ — $ — The following table sets forth the amount of credit loss impairments on fixed maturity securities held by the Company at the dates indicated and the corresponding changes in such amounts: Fixed Maturities - Credit Loss Impairments Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 2017 (in millions) Balances, beginning of period $ (10 ) $ (190 ) Previously recognized impairments on securities that matured, paid, prepaid or sold — 43 Recognized impairments on securities impaired to fair value this period (1) — — Impairments recognized this period on securities not previously impaired — — Additional impairments this period on securities previously impaired — — Increases due to passage of time on previously recorded credit losses — — Accretion of previously recognized impairments due to increases in expected cash flows — — Balances at March 31, $ (10 ) $ (147 ) (1) Represents circumstances where the Company determined in the current period that it intends to sell the security or it is more likely than not that it will be required to sell the security before recovery of the security’s amortized cost. Net unrealized investment gains (losses) on fixed maturities classified as AFS are included in the consolidated balance sheets as a component of AOCI. The table below presents these amounts as of the dates indicated: March 31, December 31, 2017 (in millions) AFS Securities: Fixed maturities: With OTTI loss $ (1 ) $ 1 All other 193 1,526 Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) $ 192 $ 1,527 Changes in net unrealized investment gains (losses) recognized in AOCI include reclassification adjustments to reflect amounts realized in Net income (loss) for the current period that had been part of OCI in earlier periods. The tables that follow below present a roll forward of net unrealized investment gains (losses) recognized in AOCI, split between amounts related to fixed maturity securities on which an OTTI loss has been recognized and all other: Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Fixed Maturities with OTTI Losses Net DAC Policyholders’ Deferred AOCI Gain (in millions) Balance, January 1, 2018 $ 1 $ 1 $ (1 ) $ (5 ) $ (4 ) Net investment gains (losses) arising during the period — — — — — Reclassification adjustment for OTTI losses: Included in Net income (loss) (2 ) — — — (2 ) Excluded from Net income (loss) (1) — — — — — Impact of net unrealized investment gains (losses) on: DAC — (1 ) — — (1 ) Deferred income taxes — — — — — Policyholders’ liabilities — — 1 — 1 Balance, March 31, 2018 $ (1 ) $ — $ — $ (5 ) $ (6 ) Balance, January 1, 2017 $ 19 $ (1 ) $ (10 ) $ (3 ) $ 5 Net investment gains (losses) arising during the period 49 — — — 49 Reclassification adjustment for OTTI losses: Included in Net income (loss) (48 ) — — — (48 ) Excluded from Net income (loss) (1) — — — — — Impact of net unrealized investment gains (losses) on: DAC — (4 ) — — (4 ) Deferred income taxes — — — (1 ) (1 ) Policyholders’ liabilities — — 5 — 5 Balance, March 31, 2017 $ 20 $ (5 ) $ (5 ) $ (4 ) $ 6 (1) Represents “transfers in” related to the portion of OTTI losses recognized during the period that were not recognized in income (loss) for securities with no prior OTTI loss. All Other Net Unrealized Investment Gains (Losses) in AOCI Net DAC Policyholders’ Deferred AOCI Gain (in millions) Balance, January 1, 2018 $ 1,526 $ (315 ) $ (232 ) $ (300 ) $ 679 Net investment gains (losses) arising during the period (88 ) — — — (88 ) Reclassification adjustment for OTTI losses: — Included in Net income (loss) (1,245 ) — — — (1,245 ) Excluded from Net income (loss) (1) — — — — — Impact of net unrealized investment gains (losses) on: DAC — 288 — — 288 Deferred income taxes — — — 197 197 Policyholders’ liabilities — — 108 — 108 Balance, March 31, 2018 $ 193 $ (27 ) $ (124 ) $ (103 ) $ (61 ) Balance, January 1, 2017 $ 428 $ (70 ) $ (188 ) $ (60 ) $ 110 Net investment gains (losses) arising during the period 166 — — — 166 Reclassification adjustment for OTTI losses: — Included in Net income (loss) 12 — — — 12 Excluded from Net income (loss) (1) — — — — — Impact of net unrealized investment gains (losses) on: DAC — (73 ) — — (73 ) Deferred income taxes — — — (46 ) (46 ) Policyholders’ liabilities — — 26 — 26 Balance, March 31, 2017 $ 606 $ (143 ) $ (162 ) $ (106 ) $ 195 (1) Represents “transfers out” related to the portion of OTTI losses during the period that were not recognized in income (loss) for securities with no prior OTTI loss. The following tables disclose the fair values and gross unrealized losses of the 1,188 issues at March 31, 2018 and the 620 issues at December 31, 2017 of fixed maturities that are not deemed to be other-than-temporarily impaired, aggregated by investment category and length of time that individual securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position for the specified periods at the dates indicated: Less Than 12 Months 12 Months or Longer Total Fair Value Gross Unrealized Losses Fair Value Gross Unrealized Losses Fair Value Gross Unrealized Losses (in millions) March 31, 2018: Fixed Maturity Securities: Public corporate $ 6,461 $ 209 $ 443 $ 27 $ 6,904 $ 236 Private corporate 2,299 58 634 42 2,933 100 U.S. Treasury, government and agency 2,172 65 2,859 325 5,031 390 States and political subdivisions 19 1 — — 19 1 Foreign governments 57 1 70 8 127 9 Residential mortgage-backed 17 — — — 17 — Asset-backed 70 3 1 — 71 3 Redeemable preferred stock 112 2 12 2 124 4 Total $ 11,207 $ 339 $ 4,019 $ 404 $ 15,226 $ 743 December 31, 2017: Fixed Maturity Securities: Public corporate $ 1,384 $ 9 $ 548 $ 16 $ 1,932 $ 25 Private corporate 718 8 615 23 1,333 31 U.S. Treasury, government and agency 2,150 6 3,005 179 5,155 185 States and political subdivisions 20 — — — 20 — Foreign governments 11 — 73 5 84 5 Residential mortgage-backed 18 — — — 18 — Asset-backed 7 — 2 — 9 — Redeemable preferred stock 7 — 12 1 19 1 Total $ 4,315 $ 23 $ 4,255 $ 224 $ 8,570 $ 247 The Company’s investments in fixed maturity securities do not include concentrations of credit risk of any single issuer greater than 10% of the consolidated equity of AXA Equitable, other than securities of the U.S. government, U.S. government agencies, and certain securities guaranteed by the U.S. government. The Company maintains a diversified portfolio of corporate securities across industries and issuers and does not have exposure to any single issuer in excess of 1.0 % of total investments. The largest exposures to a single issuer of corporate securities held at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 were $ 208 million and $182 million , respectively. Corporate high yield securities, consisting primarily of public high yield bonds, are classified as other than investment grade by the various rating agencies, i.e., a rating below Baa3/BBB- or the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (“NAIC”) designation of 3 (medium grade), 4 or 5 (below investment grade) or 6 (in or near default). At March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 , respectively, approximately $ 1,280 million and $1,309 million , or 3.8 % and 3.8% , of the $ 33,438 million and $34,831 million aggregate amortized cost of fixed maturities held by the Company were considered to be other than investment grade. These securities had net unrealized losses of $ 14 million and $5 million at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 , respectively. At March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 , respectively, the $404 million and $224 million of gross unrealized losses of twelve months or more were concentrated in corporate and U.S. Treasury, government and agency securities. In accordance with the policy described in Note 2 , the Company concluded that an adjustment to income for OTTI for these securities was not warranted at either March 31, 2018 or 2017 . At March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 , the Company did not intend to sell the securities nor will it likely be required to dispose of the securities before the anticipated recovery of their remaining amortized cost basis. The Company does not originate, purchase or warehouse residential mortgages and is not in the mortgage servicing business. At March 31, 2018 , the carrying value of fixed maturities that were non-income producing for the twelve months preceding that date was $ 2 million. For the first quarters of 2018 and 2017 , investment income is shown net of investment expenses of $19 million and $19 million respectively. At March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 , respectively, the fair values of the Company's trading account securities were $ 13,457 million and $12,628 million , respectively. Also at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 , trading securities included the General Account’s investment in Separate Accounts, which had carrying values of $ 48 million and $49 million . Net unrealized and realized gains (losses) on trading account equity securities are included in Net investment income (loss) in the Consolidated Statements of Income (Loss). The table below shows a breakdown of Net investment income from trading account securities during the first quarters of 2018 and 2017 : Net Investment Income (Loss) from Trading Securities Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 2017 (in millions) Net investment gains (losses) recognized during the period on securities held at the end of the period $ (64 ) $ 51 Net investment gains (losses) recognized on securities sold during the period 1 2 Unrealized and realized gains (losses) on trading securities arising during the period (63 ) 53 Interest and dividend income from trading securities 66 40 Net investment income (loss) from trading securities $ 3 $ 93 Mortgage Loans The payment terms of mortgage loans may from time to time be restructured or modified. Mortgage loans on real estate are placed on nonaccrual status once management determines the collection of accrued interest is doubtful. Once mortgage loans on real estate are classified as nonaccrual loans, interest income is recognized under the cash basis of accounting and the resumption of the interest accrual would commence only after all past due interest has been collected or the mortgage loan on real estate has been restructured to where the collection of interest is considered likely. At March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 , the carrying values of commercial mortgage loans on real estate that had been classified as nonaccrual loans were $ 19 million and $19 million , respectively. Valuation Allowances for Mortgage Loans: Allowance for credit losses for mortgage loans for the first quarters of 2018 and 2017 are as follows: Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 2017 Allowance for credit losses: (in millions) Beginning balance, January 1, $ 8 $ 8 Charge-offs — — Recoveries (1 ) — Provision — — Ending balance, March 31, $ 7 $ 8 March 31, Individually Evaluated for Impairment $ 7 $ 8 There were no allowances for credit losses for agricultural mortgage loans for the first quarters of 2018 and 2017 . Real Estate: In March 2018, AXA Equitable Life sold its interest in two consolidated real estate joint ventures to AXA France for a total purchase price of approximately $143 million , which resulted in a pre-tax loss of $0.2 million and the reduction of $203 million of long-term debt on the Company's balance sheet for the first quarter of 2018. The following tables provide information relating to the loan-to-value and debt service coverage ratios for commercial and agricultural mortgage loans at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 . The values used in these ratio calculations were developed as part of the periodic review of the commercial and agricultural mortgage loan portfolio, which includes an evaluation of the underlying collateral value. Mortgage Loans by Loan-to-Value and Debt Service Coverage Ratios March 31, 2018 Debt Service Coverage Ratio Loan-to-Value Ratio: (1) Greater than 2.0x 1.8x to 2.0x 1.5x to 1.8x 1.2x to 1.5x 1.0x to 1.2x Less than 1.0x Total Mortgage Loans (in millions) Commercial Mortgage Loans (2) 0% - 50% $ 719 $ 22 $ 321 $ 73 $ — $ — $ 1,135 50% - 70% 4,477 643 1,122 399 178 — 6,819 70% - 90% 169 110 144 307 27 — 757 90% plus — — 27 — — — 27 Total Commercial Mortgage Loans $ 5,365 $ 775 $ 1,614 $ 779 $ 205 $ — $ 8,738 Agricultural Mortgage Loans (2) 0% - 50% $ 275 $ 153 $ 276 $ 496 $ 321 $ 29 $ 1,550 50% - 70% 111 46 219 360 228 48 1,012 70% - 90% — — — 23 — — 23 90% plus — — — — — — — Total Agricultural Mortgage Loans $ 386 $ 199 $ 495 $ 879 $ 549 $ 77 $ 2,585 Total Mortgage Loans (2) 0% - 50% $ 994 $ 175 $ 597 $ 569 $ 321 $ 29 $ 2,685 50% - 70% 4,588 689 1,341 759 406 48 7,831 70% - 90% 169 110 144 330 27 — 780 90% plus — — 27 — — — 27 Total Mortgage Loans $ 5,751 $ 974 $ 2,109 $ 1,658 $ 754 $ 77 $ 11,323 (1) The loan-to-value ratio is derived from current loan balance divided by the fair market value of the property. The fair market value of the underlying commercial properties is updated annually. (2) The debt service coverage ratio is calculated using the most recently reported operating income results from property operations divided by annual debt service. Mortgage Loans by Loan-to-Value and Debt Service Coverage Ratios December 31, 2017 Debt Service Coverage Ratio Loan-to-Value Ratio: (1) Greater than 2.0x 1.8x to 2.0x 1.5x to 1.8x 1.2x to 1.5x 1.0x to 1.2x Less than 1.0x Total Mortgage Loans (in millions) Commercial Mortgage Loans (2) 0% - 50% $ 742 $ — $ 320 $ 74 $ — $ — $ 1,136 50% - 70% 4,088 682 1,066 428 145 — 6,409 70% - 90% 169 110 196 272 50 — 797 90% plus — — 27 — — — 27 Total Commercial Mortgage Loans $ 4,999 $ 792 $ 1,609 $ 774 $ 195 $ — $ 8,369 Agricultural Mortgage Loans (2) 0% - 50% $ 272 $ 149 $ 275 $ 515 $ 316 $ 30 $ 1,557 50% - 70% 111 46 227 359 221 49 1,013 70% - 90% — — — 4 — — 4 90% plus — — — — — — — Total Agricultural Mortgage Loans $ 383 $ 195 $ 502 $ 878 $ 537 $ 79 $ 2,574 Total Mortgage Loans (2) 0% - 50% $ 1,014 $ 149 $ 595 $ 589 $ 316 $ 30 $ 2,693 50% - 70% 4,199 728 1,293 787 366 49 7,422 70% - 90% 169 110 196 276 50 — 801 90% plus — — 27 — — — 27 Total Mortgage Loans $ 5,382 $ 987 $ 2,111 $ 1,652 $ 732 $ 79 $ 10,943 (1) The loan-to-value ratio is derived from current loan balance divided by the fair market value of the property. The fair market value of the underlying commercial properties is updated annually. (2) The debt service coverage ratio is calculated using the most recently reported net operating income results from property operations divided by annual debt service. The following table provides information relating to the aging analysis of past due mortgage loans at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 , respectively. Age Analysis of Past Due Mortgage Loan 30-59 Days 60-89 Days 90 Days or > Total Current Total Financing Receivables Recorded Investment 90 Days or > and Accruing (in millions) March 31, 2018 Commercial $ — $ — $ 27 $ 27 $ 8,711 $ 8,738 $ — Agricultural 10 5 39 54 2,531 2,585 39 Total Mortgage Loans $ 10 $ 5 $ 66 $ 81 $ 11,242 $ 11,323 $ 39 December 31, 2017 Commercial $ 27 $ — $ — $ 27 $ 8,342 $ 8,369 $ — Agricultural 49 3 22 74 2,500 2,574 22 Total Mortgage Loans $ 76 $ 3 $ 22 $ 101 $ 10,842 $ 10,943 $ 22 The following table provides information relating to impaired mortgage loans at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 , respectively. Impaired Mortgage Loans Recorded Investment Unpaid Principal Balance Related Allowance Average Recorded Investment (1) Interest Income Recognized (in millions) March 31, 2018: With no related allowance recorded: Commercial mortgage loans - other $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — Agricultural mortgage loans — — — — — Total $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — With related allowance recorded: Commercial mortgage loans - other $ 27 $ 27 $ (7 ) $ 27 $ — Agricultural mortgage loans — — — — — Total $ 27 $ 27 $ (7 ) $ 27 $ — December 31, 2017: With no related allowance recorded: Commercial mortgage loans - other $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — Agricultural mortgage loans — — — — — Total $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — With related allowance recorded: Commercial mortgage loans - other $ 27 $ 27 $ (8 ) $ 27 $ 2 Agricultural mortgage loans — — — — — Total $ 27 $ 27 $ (8 ) $ 27 $ 2 (1) Represents a two-quarter average of recorded amortized cost. Derivatives and Offsetting Assets and Liabilities The Company uses derivatives as part of its overall asset/liability risk management primarily to reduce exposures to equity market and interest rate risks. Derivative hedging strategies are designed to reduce these risks from an economic perspective and are all executed within the framework of a Derivative Use Plan ("DUP") approved by the NYDFS. Derivatives are generally not accounted for using hedge accounting, with the exception of Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (“TIPS”), which is discussed further below. Operation of these hedging programs is based on models involving numerous estimates and assumptions, including, among others, mortality, lapse, surrender and withdrawal rates, election rates, fund performance, market volatility and interest rates. A wide range of derivative contracts are used in these hedging programs, including exchange traded equity, currency and interest rate futures contracts, total return and/or other equity swaps, interest rate swap and floor contracts, bond and bond-index total return swaps, swaptions, variance swaps and equity options credit and foreign exchange derivatives as well as bond and repo transactions to support the hedging. The derivative contracts are collectively managed in an effort to reduce the economic impact of unfavorable changes in guaranteed benefits’ exposures attributable to movements in capital markets. Derivatives utilized to hedge exposure to Variable Annuities with Guarantee Features The Company has issued and continues to offer variable annuity products with variable annuity guaranteed benefits (“GMxB”), including guaranteed minimum living benefits (“GMLBs”) (such as guaranteed minimum income benefits ("GMIBs"), guaranteed minimum withdrawal benefits ("GMWBs") and guaranteed minimum accumulation benefits ("GMABs")), and guaranteed minimum death benefits (“GMDBs”) (inclusive of return of premium death benefit guarantees). The risk associated with the GMDB feature is that under-performance of the financial markets could result in GMDB benefits, in the event of death, being higher than what accumulated policyholders’ account balances would support. The risk associated with the GMIB feature is that under-performance of the financial markets could result in the present value of GMIB, in the event of annuitization, being higher than what accumulated policyholders’ account balances would support, taking into account the relationship between current annuity purchase rates and the GMIB guaranteed annuity purchase rates. The risk associated with products that have a GMxB derivative features liability is that under-performance of the financial markets could result in the GMxB derivative features' benefits being higher than what accumulated policyholders’ account balances would support. For GMxB features, the Company retains certain risks including basis, credit spread and some volatility risk and risk associated with actual versus expected actuarial assumptions for mortality, lapse and surrender, withdrawal and policyholder election rates, among other things. The derivative contracts are managed to correlate with changes in the value of the GMxB features that result from financial markets movements. A portion of exposure to realized equity volatility is hedged using equity options and variance swaps and a portion of exposure to credit risk is hedged using total return swaps on fixed income indices. Additionally, the Company is party to total return swaps for which the reference U.S. Treasury securities are contemporaneously purchased from the market and sold to the swap counterparty. As these transactions result in a transfer of control of the U.S. Treasury securities to the swap counterparty, the Company derecognizes these securities with consequent gain or loss from the sale. The Company has also purchased reinsurance contracts to mitigate the risks associated with GMDB features and the impact of potential market fluctuations on future policyholder elections of GMIB features contained in certain annuity contracts issued by the Company. The Company implemented an overlay hedge program to ensure a target asset level for all variable annuities at a CTE98 level under most scenarios, and at a CTE95 level in extreme scenarios. Derivatives used to hedge crediting rate exposure on SCS, SIO, MSO and IUL products/investment options The Company hedges crediting rates in the Structured Capital Strategies (“SCS”) variable annuity, Structured Investment Option in the EQUI-VEST variable annuity series (“SIO”), Market Stabilizer Option (“MSO”) in the variable life insurance products and Indexed Universal Life (“IUL”) insurance products. These products permit the contract owner to participate in the performance of an index, ETF or commodity price movement up to a cap for a set period of time. They also contain a protection feature, in which the Company will absorb, up to a certain percentage, the loss of value in an index, ETF or commodity price, which varies by product segment. In order to support the returns associated with these features, the Company enters into derivative contracts whose payouts, in combination with fixed income investments, emulate those of the index, ETF or commodity price, subject to caps and buffers without any basis risk due to market exposures, thereby substantially reducing any exposure to market-related earnings volatility. Derivatives used for General Account Investment Portfolio The Company maintains a strategy in its General Account investment portfolio to replicate the credit exposure of fixed maturity securities otherwise permissible for investment under its investment guidelines through the sale of credit default swaps (“CDSs”). Under the terms of these swaps, the Company receives quarterly fixed premiums that, together with any initial amount paid or received at trade inception, replicate the credit spread otherwise currently obtainable by purchasing the referenced entity’s bonds of similar maturity. These credit derivatives generally have remaining terms of five years or less and are recorded at fair value with changes in fair value, including the yield component that emerges from initial amounts paid or received, reported in Net investment income (loss). The Company manages its credit exposure taking into consideration both cash and derivatives based positions and selects the reference entities in its replicated credit exposures in a manner consistent with its selection of fixed maturities. In addition, the Company generally transacts the sale of CDSs in single name reference entities of investment grade credit quality and with counterparties subject to collateral posting requirements. If there is an event of default by the reference entity or other such credit event as defined under the terms of the swap contract, the Company is obligated to perform under the credit derivative and, at the counterparty’s option, either pay the referenced amount of the contract less an auction-determined recovery amount or pay the referenced amount of the contract and receive in return the defaulted or similar security of the reference entity for recovery by sale at the contract settlement auction. To date, there have been no events of default or circumstances indicative of a deterioration in the credit quality of the named referenced entities to require or suggest that the Company will have to perform under these CDSs. The maximum potential amount of future payments the Company could be required to make under these credit derivatives is limited to the par value of the referenced securities which is the dollar or euro-equivalent of the derivative notional amount. The Standard North American CDS Contract (“SNAC”) or Standard European Corporate Contract (“STEC”) under which the Company executes these CDS sales transactions does not contain recourse provisions for recovery of amounts paid under the credit derivative. The Company purchased 30-year TIPS and other sovereign bonds, both inflation linked and non-inflation linked, as General Account investments and enters into asset or cross-currency basis swaps, to result in payment of the given bond’s coupons and principal at maturity in the bond’s specified currency to the swap counterparty in return for fixed dollar amounts. These swaps, when considered in combination with the bonds, together result in a net position that is intended to replicate a dollar-denominated fixed-coupon cash bond with a yield higher than a term-equivalent U.S. Treasury bond. At March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 , the Company’s unrealized gains (losses) related to this program were $(88) million and $(86) million , respectively, and reported in AOCI. The Company implemented a strategy to hedge a portion of the credit exposure in its General Account investment portfolio by buying protection through a swap. These are swaps on the “super senior tranche” of the investment grade CDX index. Under the terms of these swaps, the Company pays quarterly fixed premiums that, together with any initial amount paid or received at trade inception, serve as premiums paid to hedge the risk arising from multiple defaults of bonds referenced in the CDX index. These credit derivatives have terms of five years or less and are recorded at fair value with changes in fair value, including the yield component that emerges from initial amounts paid or received, reported in Net derivative gains (losses). In 2016, the Company implemented a program to mitigate its duration gap using total return swaps for which the reference U.S. Treasury securities are sold to the swap counterparty under arrangements economically similar to repurchase agreements. As these transactions result in a transfer of control of the U.S. Treasury securities to the swap counterparty, the Company derecognizes these securities with consequent gain or loss from the sale. Under this program the Company derecognized approximately $ 3,905 million U.S. Treasury securities for which the Company received proceeds of approximately $ 3,905 million at inception of the total return swap contract. Under the terms of these swaps, the Company retains ongoing exposure to the total returns of the underlying U.S. Treasury securities in exchange for a financing cost. At March 31, 2018 , the aggregate fair value of U.S. Treasury securities derecognized under this program was approximately $ 3,673 million. Reported in Other invested assets in the Company's balance sheet at March 31, 2018 is approximately $ 16 million, representing the fair value of the total return swap contracts. The tables below present quantitative disclosures about the Company’s derivative instruments, including those embedded in other contracts required to be accounted for as derivative instruments. Derivative Instruments by Category At March 31, 2018 Gains (Losses) Reported In Net Income (Loss) Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 Fair Value Notional Amount Asset Derivatives Liability Derivatives (in millions) Freestanding derivatives: Equity contracts: (1) Futures $ 3,318 $ 2 $ 1 $ (28 ) Swaps 4,866 142 13 66 Options 21,635 3,261 1,392 (15 ) Interest rate contracts: (1) Swaps 21,646 302 347 (491 ) Futures 15,835 — — 40 Credit contracts: (1) Credit default swaps 2,136 32 3 — Other freestanding contracts: (1) Foreign currency contracts 1,781 10 52 (51 ) Margin — 16 — — Collateral — 8 1,824 — Embedded derivatives: GMIB reinsurance contracts (4) — 9,673 — (842 ) GMxB derivative features liability (2,4) — — 3,804 440 SCS, SIO, MSO and IUL indexed features (3,4) — — 1,609 104 Total $ 71,217 $ 13,446 $ 9,045 $ (777 ) (1) Reported in Other invested assets in the consolidated balance sheets. (2) Reported in Future policy benefits and other policyholders’ liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets. (3) SCS and SIO indexed features are reported in Policyholders’ account balances; MSO and IUL indexed features are reported in Future policyholders’ benefits and other policyholders’ liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets. (4) Reported in Net derivative gains (losses) in the consolidated statements of income (loss). At December 31, 2017 Gains (Losses) Reported In Net Income (Loss) Three Months Ended March 31, 2017 Fair Value Notional Amount Asset Derivatives Liability Derivatives (in millions) Freestanding derivatives: Equity contracts: (1) Futures $ 3,113 $ 1 $ 3 $ (212 ) Swaps 4,655 3 126 (241 ) Options 20,630 3,334 1,426 302 Interest rate contracts: (1) Swaps 19,032 320 191 108 Futures 11,032 — — (19 ) Swaptions — — — — Credit contracts: (1) Credit default swaps 2,131 35 3 6 Other freestanding contracts: (1) Foreign currency contracts 1,423 19 10 (1 ) Margin — 24 — — Collateral — 4 1,855 — Embedded derivatives: GMIB reinsurance contracts (4) — 10,488 — (533 ) GMxB derivative features liability (2,4) — — 4,164 490 SCS, SIO, MSO and IUL indexed features (3,4) — — 1,698 (262 ) Total $ 62,016 $ 14,228 $ 9,476 $ (362 ) (1) Reported in Other invested assets in the consolidated balance sheets. (2) Reported in Future policy benefits and other policyholders’ liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets. (3) SCS and SIO indexed features are reported in Policyholders’ account balances; MSO and IUL indexed features are reported in the Future policyholders’ benefits and other policyholders’ liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets. (4) Reported in Net derivative

CLOSED BLOCK

CLOSED BLOCK	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018
Closed Block Disclosure [Abstract]
Closed Block	CLOSED BLOCK Summarized financial information for the Company’s Closed Block is as follows: March 31, December 31, (in millions) CLOSED BLOCK LIABILITIES: Future policy benefits, policyholders’ account balances and other $ 6,904 $ 6,958 Policyholder dividend obligation — 19 Other liabilities 269 271 Total Closed Block liabilities 7,173 7,248 ASSETS DESIGNATED TO THE CLOSED BLOCK: Fixed maturities, available for sale, at fair value (amortized cost of $3,864 and $3,923) 3,908 4,070 Mortgage loans on real estate 1,837 1,720 Policy loans 772 781 Cash and other invested assets 235 351 Other assets 192 182 Total assets designated to the Closed Block 6,944 7,104 Excess of Closed Block liabilities over assets designated to the Closed Block 229 144 Amounts included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss): Net unrealized investment gains (losses), net of policyholder dividend obligation of $0 and $19 55 138 Maximum Future Earnings To Be Recognized From Closed Block Assets and Liabilities $ 284 $ 282 The Company’s Closed Block revenues and expenses follow: Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 2017 (in millions) REVENUES: Premiums and other income $ 51 $ 54 Net investment income (loss) 73 83 Net investment gains (losses) 1 (15 ) Total revenues 125 122 BENEFITS AND OTHER DEDUCTIONS: Policyholders’ benefits and dividends 126 151 Other operating costs and expenses 1 — Total benefits and other deductions 127 151 Net revenues (loss) before income taxes (2 ) (29 ) Income tax (expense) benefit — 10 Net Revenues (Losses) $ (2 ) $ (19 ) A reconciliation of the Company’s policyholder dividend obligation follows: Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 2017 (in millions) Balances, beginning of year $ 19 $ 52 Unrealized investment gains (losses), net of DAC (19 ) (14 ) Balances, End of Period $ — $ 38

INSURANCE LIABILITIES

INSURANCE LIABILITIES	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018
Insurance [Abstract]
Insurance Liabilities	INSURANCE LIABILITIES A) Variable Annuity Contracts – GMDB, GMIB, GIB and GWBL and Other Features The Company has certain variable annuity contracts with GMDB, GMIB, GIB and GWBL and other features in-force that guarantee one of the following: • Return of Premium: the benefit is the greater of current account value or premiums paid (adjusted for withdrawals); • Ratchet: the benefit is the greatest of current account value, premiums paid (adjusted for withdrawals), or the highest account value on any anniversary up to contractually specified ages (adjusted for withdrawals); • Roll-Up: the benefit is the greater of current account value or premiums paid (adjusted for withdrawals) accumulated at contractually specified interest rates up to specified ages; • Combo: the benefit is the greater of the ratchet benefit or the roll-up benefit, which may include either a five year or an annual reset; or • Withdrawal: the withdrawal is guaranteed up to a maximum amount per year for life. The following table summarizes the direct GMDB and GMIB with no no-lapse guarantee rider ("NLG") features liabilities, before reinsurance ceded, reflected in the consolidated balance sheets in Future policy benefits and other policyholders’ liabilities: GMDB GMIB Total (in millions) Balance at January 1, 2018 $ 4,080 $ 4,802 $ 8,882 Paid guarantee benefits (101 ) (32 ) (133 ) Other changes in reserve 96 (139 ) (43 ) Balance at March 31, 2018 $ 4,075 $ 4,631 $ 8,706 Balance at January 1, 2017 $ 3,165 $ 3,870 $ 7,035 Paid guarantee benefits (89 ) (34 ) (123 ) Other changes in reserve 187 1,917 2,104 Balance at March 31, 2017 $ 3,263 $ 5,753 $ 9,016 The following table summarizes the ceded GMDB liabilities, reflected in the consolidated balance sheets in Amounts due from reinsurers: Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 2017 (in millions) Balance, beginning of year $ 2,030 $ 1,558 Paid guarantee benefits (54 ) (43 ) Other changes in reserve 62 69 Balance, End of Period $ 2,038 $ 1,584 The liability for the GMxB derivative features liability, the liability for SCS, SIO, MSO and IUL indexed features and the GMIB reinsurance contracts are considered embedded or freestanding insurance derivatives and are reported at fair value. Summarized in the table below is a summary of the fair value of these liabilities at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 : March 31, December 31, (in millions) GMIBNLG (1) $ 3,715 $ 4,056 SCS, MSO, IUL features (2) 1,609 1,698 GWBL/GMWB (1) 121 130 GIB (1) (36 ) (27 ) GMAB (1) 4 5 Total Embedded derivatives liability (1) $ 5,413 $ 5,862 GMIB reinsurance contract asset (3) $ 9,673 $ 10,488 (1) Reported in future policyholders' benefits and other policyholders' liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets. (2) Reported in Policyholders' account balances in the consolidated balance sheets. (3) Reported in GMIB reinsurance contract asset, at fair value in the consolidated balance sheets. The March 31, 2018 values for direct variable annuity contracts in-force on such date with GMDB and GMIB features are presented in the following table. For contracts with the GMDB feature, the net amount at risk in the event of death is the amount by which the GMDB exceed related account values. For contracts with the GMIB feature, the net amount at risk in the event of utilization is the amount by which the present value of the GMIB benefits exceeds related account values, taking into account the relationship between current annuity purchase rates and the GMIB guaranteed annuity purchase rates. Since variable annuity contracts with GMDB guarantees may also offer GMIB guarantees in the same contract, the GMDB and GMIB amounts listed are not mutually exclusive: Return of Premium Ratchet Roll-Up Combo Total (Dollars in millions) GMDB: Account values invested in: General Account $ 13,848 $ 107 $ 64 $ 195 $ 14,214 Separate Accounts $ 45,136 $ 9,319 $ 3,381 $ 34,668 $ 92,504 Net amount at risk, gross $ 186 $ 117 $ 2,016 $ 16,388 $ 18,707 Net amount at risk, net of amounts reinsured $ 186 $ 87 $ 1,378 $ 6,911 $ 8,562 Average attained age of contract holders 52 67 73 68 55.2 Percentage of contract holders over age 70 9.7 % 40.9 % 63.7 % 47.4 % 18.3 % Range of contractually specified interest rates N/A N/A 3%-6% 3%-6.5% 3%-6.5% GMIB: Account values invested in: General Account N/A N/A $ 24 $ 285 $ 309 Separate Accounts N/A N/A $ 20,855 $ 39,604 $ 60,459 Net amount at risk, gross N/A N/A $ 883 $ 6,322 $ 7,205 Net amount at risk, net of amounts reinsured N/A N/A $ 268 $ 1,560 $ 1,828 Weighted average years remaining until annuitization N/A N/A 1.7 0.7 0.8 Range of contractually specified interest rates N/A N/A 3%-6% 3%-6.5% 3%-6.5% At March 31, 2018 , the Company had reinsured with non-affiliates and affiliates in the aggregate approximately 3.4% and 50.8% , respectively, of its current exposure to the GMDB obligation on annuity contracts in-force and, subject to certain maximum amounts or caps in any one period, approximately 16.6% and 58.0% , respectively, of its current liability exposure resulting from the GMIB feature. B) Separate Account Investments by Investment Category Underlying GMDB and GMIB Features The total account values of variable annuity contracts with GMDB and GMIB features include amounts allocated to the guaranteed interest option, which is part of the General Account and variable investment options that invest through Separate Accounts in variable insurance trusts. The following table presents the aggregate fair value of assets, by major investment category, held by Separate Accounts that support variable annuity contracts with GMDB and GMIB guarantees. The investment performance of the assets impacts the related account values and, consequently, the net amount of risk associated with the GMDB and GMIB benefits and guarantees. Because variable annuity contracts offer both GMDB and GMIB features, GMDB and GMIB amounts are not mutually exclusive: Investment in Variable Insurance Trust Mutual Funds March 31, December 31, (in millions) GMDB: Equity $ 76,532 $ 78,069 Fixed income 2,165 2,234 Balanced 13,525 14,084 Other 282 285 Total $ 92,504 $ 94,672 GMIB: Equity $ 49,042 $ 50,429 Fixed income 1,528 1,568 Balanced 9,762 10,165 Other 127 124 Total $ 60,459 $ 62,286 C) Hedging Programs for GMDB, GMIB, GIB and Other Features Beginning in 2003, the Company established a program intended to hedge certain risks associated first with the GMDB feature and, beginning in 2004, with the GMIB feature of the Accumulator series of variable annuity products. The program has also been extended to cover other guaranteed benefits as they have been made available. This program utilizes derivative contracts, such as exchange-traded equity, currency and interest rate futures contracts, total return and/or equity swaps, interest rate swap and floor contracts, swaptions, variance swaps as well as equity options, that collectively are managed in an effort to reduce the economic impact of unfavorable changes in guaranteed benefits’ exposures attributable to movements in the capital markets. At the present time, this program hedges certain economic risks on products sold from 2001 forward, to the extent such risks are not externally reinsured. At March 31, 2018 , the total account value and net amount at risk of the hedged variable annuity contracts were $ 54,391 million and $ 7,600 million, respectively, with the GMDB feature and $41,189 million and $ 3,057 million, respectively, with the GMIB and GIB feature. These programs do not qualify for hedge accounting treatment. Therefore, gains (losses) on the derivatives contracts used in these programs, including current period changes in fair value, are recognized in net derivative gains (loss) in the period in which they occur, and may contribute to income (loss) volatility. D) Variable and Interest-Sensitive Life Insurance Policies - NLG The NLG feature contained in variable and interest-sensitive life insurance policies keeps them in force in situations where the policy value is not sufficient to cover monthly charges then due. The NLG remains in effect so long as the policy meets a contractually specified premium funding test and certain other requirements. The following table summarizes the NLG liabilities reflected in the General Account in Future policy benefits and other policyholders’ liabilities, the related reinsurance reserve ceded, reflected in Amounts due from reinsurers and deferred cost of reinsurance, reflected in Other assets in the Consolidated balance sheets: Direct Liability Reinsurance Ceded Net (in millions) Balance at January 1, 2018 $ 686 $ (664 ) $ 22 Paid Guaranteed Benefits (8 ) — (8 ) Other changes in reserves 18 (11 ) 7 Balance at March 31, 2018 $ 696 $ (675 ) $ 21 Balance at January 1, 2017 $ 1,197 $ (609 ) $ 588 Other changes in reserves 93 — 93 Balance at March 31, 2017 $ 1,290 $ (609 ) $ 681

REINSURANCE AGREEMENTS

REINSURANCE AGREEMENTS	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018
Insurance [Abstract]
Reinsurance Agreements	REINSURANCE AGREEMENTS Effective February 1, 2018, the Company entered into a coinsurance reinsurance agreement (the "Agreement") to cede 90% of its single premium deferred annuities (SPDA) products issued between 1978-2001 and its Guaranteed Growth Annuity (GGA) single premium deferred annuity products issued between 2001-2014. As a result of this agreement, the Company transferred securities with a market of $604 million and cash of $31 million value equal to the statutory reserves of approximately $635 million . As the risks transferred by the Company to the reinsurer under the Agreement are not considered insurance risks and therefore do not qualify for reinsurance accounting, the Company applied deposit accounting. Accordingly, the Company recorded the transferred assets of $635 million as a deposit asset recorded in Other assets, net of the ceding commissions paid to the reinsurer.

FAIR VALUE DISCLOSURES

FAIR VALUE DISCLOSURES	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Disclosures	FAIR VALUE DISCLOSURES Fair value is defined as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. The accounting guidance established a fair value hierarchy that requires an entity to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value, and identifies three levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair value: Level 1 Unadjusted quoted prices for identical instruments in active markets. Level 1 fair values generally are supported by market transactions that occur with sufficient frequency and volume to provide pricing information on an ongoing basis. Level 2 Observable inputs other than Level 1 prices, such as quoted prices for similar instruments, quoted prices in markets that are not active, and inputs to model-derived valuations that are directly observable or can be corroborated by observable market data. Level 3 Unobservable inputs supported by little or no market activity and often requiring significant management judgment or estimation, such as an entity’s own assumptions about the cash flows or other significant components of value that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. The Company uses unadjusted quoted market prices to measure the fair value of instruments that are actively traded in financial markets. In cases where quoted market prices are not available, fair values are measured using present value or other valuation techniques. The fair value determinations are made at a specific point in time, based on available market information and judgments about the financial instrument, including estimates of the timing and amount of expected future cash flows and the credit standing of counterparties. Such adjustments do not reflect any premium or discount that could result from offering for sale at one time the Company’s entire holdings of a particular financial instrument, nor do they consider the tax impact of the realization of unrealized gains or losses. In many cases, the fair value cannot be substantiated by direct comparison to independent markets, nor can the disclosed value be realized in immediate settlement of the instrument. Management is responsible for the determination of the value of investments carried at fair value and the supporting methodologies and assumptions. Under the terms of various service agreements, the Company often utilizes independent valuation service providers to gather, analyze, and interpret market information and derive fair values based upon relevant methodologies and assumptions for individual securities. These independent valuation service providers typically obtain data about market transactions and other key valuation model inputs from multiple sources and, through the use of widely accepted valuation models, provide a single fair value measurement for individual securities for which a fair value has been requested. As further described below with respect to specific asset classes, these inputs include, but are not limited to, market prices for recent trades and transactions in comparable securities, benchmark yields, interest rate yield curves, credit spreads, quoted prices for similar securities, and other market-observable information, as applicable. Specific attributes of the security being valued also are considered, including its term, interest rate, credit rating, industry sector, and when applicable, collateral quality and other security- or issuer-specific information. When insufficient market observable information is available upon which to measure fair value, the Company either will request brokers knowledgeable about these securities to provide a non-binding quote or will employ internal valuation models. Fair values received from independent valuation service providers and brokers and those internally modeled or otherwise estimated are assessed for reasonableness. Assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are summarized below. At March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 , no assets were required to be measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis. Fair value measurements are required on a non-recurring basis for certain assets, including goodwill and mortgage loans on real estate, only when an OTTI or other event occurs. When such fair value measurements are recorded, they must be classified and disclosed within the fair value hierarchy. The Company recognizes transfers between valuation levels at the beginning of the reporting period. Fair Value Measurements at March 31, 2018 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total (in millions) Assets: Investments: Fixed maturities, available-for-sale: Public Corporate $ — $ 14,724 $ 120 $ 14,844 Private Corporate — 5,949 1,109 7,058 U.S. Treasury, government and agency — 10,025 — 10,025 States and political subdivisions — 430 39 469 Foreign governments — 408 — 408 Residential mortgage-backed (1) — 233 — 233 Asset-backed (2) — 80 7 87 Redeemable preferred stock 176 330 — 506 Subtotal 176 32,179 1,275 33,630 Other equity investments 13 — 1 14 Trading securities 431 13,021 5 13,457 Other invested assets: Short-term investments — 372 — 372 Assets of consolidated VIEs/VOEs 1,691 291 32 2,014 Swaps — 41 — 41 Credit Default Swaps — 28 — 28 Futures — — — — Options — 1,869 — 1,869 Subtotal 1,691 2,601 32 4,324 Cash equivalents 2,874 — — 2,874 Segregated securities — 1,025 — 1,025 GMIB reinsurance contract asset — — 9,673 9,673 Separate Accounts’ assets 116,474 2,831 357 119,662 Total Assets $ 121,659 $ 51,657 $ 11,343 $ 184,659 Liabilities GMxB derivative features’ liability $ — $ — $ 3,804 $ 3,804 SCS, SIO, MSO and IUL indexed features’ liability — 1,609 — 1,609 Liabilities of consolidated VIEs/VOEs 1,190 18 — 1,208 Contingent payment arrangements — — 11 11 Total Liabilities $ 1,190 $ 1,627 $ 3,815 $ 6,632 (1) Includes publicly traded agency pass-through securities and collateralized obligations. (2) Includes credit-tranched securities collateralized by sub-prime mortgages and other asset types and credit tenant loans. Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2017 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total (in millions) Assets: Investments: Fixed maturities, available-for-sale: Public Corporate $ — $ 14,298 $ 47 $ 14,345 Private Corporate — 6,045 1,092 7,137 U.S. Treasury, government and agency — 13,135 — 13,135 States and political subdivisions — 441 40 481 Foreign governments — 409 — 409 Residential mortgage-backed (1) — 251 — 251 Asset-backed (2) — 88 8 96 Redeemable preferred stock 180 324 — 504 Subtotal 180 34,991 1,187 36,358 Other equity investments 13 — 1 14 Trading securities 467 12,161 — 12,628 Other invested assets: Short-term investments — 768 — 768 Assets of consolidated VIEs/VOEs 1,060 215 27 1,302 Swaps — 15 — 15 Credit Default Swaps — 33 — 33 Futures (2 ) — — (2 ) Options — 1,907 — 1,907 Subtotal 1,058 2,938 27 4,023 Cash equivalents 2,360 — — 2,360 Segregated securities — 825 — 825 GMIB reinsurance contract asset — — 10,488 10,488 Separate Accounts’ assets 118,983 2,983 349 122,315 Total Assets $ 123,061 $ 53,898 $ 12,052 $ 189,011 Liabilities: GMxB derivative features’ liability $ — $ — $ 4,164 $ 4,164 SCS, SIO, MSO and IUL indexed features’ liability — 1,698 — 1,698 Liabilities of consolidated VIEs/VOEs 670 22 — 692 Contingent payment arrangements — — 11 11 Total Liabilities $ 670 $ 1,720 $ 4,175 $ 6,565 (1) Includes publicly traded agency pass-through securities and collateralized obligations. (2) Includes credit-tranched securities collateralized by sub-prime mortgages and other asset types and credit tenant loans. At March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 , respectively, the fair value of public fixed maturities is approximately $ 26,174 million and $28,826 million or approximately 15.0% and 16.2% of the Company’s total assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis (excluding GMIB reinsurance contracts and segregated securities measured at fair value on a recurring basis). The fair values of the Company’s public fixed maturity securities are generally based on prices obtained from independent valuation service providers and for which the Company maintains a vendor hierarchy by asset type based on historical pricing experience and vendor expertise. Although each security generally is priced by multiple independent valuation service providers, the Company ultimately uses the price received from the independent valuation service provider highest in the vendor hierarchy based on the respective asset type, with limited exception. To validate reasonableness, prices also are internally reviewed by those with relevant expertise through comparison with directly observed recent market trades. Consistent with the fair value hierarchy, public fixed maturity securities validated in this manner generally are reflected within Level 2, as they are primarily based on observable pricing for similar assets and/or other market observable inputs. If the pricing information received from independent valuation service providers is not reflective of market activity or other inputs observable in the market, the Company may challenge the price through a formal process in accordance with the terms of the respective independent valuation service provider agreement. If as a result it is determined that the independent valuation service provider is able to reprice the security in a manner agreed as more consistent with current market observations, the security remains within Level 2. Alternatively, a Level 3 classification may result if the pricing information then is sourced from another vendor, non-binding broker quotes, or internally-developed valuations for which the Company’s own assumptions about market-participant inputs would be used in pricing the security. At March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 , respectively, the fair value of private fixed maturities is approximately $ 7,456 million and $7,532 million or approximately 4.3% and 4.2% of the Company’s total assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis. The fair values of the Company’s private fixed maturities are determined from prices obtained from independent valuation service providers. Prices not obtained from an independent valuation service provider are determined by using a discounted cash flow model or a market comparable company valuation technique. In certain cases, these models use observable inputs with a discount rate based upon the average of spread surveys collected from private market intermediaries who are active in both primary and secondary transactions, taking into account, among other factors, the credit quality and industry sector of the issuer and the reduced liquidity associated with private placements. Generally, these securities have been reflected within Level 2. For certain private fixed maturities, the discounted cash flow model or a market comparable company valuation technique may also incorporate unobservable inputs, which reflect the Company’s own assumptions about the inputs market participants would use in pricing the asset. To the extent management determines that such unobservable inputs are significant to the fair value measurement of a security, a Level 3 classification generally is made. As disclosed in Note 3 , at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 , respectively, the net fair value of freestanding derivative positions is approximately $ 1,938 million and $1,953 million or approximately 44.8 % and 48.5% of Other invested assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis. The fair values of the Company’s derivative positions are generally based on prices obtained either from independent valuation service providers or derived by applying market inputs from recognized vendors into industry standard pricing models. The majority of these derivative contracts are traded in the OTC derivative market and are classified in Level 2. The fair values of derivative assets and liabilities traded in the OTC market are determined using quantitative models that require use of the contractual terms of the derivative instruments and multiple market inputs, including interest rates, prices, and indices to generate continuous yield or pricing curves, including overnight index swap ("OIS") curves, and volatility factors, which then are applied to value the positions. The predominance of market inputs is actively quoted and can be validated through external sources or reliably interpolated if less observable. If the pricing information received from independent valuation service providers is not reflective of market activity or other inputs observable in the market, the Company may challenge the price through a formal process in accordance with the terms of the respective independent valuation service provider agreement. If as a result it is determined that the independent valuation service provider is able to reprice the derivative instrument in a manner agreed as more consistent with current market observations, the position remains within Level 2. Alternatively, a Level 3 classification may result if the pricing information then is sourced from another vendor, non-binding broker quotes, or internally-developed valuations for which the Company’s own assumptions about market-participant inputs would be used in pricing the security. At March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 , respectively, investments classified as Level 1 comprise approximately 69.9 % and 69.2% of assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis and primarily include redeemable preferred stock, trading securities, cash equivalents and Separate Account assets. Fair value measurements classified as Level 1 include exchange-traded prices of fixed maturities, equity securities and derivative contracts, and net asset values for transacting subscriptions and redemptions of mutual fund shares held by Separate Accounts. Cash equivalents classified as Level 1 include money market accounts, overnight commercial paper and highly liquid debt instruments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less, and are carried at cost as a proxy for fair value measurement due to their short-term nature. At March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 , respectively, investments classified as Level 2 comprise approximately 29.1 % and 29.9% of assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis and primarily include U.S. government and agency securities and certain corporate debt securities, such as public and private fixed maturities. As market quotes generally are not readily available or accessible for these securities, their fair value measures are determined utilizing relevant information generated by market transactions involving comparable securities and often are based on model pricing techniques that effectively discount prospective cash flows to present value using appropriate sector-adjusted credit spreads commensurate with the security’s duration, also taking into consideration issuer-specific credit quality and liquidity. Segregated securities classified as Level 2 are U.S. Treasury bills segregated by AB in a special reserve bank custody account for the exclusive benefit of brokerage customers, as required by Rule 15c3-3 of the Exchange Act and for which fair values are based on quoted yields in secondary markets. Observable inputs generally used to measure the fair value of securities classified as Level 2 include benchmark yields, reported secondary trades, issuer spreads, benchmark securities and other reference data. Additional observable inputs are used when available, and as may be appropriate, for certain security types, such as prepayment, default, and collateral information for the purpose of measuring the fair value of mortgage- and asset-backed securities. At March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 , respectively, approximately $ 313 million and $257 million of AAA-rated mortgage- and asset-backed securities are classified as Level 2 for which the observability of market inputs to their pricing models is supported by sufficient, albeit more recently contracted, market activity in these sectors. Certain Company products such as the SCS and EQUI-VEST variable annuity product, and in the MSO fund available in some life contracts offer investment options which permit the contract owner to participate in the performance of an index, ETF or commodity price. These investment options, which depending on the product and on the index selected can currently have 1, 3, 5, or 6 year terms, provide for participation in the performance of specified indices, ETF or commodity price movement up to a segment-specific declared maximum rate. Under certain conditions that vary by product, e.g., holding these segments for the full term, these segments also shield policyholders from some or all negative investment performance associated with these indices, ETF or commodity prices. These investment options have defined formulaic liability amounts, and the current values of the option component of these segment reserves are accounted for as Level 2 embedded derivatives. The fair values of these embedded derivatives are based on data obtained from independent valuation service providers. At March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 , respectively, investments classified as Level 3 comprise approximately 1.0 % and 0.9% of assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis and primarily include corporate debt securities, such as private fixed maturities. Determinations to classify fair value measures within Level 3 of the valuation hierarchy generally are based upon the significance of the unobservable factors to the overall fair value measurement. Included in the Level 3 classification at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 , respectively, were approximately $ 95 million and $97 million of fixed maturities with indicative pricing obtained from brokers that otherwise could not be corroborated to market observable data. The Company applies various due-diligence procedures, as it considers appropriate, to validate these non-binding broker quotes for reasonableness, based on its understanding of the markets, including use of internally-developed assumptions about inputs a market participant would use to price the security. In addition, approximately $ 7 million and $8 million of mortgage- and asset-backed securities are classified as Level 3 at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 , respectively. The Company also issues certain benefits on its variable annuity products that are accounted for as derivatives and are also considered Level 3. The GMIBNLG feature allows the policyholder to receive guaranteed minimum lifetime annuity payments based on predetermined annuity purchase rates applied to the contract’s benefit base if and when the contract account value is depleted and the NLG feature is activated. The GMWB feature allows the policyholder to withdraw at minimum, over the life of the contract, an amount based on the contract’s benefit base. The GWBL feature allows the policyholder to withdraw, each year for the life of the contract, a specified annual percentage of an amount based on the contract’s benefit base. The GMAB feature increases the contract account value at the end of a specified period to a GMAB base. The GIB feature provides a lifetime annuity based on predetermined annuity purchase rates if and when the contract account value is depleted. This lifetime annuity is based on predetermined annuity purchase rates applied to a GIB base. Level 3 also includes the GMIB reinsurance contract asset and liabilities which are accounted for as derivative contracts. The GMIB reinsurance contract asset and liabilities’ fair value reflects the present value of reinsurance premiums and recoveries and risk margins over a range of market consistent economic scenarios while GMxB derivative features liability reflects the present value of expected future payments (benefits) less fees, adjusted for risk margins and nonperformance risk, attributable to GMxB derivative features’ liability over a range of market-consistent economic scenarios. The valuations of the GMIB reinsurance contract asset and GMxB derivative features liability incorporate significant non-observable assumptions related to policyholder behavior, risk margins and projections of equity separate account funds. The credit risks of the counterparty and of the Company are considered in determining the fair values of its GMIB reinsurance contract asset and GMxB derivative features liability positions, respectively, after taking into account the effects of collateral arrangements. Incremental adjustment to the swap curve, adjusted for non-performance risk, is made to the resulting fair values of the GMIB reinsurance contract asset and liabilities to reflect change in the claims-paying ratings of counterparties and the Company an adjustment to the swap curve for non-performance risk to reflect the claims-paying rating of the Company. Equity and fixed income volatilities were modeled to reflect current market volatilities. Due to the unique, long duration of the GMIBNLG feature, adjustments were made to the equity volatilities to remove the illiquidity bias associated with the longer tenors and risk margins were applied to the non-capital markets inputs to the GMIBNLG valuations. After giving consideration to collateral arrangements, the Company reduced the fair value of its GMIB reinsurance contract asset by $118 million and $69 million at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 , respectively, to recognize incremental counterparty nonperformance risk. Lapse rates are adjusted at the contract level based on a comparison of the actuarially calculated guaranteed values and the current policyholder account value, which include other factors such as considering surrender charges. Generally, lapse rates are assumed to be lower in periods when a surrender charge applies. A dynamic lapse function reduces the base lapse rate when the guaranteed amount is greater than the account value as in the money contracts are less likely to lapse. For valuing the embedded derivative, lapse rates vary throughout the period over which cash flows are projected. The Company’s Level 3 liabilities include contingent payment arrangements associated with acquisitions in 2010, 2013 and 2014 by AB. At each reporting date, AB estimates the fair values of the contingent consideration expected to be paid based upon probability-weighted AUM and revenue projections, using unobservable market data inputs, which are included in Level 3 of the valuation hierarchy. As of March 31, 2018 , the Company’s consolidated VIEs/VOEs hold $32 million of investments that are classified as Level 3 primarily consist of corporate bonds that are vendor priced with no ratings available, bank loans, non-agency collateralized mortgage obligations and asset-backed securities. In the first three months of 2018 , AFS fixed maturities with fair values of $16 million were transferred out of Level 3 and into Level 2 principally due to the availability of trading activity or market observable inputs to measure and validate their fair values. In addition, AFS fixed maturities with fair value of $67 million were transferred from Level 2 into the Level 3 classification. These transfers in the aggregate represent approximately 0.4% of total equity at March 31, 2018 . In the first three months of 2017 , no AFS fixed maturities were transferred out of Level 3 and into Level 2 principally due to the availability of trading activity or market observable inputs to measure and validate their fair values. In addition, AFS fixed maturities with fair value of $15 million were transferred from Level 2 into the Level 3 classification. These transfers in the aggregate represent approximately 0.1% of total equity at March 31, 2017 . The table below presents a reconciliation for all Level 3 assets and liabilities for the first quarters of 2018 and 2017, respectively: Level 3 Instruments Fair Value Measurements Corporate State and Commercial Asset- (in millions) Balance, January 1, 2018 $ 1,139 $ 40 $ — $ 8 Total gains (losses), realized and unrealized, included in: Income (loss) as: Net investment income (loss) 2 — — — Investment gains (losses), net — — — — Subtotal 2 — — — Other comprehensive income (loss) (20 ) (1 ) — — Purchases 173 — — — Sales (116 ) — — (1 ) Settlements — — — — Transfers into Level 3 (1) 67 — — — Transfers out of Level 3 (1) (16 ) — — — Balance, March 31, 2018 $ 1,229 $ 39 $ — $ 7 Balance, January 1, 2017 $ 845 $ 42 $ 349 $ 24 Total gains (losses), realized and unrealized, included in: Income (loss) as: Net investment income (loss) 1 — — — Investment gains (losses), net — — 31 — Subtotal 1 — 31 — Other comprehensive income (loss) 45 — 12 4 Purchases 169 — — — Sales (57 ) — (68 ) (1 ) Transfers into Level 3 (1) 11 — — 4 Transfers out of Level 3 (1) — — — — Balance, March 31, 2017 $ 1,014 $ 42 $ 324 $ 31 Redeemable Other (2) GMIB Separate GMxB derivative features liability Contingent (in millions) Balance, January 1, 2018 $ — $ 28 $ 10,488 $ 349 $ (4,164 ) $ 11 Total gains (losses), realized and unrealized, included in: Income (loss) as: Net investment income (loss) — — — — — — Investment gains (losses), net — — — 7 — — Net derivative gains (losses) — — (842 ) — 440 — Subtotal — — (842 ) 7 440 — Other comprehensive income (loss) — — — — — — Purchases (2) — 4 54 3 (82 ) — Sales (3) — — (27 ) (1 ) 2 — Settlements (4) — — — (1 ) — — Activity related to consolidated VIEs — 1 — — — — Transfers into Level 3 (1) — 5 — — — — Transfers out of Level 3 (1) — — — — — — Balance, March 31, 2018 $ — $ 38 $ 9,673 $ 357 $ (3,804 ) $ 11 Balance, January 1, 2017 $ 1 $ 51 $ 10,314 $ 313 $ (5,319 ) $ 18 Total gains (losses), realized and unrealized, included in: Income (loss) as: Net investment income (loss) — — — — — — Investment gains (losses), net — — — 10 — — Net derivative gains (losses) — — (533 ) — 490 — Subtotal — — (533 ) 10 490 — Other comprehensive income (loss) — — — — — — Purchases (2) — 4 37 3 (78 ) — Sales (3) — (1 ) (21 ) (1 ) 1 — Settlements (4) — — — (1 ) — (1 ) Activity related to consolidated VIEs — — — — — — Transfers into Level 3 (1) — 1 — 1 — — Transfers out of Level 3 (1) — — — — — — Balance, March 31, 2017 $ 1 $ 55 $ 9,797 $ 325 $ (4,906 ) $ 17 (1) Transfers into/out of Level 3 classification are reflected at beginning-of-period fair values. (2) For the GMIB reinsurance contract asset, and GMxB derivative features’ liability, represents attributed fee. (3) For the GMIB reinsurance contract asset, represents recoveries from reinsurers and for GMxB derivative features liability represents benefits paid. (4) For contingent payment arrangements, it represents payments under the arrangement. The table below details changes in unrealized gains (losses) for the first quarters of 2018 and 2017 by category for Level 3 assets and liabilities still held at March 31, 2018 and 2017 , respectively: Income (Loss) Investment Net Derivative Gains (losses) OCI (in millions) Level 3 Instruments First Quarter 2018 Held at March 31, 2018: Change in unrealized gains (losses): Fixed maturities, available-for-sale: Corporate $ — $ — $ (19 ) State and political subdivisions — — (1 ) Commercial mortgage-backed — — — Asset-backed — — — Subtotal $ — $ — $ (20 ) GMIB reinsurance contracts — (842 ) — Separate Accounts’ assets (1) 7 — — GMxB derivative features' liability — 440 — Total $ 7 $ (402 ) $ (20 ) Level 3 Instruments First Quarter 2017 Held at March 31, 2017: Change in unrealized gains (losses): Fixed maturities, available-for-sale: Corporate $ — $ — $ 41 Commercial mortgage-backed — — 12 Asset-backed — — 4 Subtotal $ — $ — $ 57 GMIB reinsurance contracts — (533 ) — Separate Accounts’ assets (1) 10 — — GMxB derivative features' liability — 490 — Total $ 10 $ (43 ) $ 57 (1) There is an investment expense that offsets this investment gain (loss). The following tables disclose quantitative information about Level 3 fair value measurements by category for assets and liabilities as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 , respectively. Quantitative Information about Level 3 Fair Value Measurements March 31, 2018 Fair Valuation Significant Range Weighted Average (in millions) Assets: Investments: Fixed maturities, available-for-sale: Corporate $ 52 Matrix pricing model Spread over the industry-specific benchmark yield curve 0 - 565 bps 112 b ps 788 Market com-parable companies EBITDA multiples 6.2x - 30.7x 7.2% - 17.0 % 9.0x - 17.7x 13.0x Separate Account assets 332 Third party appraisal Capitalization rate 4.6% 5.6% 6.5% 1 Discounted cash flow Spread over U.S. Treasury curve 228 bps 4.62 4% GMIB reinsurance contract asset 9,673 Discounted cash flow Lapse Rates 1.0% - 6.3% 0.0% - 8.0% 0.0% - 16.0% 5bps - 10bps 9.70%-31.15% Liabilities: GMIBNLG 3,715 Discounted cash flow Non-performance Risk 1.0% GWBL/GMWB 121 Discounted cash flow Lapse Rates 0.9% - 5.7% GIB (36 ) Discounted cash flow Lapse Rates 0.9% - 5.7% GMAB 4 Discounted cash flow Lapse Rates 0.5% - 11.0% Quantitative Information about Level 3 Fair Value Measurements December 31, 2017 Fair Value Valuation Technique Significant Unobservable Input Range Weighted Average (in millions) Assets: Investments: Fixed maturities, available-for-sale: Corporate $ 53 Matrix pricing model Spread over the industry-specific benchmark yield curve 0 -565 bps 125 bps 789 Market comparable companies EBITDA multiples Discount Rate Cash flow Multiples 5.3x-27.9x 12.9x Separate Account assets 326 Third party appraisal Capitalization rate 4.6% 5.6% 6.6% 1 Discounted cash flow Spread over U.S. Treasury curve 243 bps 4.4% GMIB reinsurance contract asset 10,488 Discounted cash flow Lapse Rates 1.0% - 6.3% 0.0% - 8.0% 0.0% - 16.0% 5bps - 10bps 9.9%- 30.9% Liabilities: GMIBNLG 4,056 Discounted cash flow Non-performance Risk 1.0% GWBL/GMWB 130 Discounted cash flow Lapse Rates 0.9% - 5.7% GIB (27 ) Discounted cash flow Lapse Rates 0.9% - 5.7% GMAB 5 Discounted cash flow Lapse Rates 0.5% - 11.0% Excluded from the tables above at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 , respectively, are approximately $ 497 million and $395 million Level 3 fair value measurements of investments for which the underlying quantitative inputs are not developed by the Company and are not readily available. The fair value measurements of these Level 3 investments comprise approximately 29.8 % and 25.3% of total assets classified as Level 3 and represent only 0.3 % and 0.2% of total assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 , respectively. These investments primarily consist of certain privately placed debt securities with limited trading activity, including residential mortgage- and asset-backed instruments, and their fair values generally reflect unadjusted prices obtained from independent valuation service providers and indicative, non-binding quotes obtained from third-party broker-dealers recognized as market participants. Significant increases or decreases in the fair value amounts received from these pricing sources may result in the Company’s reporting significantly higher or lower fair value measurements for these Level 3 investments. Included in the tables above at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 , respectively, are approximately $ 840 million and $842 million fair value of privately placed, available-for-sale corporate debt securities classified as Level 3. The fair value of private placement securities is determined by application of a matrix pricing model or a market comparable company value technique, representing approximately 68.3% and 73.9% of the total fair value of Level 3 securities in the corporate fixed maturities asset class. The significant unobservable input to the matrix pricing model valuation technique is the spread over the industry-specific benchmark yield curve. Generally, an increase or decrease in spreads would lead to directionally inverse movement in the fair value measurements of these securities. The significant unobservable input to the market comparable company valuation technique is the discount rate. Generally, a significant increase (decrease) in the discount rate would result in significantly lower (higher) fair value measurements of these securities. Residential mortgage-backed securities classified as Level 3 primarily consist of non-agency paper with low trading activity. There were no Residential mortgage backed securities i ncluded in the tables above at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 , there were no Level 3 securities that were determined by application of a matrix pr

REVENUE RECOGNITION

REVENUE RECOGNITION	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018
Revenue From Contract With Customer [Abstract]
Revenue Recognition	REVENUE RECOGNITION See Note 2 , Significant Accounting Policies - Revenue Recognition, for descriptions of revenues presented in the table below and subject to contracts with customers determined to be in-scope of the new guidance. The table below presents the revenues recognized during the first quarters of 2018 and 2017 , disaggregated by category: Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 2017 (in millions) Investment management, advisory and service fees: Base fees $ 726 $ 645 Performance-based fees 6 6 Research services 114 113 Distribution services 180 165 Other revenues: Shareholder services 20 18 Other 6 4 Total investment management and service fees $ 1,052 $ 951 Other income $ 7 $ 7

SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION PROGRA

SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION PROGRAMS	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Share-Based Compensation Programs	SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION PROGRAMS AXA and AXA Financial sponsor various share-based compensation plans for eligible employees and financial professionals of AXA Financial and its subsidiaries. AB also sponsors its own unit option plans for certain of its employees. Compensation costs for the first quarters of 2018 and 2017 for share-based payment arrangements as further described herein are as follows: Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 2017 (in thousands) Performance Shares $ 2,598 $ 3,402 Stock Options (920 ) 9 AB Restricted Units 12,484 7,700 Other compensation plans (1) (119 ) 65 Total Compensation Expenses $ 14,043 $ 11,176 (1) Other compensation plans include Restricted Stock and Stock Appreciation Rights. Performance Shares Settlement of second tranche of the 2014 Grant in 2018. On March 26, 2018, share distributions totaling approximately $ 20 million were made to active and former AXA Equitable employees in settlement of 0.8 million performance shares earned under the terms of the second tranche of the AXA Performance Share Plan 2014. AB Long-term Incentive Compensation Plans. During the first quarters of 2018 and 2017 , AB purchased 0.1 million and 1.3 million Holding Units for $ 2 million and $ 31 million respectively (on a trade date basis). There were no open-market purchases during the first quarter of 2018. The first quarter 2017 amount reflects open-market purchases of 1.2 million Holding Units for $ 28 million, with the remainder relating to purchases of Holding Units from employees to allow them to fulfill statutory tax withholding requirements at the time of distribution of long-term incentive compensation awards. During the first quarters of 2018 and 2017 , AB granted to employees and eligible Directors 1.1 million and 1.1 million restricted Holding awards, respectively. In the first quarters of 2018 and 2017 , AB used Holding Units repurchased during the period and newly issued Holding Units to fund the restricted Holding Unit awards. During the first quarters of 2018 and 2017 , AB Holding issued 0.2 million and 0.3 million AB Holding Units, respectively, upon exercise of options to buy AB Holding Units. AB Holding used the proceeds of $ 4 million and $5 million , respectively, received from employees as payment in cash for the exercise price to purchase the equivalent number of newly-issued AB Units.

INCOME TAXES

INCOME TAXES	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	INCOME TAXES Income tax expense for the first quarter of 2018 was computed using an estimated annual effective tax rate (“ETR”). The estimated ETR is revised, as necessary, at the end of successive interim reporting period s . Income tax expense for first quarter of 2017 was computed using a discrete effective tax rate method.

ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE

ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) AOCI represents cumulative gains (losses) on items that are not reflected in Net income (loss). The balances as of March 31, 2018 and 2017 follow: March 31, 2018 2017 (in millions) Unrealized gains (losses) on investments $ (124 ) $ 146 Foreign currency translation adjustments (40 ) (42 ) Defined benefit pension plans (55 ) (46 ) Total accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (219 ) 58 Less: Accumulated other comprehensive (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interest 61 79 Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to AXA Equitable $ (158 ) $ 137 The components of OCI, net of taxes for the first quarters of 2018 and 2017 follow: Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 2017 (in millions) Foreign currency translation adjustments: Foreign currency translation gains (losses) arising during the period $ (4 ) $ 35 (Gains) losses reclassified into net income (loss) during the period — — Foreign currency translation adjustment (4 ) 35 Net unrealized gains (losses) on investments: Net unrealized gains (losses) arising during the period (70 ) 140 (Gains) losses reclassified into net income (loss) during the period (1) (985 ) (23 ) Net unrealized gains (losses) on investments (1,055 ) 117 Adjustments for policyholders’ liabilities, DAC, insurance liability loss recognition and other 314 (25 ) Change in unrealized gains (losses), net of adjustments (net of deferred income tax expense (benefit) of $(197) and $50) (741 ) 92 Change in defined benefit plans: Less: reclassification adjustments to net income (loss) for: Net gain (loss) arising during the period (4 ) — Amortization of net actuarial (gains) losses included in Amortization of net prior service cost included in net periodic cost — — Change in defined benefit plans (net of deferred income tax expense (benefit) of $0 and $0. (4 ) — Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes (749 ) 127 Less: Other comprehensive (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interest (7 ) (7 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to AXA Equitable $ (756 ) $ 120 (1) See “Reclassification adjustments” in Note 3 . Reclassification amounts presented net of income tax expense (benefit) of $ (262) million and $ 13 million , for the first quarters of 2018 and 2017 , respectively. Investment gains and losses reclassified from AOCI to net income (loss) primarily consist of realized gains (losses) on sales and OTTI of AFS securities and are included in Total investment gains (losses), net on the consolidated statements of income (loss). Amounts reclassified from AOCI to net income (loss) as related to defined benefit plans primarily consist of amortizations of net (gains) losses and net prior service cost (credit) recognized as a component of net periodic cost and reported in Compensation and benefit expenses in the consolidated statements of income (loss). Amounts presented in the table above are net of tax.

RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Related Party Transactions	RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS The Company provides personnel services, employee benefits, facilities, supplies and equipment under service agreements with AXA Financial subsidiaries and affiliates to conduct their business. In addition, the Company participates in certain cost sharing and service agreements with AXA and other nonconsolidated affiliates (collectively, "AXA Affiliates"), including technology and professional development arrangements. The costs related to the cost sharing and service agreements are allocated based on methods that management believes are reasonable, including a review of the nature of such costs and activities performed to support each company. There have been no material changes in these service agreements from those disclosed in the 2017 Form 10-K. At March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 , AXA Equitable’s GMIB reinsurance asset with AXA RE Arizona had carrying values of $ 7,939 million and $8,594 million , respectively, and is reported in GMIB contract asset, at fair value in the consolidated balance sheets. Ceded premiums and policy fee income in the first quarters of 2018 and 2017 totaled approximately $ 110 million and $109 million , respectively. Ceded claims paid in the first quarters of 2018 and 2017 were $ 66 million and $49 million , respectively. In 2016, AXA Equitable and Saum Sing LLC (“Saum Sing”), an affiliate, formed Broad Vista Partners LLC (“Broad Vista”), of which AXA Equitable owns 70% and Saum Sing owns 30% . On June 30, 2016, Broad Vista entered into a real estate joint venture with a third party and AXA Equitable invested approximately $25 million . On a consolidated basis, the balance as of March 31, 2018 is $36 million reported in Real estate held for the production of income in the consolidated balance sheets. In March 2018, AXA Equitable Life sold its interest in two consolidated real estate joint ventures to AXA France for a total purchase price of approximately $143 million , which resulted in a pre-tax loss of $0.2 million and the reduction of $203 million of long-term debt on the Company's balance sheet for the first quarter of 2018.

COMMITMENT AND CONTINGENT LIABI

COMMITMENT AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingent Liabilities	COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES Litigation Litigation, regulatory and other loss contingencies arise in the ordinary course of the Company’s activities as a diversified financial services firm. The Company is a defendant in a number of litigation matters arising from the conduct of its business. In some of these matters, claimants seek to recover very large or indeterminate amounts, including compensatory, punitive, treble and exemplary damages. Modern pleading practice in the U.S. permits considerable variation in the assertion of monetary damages and other relief. Claimants are not always required to specify the monetary damages they seek or they may be required only to state an amount sufficient to meet a court’s jurisdictional requirements. Moreover, some jurisdictions allow claimants to allege monetary damages that far exceed any reasonably possible verdict. The variability in pleading requirements and past experience demonstrates that the monetary and other relief that may be requested in a lawsuit or claim often bears little relevance to the merits or potential value of a claim. Litigation against the Company includes a variety of claims including, among other things, insurers’ sales practices, alleged agent misconduct, alleged failure to properly supervise agents, contract administration, product design, features and accompanying disclosure, cost of insurance increases, the use of captive reinsurers, payments of death benefits and the reporting and escheatment of unclaimed property, alleged breach of fiduciary duties, alleged mismanagement of client funds and other matters. As with other financial services companies, the Company periodically receives informal and formal requests for information from various state and federal governmental agencies and self-regulatory organizations in connection with inquiries and investigations of the products and practices of the Company or the financial services industry. It is the practice of the Company to cooperate fully in these matters. The outcome of a litigation or regulatory matter is difficult to predict and the amount or range of potential losses associated with these or other loss contingencies requires significant management judgment. It is not possible to predict the ultimate outcome or to provide reasonably possible losses or ranges of losses for all pending regulatory matters, litigation and other loss contingencies. While it is possible that an adverse outcome in certain cases could have a material adverse effect upon the Company’s financial position, based on information currently known, management believes that neither the outcome of pending litigation and regulatory matters, nor potential liabilities associated with other loss contingencies, are likely to have such an effect. However, given the large and indeterminate amounts sought in certain litigation and the inherent unpredictability of all such matters, it is possible that an adverse outcome in certain of the Company’s litigation or regulatory matters, or liabilities arising from other loss contingencies, could, from time to time, have a material adverse effect upon the Company’s results of operations or cash flows in a particular quarterly or annual period. For some matters, the Company is able to estimate a possible range of loss. For such matters in which a loss is probable, an accrual has been made. For matters where the Company, however, believes a loss is reasonably possible, but not probable, no accrual is required. For matters for which an accrual has been made, but there remains a reasonably possible range of loss in excess of the amounts accrued or for matters where no accrual is required, the Company develops an estimate of the unaccrued amounts of the reasonably possible range of losses. As of March 31, 2018 , the Company estimates the aggregate range of reasonably possible losses, in excess of any amounts accrued for these matters as of such date, to be up to approximately $90 million . For other matters, the Company is currently not able to estimate the reasonably possible loss or range of loss. The Company is often unable to estimate the possible loss or range of loss until developments in such matters have provided sufficient information to support an assessment of the range of possible loss, such as quantification of a damage demand from plaintiffs, discovery from plaintiffs and other parties, investigation of factual allegations, rulings by a court on motions or appeals, analysis by experts and the progress of settlement discussions. On a quarterly and annual basis, the Company reviews relevant information with respect to litigation and regulatory contingencies and updates the Company’s accruals, disclosures and reasonably possible losses or ranges of loss based on such reviews. In July 2011, a derivative action was filed in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey entitled Mary Ann Sivolella v. AXA Equitable Life Insurance Company and AXA Equitable Funds Management Group, LLC (“Sivolella Litigation”) and a substantially similar action was filed in January 2013 entitled Sanford et al. v. AXA Equitable FMG (“Sanford Litigation”). These lawsuits were filed on behalf of a total of twelve mutual funds and, among other things, seek recovery under (i) Section 36(b) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “Investment Company Act”), for alleged excessive fees paid to AXA Equitable and AXA Equitable FMG for investment management services and administrative services and (ii) a variety of other theories including unjust enrichment. The Sivolella Litigation and the Sanford Litigation were consolidated and a 25-day trial commenced in January 2016 and concluded in February 2016. In August 2016, the District Court issued its decision in favor of AXA Equitable and AXA Equitable FMG, finding that the plaintiffs had failed to meet their burden to demonstrate that AXA Equitable and AXA Equitable FMG breached their fiduciary duty in violation of Section 36(b) of the Investment Company Act or show any actual damages. In September 2016, the plaintiffs filed a motion to amend the District Court’s trial opinion and to amend or make new findings of fact and/or conclusions of law. In December 2016, the District Court issued an order denying the motion to amend and plaintiffs filed a notice to appeal the District Court’s decision to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit. We are vigorously defending this matter. In April 2014, a lawsuit was filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York, now entitled Ross v. AXA Equitable Life Insurance Company. The lawsuit is a putative class action on behalf of all persons and entities that, between 2011 and March 11, 2014, directly or indirectly, purchased, renewed or paid premiums on life insurance policies issued by AXA Equitable (the “Policies”). The complaint alleges that AXA Equitable did not disclose in its New York statutory annual statements or elsewhere that the collateral for certain reinsurance transactions with affiliated reinsurance companies was supported by parental guarantees, an omission that allegedly caused AXA Equitable to misrepresent its “financial condition” and “legal reserve system.” The lawsuit seeks recovery under Section 4226 of the New York Insurance Law of all premiums paid by the class for the Policies during the relevant period. In July 2015, the Court granted AXA Equitable’s motion to dismiss for lack of subject matter jurisdiction. In April 2015, a second action in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York was filed on behalf of a putative class of variable annuity holders with “Guaranteed Benefits Insurance Riders,” entitled Calvin W. Yarbrough, on behalf of himself and all others similarly situated v. AXA Equitable Life Insurance Company. The new action covers the same class period, makes substantially the same allegations, and seeks the same relief as the Ross action. In October 2015, the Court, on its own, dismissed the Yarbrough litigation on similar grounds as the Ross litigation. In December 2015, the Second Circuit denied the plaintiffs motion to consolidate their appeals but ordered that the appeals be heard together before a single panel of judges. In February 2017, the Second Circuit affirmed the decisions of the district court in favor of AXA Equitable, and that decision is now final because the plaintiffs failed to file a further appeal. In November 2014, a lawsuit was filed in the Superior Court of New Jersey, Camden County entitled Arlene Shuster, on behalf of herself and all others similarly situated v. AXA Equitable Life Insurance Company. This lawsuit is a putative class action on behalf of all AXA Equitable variable life insurance policyholders who allocated funds from their policy accounts to investments in AXA Equitable’s Separate Accounts, which were subsequently subjected to the volatility management strategy and who suffered injury as a result thereof. The action asserts that AXA Equitable breached its variable life insurance contracts by implementing the volatility management strategy. In February 2016, the Court dismissed the complaint. In March 2016, the plaintiff filed a notice of appeal. In April 2018, the Superior Court of New Jersey Appellate Division affirmed the trial court’s decision. In August 2015, another lawsuit was filed in Connecticut Superior Court, Judicial Division of New Haven entitled Richard T. O’Donnell, on behalf of himself and all others similarly situated v. AXA Equitable Life Insurance Company. This lawsuit is a putative class action on behalf of all persons who purchased variable annuities from AXA Equitable, which were subsequently subjected to the volatility management strategy and who suffered injury as a result thereof. Plaintiff asserts a claim for breach of contract alleging that AXA Equitable implemented the volatility management strategy in violation of applicable law. In November 2015, the Connecticut Federal District Court transferred this action to the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York. In March 2017, the Southern District of New York granted AXA Equitable’s motion to dismiss the complaint. In April 2017, the plaintiff filed a notice of appeal. In April 2018, the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit reversed the trial court’s decision with instructions to remand the case to Connecticut state court. We are vigorously defending these matters. In February 2016, a lawsuit was filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York entitled Brach Family Foundation, Inc. v. AXA Equitable Life Insurance Company. This lawsuit is a putative class action brought on behalf of all owners of universal life (“UL”) policies subject to AXA Equitable’s COI increase. In early 2016, AXA Equitable raised COI rates for certain UL policies issued between 2004 and 2007, which had both issue ages 70 and above and a current face value amount of $ 1 million and above. In March 2018, plaintiff amended its complaint to add two new plaintiffs, including the individual Malcolm Currie. The current complaint alleges the following claims: breach of contract; misrepresentations by AXA in violation of Section 4226 of the New York Insurance Law; violations of New York General Business Law Section 349; violations of the California Unfair Competition Law, and the California Elder Abuse Statute. Plaintiffs seek (a) compensatory damages, costs, and, pre- and post-judgment interest, (b) with respect to their claim concerning Section 4226, a penalty in the amount of premiums paid by the plaintiffs and the putative class, and (c) injunctive relief and attorneys’ fees in connection with their statutory claims. Seven individual actions challenging the COI increase are also pending against AXA Equitable in federal or state courts. They contain similar allegations as those in Brach as well as additional allegations for violations of various states’ consumer protection statutes and common law fraud. Pursuant to an October 2017 order, the putative class action and the four individual federal actions are consolidated for the purposes of coordinating pre-trial activities. We are in various stages of motion practice, and are vigorously defending each of these matters. Restructuring The restructuring costs and liabilities associated with the Company's initiatives were as follows: Three Months Ended March 31, Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2018 2017 (in millions) Severance Balance, beginning of year $ 23 $ 22 Additions 7 17 Cash payments (3 ) (14 ) Other reductions — (2 ) Balance, end of Year $ 27 $ 23 Three Months Ended March 31, Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2018 2017 (in millions) Leases Balance, beginning of year $ 165 $ 170 Expense incurred — 29 Deferred rent 2 10 Payments made (11 ) (48 ) Interest accretion 1 4 Balance, end of year $ 157 $ 165 Obligation under Funding Agreements As a member of the FHLBNY, AXA Equitable has access to collateralized borrowings. It also may issue funding agreements to the FHLBNY. Both the collateralized borrowings and funding agreements would require AXA Equitable to pledge qualified mortgage-backed assets and/or government securities as collateral. AXA Equitable issues short-term funding agreements to the FHLBNY and uses the funds for asset liability and cash management purposes. AXA Equitable issues long-term funding agreements to the FHLBNY and uses the funds for spread lending purposes. For other instruments used for asset liability management purposes see “Derivative and offsetting assets and liabilities” included in Note 3 . Funding agreements are reported in Policyholders’ account balances in the consolidated balance sheets. Outstanding balance at end of period Maturity of Outstanding balance Issued during the period Repaid during the period March 31, 2018: (in millions) Short-term FHLBNY funding agreements $ 500 less than one month $ 1,500 $ 1,500 Long-term FHLBNY funding agreements 1,417 less than 4 years — — 204 Less than 5 years — — 879 greater than five years — — Total long-term funding agreements 2,500 — — Total FHLBNY funding agreements at March 31, 2018 $ 3,000 $ 1,500 $ 1,500 December 31, 2017: Short-term FHLBNY funding agreements $ 500 Less than one month $ 6,000 $ 6,000 Long-term FHLBNY funding agreements 1,244 Less than 4 years 324 — 377 Less than 5 years 303 — 879 Greater than five years 135 — Total long-term funding agreements 2,500 762 — Total FHLBNY funding agreements at December 31, 2017 $ 3,000 $ 6,762 $ 6,000 Other Commitments AXA Equitable had approximately $ 18 million of undrawn letters of credit issued in favor of third party beneficiaries primarily, as well as $ 772 million (including $ 222 million with affiliates) and $ 712 million of commitments under equity financing arrangements to certain limited partnership and existing mortgage loan agreements, respectively, at March 31, 2018 . AXA Financial has legally assumed primary liability from AXA Equitable for all current and future liabilities of AXA Equitable under certain employee benefit plans that provide participants with medical, life insurance, and deferred compensation benefits. AXA Equitable remains secondarily liable for its obligations under these plans and would recognize such liability in the event AXA Financial does not perform under the terms of the agreements.

BUSINESS SEGMENT INFORMATION

BUSINESS SEGMENT INFORMATION	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Business Segment Information	BUSINESS SEGMENT INFORMATION The Company has four reportable segments: Individual Retirement, Group Retirement, Investment Management and Research and Protection Solutions. The Company changed its segment presentation in the fourth quarter 2017. The segment disclosures are based on the intention to provide the users of the financial statements with a view of the business from the Company’s perspective. As a result, the Company determined that it is more useful for a user of the financial statements to assess the historical performance on the basis which management currently evaluates the business. The reportable segments are based on the nature of the business activities, as they exist as of the initial filing date. These segments reflect the manner by which the Company’s chief operating decision maker views and manages the business. A brief description of these segments follows: • The Individual Retirement segment offers a diverse suite of variable annuity products which are primarily sold to affluent and high net worth individuals saving for retirement or seeking retirement income. • The Group Retirement segment offers tax-deferred investment and retirement plans to be sponsored by educational entities, municipalities and not-for-profit entities as well as small and medium-sized businesses. • The Investment Management and Research segment provides diversified investment management, research and related solutions globally to a broad range of clients through three main client channels- Institutional, Retail and Private Wealth Management-and distributes its institutional research products and solutions through Bernstein Research Services. • The Protection Solutions segment includes our life insurance and group employee benefits businesses. Our life insurance business offers a variety of variable universal life, universal life and term life products to help affluent and high net worth individuals, as well as small and medium-sized business owners, with their wealth protection, wealth transfer and corporate needs. Our group employee benefits business offers a suite of dental, vision, life, and short- and long-term disability and other insurance products to small and medium-size businesses across the United States. Measurement Operating earnings (loss) is the financial measure which primarily focuses on the Company’s segments’ results of operations as well as the underlying profitability of the Company’s core business. By excluding items that can be distortive and unpredictable such as investment gains (losses) and investment income (loss) from derivative instruments, the Company believes operating earnings (loss) by segment enhances the understanding of the Company’s underlying drivers of profitability and trends in the Company’s segments. Operating earnings is calculated by adjusting each segment’s Net income (loss) attributable to AXA Equitable for the following items: • Adjustments related to GMxB features include changes in the fair value of the derivatives we use to hedge our GMxB features within our variable annuity products, the effect of benefit ratio unlock adjustments and changes in the fair value of the embedded derivatives of our GMxB riders reflected within variable annuity products net derivative result; • Investment (gains) losses, which includes other-than-temporary impairments of securities, sales or disposals of securities/investments, realized capital gains/losses, and valuation allowances; • Derivative (gains) losses from certain derivative instruments, which includes net derivative (gains) losses, excluding derivative instruments used to hedge risks associated with interest margins on interest sensitive life and annuity contracts, replicate credit exposure of fixed maturity securities, replicate a dollar-denominated fixed-coupon cash bonds, Separate Account fee hedges, and freestanding and embedded derivatives associated with products with GMxB features; • Net actuarial (gains) losses, which includes actuarial gains and losses as a result of differences between actual and expected experience on pension plan assets or projected benefit obligation during a given period related to pension and other postretirement benefit obligations; • Other adjustments including restructuring costs related to severance, lease write-offs related to non-recurring restructuring activities and write-downs of goodwill; and • Income tax expense (benefit) related to above adjustments and non-recurring tax items. Revenues derived from any customer did not exceed 10% of revenues for the first quarters of 2018 and 2017 . The table below presents operating earnings (loss) by segment and Corporate and Other and a reconciliation to Net income (loss) attributable to AXA Equitable for the first quarters of 2018 and 2017 , respectively: Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 2017 (in millions) Net income (loss) attributable to AXA Equitable $ (194 ) $ (172 ) Adjustments related to: GMxB features 597 485 Investment (gains) losses (87 ) 11 Investment income (gain) loss from certain derivative instruments (20 ) — Net actuarial (gains) losses related to pension and other postretirement benefit obligations 23 27 Other adjustments 198 (20 ) Income tax expense (benefit) related to above adjustments (139 ) (188 ) Non-recurring tax items 7 4 Non-GAAP Operating Earnings $ 385 $ 147 Operating earnings (loss) by segment: Individual Retirement $ 298 $ 142 Group Retirement 70 50 Investment Management and Research 51 12 Protection Solutions 26 (34 ) Corporate and Other (1) (60 ) (23 ) Total $ 385 $ 147 (1) Includes interest expense of $ 9 million and $ 4 million , for the first quarters of 2018 and 2017 , respectively. Segment revenues is a measure of the Company's revenue by segment as adjusted to exclude certain items. The following table reconciles segment revenues to Total revenues by excluding the following items: • Adjustment related to our GMxB business which includes: changes in the fair value of the derivatives we use to hedge our GMxB riders within our variable annuities, and changes in the fair value of the embedded derivatives of our GMxB riders reflected within variable annuity net derivative result; • Investment gains (losses), which include other-than-temporary impairments of securities, sales or disposals of securities/investments, realized capital gains/losses, and valuation allowances; and • Investment income (loss) from certain derivative instruments, which includes net derivative gains (losses), excluding derivative instruments used to hedge risks associated with interest margins on interest sensitive life and annuity contracts, separate account fee hedges, and freestanding and embedded derivatives associated with products with GMxB features. The table below presents Segment revenues for three months ended for the first quarters of 2018 and 2017 . Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 2017 (in millions) Segment revenues: Individual Retirement (1) $ 619 $ 904 Group Retirement (1) 245 230 Investment Management and Research (2) 909 742 Protection Solutions (1) 644 633 Corporate and Other (1) 197 238 Adjustments related to: GMxB features (586 ) (485 ) Investment gains (losses) 87 (11 ) Investment income (loss) from certain derivative instruments 20 — Other adjustments to segment revenues (104 ) 63 Total revenues $ 2,031 $ 2,314 (1) Includes investment expenses charged by AB of approximately $ 16 million and $ 15 million for the first quarters of 2018 and 2017 , respectively, for services provided to the Company. (2) Inter-segment investment management and other fees of approximately $ 23 million and $ 22 million for the first quarters of 2018 and 2017 , respectively, are included in total revenues of the Investment Management segment. The table below presents Total assets by segment as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 : March 31, December 31, (in millions) Total assets by segment: Individual Retirement $ 108,741 $ 120,612 Group Retirement 42,731 40,472 Investment Management and Research 11,345 10,079 Protection Solutions 38,897 34,328 Corporate and Other 20,710 20,494 Total assets $ 222,424 $ 225,985

SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

SUBSEQUENT EVENTS	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent Events	SUBSEQUENT EVENTS On April 11, 2018, the Company restated its 2016 financial statements, which caused defaults under certain of its derivative agreements. The Company sought waivers for these defaults from the relevant counterparties as appropriate and obtained all such waivers on April 11, 2018. The Company does not consider this to have a material impact on its business, results of operations or financial condition. On April 12, 2018, we completed an unwind of the reinsurance provided to AXA Equitable by AXA RE Arizona for certain variable annuities with GMxB features (the “GMxB Unwind”). Accordingly, all business previously reinsured to AXA RE Arizona, with the exception of the GMxB Business, was novated to EQ AZ Life Re Company, a newly formed captive insurance company organized under the laws of Arizona, which is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Holdings. As of March 31, 2018, $7.9 billion of the $9.7 billion of the GMIB reinsurance contract asset is with AXA Re Arizona. Following the novation of this business to EQ AZ Life Re Company, AXA RE Arizona was merged with and into AXA Equitable. Following AXA RE Arizona's merger with and into AXA Equitable, the GMxB Business is not subject to any internal reinsurance arrangements. On April 20, 2018, AXA pre-paid the remaining $650 million of a $700 million note and $50 million of a $500 million term loan and related accrued interest from the Company. On April 20, 2018, the Company purchased an $800 million note from Holdings maturing on April 20, 2021. On April 25, 2018, Holdings adopted the AXA Equitable Holdings, Inc. Short-Term Incentive Compensation Plan (the “STIC Plan”). Although the STIC Plan is not a share-based compensation plan, awards payable under the STIC Plan may be paid in cash or in awards granted under the Omnibus Plan. On May 8, 2018, Holdings adopted the AXA Equitable Holdings, Inc. 2018 Omnibus Incentive Plan (the “Omnibus Plan”), a share-based compensation plan. Holdings is the sponsor of these plans and qualifying employees of AXA Equitable will be eligible for participation in the plans. O n May 2, 2018, AB announced that it will establish its corporate headquarters in, and relocate approximately 1,050 jobs currently located in the New York metro area to, Nashville, TN. AB’s Nashville headquarters will house Finance, IT, Operations, Legal, Compliance, Internal Audit, Human Capital, and Sales and Marketing. AB will begin relocating jobs during 2018 and expects this transition to take several years. AB will continue to maintain a principal location in New York City, which will house its Portfolio Management, Sell-Side Research and Trading, and New York-based Private Wealth Management businesses. On May 14, 2018 , Holdings completed an initial public offering in which AXA sold a minority stake to the public.

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICI24

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Policies)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements and Future Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements	Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB") issued new guidance that revises the recognition criteria for revenue arising from contracts with customers to provide goods or services, except when those revenue streams are from insurance and investment contracts, leases, rights and obligations that are in the scope of certain financial instruments (i.e., derivative contracts) and guarantees other than product or service warranties, for which existing revenue recognition requirements are not superseded by this guidance. On January 1, 2018, the Company adopted the new revenue recognition guidance on a modified retrospective basis and is providing in its first quarter 2018 reporting the additional disclosures required by the new standard. Adoption of this new guidance did not change the amounts or timing of the Company’s revenue recognition for base investment management and advisory fees, distribution revenues, shareholder servicing revenues, and broker-dealer revenues. However, some performance-based fees and carried-interest distributions, that prior to adoption were recognized when no risk of reversal remained, in certain instances under the new standard may be recognized earlier if it is probable that significant reversal will not occur. As a result, on January 1, 2018, the Company recognized a cumulative effect adjustment, net of tax, to increase opening equity attributable to AXA Equitable and the noncontrolling interest by approximately $8 million and $25 million , respectively, reflecting the impact of carried-interest distributions previously received by AB of approximately $78 million , net of revenue sharing payments to investment team members of approximately $43 million , for which it is probable that significant reversal will not occur and for which incremental tax is provided at AXA Equitable. In January 2016, the FASB issued new guidance related to the recognition and measurement of financial assets and financial liabilities. The new guidance primarily affects the accounting for equity investments, financial liabilities under the fair value option, and presentation and disclosure requirements for financial instruments. In addition, the FASB clarified guidance related to the valuation allowance assessment when recognizing deferred tax assets resulting from unrealized losses on available-for-sale (“AFS”) debt securities. The new guidance requires equity investments in unconsolidated entities, except those accounted for under the equity method, to be measured at fair value through earnings, thereby eliminating the AFS classification for equity securities with readily determinable fair values for which changes in fair value currently are reported in AOCI. On January 1, 2018, the Company adopted the new recognition requirements on a modified retrospective basis for changes in the fair value of AFS equity securities, resulting in no material reclassification adjustment from AOCI to opening retained earnings for the net unrealized gains, net of tax, related to approximately $13 million common stock securities and eliminated their designation as AFS equity securities. The new guidance does not apply to FHLB common stock and prohibits such investments from being classified as equity securities subject to the new guidance. Accordingly, the Company has classified its investment in the FHLB common stock as other invested assets at March 31, 2018. The Company’s investment assets held in the form of equity interests in unconsolidated entities, such as limited partnerships and limited liability companies, including hedge funds, private equity funds, and real estate-related funds, generally are accounted for under the equity method and were not impacted by this new guidance. The Company does not currently report any of its financial liabilities under the fair value option. In March 2017, the FASB issued new guidance on the presentation of net periodic pension and post-retirement benefit costs that requires retrospective disaggregation of the service cost component from the other components of net benefit costs on the income statement. The service cost component is required to be presented with other employee compensation costs in “income from operations,” and the remaining components are to be reported separately outside of income from operations. While this standard does not change the rules for how benefits costs are measured, it limits the amount eligible for capitalization on a prospective basis to the service cost component. On January 1, 2018, the Company adopted the change in the income statement presentation utilizing the practical expedient for determining the historical components of net benefits cost, resulting in no material impact to the consolidated financial statements. In addition, no changes to the Company’s capitalization policies with respect to benefits costs resulted from adoption of the new guidance. In May 2017, the FASB issued guidance on share-based payments. The amendment provides clarity intended to reduce diversity in practice and the cost and complexity of accounting for changes to the terms or conditions of share-based payment awards. The new guidance is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017 and requires prospective application to awards modified on or after the date of adoption. Adoption of this amendment on January 1, 2018 did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements. In August 2016, the FASB issued new guidance to simplify elements of cash flow classification. The new guidance is intended to reduce diversity in practice in how certain transactions are classified in the statement of cash flows. The new guidance is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017 and should be applied using a retrospective transition method. Adoption of this guidance did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements. Future Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements In February 2018, the FASB issued new guidance that will permit, but not require, entities to reclassify to retained earnings tax effects “stranded” in AOCI resulting from the change in federal tax rate enacted by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the “Tax Reform Act”) on December 22, 2017. An entity that elects this option must reclassify these stranded tax effects for all items in AOCI, including, but not limited to, AFS securities and employee benefits. Tax effects stranded in AOCI for other reasons, such as prior changes in tax law, may not be reclassified. While the new guidance provides entities the option to reclassify these amounts, new disclosures are required regardless of whether entities elect to do so. The new guidance is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2018, with early adoption permitted. Election can be made either to apply the new guidance retrospectively to each period in which the effect of the Tax Reform Act is recognized or in the period of adoption. Management currently is evaluating the options provided for adopting this guidance and the potential impacts on the Company’s consolidated financial statements. In August 2017, the FASB issued new guidance on accounting for hedging activities, intended to more closely align the financial statement reporting of hedging relationships to the economic results of an entity’s risk management activities. In addition, the new guidance makes certain targeted modifications to simplify the application of current hedge accounting guidance. The new guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018 and interim periods within those fiscal years, with early application permitted. The effect of adoption should be reflected as of the beginning of the fiscal year of adoption (that is, the initial application date). All transition requirements and elections should be applied to derivatives positions and hedging relationships existing on the date of adoption. Management currently is evaluating the impact that adoption of this guidance will have on the Company’s consolidated financial statements. In March 2017, the FASB issued guidance that requires certain premiums on callable debt securities to be amortized to the earliest call date and is intended to better align interest income recognition with the manner in which market participants price these instruments. The new guidance is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2018 with early adoption permitted and is to be applied on a modified retrospective basis. Management currently is evaluating the impact that adoption of this guidance will have on the Company’s consolidated financial statements. In June 2016, the FASB issued new guidance related to the accounting for credit losses on financial instruments. The new guidance introduces an approach based on expected losses to estimate credit losses on certain types of financial instruments. It also modifies the impairment model for available-for-sale debt securities and provides for a simplified accounting model for purchased financial assets with credit deterioration since their origination. The new guidance is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2019 with early adoption permitted for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2018. Management currently is evaluating the impact that adoption of this guidance will have on the Company’s consolidated financial statements. In February 2016, the FASB issued revised guidance to lease accounting that will require lessees to recognize on the balance sheet a “right-of-use” asset and a lease liability for virtually all lease arrangements, including those embedded in other contracts. The new lease accounting model will continue to distinguish between capital and operating leases. The current straight-line pattern for the recognition of rent expense on an operating lease is expected to remain substantially unchanged by the new guidance but instead will be comprised of amortization of the right-of-use asset and interest cost on the related lease obligation, thereby resulting in an income statement presentation similar to a financing arrangement or capital lease. Lessor accounting will remain substantially unchanged from the current model but has been updated to align with certain changes made to the lessee model. The new guidance is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2018, with early adoption permitted. The transition provisions require application on a modified retrospective approach at the beginning of the earliest comparative period presented in the financial statements (that is, January 1, 2017). Extensive quantitative and qualitative disclosures, including significant judgments made by management, will be required to provide greater insight into the extent of revenue and expense recognized and expected to be recognized from existing lease contracts and arrangements. Management currently is evaluating the impact that adoption of this guidance will have on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition Investment Management and Service Fees and Related Expenses Reported as Investment management and service fees in the Company’s consolidated statements of income (loss) are investment advisory and service fees, distribution revenues, and institutional research services revenues principally emerging from the Investment Management and Research segment. Also included are investment management and administrative service fees earned by AXA Equitable Funds Management Group, LLC (“AXA Equitable FMG”) and reported in the Retirement and Protection segment as well as certain asset-based fees associated with insurance contracts. Investment management, advisory, and service fees AB provides asset management services by managing customer assets and seeking to deliver returns to investors. Similarly, AXA Equitable FMG provides investment management and administrative services, such as fund accounting and compliance services, to AXA Premier VIP Trust (“VIP Trust”), EQ Advisors Trust (“EQAT”) and 1290 Funds as well as two private investment trusts established in the Cayman Islands, AXA Allocation Funds Trust and AXA Offshore Multimanager Funds Trust (collectively, the “Other AXA Trusts”). The contracts supporting these revenue streams create a distinct, separately identifiable performance obligation for each day the assets are managed for the performance of a series of services that are substantially the same and have the same pattern of transfer to the customer. Accordingly, these investment management, advisory, and service base fees are recorded over time as services are performed and entitle the Company to variable consideration. Base fees, generally calculated as a percentage of assets under management ("AUM"), are recognized as revenue at month-end when the transaction price no longer is variable and the value of the consideration is determined. These fees are not subject to claw back and there is minimal probability that a significant reversal of the revenue recorded will occur. Certain investment advisory contracts of AB, including those associated with hedge funds or other alternative investments, provide for a performance-based fee (including carried interest), in addition to a base advisory fee, calculated either as a percentage of absolute investment results or a percentage of investment results in excess of a stated benchmark over a specified period of time. These performance-based fees are forms of variable consideration and therefore, are excluded from the transaction price until it becomes probable there will not be significant reversal of the cumulative revenue recognized. At each reporting date, the Company evaluates constraining factors surrounding the variable consideration to determine the extent to which, if any, revenues associated with the performance-based fee can be recognized. Constraining factors impacting the amount of variable consideration included in the transaction price are, by example, contractual claw-back provisions, the length of time of the uncertainty, the number and range of possible amounts, the probability of significant fluctuations in the fund's market value, and the level in which the fund’s value exceeds the contractual threshold required to earn such a fee and the materiality of the amount being evaluated. Prior to adoption of the new revenue recognition guidance on January 1, 2018, the Company recognized performance-based fees at the end of the applicable measurement period when no risk of reversal remained, and carried-interest distributions received as deferred revenues until no risk of reversal remained. Sub-advisory and sub-administrative expenses associated with these services are calculated and recorded as the related services are performed in Other operating costs and expense in the consolidated statements of income (loss) as the Company is acting in a principal capacity in these transactions and, as such, reflects these revenues and expenses on a gross basis. Research services Research services revenue principally consists of brokerage transaction charges received by Sanford C. Bernstein & Co. LLC (“SCB LLC”) and Sanford C. Bernstein Limited (“SCBL”) for providing equity research services to institutional clients. Brokerage commissions for trade execution services and related expenses are recorded on a trade-date basis when the performance obligations are satisfied. Generally, the transaction price is agreed upon at the point of each trade and based upon the number of shares traded or the value of the consideration traded. Research revenues are recognized when the transaction price is quantified, collectability is assured, and significant reversal of such revenue is not probable. Distribution services Revenues from distribution services include fees received as partial reimbursement of expenses incurred in connection with the sale of certain AB sponsored mutual funds, and for the distribution primarily of EQAT and VIP Trust shares to separate accounts in connection with the sale of variable life and annuity contracts. The amount and timing of revenues recognized from performance of these distribution services often is dependent upon the contractual arrangements with the customer and the specific product sold as further described below. Most open-end management investment companies, such as U.S. funds, EQAT and VIP Trust, and 1290 funds, have adopted a plan under Rule 12b-1 of the Investment Company Act that allows for certain share classes to pay out of assets, distribution and service fees for the distribution and sale of their shares (“12b-1 fees”). These open-end management companies have such agreements with the Company, and the Company has selling and distribution agreements pursuant to which it pays sales commissions to the financial intermediaries that distribute the shares. These agreements may be terminated by either party upon notice (generally 30 days) and do not obligate the financial intermediary to sell any specific amount of shares. The Company records 12b-1 fees monthly based upon a percentage of the net asset value (“NAV”) of the funds. At month-end, the variable consideration of the transaction price is no longer constrained as the NAV can be calculated and the value of consideration is determined. These services are separate and distinct from other asset management services as the customer can benefit from these services independently of other services. The Company accrues the corresponding 12b-1 fees paid to sub-distributors monthly as the expenses are incurred. The Company is acting in a principal capacity in these transactions; as such, revenues and expenses are recorded on a gross basis in the consolidated statements of income (loss). AB sponsored mutual funds offer back-end load shares in limited instances and charge the investor a contingent deferred sales charge ("CDSC") if the investment is redeemed within a certain period. The variable consideration for these contracts is contingent upon the timing of the redemption by the investor and the value of the sales proceeds. Due to these constraining factors, the Company excludes the CDSC fee from the transaction price until the investor redeems the investment. Upon redemption, the cash consideration received for these contractual arrangements is recorded as a reduction of unamortized deferred sales commissions. AB’s Luxembourg subsidiary, the management company for most of its non-U.S. funds earns a management fee which is accrued daily and paid monthly, at an annual rate, based on the average daily net assets of the fund. With respect to certain share classes, the management fee also may contain a component paid to distributors and other financial intermediaries and service providers to cover shareholder servicing and other administrative expenses (also referred to as an “All-in-Fee”). Based on the conclusion that asset management is distinct from distribution, the Company allocates a portion of the investment and advisory fee to distribution revenues for the servicing component based on standalone selling prices. Other revenues Also reported as Investment management and service fees in the Company’s consolidated statements of income (loss) are other revenues from contracts with customers, primarily consisting of shareholder servicing fees, mutual fund reimbursements, and other brokerage income. Shareholder services, including transfer agency, administration, and recordkeeping are provided by AB to company-sponsored mutual funds. The consideration for these services is based on a percentage of the NAV of the fund or a fixed-fee based on the number of shareholder accounts being serviced. The revenues are recorded at month-end when the constraining factors involved with determining NAV or the numbers of shareholders’ accounts are resolved. Other income Revenues from contracts with customers reported as Other income in the Company’s consolidated statements of income (loss) primarily consist of commission and expense reimbursements related to business reinsured with affiliates and distribution fees received by the Company’s subsidiary broker-dealer for sales of affiliate insurers’ life insurance and annuity products. These revenues are recognized at month-end when constraining factors, such as premiums ceded and product mix, are resolved and the value of consideration is determined. Contract Assets and Liabilities The Company applies the practical expedient for contracts that have an original duration of one year or less. Accordingly, the Company accrues the incremental costs of obtaining a contract when incurred and does not consider the time value of money. At March 31, 2018 there are no material balances of contract assets and contract liabilities; as such, no further disclosures are necessary
Accounting and Consolidation of VIEs	Accounting and Consolidation of VIEs A VIE must be consolidated by its primary beneficiary, which generally is defined as the party that has a controlling financial interest in the VIE. The Company is deemed to have a controlling financial interest in a VIE if it has (i) the power to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly affect the VIE’s economic performance, and (ii) the obligation to absorb losses of the VIE or the right to receive income from the VIE that potentially could be significant to the VIE. For purposes of evaluating (ii) above, fees paid to the Company as a decision maker or service provider are excluded if the fees are compensation for services provided commensurate with the level of effort required to be performed and the arrangement includes only customary terms, conditions or amounts present in arrangements for similar services negotiated at arm’s length. If the Company has a variable interest in an entity that is determined not to be a VIE, the entity then is evaluated for consolidation under the voting interest entity (“VOE”) model. For limited partnerships and similar entities, the Company is deemed to have a controlling financial interest in a VOE, and would be required to consolidate the entity, if the Company owns a majority of the entity’s kick-out rights through voting limited partnership interests and other limited partners do not hold substantive participating rights (or other rights that would indicate that the Company does not control the entity). For entities other than limited partnerships, the Company is deemed to have a controlling financial interest in a VOE if it owns a majority voting interest in the entity. The analysis performed to identify variable interests held, determine whether entities are VIEs or VOEs, and evaluate whether the Company has a controlling financial interest in such entities requires the exercise of judgment and is updated on a continuous basis as circumstances change or new entities are developed. The primary beneficiary evaluation generally is performed qualitatively based on all facts and circumstances, including consideration of economic interests in the VIE held directly and indirectly through related parties and entities under common control, as well as quantitatively, as appropriate.
Fair Value Disclosures	Fair value is defined as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. The accounting guidance established a fair value hierarchy that requires an entity to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value, and identifies three levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair value: Level 1 Unadjusted quoted prices for identical instruments in active markets. Level 1 fair values generally are supported by market transactions that occur with sufficient frequency and volume to provide pricing information on an ongoing basis. Level 2 Observable inputs other than Level 1 prices, such as quoted prices for similar instruments, quoted prices in markets that are not active, and inputs to model-derived valuations that are directly observable or can be corroborated by observable market data. Level 3 Unobservable inputs supported by little or no market activity and often requiring significant management judgment or estimation, such as an entity’s own assumptions about the cash flows or other significant components of value that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. The Company uses unadjusted quoted market prices to measure the fair value of instruments that are actively traded in financial markets. In cases where quoted market prices are not available, fair values are measured using present value or other valuation techniques. The fair value determinations are made at a specific point in time, based on available market information and judgments about the financial instrument, including estimates of the timing and amount of expected future cash flows and the credit standing of counterparties. Such adjustments do not reflect any premium or discount that could result from offering for sale at one time the Company’s entire holdings of a particular financial instrument, nor do they consider the tax impact of the realization of unrealized gains or losses. In many cases, the fair value cannot be substantiated by direct comparison to independent markets, nor can the disclosed value be realized in immediate settlement of the instrument. Management is responsible for the determination of the value of investments carried at fair value and the supporting methodologies and assumptions. Under the terms of various service agreements, the Company often utilizes independent valuation service providers to gather, analyze, and interpret market information and derive fair values based upon relevant methodologies and assumptions for individual securities. These independent valuation service providers typically obtain data about market transactions and other key valuation model inputs from multiple sources and, through the use of widely accepted valuation models, provide a single fair value measurement for individual securities for which a fair value has been requested. As further described below with respect to specific asset classes, these inputs include, but are not limited to, market prices for recent trades and transactions in comparable securities, benchmark yields, interest rate yield curves, credit spreads, quoted prices for similar securities, and other market-observable information, as applicable. Specific attributes of the security being valued also are considered, including its term, interest rate, credit rating, industry sector, and when applicable, collateral quality and other security- or issuer-specific information. When insufficient market observable information is available upon which to measure fair value, the Company either will request brokers knowledgeable about these securities to provide a non-binding quote or will employ internal valuation models. Fair values received from independent valuation service providers and brokers and those internally modeled or otherwise estimated are assessed for reasonableness.

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICI25

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Financial Information Affected by Revisions and Change in Accounting Principle	The following tables present line items for March 31, 2017 financial information that has been affected by the revisions and the Accounting Change. This information has been corrected from the information previously presented in the in the first quarter 2017 Form 10-Q. For these items, the tables detail the amounts as previously reported, the impact upon those line items due to the revisions, as revised after the revisions, the impacts of the Accounting Change and the amounts as currently revised. As Previously Reported Impact of Revisions As Revised and Adjusted Herein Impact of Accounting Change As Revised (In millions) As of March 31, 2017 Assets: Other equity investments $ 1,463 $ (23 ) $ 1,440 $ — $ 1,440 Other invested assets 2,050 34 2,084 — 2,084 Total investments 60,406 11 60,417 — 60,417 DAC 4,068 367 4,435 526 4,961 Amounts due from reinsurers 4,639 8 4,647 — 4,647 Guaranteed minimum income benefit 9,795 3 9,798 — 9,798 Total Assets $ 209,098 $ 389 $ 209,487 $ 526 $ 210,013 Liabilities: Policyholders' account balance $ 40,308 $ (16 ) $ 40,292 $ — $ 40,292 Future policyholders' benefits and other policyholders' liabilities 25,496 51 25,547 3,144 28,691 Current and deferred taxes 3,523 120 3,643 (917 ) 2,726 Other liabilities 2,496 (3 ) 2,493 — 2,493 Total Liabilities 192,712 152 192,864 2,227 195,091 Equity: Retained Earnings 7,411 232 7,643 (1,665 ) 5,978 Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) 179 (6 ) 173 (36 ) 137 AXA Equitable Equity 12,934 226 13,160 (1,701 ) 11,459 Noncontrolling interest 3,035 11 3,046 — 3,046 Equity 15,969 237 16,206 (1,701 ) 14,505 Total Liabilities and Equity $ 209,098 $ 389 $ 209,487 $ 526 $ 210,013 As Previously Reported Impact of Revisions As Revised and Adjusted Herein Impact of Accounting Change As Revised (In millions) Three Months Ended March 31, 2017 Statements of Income (Loss): Revenues: Policy charges and fee income $ 896 $ 23 $ 919 $ (67 ) $ 852 Premiums 225 7 232 — 232 Net derivative gains (losses) (724 ) (97 ) (821 ) 459 (362 ) Total revenues 1,989 (67 ) 1,922 392 2,314 Benefits and other deductions: Policyholders' benefits 891 15 906 69 975 Interest credited to policyholders' account balances 337 (58 ) 279 — 279 Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs, net 125 (97 ) 28 1 29 Other operating costs and expenses 384 (3 ) 381 — 381 Total benefits and other deductions 2,562 (143 ) 2,419 70 2,489 Income (loss) from operations, before income taxes (573 ) 76 (497 ) 322 (175 ) Income tax (expense) benefit 260 (26 ) 234 (113 ) 121 Net income (loss) (313 ) 50 (263 ) 209 (54 ) Net income (loss) attributable to AXA Equitable $ (431 ) $ 50 $ (381 ) $ 209 $ (172 ) Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss): Net income (loss) $ (313 ) $ 50 $ (263 ) $ 209 $ (54 ) Change in unrealized gains (losses), net of reclassification adjustment 144 (20 ) 124 (32 ) 92 Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes 179 (20 ) 159 (32 ) 127 Comprehensive income (loss) (134 ) 30 (104 ) 177 73 Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to AXA Equitable $ (259 ) $ 30 $ (229 ) $ 177 $ (52 ) As Previously Reported Impact of Revisions As Revised and Adjusted Herein Impact of Accounting Change As Revised (In millions) Three Months Ended March 31, 2017 Statements of Equity: Retained earnings, beginning of year $ 7,842 $ 182 $ 8,024 $ (1,874 ) $ 6,150 Net income (loss) (431 ) 50 (381 ) 209 (172 ) Retained earnings, end of period 7,411 232 7,643 (1,665 ) 5,978 Accumulated other comprehensive income, beginning of year 7 14 21 (4 ) 17 Other comprehensive income (loss) 172 (20 ) 152 (32 ) 120 Accumulated other comprehensive income, end of period 179 (6 ) 173 (36 ) 137 Total AXA Equitable’s equity, end of period 12,934 226 13,160 (1,701 ) 11,459 Noncontrolling interest, beginning of year 3,085 11 3,096 — 3,096 Noncontrolling interest, end of period 3,035 11 3,046 — 3,046 Total Equity, End of Period $ 15,969 $ 237 $ 16,206 $ (1,701 ) $ 14,505 As Previously Reported Impact of Revisions As Revised and Adjusted Herein Impact of Accounting Change As Revised (In millions) Three Months Ended March 31, 2017 Statements of Cash flows: Net income (loss) $ (313 ) $ 50 $ (263 ) $ 209 $ (54 ) Policy charges and fee income (896 ) (23 ) (919 ) 67 (852 ) Interest credited to policyholders’ account balances 337 (58 ) 279 — 279 Net derivative (gains) loss 724 97 821 (459 ) 362 Changes in: Deferred policy acquisition costs 125 (97 ) 28 1 29 Future policy benefits 185 (13 ) 172 69 241 Reinsurance recoverable (44 ) 21 (23 ) — (23 ) Current and deferred income taxes (327 ) 26 (301 ) 113 (188 ) Other 154 (3 ) 151 — 151 Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities $ 18 $ — $ 18 $ — $ 18

INVESTMENTS (Tables)

INVESTMENTS (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]
Available-for-sale Securities by Classification	The following table provides information relating to fixed maturities and equity securities classified as AFS: Available-for-Sale Securities by Classification Amortized Gross Unrealized Gross Unrealized Fair OTTI (3) (in millions) March 31, 2018: Fixed Maturity Securities: Public corporate $ 14,613 $ 467 $ 236 $ 14,844 $ — Private corporate 7,044 114 100 7,058 — U.S. Treasury, government and agency 10,196 219 390 10,025 — States and political subdivisions 414 56 1 469 — Foreign governments 396 21 9 408 — Residential mortgage-backed (1) 221 12 — 233 — Asset-backed (2) 89 1 3 87 2 Redeemable preferred stock 465 45 4 506 — Total at March 31, 2018 $ 33,438 $ 935 $ 743 $ 33,630 $ 2 As a result of the adoption of the Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities standard on January 1, 2018 (Financial Instruments Recognition and Measurement Standard), equity securities are no longer classified and accounted for as available for sale securities. Amortized Gross Unrealized Gross Unrealized Fair OTTI (3) (in millions) December 31, 2017: Fixed Maturity Securities: Public corporate $ 13,645 $ 725 $ 25 $ 14,345 $ — Private corporate 6,951 217 31 7,137 — U.S. Treasury, government and agency 12,644 676 185 13,135 — States and political subdivisions 414 67 — 481 — Foreign governments 387 27 5 409 — Residential mortgage-backed (1) 236 15 — 251 — Asset-backed (2) 93 3 — 96 2 Redeemable preferred stock 461 44 1 504 — Total Fixed Maturities 34,831 1,774 247 36,358 2 Equity securities 157 — — 157 — Total at December 31, 2017 $ 34,988 $ 1,774 $ 247 $ 36,515 $ 2 (1) Includes publicly traded agency pass-through securities and collateralized obligations. (2) Includes credit-tranched securities collateralized by sub-prime mortgages and other asset types and credit tenant loans. (3) Amounts represent OTTI losses in AOCI, which were not included in income (loss) in accordance with current accounting guidance.
Available-for-sale Securities Fixed Maturities Contractual Maturities	The contractual maturities of AFS fixed maturities at March 31, 2018 are shown in the table below. Bonds not due at a single maturity date have been included in the table in the final year of maturity. Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because borrowers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties. Available-for-Sale Fixed Maturities Contractual Maturities at March 31, 2018 Amortized Cost Fair Value (in millions) Due in one year or less $ 1,303 $ 1,312 Due in years two through five 7,045 7,183 Due in years six through ten 9,550 9,508 Due after ten years 14,765 14,801 Subtotal 32,663 32,804 Residential mortgage-backed securities 221 233 Asset-backed securities 89 87 Redeemable preferred stock 465 506 Total $ 33,438 $ 33,630
Proceeds from Sales, Gross Gains (Losses) and OTTI for AFS Fixed Maturities	The following table shows proceeds from sales, gross gains (losses) from sales and OTTI for AFS fixed maturities during the first quarters of 2018 and 2017 : Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 2017 (in millions) Proceeds from sales $ 3,428 $ 414 Gross gains on sales $ 127 $ 19 Gross losses on sales $ (41 ) $ (20 ) Total OTTI $ — $ — Non-credit losses recognized in OCI — — Credit losses recognized in net income (loss) $ — $ —
Fixed Maturities - Credit Loss Impairments	The following table sets forth the amount of credit loss impairments on fixed maturity securities held by the Company at the dates indicated and the corresponding changes in such amounts: Fixed Maturities - Credit Loss Impairments Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 2017 (in millions) Balances, beginning of period $ (10 ) $ (190 ) Previously recognized impairments on securities that matured, paid, prepaid or sold — 43 Recognized impairments on securities impaired to fair value this period (1) — — Impairments recognized this period on securities not previously impaired — — Additional impairments this period on securities previously impaired — — Increases due to passage of time on previously recorded credit losses — — Accretion of previously recognized impairments due to increases in expected cash flows — — Balances at March 31, $ (10 ) $ (147 ) (1) Represents circumstances where the Company determined in the current period that it intends to sell the security or it is more likely than not that it will be required to sell the security before recovery of the security’s amortized cost.
Net Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Fixed Maturities and Equity Securities Included in AOCI	Net unrealized investment gains (losses) on fixed maturities classified as AFS are included in the consolidated balance sheets as a component of AOCI. The table below presents these amounts as of the dates indicated: March 31, December 31, 2017 (in millions) AFS Securities: Fixed maturities: With OTTI loss $ (1 ) $ 1 All other 193 1,526 Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) $ 192 $ 1,527
Net Unrealized Gain (Losses) on Fixed Maturities with OTTI Losses	The tables that follow below present a roll forward of net unrealized investment gains (losses) recognized in AOCI, split between amounts related to fixed maturity securities on which an OTTI loss has been recognized and all other: Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Fixed Maturities with OTTI Losses Net DAC Policyholders’ Deferred AOCI Gain (in millions) Balance, January 1, 2018 $ 1 $ 1 $ (1 ) $ (5 ) $ (4 ) Net investment gains (losses) arising during the period — — — — — Reclassification adjustment for OTTI losses: Included in Net income (loss) (2 ) — — — (2 ) Excluded from Net income (loss) (1) — — — — — Impact of net unrealized investment gains (losses) on: DAC — (1 ) — — (1 ) Deferred income taxes — — — — — Policyholders’ liabilities — — 1 — 1 Balance, March 31, 2018 $ (1 ) $ — $ — $ (5 ) $ (6 ) Balance, January 1, 2017 $ 19 $ (1 ) $ (10 ) $ (3 ) $ 5 Net investment gains (losses) arising during the period 49 — — — 49 Reclassification adjustment for OTTI losses: Included in Net income (loss) (48 ) — — — (48 ) Excluded from Net income (loss) (1) — — — — — Impact of net unrealized investment gains (losses) on: DAC — (4 ) — — (4 ) Deferred income taxes — — — (1 ) (1 ) Policyholders’ liabilities — — 5 — 5 Balance, March 31, 2017 $ 20 $ (5 ) $ (5 ) $ (4 ) $ 6 (1) Represents “transfers in” related to the portion of OTTI losses recognized during the period that were not recognized in income (loss) for securities with no prior OTTI loss.
All Other Net Unrealized Investment Gains (Losses) in AOCI	All Other Net Unrealized Investment Gains (Losses) in AOCI Net DAC Policyholders’ Deferred AOCI Gain (in millions) Balance, January 1, 2018 $ 1,526 $ (315 ) $ (232 ) $ (300 ) $ 679 Net investment gains (losses) arising during the period (88 ) — — — (88 ) Reclassification adjustment for OTTI losses: — Included in Net income (loss) (1,245 ) — — — (1,245 ) Excluded from Net income (loss) (1) — — — — — Impact of net unrealized investment gains (losses) on: DAC — 288 — — 288 Deferred income taxes — — — 197 197 Policyholders’ liabilities — — 108 — 108 Balance, March 31, 2018 $ 193 $ (27 ) $ (124 ) $ (103 ) $ (61 ) Balance, January 1, 2017 $ 428 $ (70 ) $ (188 ) $ (60 ) $ 110 Net investment gains (losses) arising during the period 166 — — — 166 Reclassification adjustment for OTTI losses: — Included in Net income (loss) 12 — — — 12 Excluded from Net income (loss) (1) — — — — — Impact of net unrealized investment gains (losses) on: DAC — (73 ) — — (73 ) Deferred income taxes — — — (46 ) (46 ) Policyholders’ liabilities — — 26 — 26 Balance, March 31, 2017 $ 606 $ (143 ) $ (162 ) $ (106 ) $ 195 (1) Represents “transfers out” related to the portion of OTTI losses during the period that were not recognized in income (loss) for securities with no prior OTTI loss.
Schedule of Gross Unrealized Loss on Investments	The following tables disclose the fair values and gross unrealized losses of the 1,188 issues at March 31, 2018 and the 620 issues at December 31, 2017 of fixed maturities that are not deemed to be other-than-temporarily impaired, aggregated by investment category and length of time that individual securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position for the specified periods at the dates indicated: Less Than 12 Months 12 Months or Longer Total Fair Value Gross Unrealized Losses Fair Value Gross Unrealized Losses Fair Value Gross Unrealized Losses (in millions) March 31, 2018: Fixed Maturity Securities: Public corporate $ 6,461 $ 209 $ 443 $ 27 $ 6,904 $ 236 Private corporate 2,299 58 634 42 2,933 100 U.S. Treasury, government and agency 2,172 65 2,859 325 5,031 390 States and political subdivisions 19 1 — — 19 1 Foreign governments 57 1 70 8 127 9 Residential mortgage-backed 17 — — — 17 — Asset-backed 70 3 1 — 71 3 Redeemable preferred stock 112 2 12 2 124 4 Total $ 11,207 $ 339 $ 4,019 $ 404 $ 15,226 $ 743 December 31, 2017: Fixed Maturity Securities: Public corporate $ 1,384 $ 9 $ 548 $ 16 $ 1,932 $ 25 Private corporate 718 8 615 23 1,333 31 U.S. Treasury, government and agency 2,150 6 3,005 179 5,155 185 States and political subdivisions 20 — — — 20 — Foreign governments 11 — 73 5 84 5 Residential mortgage-backed 18 — — — 18 — Asset-backed 7 — 2 — 9 — Redeemable preferred stock 7 — 12 1 19 1 Total $ 4,315 $ 23 $ 4,255 $ 224 $ 8,570 $ 247
Net Investment Income (Loss) from Trading Securities	The table below shows a breakdown of Net investment income from trading account securities during the first quarters of 2018 and 2017 : Net Investment Income (Loss) from Trading Securities Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 2017 (in millions) Net investment gains (losses) recognized during the period on securities held at the end of the period $ (64 ) $ 51 Net investment gains (losses) recognized on securities sold during the period 1 2 Unrealized and realized gains (losses) on trading securities arising during the period (63 ) 53 Interest and dividend income from trading securities 66 40 Net investment income (loss) from trading securities $ 3 $ 93
Valuation Allowance for Mortgage Loans	Allowance for credit losses for mortgage loans for the first quarters of 2018 and 2017 are as follows: Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 2017 Allowance for credit losses: (in millions) Beginning balance, January 1, $ 8 $ 8 Charge-offs — — Recoveries (1 ) — Provision — — Ending balance, March 31, $ 7 $ 8 March 31, Individually Evaluated for Impairment $ 7 $ 8
Mortgage Loans by Loan-To-Value and Debt Service Coverage Ratios	The following tables provide information relating to the loan-to-value and debt service coverage ratios for commercial and agricultural mortgage loans at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 . The values used in these ratio calculations were developed as part of the periodic review of the commercial and agricultural mortgage loan portfolio, which includes an evaluation of the underlying collateral value. Mortgage Loans by Loan-to-Value and Debt Service Coverage Ratios March 31, 2018 Debt Service Coverage Ratio Loan-to-Value Ratio: (1) Greater than 2.0x 1.8x to 2.0x 1.5x to 1.8x 1.2x to 1.5x 1.0x to 1.2x Less than 1.0x Total Mortgage Loans (in millions) Commercial Mortgage Loans (2) 0% - 50% $ 719 $ 22 $ 321 $ 73 $ — $ — $ 1,135 50% - 70% 4,477 643 1,122 399 178 — 6,819 70% - 90% 169 110 144 307 27 — 757 90% plus — — 27 — — — 27 Total Commercial Mortgage Loans $ 5,365 $ 775 $ 1,614 $ 779 $ 205 $ — $ 8,738 Agricultural Mortgage Loans (2) 0% - 50% $ 275 $ 153 $ 276 $ 496 $ 321 $ 29 $ 1,550 50% - 70% 111 46 219 360 228 48 1,012 70% - 90% — — — 23 — — 23 90% plus — — — — — — — Total Agricultural Mortgage Loans $ 386 $ 199 $ 495 $ 879 $ 549 $ 77 $ 2,585 Total Mortgage Loans (2) 0% - 50% $ 994 $ 175 $ 597 $ 569 $ 321 $ 29 $ 2,685 50% - 70% 4,588 689 1,341 759 406 48 7,831 70% - 90% 169 110 144 330 27 — 780 90% plus — — 27 — — — 27 Total Mortgage Loans $ 5,751 $ 974 $ 2,109 $ 1,658 $ 754 $ 77 $ 11,323 (1) The loan-to-value ratio is derived from current loan balance divided by the fair market value of the property. The fair market value of the underlying commercial properties is updated annually. (2) The debt service coverage ratio is calculated using the most recently reported operating income results from property operations divided by annual debt service. Mortgage Loans by Loan-to-Value and Debt Service Coverage Ratios December 31, 2017 Debt Service Coverage Ratio Loan-to-Value Ratio: (1) Greater than 2.0x 1.8x to 2.0x 1.5x to 1.8x 1.2x to 1.5x 1.0x to 1.2x Less than 1.0x Total Mortgage Loans (in millions) Commercial Mortgage Loans (2) 0% - 50% $ 742 $ — $ 320 $ 74 $ — $ — $ 1,136 50% - 70% 4,088 682 1,066 428 145 — 6,409 70% - 90% 169 110 196 272 50 — 797 90% plus — — 27 — — — 27 Total Commercial Mortgage Loans $ 4,999 $ 792 $ 1,609 $ 774 $ 195 $ — $ 8,369 Agricultural Mortgage Loans (2) 0% - 50% $ 272 $ 149 $ 275 $ 515 $ 316 $ 30 $ 1,557 50% - 70% 111 46 227 359 221 49 1,013 70% - 90% — — — 4 — — 4 90% plus — — — — — — — Total Agricultural Mortgage Loans $ 383 $ 195 $ 502 $ 878 $ 537 $ 79 $ 2,574 Total Mortgage Loans (2) 0% - 50% $ 1,014 $ 149 $ 595 $ 589 $ 316 $ 30 $ 2,693 50% - 70% 4,199 728 1,293 787 366 49 7,422 70% - 90% 169 110 196 276 50 — 801 90% plus — — 27 — — — 27 Total Mortgage Loans $ 5,382 $ 987 $ 2,111 $ 1,652 $ 732 $ 79 $ 10,943 (1) The loan-to-value ratio is derived from current loan balance divided by the fair market value of the property. The fair market value of the underlying commercial properties is updated annually. (2) The debt service coverage ratio is calculated using the most recently reported net operating income results from property operations divided by annual debt service.
Age Analysis of Past Due Mortgage Loans	The following table provides information relating to the aging analysis of past due mortgage loans at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 , respectively. Age Analysis of Past Due Mortgage Loan 30-59 Days 60-89 Days 90 Days or > Total Current Total Financing Receivables Recorded Investment 90 Days or > and Accruing (in millions) March 31, 2018 Commercial $ — $ — $ 27 $ 27 $ 8,711 $ 8,738 $ — Agricultural 10 5 39 54 2,531 2,585 39 Total Mortgage Loans $ 10 $ 5 $ 66 $ 81 $ 11,242 $ 11,323 $ 39 December 31, 2017 Commercial $ 27 $ — $ — $ 27 $ 8,342 $ 8,369 $ — Agricultural 49 3 22 74 2,500 2,574 22 Total Mortgage Loans $ 76 $ 3 $ 22 $ 101 $ 10,842 $ 10,943 $ 22
Impaired Mortgage Loans	The following table provides information relating to impaired mortgage loans at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 , respectively. Impaired Mortgage Loans Recorded Investment Unpaid Principal Balance Related Allowance Average Recorded Investment (1) Interest Income Recognized (in millions) March 31, 2018: With no related allowance recorded: Commercial mortgage loans - other $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — Agricultural mortgage loans — — — — — Total $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — With related allowance recorded: Commercial mortgage loans - other $ 27 $ 27 $ (7 ) $ 27 $ — Agricultural mortgage loans — — — — — Total $ 27 $ 27 $ (7 ) $ 27 $ — December 31, 2017: With no related allowance recorded: Commercial mortgage loans - other $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — Agricultural mortgage loans — — — — — Total $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — With related allowance recorded: Commercial mortgage loans - other $ 27 $ 27 $ (8 ) $ 27 $ 2 Agricultural mortgage loans — — — — — Total $ 27 $ 27 $ (8 ) $ 27 $ 2 (1) Represents a two-quarter average of recorded amortized cost.
Derivative Instruments by Category	The tables below present quantitative disclosures about the Company’s derivative instruments, including those embedded in other contracts required to be accounted for as derivative instruments. Derivative Instruments by Category At March 31, 2018 Gains (Losses) Reported In Net Income (Loss) Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 Fair Value Notional Amount Asset Derivatives Liability Derivatives (in millions) Freestanding derivatives: Equity contracts: (1) Futures $ 3,318 $ 2 $ 1 $ (28 ) Swaps 4,866 142 13 66 Options 21,635 3,261 1,392 (15 ) Interest rate contracts: (1) Swaps 21,646 302 347 (491 ) Futures 15,835 — — 40 Credit contracts: (1) Credit default swaps 2,136 32 3 — Other freestanding contracts: (1) Foreign currency contracts 1,781 10 52 (51 ) Margin — 16 — — Collateral — 8 1,824 — Embedded derivatives: GMIB reinsurance contracts (4) — 9,673 — (842 ) GMxB derivative features liability (2,4) — — 3,804 440 SCS, SIO, MSO and IUL indexed features (3,4) — — 1,609 104 Total $ 71,217 $ 13,446 $ 9,045 $ (777 ) (1) Reported in Other invested assets in the consolidated balance sheets. (2) Reported in Future policy benefits and other policyholders’ liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets. (3) SCS and SIO indexed features are reported in Policyholders’ account balances; MSO and IUL indexed features are reported in Future policyholders’ benefits and other policyholders’ liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets. (4) Reported in Net derivative gains (losses) in the consolidated statements of income (loss). At December 31, 2017 Gains (Losses) Reported In Net Income (Loss) Three Months Ended March 31, 2017 Fair Value Notional Amount Asset Derivatives Liability Derivatives (in millions) Freestanding derivatives: Equity contracts: (1) Futures $ 3,113 $ 1 $ 3 $ (212 ) Swaps 4,655 3 126 (241 ) Options 20,630 3,334 1,426 302 Interest rate contracts: (1) Swaps 19,032 320 191 108 Futures 11,032 — — (19 ) Swaptions — — — — Credit contracts: (1) Credit default swaps 2,131 35 3 6 Other freestanding contracts: (1) Foreign currency contracts 1,423 19 10 (1 ) Margin — 24 — — Collateral — 4 1,855 — Embedded derivatives: GMIB reinsurance contracts (4) — 10,488 — (533 ) GMxB derivative features liability (2,4) — — 4,164 490 SCS, SIO, MSO and IUL indexed features (3,4) — — 1,698 (262 ) Total $ 62,016 $ 14,228 $ 9,476 $ (362 ) (1) Reported in Other invested assets in the consolidated balance sheets. (2) Reported in Future policy benefits and other policyholders’ liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets. (3) SCS and SIO indexed features are reported in Policyholders’ account balances; MSO and IUL indexed features are reported in the Future policyholders’ benefits and other policyholders’ liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets. (4) Reported in Net derivative gains (losses) in the consolidated statements of income (loss).
Offsetting Financial Assets and Liabilities and Derivative Instruments	The following table presents information about the Company's offsetting of financial assets and liabilities and derivative instruments at March 31, 2018 . Offsetting of Financial Assets and Liabilities and Derivative Instruments At March 31, 2018 Gross Amounts Recognized Gross Amounts Offset in the Balance Sheets Net Amounts Presented in the Balance Sheets (in millions) ASSETS (1) Description Derivatives: Equity contracts $ 3,404 $ 1,407 $ 1,997 Interest rate contracts 302 347 (45 ) Credit contracts 32 3 29 Currency 10 52 (42 ) Margin 16 — 16 Collateral 8 1,824 (1,816 ) Total Derivatives, subject to an ISDA Master Agreement 3,772 3,633 139 Total Derivatives 3,772 3,633 139 Other financial instruments 3,435 — 3,435 Other invested assets $ 7,207 $ 3,633 $ 3,574 LIABILITIES (2) Description Derivatives: Equity contracts $ 1,406 $ 1,406 $ — Interest rate contracts 347 347 — Credit contracts 3 3 — Currency 52 52 — Margin — — — Collateral 1,824 1,824 — Total Derivatives, subject to an ISDA Master Agreement 3,632 3,632 — Total Derivatives, not subject to an ISDA Master Agreement — — — Total Derivatives 3,632 3,632 — Other financial liabilities 3,041 — 3,041 Other liabilities $ 6,673 $ 3,632 $ 3,041 Securities sold under agreement to repurchase (3) $ 1,897 $ — $ 1,897 (1) Excludes Investment Management and Research segment’s derivative assets of consolidated VIEs/VOEs. (2) Excludes Investment Management and Research segment’s derivative liabilities of consolidated VIEs/VOEs. (3) Excludes expense of $ 7 million in securities sold under agreement to repurchase. The following table presents information about the Company’s offsetting financial assets and liabilities and derivative instruments at December 31, 2017 . Offsetting of Financial Assets and Liabilities and Derivative Instruments At December 31, 2017 Gross Amounts Recognized Gross Amounts Offset in the Balance Sheets Net Amounts Presented in the Balance Sheets (in millions) ASSETS (1) Description Derivatives: Equity contracts $ 3,338 $ 1,555 $ 1,783 Interest rate contracts 320 191 129 Credit contracts 35 3 32 Currency 19 10 9 Collateral 4 1,855 (1,851 ) Margin 24 — 24 Total Derivatives, subject to an ISDA Master Agreement 3,740 3,614 126 Total Derivatives 3,740 3,614 126 Other financial instruments 2,995 — 2,995 Other invested assets $ 6,735 $ 3,614 $ 3,121 LIABILITIES (2) Description Derivatives: Equity contracts $ 1,555 $ 1,555 $ — Interest rate contracts 191 191 — Credit contracts 3 3 — Currency 10 10 — Margin — — — Collateral 1,855 1,855 — Total Derivatives, subject to an ISDA Master Agreement 3,614 3,614 — Total Derivatives, not subject to an ISDA Master Agreement — — — Total Derivatives 3,614 3,614 — Other financial liabilities 2,663 — 2,663 Other liabilities $ 6,277 $ 3,614 $ 2,663 Securities sold under agreement to repurchase (3) $ 1,882 $ — $ 1,882 (1) Excludes Investment Management and Research segment’s derivative assets of consolidated VIEs/VOEs. (2) Excludes Investment Management and Research segment’s derivative liabilities of consolidated VIEs/VOEs. (3) Excludes expense of $ 5 million in securities sold under agreement to repurchase.
Gross Collateral Amounts Not Offset in Consolidated Balance Sheets	The following table presents information about the Company’s gross collateral amounts that are not offset in the consolidated balance sheets at March 31, 2018 . Collateral Amounts Offset in the Consolidated Balance Sheets At March 31, 2018 Fair Value of Assets Collateral (Received)/Held Financial Instruments Cash Net Amounts (in millions) ASSETS: (1) Total derivatives $ 1,938 $ — $ (1,799 ) $ 139 Other financial instruments 3,435 — — 3,435 Other invested assets $ 5,373 $ — $ (1,799 ) $ 3,574 LIABILITIES: (2) Securities sold under agreement to repurchase (3) $ 1,897 $ — $ — $ 1,897 (1) Excludes Investment Management and Research segment’s derivative assets of consolidated VIEs/VOEs. (2) Excludes Investment Management and Research segment’s derivative liabilities of consolidated VIEs/VOEs. (3) Excludes expense of $ 7 million in securities sold under agreement to repurchase. The following table presents information about the Insurance segment’s gross collateral amounts that are not offset in the consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2017 . Collateral Amounts Offset in the Consolidated Balance Sheets At December 31, 2017 Net Amounts Presented in the Balance Sheets Collateral (Received)/Held Financial Instruments Cash Net Amounts (in millions) ASSETS: (1) Total Derivatives $ 1,954 $ — $ (1,828 ) $ 126 Other financial instruments 2,995 — — 2,995 Other invested assets $ 4,949 $ — $ (1,828 ) $ 3,121 LIABILITIES (2) Other financial liabilities $ 2,663 $ — $ — $ 2,663 Other liabilities $ 2,663 $ — $ — $ 2,663 Securities sold under agreement to repurchase (3) $ 1,882 $ (1,988 ) $ (21 ) $ (127 ) (1) Excludes Investment Management and Research segment’s derivative assets of consolidated VIEs/VOEs. (2) Excludes Investment Management and Research segment’s derivative liabilities of consolidated VIEs/VOEs. (3) Excludes expense of $ 5 million in securities sold under agreement to repurchase.
Repurchase Agreements Accounted for as Secured Borrowings	The following table presents information about repurchase agreements accounted for as secured borrowings in the consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2017 . Repurchase Agreement Accounted for as Secured Borrowings At December 31, 2017 Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements Overnight and Continuous Up to 30 days 30–90 days Greater Than 90 days Total (in millions) Securities sold under agreement to repurchase (1) U.S. Treasury and agency securities $ — $ 1,882 $ — $ — $ 1,882 Total $ — $ 1,882 $ — $ — $ 1,882 (1) Excludes expense of $ 5 million in securities sold under agreement to repurchase. The following table presents information about repurchase agreements accounted for as secured borrowings in the consolidated balance sheet at March 31, 2018 . Repurchase Agreement Accounted for as Secured Borrowings At March 31, 2018 Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements Overnight and Continuous Up to 30 days 30–90 days Greater Than 90 days Total (in millions) Securities sold under agreement to repurchase (1) U.S. Treasury and agency securities $ — $ 1,897 $ — $ — $ 1,897 Total $ — $ 1,897 $ — $ — $ 1,897 (1) Excludes expense accrual of $ 7 million in securities sold under agreement to repurchase.

CLOSED BLOCK (Tables)

CLOSED BLOCK (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018
Closed Block Disclosure [Abstract]
Summarized Financial Information for Closed Blocks	Summarized financial information for the Company’s Closed Block is as follows: March 31, December 31, (in millions) CLOSED BLOCK LIABILITIES: Future policy benefits, policyholders’ account balances and other $ 6,904 $ 6,958 Policyholder dividend obligation — 19 Other liabilities 269 271 Total Closed Block liabilities 7,173 7,248 ASSETS DESIGNATED TO THE CLOSED BLOCK: Fixed maturities, available for sale, at fair value (amortized cost of $3,864 and $3,923) 3,908 4,070 Mortgage loans on real estate 1,837 1,720 Policy loans 772 781 Cash and other invested assets 235 351 Other assets 192 182 Total assets designated to the Closed Block 6,944 7,104 Excess of Closed Block liabilities over assets designated to the Closed Block 229 144 Amounts included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss): Net unrealized investment gains (losses), net of policyholder dividend obligation of $0 and $19 55 138 Maximum Future Earnings To Be Recognized From Closed Block Assets and Liabilities $ 284 $ 282
Closed Block Revenues and Expenses	The Company’s Closed Block revenues and expenses follow: Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 2017 (in millions) REVENUES: Premiums and other income $ 51 $ 54 Net investment income (loss) 73 83 Net investment gains (losses) 1 (15 ) Total revenues 125 122 BENEFITS AND OTHER DEDUCTIONS: Policyholders’ benefits and dividends 126 151 Other operating costs and expenses 1 — Total benefits and other deductions 127 151 Net revenues (loss) before income taxes (2 ) (29 ) Income tax (expense) benefit — 10 Net Revenues (Losses) $ (2 ) $ (19 )
Reconciliation of Policy Holder Dividend Obligation	A reconciliation of the Company’s policyholder dividend obligation follows: Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 2017 (in millions) Balances, beginning of year $ 19 $ 52 Unrealized investment gains (losses), net of DAC (19 ) (14 ) Balances, End of Period $ — $ 38

INSURANCE LIABILITIES (Tables)

INSURANCE LIABILITIES (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018
Insurance [Abstract]
GMDB and GMIB Liabilities and Other Policyholder's Liabilities	The following table summarizes the direct GMDB and GMIB with no no-lapse guarantee rider ("NLG") features liabilities, before reinsurance ceded, reflected in the consolidated balance sheets in Future policy benefits and other policyholders’ liabilities: GMDB GMIB Total (in millions) Balance at January 1, 2018 $ 4,080 $ 4,802 $ 8,882 Paid guarantee benefits (101 ) (32 ) (133 ) Other changes in reserve 96 (139 ) (43 ) Balance at March 31, 2018 $ 4,075 $ 4,631 $ 8,706 Balance at January 1, 2017 $ 3,165 $ 3,870 $ 7,035 Paid guarantee benefits (89 ) (34 ) (123 ) Other changes in reserve 187 1,917 2,104 Balance at March 31, 2017 $ 3,263 $ 5,753 $ 9,016
GMDB Reinsurance Ceded	The following table summarizes the ceded GMDB liabilities, reflected in the consolidated balance sheets in Amounts due from reinsurers: Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 2017 (in millions) Balance, beginning of year $ 2,030 $ 1,558 Paid guarantee benefits (54 ) (43 ) Other changes in reserve 62 69 Balance, End of Period $ 2,038 $ 1,584
Derivative Instruments in Hedges, Liabilities, at Fair Value	The liability for the GMxB derivative features liability, the liability for SCS, SIO, MSO and IUL indexed features and the GMIB reinsurance contracts are considered embedded or freestanding insurance derivatives and are reported at fair value. Summarized in the table below is a summary of the fair value of these liabilities at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 : March 31, December 31, (in millions) GMIBNLG (1) $ 3,715 $ 4,056 SCS, MSO, IUL features (2) 1,609 1,698 GWBL/GMWB (1) 121 130 GIB (1) (36 ) (27 ) GMAB (1) 4 5 Total Embedded derivatives liability (1) $ 5,413 $ 5,862 GMIB reinsurance contract asset (3) $ 9,673 $ 10,488 (1) Reported in future policyholders' benefits and other policyholders' liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets. (2) Reported in Policyholders' account balances in the consolidated balance sheets. (3) Reported in GMIB reinsurance contract asset, at fair value in the consolidated balance sheets.
Variable Annuity Contracts with GMDB and GMIB Features	The March 31, 2018 values for direct variable annuity contracts in-force on such date with GMDB and GMIB features are presented in the following table. For contracts with the GMDB feature, the net amount at risk in the event of death is the amount by which the GMDB exceed related account values. For contracts with the GMIB feature, the net amount at risk in the event of utilization is the amount by which the present value of the GMIB benefits exceeds related account values, taking into account the relationship between current annuity purchase rates and the GMIB guaranteed annuity purchase rates. Since variable annuity contracts with GMDB guarantees may also offer GMIB guarantees in the same contract, the GMDB and GMIB amounts listed are not mutually exclusive: Return of Premium Ratchet Roll-Up Combo Total (Dollars in millions) GMDB: Account values invested in: General Account $ 13,848 $ 107 $ 64 $ 195 $ 14,214 Separate Accounts $ 45,136 $ 9,319 $ 3,381 $ 34,668 $ 92,504 Net amount at risk, gross $ 186 $ 117 $ 2,016 $ 16,388 $ 18,707 Net amount at risk, net of amounts reinsured $ 186 $ 87 $ 1,378 $ 6,911 $ 8,562 Average attained age of contract holders 52 67 73 68 55.2 Percentage of contract holders over age 70 9.7 % 40.9 % 63.7 % 47.4 % 18.3 % Range of contractually specified interest rates N/A N/A 3%-6% 3%-6.5% 3%-6.5% GMIB: Account values invested in: General Account N/A N/A $ 24 $ 285 $ 309 Separate Accounts N/A N/A $ 20,855 $ 39,604 $ 60,459 Net amount at risk, gross N/A N/A $ 883 $ 6,322 $ 7,205 Net amount at risk, net of amounts reinsured N/A N/A $ 268 $ 1,560 $ 1,828 Weighted average years remaining until annuitization N/A N/A 1.7 0.7 0.8 Range of contractually specified interest rates N/A N/A 3%-6% 3%-6.5% 3%-6.5%
Investment in Variable Insurance Trust Mutual Funds	The following table presents the aggregate fair value of assets, by major investment category, held by Separate Accounts that support variable annuity contracts with GMDB and GMIB guarantees. The investment performance of the assets impacts the related account values and, consequently, the net amount of risk associated with the GMDB and GMIB benefits and guarantees. Because variable annuity contracts offer both GMDB and GMIB features, GMDB and GMIB amounts are not mutually exclusive: Investment in Variable Insurance Trust Mutual Funds March 31, December 31, (in millions) GMDB: Equity $ 76,532 $ 78,069 Fixed income 2,165 2,234 Balanced 13,525 14,084 Other 282 285 Total $ 92,504 $ 94,672 GMIB: Equity $ 49,042 $ 50,429 Fixed income 1,528 1,568 Balanced 9,762 10,165 Other 127 124 Total $ 60,459 $ 62,286
Summary of No-Lapse Guarantee Liabilities and Other Policyholder's Liabilities	The following table summarizes the NLG liabilities reflected in the General Account in Future policy benefits and other policyholders’ liabilities, the related reinsurance reserve ceded, reflected in Amounts due from reinsurers and deferred cost of reinsurance, reflected in Other assets in the Consolidated balance sheets: Direct Liability Reinsurance Ceded Net (in millions) Balance at January 1, 2018 $ 686 $ (664 ) $ 22 Paid Guaranteed Benefits (8 ) — (8 ) Other changes in reserves 18 (11 ) 7 Balance at March 31, 2018 $ 696 $ (675 ) $ 21 Balance at January 1, 2017 $ 1,197 $ (609 ) $ 588 Other changes in reserves 93 — 93 Balance at March 31, 2017 $ 1,290 $ (609 ) $ 681

FAIR VALUE DISCLOSURES (Tables)

FAIR VALUE DISCLOSURES (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on Recurring Basis	Assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are summarized below. At March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 , no assets were required to be measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis. Fair value measurements are required on a non-recurring basis for certain assets, including goodwill and mortgage loans on real estate, only when an OTTI or other event occurs. When such fair value measurements are recorded, they must be classified and disclosed within the fair value hierarchy. The Company recognizes transfers between valuation levels at the beginning of the reporting period. Fair Value Measurements at March 31, 2018 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total (in millions) Assets: Investments: Fixed maturities, available-for-sale: Public Corporate $ — $ 14,724 $ 120 $ 14,844 Private Corporate — 5,949 1,109 7,058 U.S. Treasury, government and agency — 10,025 — 10,025 States and political subdivisions — 430 39 469 Foreign governments — 408 — 408 Residential mortgage-backed (1) — 233 — 233 Asset-backed (2) — 80 7 87 Redeemable preferred stock 176 330 — 506 Subtotal 176 32,179 1,275 33,630 Other equity investments 13 — 1 14 Trading securities 431 13,021 5 13,457 Other invested assets: Short-term investments — 372 — 372 Assets of consolidated VIEs/VOEs 1,691 291 32 2,014 Swaps — 41 — 41 Credit Default Swaps — 28 — 28 Futures — — — — Options — 1,869 — 1,869 Subtotal 1,691 2,601 32 4,324 Cash equivalents 2,874 — — 2,874 Segregated securities — 1,025 — 1,025 GMIB reinsurance contract asset — — 9,673 9,673 Separate Accounts’ assets 116,474 2,831 357 119,662 Total Assets $ 121,659 $ 51,657 $ 11,343 $ 184,659 Liabilities GMxB derivative features’ liability $ — $ — $ 3,804 $ 3,804 SCS, SIO, MSO and IUL indexed features’ liability — 1,609 — 1,609 Liabilities of consolidated VIEs/VOEs 1,190 18 — 1,208 Contingent payment arrangements — — 11 11 Total Liabilities $ 1,190 $ 1,627 $ 3,815 $ 6,632 (1) Includes publicly traded agency pass-through securities and collateralized obligations. (2) Includes credit-tranched securities collateralized by sub-prime mortgages and other asset types and credit tenant loans. Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2017 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total (in millions) Assets: Investments: Fixed maturities, available-for-sale: Public Corporate $ — $ 14,298 $ 47 $ 14,345 Private Corporate — 6,045 1,092 7,137 U.S. Treasury, government and agency — 13,135 — 13,135 States and political subdivisions — 441 40 481 Foreign governments — 409 — 409 Residential mortgage-backed (1) — 251 — 251 Asset-backed (2) — 88 8 96 Redeemable preferred stock 180 324 — 504 Subtotal 180 34,991 1,187 36,358 Other equity investments 13 — 1 14 Trading securities 467 12,161 — 12,628 Other invested assets: Short-term investments — 768 — 768 Assets of consolidated VIEs/VOEs 1,060 215 27 1,302 Swaps — 15 — 15 Credit Default Swaps — 33 — 33 Futures (2 ) — — (2 ) Options — 1,907 — 1,907 Subtotal 1,058 2,938 27 4,023 Cash equivalents 2,360 — — 2,360 Segregated securities — 825 — 825 GMIB reinsurance contract asset — — 10,488 10,488 Separate Accounts’ assets 118,983 2,983 349 122,315 Total Assets $ 123,061 $ 53,898 $ 12,052 $ 189,011 Liabilities: GMxB derivative features’ liability $ — $ — $ 4,164 $ 4,164 SCS, SIO, MSO and IUL indexed features’ liability — 1,698 — 1,698 Liabilities of consolidated VIEs/VOEs 670 22 — 692 Contingent payment arrangements — — 11 11 Total Liabilities $ 670 $ 1,720 $ 4,175 $ 6,565 (1) Includes publicly traded agency pass-through securities and collateralized obligations. (2) Includes credit-tranched securities collateralized by sub-prime mortgages and other asset types and credit tenant loans.
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation	The table below presents a reconciliation for all Level 3 assets and liabilities for the first quarters of 2018 and 2017, respectively: Level 3 Instruments Fair Value Measurements Corporate State and Commercial Asset- (in millions) Balance, January 1, 2018 $ 1,139 $ 40 $ — $ 8 Total gains (losses), realized and unrealized, included in: Income (loss) as: Net investment income (loss) 2 — — — Investment gains (losses), net — — — — Subtotal 2 — — — Other comprehensive income (loss) (20 ) (1 ) — — Purchases 173 — — — Sales (116 ) — — (1 ) Settlements — — — — Transfers into Level 3 (1) 67 — — — Transfers out of Level 3 (1) (16 ) — — — Balance, March 31, 2018 $ 1,229 $ 39 $ — $ 7 Balance, January 1, 2017 $ 845 $ 42 $ 349 $ 24 Total gains (losses), realized and unrealized, included in: Income (loss) as: Net investment income (loss) 1 — — — Investment gains (losses), net — — 31 — Subtotal 1 — 31 — Other comprehensive income (loss) 45 — 12 4 Purchases 169 — — — Sales (57 ) — (68 ) (1 ) Transfers into Level 3 (1) 11 — — 4 Transfers out of Level 3 (1) — — — — Balance, March 31, 2017 $ 1,014 $ 42 $ 324 $ 31 Redeemable Other (2) GMIB Separate GMxB derivative features liability Contingent (in millions) Balance, January 1, 2018 $ — $ 28 $ 10,488 $ 349 $ (4,164 ) $ 11 Total gains (losses), realized and unrealized, included in: Income (loss) as: Net investment income (loss) — — — — — — Investment gains (losses), net — — — 7 — — Net derivative gains (losses) — — (842 ) — 440 — Subtotal — — (842 ) 7 440 — Other comprehensive income (loss) — — — — — — Purchases (2) — 4 54 3 (82 ) — Sales (3) — — (27 ) (1 ) 2 — Settlements (4) — — — (1 ) — — Activity related to consolidated VIEs — 1 — — — — Transfers into Level 3 (1) — 5 — — — — Transfers out of Level 3 (1) — — — — — — Balance, March 31, 2018 $ — $ 38 $ 9,673 $ 357 $ (3,804 ) $ 11 Balance, January 1, 2017 $ 1 $ 51 $ 10,314 $ 313 $ (5,319 ) $ 18 Total gains (losses), realized and unrealized, included in: Income (loss) as: Net investment income (loss) — — — — — — Investment gains (losses), net — — — 10 — — Net derivative gains (losses) — — (533 ) — 490 — Subtotal — — (533 ) 10 490 — Other comprehensive income (loss) — — — — — — Purchases (2) — 4 37 3 (78 ) — Sales (3) — (1 ) (21 ) (1 ) 1 — Settlements (4) — — — (1 ) — (1 ) Activity related to consolidated VIEs — — — — — — Transfers into Level 3 (1) — 1 — 1 — — Transfers out of Level 3 (1) — — — — — — Balance, March 31, 2017 $ 1 $ 55 $ 9,797 $ 325 $ (4,906 ) $ 17 (1) Transfers into/out of Level 3 classification are reflected at beginning-of-period fair values. (2) For the GMIB reinsurance contract asset, and GMxB derivative features’ liability, represents attributed fee. (3) For the GMIB reinsurance contract asset, represents recoveries from reinsurers and for GMxB derivative features liability represents benefits paid. (4) For contingent payment arrangements, it represents payments under the arrangement.
Fair Value Assets Unrealized Gains Losses By Category For Level 3 Assets And Liabilities Still Held	The table below details changes in unrealized gains (losses) for the first quarters of 2018 and 2017 by category for Level 3 assets and liabilities still held at March 31, 2018 and 2017 , respectively: Income (Loss) Investment Net Derivative Gains (losses) OCI (in millions) Level 3 Instruments First Quarter 2018 Held at March 31, 2018: Change in unrealized gains (losses): Fixed maturities, available-for-sale: Corporate $ — $ — $ (19 ) State and political subdivisions — — (1 ) Commercial mortgage-backed — — — Asset-backed — — — Subtotal $ — $ — $ (20 ) GMIB reinsurance contracts — (842 ) — Separate Accounts’ assets (1) 7 — — GMxB derivative features' liability — 440 — Total $ 7 $ (402 ) $ (20 ) Level 3 Instruments First Quarter 2017 Held at March 31, 2017: Change in unrealized gains (losses): Fixed maturities, available-for-sale: Corporate $ — $ — $ 41 Commercial mortgage-backed — — 12 Asset-backed — — 4 Subtotal $ — $ — $ 57 GMIB reinsurance contracts — (533 ) — Separate Accounts’ assets (1) 10 — — GMxB derivative features' liability — 490 — Total $ 10 $ (43 ) $ 57 (1) There is an investment expense that offsets this investment gain (loss).
Fair Value Inputs Quantitative Information	The following tables disclose quantitative information about Level 3 fair value measurements by category for assets and liabilities as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 , respectively. Quantitative Information about Level 3 Fair Value Measurements March 31, 2018 Fair Valuation Significant Range Weighted Average (in millions) Assets: Investments: Fixed maturities, available-for-sale: Corporate $ 52 Matrix pricing model Spread over the industry-specific benchmark yield curve 0 - 565 bps 112 b ps 788 Market com-parable companies EBITDA multiples 6.2x - 30.7x 7.2% - 17.0 % 9.0x - 17.7x 13.0x Separate Account assets 332 Third party appraisal Capitalization rate 4.6% 5.6% 6.5% 1 Discounted cash flow Spread over U.S. Treasury curve 228 bps 4.62 4% GMIB reinsurance contract asset 9,673 Discounted cash flow Lapse Rates 1.0% - 6.3% 0.0% - 8.0% 0.0% - 16.0% 5bps - 10bps 9.70%-31.15% Liabilities: GMIBNLG 3,715 Discounted cash flow Non-performance Risk 1.0% GWBL/GMWB 121 Discounted cash flow Lapse Rates 0.9% - 5.7% GIB (36 ) Discounted cash flow Lapse Rates 0.9% - 5.7% GMAB 4 Discounted cash flow Lapse Rates 0.5% - 11.0% Quantitative Information about Level 3 Fair Value Measurements December 31, 2017 Fair Value Valuation Technique Significant Unobservable Input Range Weighted Average (in millions) Assets: Investments: Fixed maturities, available-for-sale: Corporate $ 53 Matrix pricing model Spread over the industry-specific benchmark yield curve 0 -565 bps 125 bps 789 Market comparable companies EBITDA multiples Discount Rate Cash flow Multiples 5.3x-27.9x 12.9x Separate Account assets 326 Third party appraisal Capitalization rate 4.6% 5.6% 6.6% 1 Discounted cash flow Spread over U.S. Treasury curve 243 bps 4.4% GMIB reinsurance contract asset 10,488 Discounted cash flow Lapse Rates 1.0% - 6.3% 0.0% - 8.0% 0.0% - 16.0% 5bps - 10bps 9.9%- 30.9% Liabilities: GMIBNLG 4,056 Discounted cash flow Non-performance Risk 1.0% GWBL/GMWB 130 Discounted cash flow Lapse Rates 0.9% - 5.7% GIB (27 ) Discounted cash flow Lapse Rates 0.9% - 5.7% GMAB 5 Discounted cash flow Lapse Rates 0.5% - 11.0%
Fair Value Disclosure Financial Instruments Not Carried At Fair Value	The carrying values and fair values at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 for financial instruments not otherwise disclosed in Note 3 are presented in the table below. Certain financial instruments are exempt from the requirements for fair value disclosure, such as insurance liabilities other than financial guarantees and investment contracts, limited partnerships accounted for under the equity method and pension and other postretirement obligations. Carrying Value Fair Value Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total (in millions) March 31, 2018: Mortgage loans on real estate $ 11,316 $ — $ — $ 11,111 $ 11,111 Loans to affiliates 702 — 702 — 702 Policyholders’ liabilities: Investment contracts 3,018 — — 2,949 2,949 Funding Agreements 3,014 — 2,962 — 2,962 Policy loans 3,305 — — 4,073 4,073 Short-term debt 490 — 490 — 490 Separate Account Liabilities 7,647 — — 7,647 7,647 December 31, 2017: Mortgage loans on real estate $ 10,935 $ — $ — $ 10,895 $ 10,895 Loans to affiliates 703 — 700 — 700 Policyholders’ liabilities: Investment contracts 2,068 — — 2,170 2,170 Funding Agreements 3,014 — 3,020 — 3,020 Policy loans 3,315 — — 4,210 4,210 Short-term and Long-term debt 769 — 768 — 768 Separate Account Liabilities 7,537 — — 7,537 7,537

REVENUE RECOGNITION (Tables)

REVENUE RECOGNITION (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018
Revenue From Contract With Customer [Abstract]
Revenues Disaggregated by Category	The table below presents the revenues recognized during the first quarters of 2018 and 2017 , disaggregated by category: Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 2017 (in millions) Investment management, advisory and service fees: Base fees $ 726 $ 645 Performance-based fees 6 6 Research services 114 113 Distribution services 180 165 Other revenues: Shareholder services 20 18 Other 6 4 Total investment management and service fees $ 1,052 $ 951 Other income $ 7 $ 7

SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION PROG31

SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION PROGRAMS (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Schedule of Compensation Costs	Compensation costs for the first quarters of 2018 and 2017 for share-based payment arrangements as further described herein are as follows: Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 2017 (in thousands) Performance Shares $ 2,598 $ 3,402 Stock Options (920 ) 9 AB Restricted Units 12,484 7,700 Other compensation plans (1) (119 ) 65 Total Compensation Expenses $ 14,043 $ 11,176 (1) Other compensation plans include Restricted Stock and Stock Appreciation Rights.

ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSI32

ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	AOCI represents cumulative gains (losses) on items that are not reflected in Net income (loss). The balances as of March 31, 2018 and 2017 follow: March 31, 2018 2017 (in millions) Unrealized gains (losses) on investments $ (124 ) $ 146 Foreign currency translation adjustments (40 ) (42 ) Defined benefit pension plans (55 ) (46 ) Total accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (219 ) 58 Less: Accumulated other comprehensive (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interest 61 79 Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to AXA Equitable $ (158 ) $ 137
Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Taxes	The components of OCI, net of taxes for the first quarters of 2018 and 2017 follow: Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 2017 (in millions) Foreign currency translation adjustments: Foreign currency translation gains (losses) arising during the period $ (4 ) $ 35 (Gains) losses reclassified into net income (loss) during the period — — Foreign currency translation adjustment (4 ) 35 Net unrealized gains (losses) on investments: Net unrealized gains (losses) arising during the period (70 ) 140 (Gains) losses reclassified into net income (loss) during the period (1) (985 ) (23 ) Net unrealized gains (losses) on investments (1,055 ) 117 Adjustments for policyholders’ liabilities, DAC, insurance liability loss recognition and other 314 (25 ) Change in unrealized gains (losses), net of adjustments (net of deferred income tax expense (benefit) of $(197) and $50) (741 ) 92 Change in defined benefit plans: Less: reclassification adjustments to net income (loss) for: Net gain (loss) arising during the period (4 ) — Amortization of net actuarial (gains) losses included in Amortization of net prior service cost included in net periodic cost — — Change in defined benefit plans (net of deferred income tax expense (benefit) of $0 and $0. (4 ) — Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes (749 ) 127 Less: Other comprehensive (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interest (7 ) (7 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to AXA Equitable $ (756 ) $ 120 (1) See “Reclassification adjustments” in Note 3 . Reclassification amounts presented net of income tax expense (benefit) of $ (262) million and $ 13 million , for the first quarters of 2018 and 2017 , respectively.

COMMITMENT AND CONTINGENT LIA33

COMMITMENT AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES Federal Home Loan Bank, Advances (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018
Federal Home Loan Banks, advances [Abstract]
Restructuring and Related Costs	The restructuring costs and liabilities associated with the Company's initiatives were as follows: Three Months Ended March 31, Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2018 2017 (in millions) Severance Balance, beginning of year $ 23 $ 22 Additions 7 17 Cash payments (3 ) (14 ) Other reductions — (2 ) Balance, end of Year $ 27 $ 23 Three Months Ended March 31, Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2018 2017 (in millions) Leases Balance, beginning of year $ 165 $ 170 Expense incurred — 29 Deferred rent 2 10 Payments made (11 ) (48 ) Interest accretion 1 4 Balance, end of year $ 157 $ 165
Federal Home Loan Bank, Advances	Outstanding balance at end of period Maturity of Outstanding balance Issued during the period Repaid during the period March 31, 2018: (in millions) Short-term FHLBNY funding agreements $ 500 less than one month $ 1,500 $ 1,500 Long-term FHLBNY funding agreements 1,417 less than 4 years — — 204 Less than 5 years — — 879 greater than five years — — Total long-term funding agreements 2,500 — — Total FHLBNY funding agreements at March 31, 2018 $ 3,000 $ 1,500 $ 1,500 December 31, 2017: Short-term FHLBNY funding agreements $ 500 Less than one month $ 6,000 $ 6,000 Long-term FHLBNY funding agreements 1,244 Less than 4 years 324 — 377 Less than 5 years 303 — 879 Greater than five years 135 — Total long-term funding agreements 2,500 762 — Total FHLBNY funding agreements at December 31, 2017 $ 3,000 $ 6,762 $ 6,000

BUSINESS SEGMENT INFORMATION (T

BUSINESS SEGMENT INFORMATION (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Reconciliation of Operating Profit (Loss) from Segments to Consolidated	The table below presents operating earnings (loss) by segment and Corporate and Other and a reconciliation to Net income (loss) attributable to AXA Equitable for the first quarters of 2018 and 2017 , respectively: Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 2017 (in millions) Net income (loss) attributable to AXA Equitable $ (194 ) $ (172 ) Adjustments related to: GMxB features 597 485 Investment (gains) losses (87 ) 11 Investment income (gain) loss from certain derivative instruments (20 ) — Net actuarial (gains) losses related to pension and other postretirement benefit obligations 23 27 Other adjustments 198 (20 ) Income tax expense (benefit) related to above adjustments (139 ) (188 ) Non-recurring tax items 7 4 Non-GAAP Operating Earnings $ 385 $ 147 Operating earnings (loss) by segment: Individual Retirement $ 298 $ 142 Group Retirement 70 50 Investment Management and Research 51 12 Protection Solutions 26 (34 ) Corporate and Other (1) (60 ) (23 ) Total $ 385 $ 147 (1) Includes interest expense of $ 9 million and $ 4 million , for the first quarters of 2018 and 2017 , respectively.
Reconciliation of Revenue from Segments to Consolidated	The table below presents Segment revenues for three months ended for the first quarters of 2018 and 2017 . Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 2017 (in millions) Segment revenues: Individual Retirement (1) $ 619 $ 904 Group Retirement (1) 245 230 Investment Management and Research (2) 909 742 Protection Solutions (1) 644 633 Corporate and Other (1) 197 238 Adjustments related to: GMxB features (586 ) (485 ) Investment gains (losses) 87 (11 ) Investment income (loss) from certain derivative instruments 20 — Other adjustments to segment revenues (104 ) 63 Total revenues $ 2,031 $ 2,314 (1) Includes investment expenses charged by AB of approximately $ 16 million and $ 15 million for the first quarters of 2018 and 2017 , respectively, for services provided to the Company. (2) Inter-segment investment management and other fees of approximately $ 23 million and $ 22 million for the first quarters of 2018 and 2017 , respectively, are included in total revenues of the Investment Management segment.
Reconciliation of Assets from Segment to Consolidated	The table below presents Total assets by segment as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 : March 31, December 31, (in millions) Total assets by segment: Individual Retirement $ 108,741 $ 120,612 Group Retirement 42,731 40,472 Investment Management and Research 11,345 10,079 Protection Solutions 38,897 34,328 Corporate and Other 20,710 20,494 Total assets $ 222,424 $ 225,985

ORGANIZATION (Details)

ORGANIZATION (Details) - segment	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Subsidiary of Limited Liability Company or Limited Partnership [Line Items]
Number of reportable segments	4
Number of operating segments	4
AXA Equitable
Subsidiary of Limited Liability Company or Limited Partnership [Line Items]
Economic interest in subsidiary (as a percent)	28.90%	29.00%
Parent Company
Subsidiary of Limited Liability Company or Limited Partnership [Line Items]
Economic interest in subsidiary (as a percent)	64.40%	64.70%

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICI36

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Impact of New Accounting Pronouncements (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2018	Jan. 01, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Retained earnings	$ 8,824		$ 9,010	$ 5,978
Noncontrolling interest	$ 3,088		$ 3,095	$ 3,046
Accounting Standards Update 2016-01
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Equity securities, fair value		$ 13
Difference Between Revenue Guidance In Effect Before And After Topic 606 | Accounting Standards Update 2014-09
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Retained earnings		8
Noncontrolling interest		25
Noncontrolling interest, cumulative contributions received		78
Noncontrolling interest, cumulative contributions paid		$ 43

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICI37

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Textual (Details) $ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)		Mar. 31, 2018USD ($)joint_venture		Mar. 31, 2017USD ($)
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Other equity investments			$ 1,351	[1]	$ 1,217	[1]	$ 1,440
Real estate held for production of income	[1]		390		52
Redeemable noncontrolling interest	[1]		626		1,024
Tax Cuts And Jobs Act Of 2017, Transition tax for accumulated foreign earnings income tax expense			$ 23
Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Variable interest entity, unused commitments					758
Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary | Other Equity Investments
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Variable Interest Entity, nonconsolidated net assets					163,426
Variable interest, maximum loss exposure					1,130
Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary | Insurance
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Other equity investments					1,130
Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary | Investment Management
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Variable Interest Entity, nonconsolidated net assets					83,900
Variable interest, maximum loss exposure					$ 8
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Number of consolidated real estate joint ventures | joint_venture					1
Variable interest entity, consolidated, assets					$ 36
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary, Aggregated Disclosure
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Real estate held for production of income					$ 16
Number of nonconsolidated real estate joint ventures | joint_venture					2
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Variable interest entity, consolidated, assets					$ 2,447
Variable interest entity, nonconsolidated, liabilities					1,219
Redeemable noncontrolling interest					982
Voting Interest Entities Member | Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Variable interest entity, consolidated, assets					135
Variable interest entity, nonconsolidated, liabilities					4
Noncontrolling interest in variable interest entity					$ 10
UNITED STATES
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Amortization period, front-end load commissions			5 years 6 months
Non-US
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Amortization period, front-end load commissions			4 years
Scenario, Forecast
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Effective income tax rate		19.00%
[1]	See Note 2 for details of balances with variable interest entities.

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICI38

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Financial Information Affected by Revisions and Change in Accounting Principle (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Mar. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2018		Dec. 31, 2017		Mar. 31, 2017
Assets:
Other equity investments			$ 1,217	[1]	$ 1,351	[1]	$ 1,440
Other invested assets			3,574	[1]	3,121	[1]	2,084
Total investments			66,551		68,098		60,417
DAC			4,826		4,547		4,961
Amounts due from reinsurers			5,037		5,079		4,647
Guaranteed minimum income benefit reinsurance asset, at fair value			9,673		10,488		9,798
Total Assets			222,424		225,985		210,013
Liabilities:
Policyholders’ account balances			44,260		43,805		40,292
Future policyholders' benefits and other policyholders' liabilities			28,374		29,034		28,691
Current and deferred taxes			1,728		1,973		2,726
Other liabilities			3,041	[1]	2,663	[1]	2,493
Total Liabilities			202,767		205,795		195,091
Equity:
Retained earnings			8,824		9,010		5,978
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)			(158)		598		137
AXA Equitable Equity			15,545		16,469		11,459
Noncontrolling interest			3,088		3,095		3,046
Total equity	$ 19,564	$ 14,505	18,633		19,564		14,505
Total Liabilities and Equity			222,424		225,985		210,013
Revenues:
Policy charges and fee income	869	852
Premiums	223	232
Net derivative gains (losses)	(777)	(362)
Total revenues	2,031	2,314
Benefits and other deductions:
Policyholders’ benefits	489	975
Interest credited to policyholders’ account balances	338	279
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs, net	10	29
Other operating costs and expenses	440	381
Total benefits and other deductions	2,115	2,489
Income (loss) from continuing operations, before income taxes	(84)	(175)
Income tax (expense) benefit	44	121
Net income (loss)	(40)	(54)
Net income (loss) attributable to AXA Equitable	(194)	(172)
Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss):
Net income (loss)	(40)	(54)
Change in unrealized gains (losses), net of reclassification adjustment	(741)	92
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes	(749)	127
Comprehensive income (loss)	(789)	73
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to AXA Equitable	(950)	(52)
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning of year	19,564
Net income (loss)	(194)	(172)
Other comprehensive income (loss)	(749)	127
End of year	18,633	14,505
Statements of Cash flows:
Net income (loss)	(40)	(54)
Policy charges and fee income	869	852
Interest credited to policyholders’ account balances	338	279
Net derivative gains (losses)	(777)	(362)
Changes in:
Deferred policy acquisition costs	10	29
Future policy benefits	(191)	241
Reinsurance recoverable	2	(23)
Current and deferred income taxes	(52)	(188)
Other	(122)	151
Distributions from joint ventures and limited partnerships	25	26
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities	(21)	18
Retained Earnings
Equity:
Total equity	9,010	6,150	8,824		9,010		5,978
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning of year	9,010	6,150
End of year	8,824	5,978
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to AXA Equitable
Equity:
Total equity	598	17	(158)		598		137
Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss):
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes	(756)	120
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning of year	598	17
Other comprehensive income (loss)	(756)	120
End of year	(158)	137
Parent
Equity:
Total equity	15,545	11,459	15,545				11,459
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
End of year	15,545	11,459
Noncontrolling Interest
Equity:
Total equity	3,095	3,096	$ 3,088		$ 3,095		3,046
Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss):
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes	7	7
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning of year	3,095	3,096
Other comprehensive income (loss)	7	7
End of year	$ 3,088	3,046
Impact of Accounting Change
Assets:
Other equity investments							0
Other invested assets							0
Total investments							0
DAC							526
Amounts due from reinsurers							0
Guaranteed minimum income benefit reinsurance asset, at fair value							0
Total Assets							526
Liabilities:
Policyholders’ account balances							0
Future policyholders' benefits and other policyholders' liabilities							3,144
Current and deferred taxes							(917)
Other liabilities							0
Total Liabilities							2,227
Equity:
Retained earnings							(1,665)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)							(36)
AXA Equitable Equity							(1,701)
Noncontrolling interest							0
Total equity		(1,701)					(1,701)
Total Liabilities and Equity							526
Revenues:
Policy charges and fee income		(67)
Premiums		0
Net derivative gains (losses)		459
Total revenues		392
Benefits and other deductions:
Policyholders’ benefits		69
Interest credited to policyholders’ account balances		0
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs, net		1
Other operating costs and expenses		0
Total benefits and other deductions		70
Income (loss) from continuing operations, before income taxes		322
Income tax (expense) benefit		(113)
Net income (loss)		209
Net income (loss) attributable to AXA Equitable		209
Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss):
Net income (loss)		209
Change in unrealized gains (losses), net of reclassification adjustment		(32)
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes		(32)
Comprehensive income (loss)		177
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to AXA Equitable		177
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income (loss)		209
Other comprehensive income (loss)		(32)
End of year		(1,701)
Statements of Cash flows:
Net income (loss)		209
Policy charges and fee income		(67)
Interest credited to policyholders’ account balances		0
Net derivative gains (losses)		459
Changes in:
Deferred policy acquisition costs		1
Future policy benefits		69
Reinsurance recoverable		0
Current and deferred income taxes		113
Other		0
Distributions from joint ventures and limited partnerships		0
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities		0
Impact of Accounting Change | Retained Earnings
Equity:
Total equity		(1,874)					(1,665)
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning of year		(1,874)
End of year		(1,665)
Impact of Accounting Change | Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to AXA Equitable
Equity:
Total equity		(4)					(36)
Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss):
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes		(32)
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning of year		(4)
Other comprehensive income (loss)		(32)
End of year		(36)
Impact of Accounting Change | Parent
Equity:
Total equity		(1,701)					(1,701)
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
End of year		(1,701)
Impact of Accounting Change | Noncontrolling Interest
Equity:
Total equity		0					0
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning of year		0
End of year		0
As Previously Reported
Assets:
Other equity investments							1,463
Other invested assets							2,050
Total investments							60,406
DAC							4,068
Amounts due from reinsurers							4,639
Guaranteed minimum income benefit reinsurance asset, at fair value							9,795
Total Assets							209,098
Liabilities:
Policyholders’ account balances							40,308
Future policyholders' benefits and other policyholders' liabilities							25,496
Current and deferred taxes							3,523
Other liabilities							2,496
Total Liabilities							192,712
Equity:
Retained earnings							7,411
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)							179
AXA Equitable Equity							12,934
Noncontrolling interest							3,035
Total equity		15,969					15,969
Total Liabilities and Equity							209,098
Revenues:
Policy charges and fee income		896
Premiums		225
Net derivative gains (losses)		(724)
Total revenues		1,989
Benefits and other deductions:
Policyholders’ benefits		891
Interest credited to policyholders’ account balances		337
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs, net		125
Other operating costs and expenses		384
Total benefits and other deductions		2,562
Income (loss) from continuing operations, before income taxes		(573)
Income tax (expense) benefit		260
Net income (loss)		(313)
Net income (loss) attributable to AXA Equitable		(431)
Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss):
Net income (loss)		(313)
Change in unrealized gains (losses), net of reclassification adjustment		144
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes		179
Comprehensive income (loss)		(134)
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to AXA Equitable		(259)
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income (loss)		(431)
Other comprehensive income (loss)		179
End of year		15,969
Statements of Cash flows:
Net income (loss)		(313)
Policy charges and fee income		896
Interest credited to policyholders’ account balances		337
Net derivative gains (losses)		(724)
Changes in:
Deferred policy acquisition costs		125
Future policy benefits		185
Reinsurance recoverable		(44)
Current and deferred income taxes		(327)
Other		154
Distributions from joint ventures and limited partnerships		26
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities		18
As Previously Reported | Retained Earnings
Equity:
Total equity		7,842					7,411
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning of year		7,842
End of year		7,411
As Previously Reported | Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to AXA Equitable
Equity:
Total equity		7					179
Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss):
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes		172
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning of year		7
Other comprehensive income (loss)		172
End of year		179
As Previously Reported | Parent
Equity:
Total equity		12,934					12,934
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
End of year		12,934
As Previously Reported | Noncontrolling Interest
Equity:
Total equity		3,085					3,035
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning of year		3,085
End of year		3,035
Impact of Revisions
Assets:
Other equity investments							(23)
Other invested assets							34
Total investments							11
DAC							367
Amounts due from reinsurers							8
Guaranteed minimum income benefit reinsurance asset, at fair value							3
Total Assets							389
Liabilities:
Policyholders’ account balances							(16)
Future policyholders' benefits and other policyholders' liabilities							51
Current and deferred taxes							120
Other liabilities							(3)
Total Liabilities							152
Equity:
Retained earnings							232
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)							(6)
AXA Equitable Equity							226
Noncontrolling interest							11
Total equity		237					237
Total Liabilities and Equity							389
Revenues:
Policy charges and fee income		23
Premiums		7
Net derivative gains (losses)		(97)
Total revenues		(67)
Benefits and other deductions:
Policyholders’ benefits		15
Interest credited to policyholders’ account balances		(58)
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs, net		(97)
Other operating costs and expenses		(3)
Total benefits and other deductions		(143)
Income (loss) from continuing operations, before income taxes		76
Income tax (expense) benefit		(26)
Net income (loss)		50
Net income (loss) attributable to AXA Equitable		50
Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss):
Net income (loss)		50
Change in unrealized gains (losses), net of reclassification adjustment		(20)
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes		(20)
Comprehensive income (loss)		30
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to AXA Equitable		30
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income (loss)		50
Other comprehensive income (loss)		(20)
End of year		237
Statements of Cash flows:
Net income (loss)		50
Policy charges and fee income		23
Interest credited to policyholders’ account balances		(58)
Net derivative gains (losses)		(97)
Changes in:
Deferred policy acquisition costs		(97)
Future policy benefits		(13)
Reinsurance recoverable		21
Current and deferred income taxes		26
Other		(3)
Distributions from joint ventures and limited partnerships		0
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities		0
Impact of Revisions | Retained Earnings
Equity:
Total equity		182					232
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning of year		182
End of year		232
Impact of Revisions | Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to AXA Equitable
Equity:
Total equity		14					(6)
Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss):
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes		(20)
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning of year		14
Other comprehensive income (loss)		(20)
End of year		(6)
Impact of Revisions | Parent
Equity:
Total equity		226					226
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
End of year		226
Impact of Revisions | Noncontrolling Interest
Equity:
Total equity		11					11
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning of year		11
End of year		11
As Revised and Adjusted Herein
Assets:
Other equity investments							1,440
Other invested assets							2,084
Total investments							60,417
DAC							4,435
Amounts due from reinsurers							4,647
Guaranteed minimum income benefit reinsurance asset, at fair value							9,798
Total Assets							209,487
Liabilities:
Policyholders’ account balances							40,292
Future policyholders' benefits and other policyholders' liabilities							25,547
Current and deferred taxes							3,643
Other liabilities							2,493
Total Liabilities							192,864
Equity:
Retained earnings							7,643
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)							173
AXA Equitable Equity							13,160
Noncontrolling interest							3,046
Total equity		16,206					16,206
Total Liabilities and Equity							209,487
Revenues:
Policy charges and fee income		919
Premiums		232
Net derivative gains (losses)		(821)
Total revenues		1,922
Benefits and other deductions:
Policyholders’ benefits		906
Interest credited to policyholders’ account balances		279
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs, net		28
Other operating costs and expenses		381
Total benefits and other deductions		2,419
Income (loss) from continuing operations, before income taxes		(497)
Income tax (expense) benefit		234
Net income (loss)		(263)
Net income (loss) attributable to AXA Equitable		(381)
Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss):
Net income (loss)		(263)
Change in unrealized gains (losses), net of reclassification adjustment		124
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes		159
Comprehensive income (loss)		(104)
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to AXA Equitable		(229)
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income (loss)		(381)
Other comprehensive income (loss)		159
End of year		16,206
Statements of Cash flows:
Net income (loss)		(263)
Policy charges and fee income		919
Interest credited to policyholders’ account balances		279
Net derivative gains (losses)		(821)
Changes in:
Deferred policy acquisition costs		28
Future policy benefits		172
Reinsurance recoverable		(23)
Current and deferred income taxes		(301)
Other		151
Distributions from joint ventures and limited partnerships		26
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities		18
As Revised and Adjusted Herein | Retained Earnings
Equity:
Total equity		8,024					7,643
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning of year		8,024
End of year		7,643
As Revised and Adjusted Herein | Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to AXA Equitable
Equity:
Total equity		21					173
Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss):
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes		152
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning of year		21
Other comprehensive income (loss)		152
End of year		173
As Revised and Adjusted Herein | Parent
Equity:
Total equity		13,160					13,160
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
End of year		13,160
As Revised and Adjusted Herein | Noncontrolling Interest
Equity:
Total equity		3,096					$ 3,046
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning of year		3,096
End of year		$ 3,046
[1]	See Note 2 for details of balances with variable interest entities.

INVESTMENTS - AVAILABLE FOR SAL

INVESTMENTS - AVAILABLE FOR SALE SECURITIES (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	$ 33,438
Fair Value	33,630	$ 36,358
Amortized Cost		34,988
Gross Unrealized Gains		1,774
Gross Unrealized Losses		247
Fair Value		36,515
OTTI in AOCI		2
Amortized Cost
Due in one year or less	1,303
Due in years two through five	7,045
Due in years six through ten	9,550
Due after ten years	14,765
Subtotal	32,663
Fair Value
Due in one year or less	1,312
Due in years two through five	7,183
Due in years six through ten	9,508
Due after ten years	14,801
Subtotal	32,804
Total	33,630
Public corporate
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	14,613
Gross Unrealized Gains	467
Gross Unrealized Losses	236
Fair Value	14,844
Amortized Cost		13,645
Gross Unrealized Gains		725
Gross Unrealized Losses		25
Fair Value		14,345
OTTI in AOCI	0	0
Private corporate
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	7,044
Gross Unrealized Gains	114
Gross Unrealized Losses	100
Fair Value	7,058
Amortized Cost		6,951
Gross Unrealized Gains		217
Gross Unrealized Losses		31
Fair Value		7,137
OTTI in AOCI	0	0
U.S. Treasury, government and agency
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	10,196
Gross Unrealized Gains	219
Gross Unrealized Losses	390
Fair Value	10,025
Amortized Cost		12,644
Gross Unrealized Gains		676
Gross Unrealized Losses		185
Fair Value		13,135
OTTI in AOCI	0	0
State and Political Sub- divisions
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	414
Gross Unrealized Gains	56
Gross Unrealized Losses	1
Fair Value	469
Amortized Cost		414
Gross Unrealized Gains		67
Gross Unrealized Losses		0
Fair Value		481
OTTI in AOCI	0	0
Foreign governments
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	396
Gross Unrealized Gains	21
Gross Unrealized Losses	9
Fair Value	408
Amortized Cost		387
Gross Unrealized Gains		27
Gross Unrealized Losses		5
Fair Value		409
OTTI in AOCI	0	0
Residential mortgage-backed
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	221
Gross Unrealized Gains	12
Gross Unrealized Losses	0
Fair Value	233
Amortized Cost		236
Gross Unrealized Gains		15
Gross Unrealized Losses		0
Fair Value		251
OTTI in AOCI	0	0
Amortized Cost
Without single maturity date	221
Fair Value
Without single maturity date	233
Asset- backed
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	89
Gross Unrealized Gains	1
Gross Unrealized Losses	3
Fair Value	87
Amortized Cost		93
Gross Unrealized Gains		3
Gross Unrealized Losses		0
Fair Value		96
OTTI in AOCI	2	2
Amortized Cost
Without single maturity date	89
Fair Value
Without single maturity date	87
Redeemable preferred stock
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	465
Gross Unrealized Gains	45
Gross Unrealized Losses	4
Fair Value	506
Amortized Cost		461
Gross Unrealized Gains		44
Gross Unrealized Losses		1
Fair Value		504
OTTI in AOCI	0	0
Amortized Cost
Without single maturity date	465
Fair Value
Without single maturity date	506
Total Fixed Maturities
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	33,438	34,831
Gross Unrealized Gains	935
Gross Unrealized Losses	743
Fair Value	33,630
Amortized Cost	33,438	34,831
Gross Unrealized Gains		1,774
Gross Unrealized Losses		247
Fair Value		36,358
OTTI in AOCI	$ 2	2
Equity securities
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost		157
Gross Unrealized Gains		0
Gross Unrealized Losses		0
Fair Value		157
OTTI in AOCI		$ 0

INVESTMENTS - CREDIT LOSS IMPAI

INVESTMENTS - CREDIT LOSS IMPAIRMENTS (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Mar. 31, 2017
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]
Proceeds from sales	$ 3,428	$ 414
Gross gains on sales	127	19
Gross losses on sales	(41)	(20)
Total OTTI	0	0
Non-credit losses recognized in OCI	0	0
Credit losses recognized in net income (loss)	0	0
Fixed Maturities - Credit Loss Impairments
Balances, beginning of period	(10)	(190)
Previously recognized impairments on securities that matured, paid, prepaid or sold	0	43
Recognized impairments on securities impaired to fair value this period	0	0
Impairments recognized this period on securities not previously impaired	0	0
Additional impairments this period on securities previously impaired	0	0
Increases due to passage of time on previously recorded credit losses	0	0
Accretion of previously recognized impairments due to increases in expected cash flows	0	0
Balances, end of period	$ (10)	$ (147)

INVESTMENTS - NET UNREALIZED IN

INVESTMENTS - NET UNREALIZED INVESTMENTS (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Mar. 31, 2017
Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Investments
Unrealized Net Investment Gain and Losses [Line Items]
Net Unrealized Gains (Losses)	$ 1,527
Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Recognized In Aoci Roll Forward [Abstract]
Balance, beginning of year	1,527
Balance, End of Period	192
Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Investments | With OTTI loss
Unrealized Net Investment Gain and Losses [Line Items]
Net Unrealized Gains (Losses)	1	$ 19
Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Recognized In Aoci Roll Forward [Abstract]
Balance, beginning of year	1	19
Net investment gains (losses) arising during the period	0	49
Reclassification adjustment for OTTI losses excluded from Net earnings (loss)	0	0
Balance, End of Period	(1)	20
Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Investments | All other
Unrealized Net Investment Gain and Losses [Line Items]
Net Unrealized Gains (Losses)	1,526	428
Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Recognized In Aoci Roll Forward [Abstract]
Balance, beginning of year	1,526	428
Net investment gains (losses) arising during the period	(88)	166
Reclassification adjustment for OTTI losses excluded from Net earnings (loss)	0	0
Balance, End of Period	193	606
DAC | With OTTI loss
Unrealized Net Investment Gain and Losses [Line Items]
Net Unrealized Gains (Losses)	1	(1)
Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Recognized In Aoci Roll Forward [Abstract]
Balance, beginning of year	1	(1)
Impact of net unrealized investment gains (losses) on DAC	(1)	(4)
Balance, End of Period	0	(5)
DAC | All other
Unrealized Net Investment Gain and Losses [Line Items]
Net Unrealized Gains (Losses)	(315)	(70)
Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Recognized In Aoci Roll Forward [Abstract]
Balance, beginning of year	(315)	(70)
Impact of net unrealized investment gains (losses) on DAC	288	(73)
Balance, End of Period	(27)	(143)
Policyholders’ Liabilities | With OTTI loss
Unrealized Net Investment Gain and Losses [Line Items]
Net Unrealized Gains (Losses)	(1)	(10)
Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Recognized In Aoci Roll Forward [Abstract]
Balance, beginning of year	(1)	(10)
Impact of net unrealized investment gains (losses) on policyholders' liabilities	1	5
Balance, End of Period	0	(5)
Policyholders’ Liabilities | All other
Unrealized Net Investment Gain and Losses [Line Items]
Net Unrealized Gains (Losses)	(232)	(188)
Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Recognized In Aoci Roll Forward [Abstract]
Balance, beginning of year	(232)	(188)
Impact of net unrealized investment gains (losses) on policyholders' liabilities	108	26
Balance, End of Period	(124)	(162)
Deferred Income Tax Asset (Liability) | With OTTI loss
Unrealized Net Investment Gain and Losses [Line Items]
Net Unrealized Gains (Losses)	(5)	(3)
Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Recognized In Aoci Roll Forward [Abstract]
Balance, beginning of year	(5)	(3)
Impact of net unrealized investment gains (losses) on deferred income taxes	0	(1)
Balance, End of Period	(5)	(4)
Deferred Income Tax Asset (Liability) | All other
Unrealized Net Investment Gain and Losses [Line Items]
Net Unrealized Gains (Losses)	(300)	(60)
Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Recognized In Aoci Roll Forward [Abstract]
Balance, beginning of year	(300)	(60)
Impact of net unrealized investment gains (losses) on deferred income taxes	197	(46)
Balance, End of Period	(103)	(106)
AOCI Gain (Loss) Related to Net Unrealized Investment Gains (Losses) | With OTTI loss
Unrealized Net Investment Gain and Losses [Line Items]
Net Unrealized Gains (Losses)	(4)	5
Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Recognized In Aoci Roll Forward [Abstract]
Balance, beginning of year	(4)	5
Net investment gains (losses) arising during the period	0	49
Reclassification adjustment for OTTI losses excluded from Net earnings (loss)	0	0
Impact of net unrealized investment gains (losses) on DAC	(1)	(4)
Impact of net unrealized investment gains (losses) on deferred income taxes	0	(1)
Impact of net unrealized investment gains (losses) on policyholders' liabilities	1	5
Balance, End of Period	(6)	6
AOCI Gain (Loss) Related to Net Unrealized Investment Gains (Losses) | All other
Unrealized Net Investment Gain and Losses [Line Items]
Net Unrealized Gains (Losses)	679	110
Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Recognized In Aoci Roll Forward [Abstract]
Balance, beginning of year	679	110
Net investment gains (losses) arising during the period	(88)	166
Reclassification adjustment for OTTI losses excluded from Net earnings (loss)	0	0
Impact of net unrealized investment gains (losses) on DAC	288	(73)
Impact of net unrealized investment gains (losses) on deferred income taxes	197	(46)
Impact of net unrealized investment gains (losses) on policyholders' liabilities	108	26
Balance, End of Period	(61)	195
Fixed Maturities | Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Investments | With OTTI loss
Unrealized Net Investment Gain and Losses [Line Items]
Net Unrealized Gains (Losses)	1
Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Recognized In Aoci Roll Forward [Abstract]
Balance, beginning of year	1
Balance, End of Period	(1)
Fixed Maturities | Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Investments | All other
Unrealized Net Investment Gain and Losses [Line Items]
Net Unrealized Gains (Losses)	1,526
Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Recognized In Aoci Roll Forward [Abstract]
Balance, beginning of year	1,526
Balance, End of Period	193
Fixed Maturities | AOCI Gain (Loss) Related to Net Unrealized Investment Gains (Losses) | With OTTI loss
Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Recognized In Aoci Roll Forward [Abstract]
Reclassification adjustment for OTTI losses included in Net income (loss)	(2)	(48)
Fixed Maturities | AOCI Gain (Loss) Related to Net Unrealized Investment Gains (Losses) | All other
Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Recognized In Aoci Roll Forward [Abstract]
Reclassification adjustment for OTTI losses included in Net income (loss)	(1,245)	12
Fixed Maturities | Included in Net income (loss) | With OTTI loss
Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Recognized In Aoci Roll Forward [Abstract]
Reclassification adjustment for OTTI losses included in Net income (loss)	(2)	(48)
Fixed Maturities | Included in Net income (loss) | All other
Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Recognized In Aoci Roll Forward [Abstract]
Reclassification adjustment for OTTI losses included in Net income (loss)	$ (1,245)	$ 12

INVESTMENTS - GROSS UNREALIZED

INVESTMENTS - GROSS UNREALIZED LOSSES (Details) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2018USD ($)security	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)security
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]
Number of fixed maturities in an unrealized loss position greater than 12 months | security	1,188	620
Available For Sale Securities Continuous Unrealized Loss Position [Line Items]
Less Than 12 Months, Fair Value	$ 11,207	$ 4,315
Less Than 12 Months, Gross Unrealized Losses	339	23
Greater than 12 Months, Fair Value	4,019	4,255
Greater Than 12 Months, Gross Unrealized Losses	404	224
Total, Fair Value	15,226	8,570
Total, Gross Unrealized Losses	743	247
Public corporate
Available For Sale Securities Continuous Unrealized Loss Position [Line Items]
Less Than 12 Months, Fair Value	6,461	1,384
Less Than 12 Months, Gross Unrealized Losses	209	9
Greater than 12 Months, Fair Value	443	548
Greater Than 12 Months, Gross Unrealized Losses	27	16
Total, Fair Value	6,904	1,932
Total, Gross Unrealized Losses	236	25
Private corporate
Available For Sale Securities Continuous Unrealized Loss Position [Line Items]
Less Than 12 Months, Fair Value	2,299	718
Less Than 12 Months, Gross Unrealized Losses	58	8
Greater than 12 Months, Fair Value	634	615
Greater Than 12 Months, Gross Unrealized Losses	42	23
Total, Fair Value	2,933	1,333
Total, Gross Unrealized Losses	100	31
U.S. Treasury, government and agency
Available For Sale Securities Continuous Unrealized Loss Position [Line Items]
Less Than 12 Months, Fair Value	2,172	2,150
Less Than 12 Months, Gross Unrealized Losses	65	6
Greater than 12 Months, Fair Value	2,859	3,005
Greater Than 12 Months, Gross Unrealized Losses	325	179
Total, Fair Value	5,031	5,155
Total, Gross Unrealized Losses	390	185
State and Political Sub- divisions
Available For Sale Securities Continuous Unrealized Loss Position [Line Items]
Less Than 12 Months, Fair Value	19	20
Less Than 12 Months, Gross Unrealized Losses	1	0
Greater than 12 Months, Fair Value	0	0
Greater Than 12 Months, Gross Unrealized Losses	0	0
Total, Fair Value	19	20
Total, Gross Unrealized Losses	1	0
Foreign governments
Available For Sale Securities Continuous Unrealized Loss Position [Line Items]
Less Than 12 Months, Fair Value	57	11
Less Than 12 Months, Gross Unrealized Losses	1	0
Greater than 12 Months, Fair Value	70	73
Greater Than 12 Months, Gross Unrealized Losses	8	5
Total, Fair Value	127	84
Total, Gross Unrealized Losses	9	5
Residential mortgage-backed
Available For Sale Securities Continuous Unrealized Loss Position [Line Items]
Less Than 12 Months, Fair Value	17	18
Less Than 12 Months, Gross Unrealized Losses	0	0
Greater than 12 Months, Fair Value	0	0
Greater Than 12 Months, Gross Unrealized Losses	0	0
Total, Fair Value	17	18
Total, Gross Unrealized Losses	0	0
Asset- backed
Available For Sale Securities Continuous Unrealized Loss Position [Line Items]
Less Than 12 Months, Fair Value	70	7
Less Than 12 Months, Gross Unrealized Losses	3	0
Greater than 12 Months, Fair Value	1	2
Greater Than 12 Months, Gross Unrealized Losses	0	0
Total, Fair Value	71	9
Total, Gross Unrealized Losses	3	0
Redeemable preferred stock
Available For Sale Securities Continuous Unrealized Loss Position [Line Items]
Less Than 12 Months, Fair Value	112	7
Less Than 12 Months, Gross Unrealized Losses	2	0
Greater than 12 Months, Fair Value	12	12
Greater Than 12 Months, Gross Unrealized Losses	2	1
Total, Fair Value	124	19
Total, Gross Unrealized Losses	$ 4	$ 1

INVESTMENTS - TEXTUAL (Details)

INVESTMENTS - TEXTUAL (Details) $ in Millions	1 Months Ended	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018USD ($)joint_venture	Mar. 31, 2018USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Debt securities exposure in single issuer greater than stated percentage of total investments	1.00%	1.00%
Available-for-sale securities, amortized cost basis				$ 34,988
Gross unrealized losses of twelve months or more	$ 404	$ 404		224
Carrying value of fixed maturities non-income producing	2	2
Investment expenses		19	$ 19
Trading securities, at fair value	13,457	13,457		12,628
Separate account equity investment carrying value	$ 48	48		49
Number of real estate joint ventures sold | joint_venture	2
Total purchase price	$ 143
Pre-tax loss on sale of real estate joint venture	0.2
Elimination of long-term debt	203
Derecognized US Treasury securities	3,673	3,673			$ 3,905
Proceeds from return swap contract					$ 3,905
Fair value of return swap contracts	16	16
Treasury Lock
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Unrealized gain (loss) related to TIPS		(88)		(86)
Commercial Mortgage Loans
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Mortgage loans classified as nonaccrual	19	19		19
Other Than Investment Grade
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale securities, amortized cost	$ 1,280	$ 1,280		$ 1,309
Percentage of available for sale securities	3.80%	3.80%		3.80%
Public corporate
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Debt securities exposure in single issuer of total investments	$ 208	$ 208		$ 182
Available-for-sale securities, amortized cost basis				13,645
Gross unrealized losses of twelve months or more	27	27		16
Fixed Maturities
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale securities, amortized cost basis	$ 33,438	33,438		34,831
Fixed Maturities | Other Than Investment Grade
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Net unrealized losses		$ 14		$ 5

INVESTMENTS - TRADING SECURITIE

INVESTMENTS - TRADING SECURITIES (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Mar. 31, 2017
Net Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Trading Securities [Abstract]
Net investment gains (losses) recognized during the period on securities held at the end of the period	$ (64)	$ 51
Net investment gains (losses) recognized on securities sold during the period	1	2
Unrealized and realized gains (losses) on trading securities arising during the period	(63)	53
Interest and dividend income from trading securities	66	40
Net investment income (loss) from trading securities	$ 3	$ 93

INVESTMENTS - VALUATION ALLOWAN

INVESTMENTS - VALUATION ALLOWANCE FOR MORTGAGE LOANS (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2017
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss, Additional Information [Abstract]
March 31, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	$ 7,000,000		$ 8,000,000
Commercial Mortgage Loans
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance, January 1,	8,000,000	$ 8,000,000
Charge-offs	0	0
Recoveries	(1,000,000)	0
Provision	0	0
Ending balance, March 31,	7,000,000	8,000,000
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss, Additional Information [Abstract]
March 31, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	7,000,000	$ 8,000,000
Agricultural Mortgage Loans
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance, January 1,	0
Ending balance, March 31,	$ 0

INVESTMENTS - MORTGAGE LOANS (D

INVESTMENTS - MORTGAGE LOANS (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	$ 712
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	712
Commercial Mortgage Loans
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	8,738	$ 8,369
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Financing receivables, recorded investment, past due	27	27
Financing receivables, recorded investment, current	8,711	8,342
Total Financing Receivables	8,738	8,369
Financing receivable, recorded investment, 90 days or more past due and accruing	0	0
Commercial Mortgage Loans | With no related allowance recorded
Impaired Mortgage Loans [Abstract]
Recorded Investment	0	0
Unpaid Principal Balance	0	0
Related Allowance	0	0
Average Recorded Investment	0	0
Interest Income Recognized	0	0
Commercial Mortgage Loans | With related allowance recorded
Impaired Mortgage Loans [Abstract]
Recorded Investment	27	27
Unpaid Principal Balance	27	27
Related Allowance	(7)	(8)
Average Recorded Investment	27	27
Interest Income Recognized	0	2
Commercial Mortgage Loans | 30-59 Days
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Financing receivables, recorded investment, past due	0	27
Commercial Mortgage Loans | 60-89 Days
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Financing receivables, recorded investment, past due	0	0
Commercial Mortgage Loans | 90 Days or More
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Financing receivables, recorded investment, past due	27	0
Commercial Mortgage Loans | Greater than 2.0x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	5,365	4,999
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	5,365	4,999
Commercial Mortgage Loans | 1.8x to 2.0x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	775	792
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	775	792
Commercial Mortgage Loans | 1.5x to 1.8x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	1,614	1,609
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	1,614	1,609
Commercial Mortgage Loans | 1.2x to 1.5x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	779	774
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	779	774
Commercial Mortgage Loans | 1.0x to 1.2x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	205	195
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	205	195
Commercial Mortgage Loans | Less than 1.0x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	0	0
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	0	0
Commercial Mortgage Loans | 0% - 50%
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	1,135	1,136
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	1,135	1,136
Commercial Mortgage Loans | 0% - 50% | Greater than 2.0x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	719	742
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	719	742
Commercial Mortgage Loans | 0% - 50% | 1.8x to 2.0x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	22	0
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	22	0
Commercial Mortgage Loans | 0% - 50% | 1.5x to 1.8x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	321	320
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	321	320
Commercial Mortgage Loans | 0% - 50% | 1.2x to 1.5x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	73	74
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	73	74
Commercial Mortgage Loans | 0% - 50% | 1.0x to 1.2x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	0	0
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	0	0
Commercial Mortgage Loans | 0% - 50% | Less than 1.0x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	0	0
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	0	0
Commercial Mortgage Loans | 50% - 70%
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	6,819	6,409
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	6,819	6,409
Commercial Mortgage Loans | 50% - 70% | Greater than 2.0x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	4,477	4,088
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	4,477	4,088
Commercial Mortgage Loans | 50% - 70% | 1.8x to 2.0x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	643	682
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	643	682
Commercial Mortgage Loans | 50% - 70% | 1.5x to 1.8x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	1,122	1,066
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	1,122	1,066
Commercial Mortgage Loans | 50% - 70% | 1.2x to 1.5x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	399	428
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	399	428
Commercial Mortgage Loans | 50% - 70% | 1.0x to 1.2x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	178	145
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	178	145
Commercial Mortgage Loans | 50% - 70% | Less than 1.0x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	0	0
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	0	0
Commercial Mortgage Loans | 70% - 90%
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	757	797
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	757	797
Commercial Mortgage Loans | 70% - 90% | Greater than 2.0x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	169	169
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	169	169
Commercial Mortgage Loans | 70% - 90% | 1.8x to 2.0x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	110	110
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	110	110
Commercial Mortgage Loans | 70% - 90% | 1.5x to 1.8x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	144	196
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	144	196
Commercial Mortgage Loans | 70% - 90% | 1.2x to 1.5x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	307	272
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	307	272
Commercial Mortgage Loans | 70% - 90% | 1.0x to 1.2x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	27	50
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	27	50
Commercial Mortgage Loans | 70% - 90% | Less than 1.0x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	0	0
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	0	0
Commercial Mortgage Loans | 90% plus
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	27	27
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	27	27
Commercial Mortgage Loans | 90% plus | Greater than 2.0x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	0	0
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	0	0
Commercial Mortgage Loans | 90% plus | 1.8x to 2.0x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	0	0
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	0	0
Commercial Mortgage Loans | 90% plus | 1.5x to 1.8x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	27	27
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	27	27
Commercial Mortgage Loans | 90% plus | 1.2x to 1.5x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	0	0
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	0	0
Commercial Mortgage Loans | 90% plus | 1.0x to 1.2x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	0	0
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	0	0
Commercial Mortgage Loans | 90% plus | Less than 1.0x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	0	0
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	0	0
Agricultural Mortgage Loans
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	2,585	2,574
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Financing receivables, recorded investment, past due	54	74
Financing receivables, recorded investment, current	2,531	2,500
Total Financing Receivables	2,585	2,574
Financing receivable, recorded investment, 90 days or more past due and accruing	39	22
Agricultural Mortgage Loans | With no related allowance recorded
Impaired Mortgage Loans [Abstract]
Recorded Investment	0	0
Unpaid Principal Balance	0	0
Related Allowance	0	0
Average Recorded Investment	0	0
Interest Income Recognized	0	0
Agricultural Mortgage Loans | With related allowance recorded
Impaired Mortgage Loans [Abstract]
Recorded Investment	0	0
Unpaid Principal Balance	0	0
Related Allowance	0	0
Average Recorded Investment	0	0
Interest Income Recognized	0	0
Agricultural Mortgage Loans | 30-59 Days
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Financing receivables, recorded investment, past due	10	49
Agricultural Mortgage Loans | 60-89 Days
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Financing receivables, recorded investment, past due	5	3
Agricultural Mortgage Loans | 90 Days or More
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Financing receivables, recorded investment, past due	39	22
Agricultural Mortgage Loans | Greater than 2.0x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	386	383
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	386	383
Agricultural Mortgage Loans | 1.8x to 2.0x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	199	195
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	199	195
Agricultural Mortgage Loans | 1.5x to 1.8x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	495	502
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	495	502
Agricultural Mortgage Loans | 1.2x to 1.5x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	879	878
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	879	878
Agricultural Mortgage Loans | 1.0x to 1.2x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	549	537
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	549	537
Agricultural Mortgage Loans | Less than 1.0x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	77	79
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	77	79
Agricultural Mortgage Loans | 0% - 50%
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	1,550	1,557
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	1,550	1,557
Agricultural Mortgage Loans | 0% - 50% | Greater than 2.0x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	275	272
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	275	272
Agricultural Mortgage Loans | 0% - 50% | 1.8x to 2.0x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	153	149
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	153	149
Agricultural Mortgage Loans | 0% - 50% | 1.5x to 1.8x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	276	275
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	276	275
Agricultural Mortgage Loans | 0% - 50% | 1.2x to 1.5x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	496	515
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	496	515
Agricultural Mortgage Loans | 0% - 50% | 1.0x to 1.2x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	321	316
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	321	316
Agricultural Mortgage Loans | 0% - 50% | Less than 1.0x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	29	30
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	29	30
Agricultural Mortgage Loans | 50% - 70%
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	1,012	1,013
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	1,012	1,013
Agricultural Mortgage Loans | 50% - 70% | Greater than 2.0x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	111	111
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	111	111
Agricultural Mortgage Loans | 50% - 70% | 1.8x to 2.0x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	46	46
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	46	46
Agricultural Mortgage Loans | 50% - 70% | 1.5x to 1.8x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	219	227
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	219	227
Agricultural Mortgage Loans | 50% - 70% | 1.2x to 1.5x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	360	359
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	360	359
Agricultural Mortgage Loans | 50% - 70% | 1.0x to 1.2x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	228	221
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	228	221
Agricultural Mortgage Loans | 50% - 70% | Less than 1.0x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	48	49
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	48	49
Agricultural Mortgage Loans | 70% - 90%
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	23	4
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	23	4
Agricultural Mortgage Loans | 70% - 90% | Greater than 2.0x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	0	0
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	0	0
Agricultural Mortgage Loans | 70% - 90% | 1.8x to 2.0x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	0	0
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	0	0
Agricultural Mortgage Loans | 70% - 90% | 1.5x to 1.8x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	0	0
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	0	0
Agricultural Mortgage Loans | 70% - 90% | 1.2x to 1.5x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	23	4
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	23	4
Agricultural Mortgage Loans | 70% - 90% | 1.0x to 1.2x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	0	0
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	0	0
Agricultural Mortgage Loans | 70% - 90% | Less than 1.0x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	0	0
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	0	0
Agricultural Mortgage Loans | 90% plus
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	0	0
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	0	0
Agricultural Mortgage Loans | 90% plus | Greater than 2.0x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	0	0
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	0	0
Agricultural Mortgage Loans | 90% plus | 1.8x to 2.0x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	0	0
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	0	0
Agricultural Mortgage Loans | 90% plus | 1.5x to 1.8x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	0	0
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	0	0
Agricultural Mortgage Loans | 90% plus | 1.2x to 1.5x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	0	0
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	0	0
Agricultural Mortgage Loans | 90% plus | 1.0x to 1.2x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	0	0
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	0	0
Agricultural Mortgage Loans | 90% plus | Less than 1.0x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	0	0
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	0	0
Total Mortgages Loan
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	11,323	10,943
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Financing receivables, recorded investment, past due	81	101
Financing receivables, recorded investment, current	11,242	10,842
Total Financing Receivables	11,323	10,943
Financing receivable, recorded investment, 90 days or more past due and accruing	39	22
Total Mortgages Loan | With no related allowance recorded
Impaired Mortgage Loans [Abstract]
Recorded Investment	0	0
Unpaid Principal Balance	0	0
Related Allowance	0	0
Average Recorded Investment	0	0
Interest Income Recognized	0	0
Total Mortgages Loan | With related allowance recorded
Impaired Mortgage Loans [Abstract]
Recorded Investment	27	27
Unpaid Principal Balance	27	27
Related Allowance	(7)	(8)
Average Recorded Investment	27	27
Interest Income Recognized	0	2
Total Mortgages Loan | 30-59 Days
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Financing receivables, recorded investment, past due	10	76
Total Mortgages Loan | 60-89 Days
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Financing receivables, recorded investment, past due	5	3
Total Mortgages Loan | 90 Days or More
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Financing receivables, recorded investment, past due	66	22
Total Mortgages Loan | Greater than 2.0x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	5,751	5,382
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	5,751	5,382
Total Mortgages Loan | 1.8x to 2.0x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	974	987
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	974	987
Total Mortgages Loan | 1.5x to 1.8x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	2,109	2,111
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	2,109	2,111
Total Mortgages Loan | 1.2x to 1.5x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	1,658	1,652
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	1,658	1,652
Total Mortgages Loan | 1.0x to 1.2x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	754	732
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	754	732
Total Mortgages Loan | Less than 1.0x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	77	79
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	77	79
Total Mortgages Loan | 0% - 50%
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	2,685	2,693
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	2,685	2,693
Total Mortgages Loan | 0% - 50% | Greater than 2.0x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	994	1,014
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	994	1,014
Total Mortgages Loan | 0% - 50% | 1.8x to 2.0x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	175	149
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	175	149
Total Mortgages Loan | 0% - 50% | 1.5x to 1.8x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	597	595
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	597	595
Total Mortgages Loan | 0% - 50% | 1.2x to 1.5x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	569	589
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	569	589
Total Mortgages Loan | 0% - 50% | 1.0x to 1.2x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	321	316
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	321	316
Total Mortgages Loan | 0% - 50% | Less than 1.0x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	29	30
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	29	30
Total Mortgages Loan | 50% - 70%
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	7,831	7,422
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	7,831	7,422
Total Mortgages Loan | 50% - 70% | Greater than 2.0x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	4,588	4,199
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	4,588	4,199
Total Mortgages Loan | 50% - 70% | 1.8x to 2.0x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	689	728
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	689	728
Total Mortgages Loan | 50% - 70% | 1.5x to 1.8x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	1,341	1,293
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	1,341	1,293
Total Mortgages Loan | 50% - 70% | 1.2x to 1.5x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	759	787
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	759	787
Total Mortgages Loan | 50% - 70% | 1.0x to 1.2x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	406	366
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	406	366
Total Mortgages Loan | 50% - 70% | Less than 1.0x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	48	49
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	48	49
Total Mortgages Loan | 70% - 90%
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	780	801
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	780	801
Total Mortgages Loan | 70% - 90% | Greater than 2.0x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	169	169
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	169	169
Total Mortgages Loan | 70% - 90% | 1.8x to 2.0x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	110	110
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	110	110
Total Mortgages Loan | 70% - 90% | 1.5x to 1.8x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	144	196
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	144	196
Total Mortgages Loan | 70% - 90% | 1.2x to 1.5x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	330	276
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	330	276
Total Mortgages Loan | 70% - 90% | 1.0x to 1.2x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	27	50
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	27	50
Total Mortgages Loan | 70% - 90% | Less than 1.0x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	0	0
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	0	0
Total Mortgages Loan | 90% plus
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	27	27
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	27	27
Total Mortgages Loan | 90% plus | Greater than 2.0x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	0	0
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	0	0
Total Mortgages Loan | 90% plus | 1.8x to 2.0x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	0	0
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	0	0
Total Mortgages Loan | 90% plus | 1.5x to 1.8x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	27	27
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	27	27
Total Mortgages Loan | 90% plus | 1.2x to 1.5x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	0	0
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	0	0
Total Mortgages Loan | 90% plus | 1.0x to 1.2x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	0	0
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	0	0
Total Mortgages Loan | 90% plus | Less than 1.0x
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Total Mortgage Loans	0	0
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Total Financing Receivables	$ 0	$ 0

INVESTMENTS - DERIVATIVES BY CA

INVESTMENTS - DERIVATIVES BY CATEGORY (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2017
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Notional Amount	$ 71,217		$ 62,016
Fair Value
Asset Derivatives	13,446		14,228
Fair Value
Liability Derivatives	9,045		9,476
Gains (losses) reported in net income (loss)	(777)	$ (362)
Equity futures
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Notional Amount	3,318		3,113
Fair Value
Asset Derivatives	2		1
Fair Value
Liability Derivatives	1		3
Gains (losses) reported in net income (loss)	(28)	(212)
Equity swaps
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Notional Amount	4,866		4,655
Fair Value
Asset Derivatives	142		3
Fair Value
Liability Derivatives	13		126
Gains (losses) reported in net income (loss)	66	(241)
Equity options
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Notional Amount	21,635		20,630
Fair Value
Asset Derivatives	3,261		3,334
Fair Value
Liability Derivatives	1,392		1,426
Gains (losses) reported in net income (loss)	(15)	302
Interest rate swaps
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Notional Amount	21,646		19,032
Fair Value
Asset Derivatives	302		320
Fair Value
Liability Derivatives	347		191
Gains (losses) reported in net income (loss)	(491)	108
Interest rate futures
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Notional Amount	15,835		11,032
Fair Value
Asset Derivatives	0		0
Fair Value
Liability Derivatives	0		0
Gains (losses) reported in net income (loss)	40	(19)
Interest rate swaptions
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Notional Amount			0
Fair Value
Asset Derivatives			0
Fair Value
Liability Derivatives			0
Gains (losses) reported in net income (loss)		0
Credit default swaps
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Notional Amount	2,136		2,131
Fair Value
Asset Derivatives	32		35
Fair Value
Liability Derivatives	3		3
Gains (losses) reported in net income (loss)	0	6
Foreign currency contracts
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Notional Amount	1,781		1,423
Fair Value
Asset Derivatives	10		19
Fair Value
Liability Derivatives	52		10
Gains (losses) reported in net income (loss)	(51)	(1)
Margin
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Notional Amount	0		0
Fair Value
Asset Derivatives	16		24
Fair Value
Liability Derivatives	0		0
Gains (losses) reported in net income (loss)	0	0
Collateral
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Notional Amount	0		0
Fair Value
Asset Derivatives	8		4
Fair Value
Liability Derivatives	1,824		1,855
Gains (losses) reported in net income (loss)	0	0
GMIB reinsurance contracts
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Notional Amount	0		0
Fair Value
Asset Derivatives	9,673		10,488
Fair Value
Liability Derivatives	0		0
Gains (losses) reported in net income (loss)	(842)	(533)
GMxB derivative features’ liability
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Notional Amount	0		0
Fair Value
Asset Derivatives	0		0
Fair Value
Liability Derivatives	3,804		4,164
Gains (losses) reported in net income (loss)	440	490
SCS, SIO, MSO and IUL indexed features
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Notional Amount	0		0
Fair Value
Asset Derivatives	0		0
Fair Value
Liability Derivatives	1,609		$ 1,698
Gains (losses) reported in net income (loss)	$ 104	$ (262)

INVESTMENTS - EQUITY-BASED AND

INVESTMENTS - EQUITY-BASED AND TREASURY FUTURE CONTRACTS MARGIN (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Jan. 03, 2017	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Exchange Traded Future Contract [Line Items]
Cash and securities collateral for derivative contract		$ 1,824	$ 1,855
Collateralized derivative transactions		2	2
Cash and securities collateral		7	3
Reduction of derivative gross assets	$ 13
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase		1,904	$ 1,887
S&P 500, Russell 1000, NASDAQ 100 and Emerging Market Indices
Exchange Traded Future Contract [Line Items]
Initial margin requirements		121
Us Treasury Notes And Euro Dollar
Exchange Traded Future Contract [Line Items]
Initial margin requirements		23
Euro Stoxx, FTSE100, EAFE And Topix Indices
Exchange Traded Future Contract [Line Items]
Initial margin requirements		$ 12

INVESTMENTS - DERIVATIVES OFFSE

INVESTMENTS - DERIVATIVES OFFSETTING FINANCIAL ASSETS (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Equity contracts
Offsetting Assets [Line Items]
Gross Amounts Recognized	$ 3,404	$ 3,338
Gross Amounts Offset in the Balance Sheets	1,407	1,555
Net Amounts Presented in the Balance Sheets	1,997	1,783
Interest rate contracts
Offsetting Assets [Line Items]
Gross Amounts Recognized	302	320
Gross Amounts Offset in the Balance Sheets	347	191
Net Amounts Presented in the Balance Sheets	(45)	129
Credit contracts
Offsetting Assets [Line Items]
Gross Amounts Recognized	32	35
Gross Amounts Offset in the Balance Sheets	3	3
Net Amounts Presented in the Balance Sheets	29	32
Currency
Offsetting Assets [Line Items]
Gross Amounts Recognized	10	19
Gross Amounts Offset in the Balance Sheets	52	10
Net Amounts Presented in the Balance Sheets	(42)	9
Margin
Offsetting Assets [Line Items]
Gross Amounts Recognized	16	24
Gross Amounts Offset in the Balance Sheets	0	0
Net Amounts Presented in the Balance Sheets	16	24
Collateral
Offsetting Assets [Line Items]
Gross Amounts Recognized	8	4
Gross Amounts Offset in the Balance Sheets	1,824	1,855
Net Amounts Presented in the Balance Sheets	(1,816)	(1,851)
Total Derivatives, subject to an ISDA Master Agreement
Offsetting Assets [Line Items]
Gross Amounts Recognized	3,772	3,740
Gross Amounts Offset in the Balance Sheets	3,633	3,614
Net Amounts Presented in the Balance Sheets	139	126
Total Derivatives
Offsetting Assets [Line Items]
Gross Amounts Recognized	3,772	3,740
Gross Amounts Offset in the Balance Sheets	3,633	3,614
Net Amounts Presented in the Balance Sheets	139	126
Other financial instruments
Offsetting Assets [Line Items]
Gross Amounts Recognized	3,435	2,995
Gross Amounts Offset in the Balance Sheets	0	0
Net Amounts Presented in the Balance Sheets	3,435	2,995
Other invested assets
Offsetting Assets [Line Items]
Gross Amounts Recognized	7,207	6,735
Gross Amounts Offset in the Balance Sheets	3,633	3,614
Net Amounts Presented in the Balance Sheets	$ 3,574	$ 3,121

INVESTMENTS - DERIVATIVES OFF50

INVESTMENTS - DERIVATIVES OFFSETTING FINANCIAL LIABILITIES (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Securities sold under agreement to repurchase
Net Amounts Presented in the Balance Sheets	$ 1,904	$ 1,887
Expense in securities sold under agreement to repurchase	13,446	14,228
Equity contracts
Offsetting Liabilities [Line Items]
Gross Amounts Recognized	1,406	1,555
Gross Amounts Offset in the Balance Sheets	1,406	1,555
Net Amounts Presented in the Balance Sheets	0	0
Interest rate contracts
Offsetting Liabilities [Line Items]
Gross Amounts Recognized	347	191
Gross Amounts Offset in the Balance Sheets	347	191
Net Amounts Presented in the Balance Sheets	0	0
Credit contracts
Offsetting Liabilities [Line Items]
Gross Amounts Recognized	3	3
Gross Amounts Offset in the Balance Sheets	3	3
Net Amounts Presented in the Balance Sheets	0	0
Currency
Offsetting Liabilities [Line Items]
Gross Amounts Recognized	52	10
Gross Amounts Offset in the Balance Sheets	52	10
Net Amounts Presented in the Balance Sheets	0	0
Margin
Offsetting Liabilities [Line Items]
Gross Amounts Recognized	0	0
Gross Amounts Offset in the Balance Sheets	0	0
Net Amounts Presented in the Balance Sheets	0	0
Securities sold under agreement to repurchase
Expense in securities sold under agreement to repurchase	16	24
Collateral
Offsetting Liabilities [Line Items]
Gross Amounts Recognized	1,824	1,855
Gross Amounts Offset in the Balance Sheets	1,824	1,855
Net Amounts Presented in the Balance Sheets	0	0
Securities sold under agreement to repurchase
Expense in securities sold under agreement to repurchase	8	4
Total Derivatives, subject to an ISDA Master Agreement
Offsetting Liabilities [Line Items]
Gross Amounts Recognized	3,632	3,614
Gross Amounts Offset in the Balance Sheets	3,632	3,614
Net Amounts Presented in the Balance Sheets	0	0
Total Derivatives, not subject to an ISDA Master Agreement
Offsetting Liabilities [Line Items]
Gross Amounts Recognized	0	0
Gross Amounts Offset in the Balance Sheets	0	0
Net Amounts Presented in the Balance Sheets	0	0
Total Derivatives
Offsetting Liabilities [Line Items]
Gross Amounts Recognized	3,632	3,614
Gross Amounts Offset in the Balance Sheets	3,632	3,614
Net Amounts Presented in the Balance Sheets	0	0
Other financial liabilities
Offsetting Liabilities [Line Items]
Gross Amounts Recognized	3,041	2,663
Gross Amounts Offset in the Balance Sheets	0	0
Net Amounts Presented in the Balance Sheets	3,041	2,663
Other liabilities
Offsetting Liabilities [Line Items]
Gross Amounts Recognized	6,673	6,277
Gross Amounts Offset in the Balance Sheets	3,632	3,614
Net Amounts Presented in the Balance Sheets	3,041	2,663
Securities sold under agreement to repurchase
Securities sold under agreement to repurchase
Gross Amounts Recognized	1,897	1,882
Gross Amounts Offset in the Balance Sheets	0	0
Net Amounts Presented in the Balance Sheets	$ 1,897	$ 1,882

INVESTMENTS - DERIVATIVES GROSS

INVESTMENTS - DERIVATIVES GROSS COLLATERAL AMOUNTS ASSETS (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Total derivatives
Offsetting Assets [Line Items]
Fair Value of Assets	$ 1,938	$ 1,954
Collateral (Received)/Held
Financial Instruments	0	0
Cash	(1,799)	(1,828)
Net Amounts	139	126
Other financial instruments
Offsetting Assets [Line Items]
Fair Value of Assets	3,435	2,995
Collateral (Received)/Held
Financial Instruments	0	0
Cash	0	0
Net Amounts	3,435	2,995
Other invested assets
Offsetting Assets [Line Items]
Fair Value of Assets	5,373	4,949
Collateral (Received)/Held
Financial Instruments	0	0
Cash	(1,799)	(1,828)
Net Amounts	$ 3,574	$ 3,121

INVESTMENTS - DERIVATIVES GRO52

INVESTMENTS - DERIVATIVES GROSS COLLATERAL AMOUNTS LIABILITIES (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Offsetting Liabilities [Line Items]
Fair Value of Assets	$ 1,904	$ 1,887
Collateral (Received)/Held
Expense in securities sold under agreement to repurchase	13,446	14,228
Initial Margin
Collateral (Received)/Held
Expense in securities sold under agreement to repurchase	7	5
Securities sold under agreement to repurchase
Offsetting Liabilities [Line Items]
Fair Value of Assets	1,897	1,882
Collateral (Received)/Held
Financial Instruments	0	(1,988)
Cash	0	(21)
Net Amounts	$ 1,897	(127)
Securities sold under agreement to repurchase | Other financial liabilities
Offsetting Liabilities [Line Items]
Fair Value of Assets		2,663
Collateral (Received)/Held
Financial Instruments		0
Cash		0
Net Amounts		2,663
Securities sold under agreement to repurchase | Other liabilities
Offsetting Liabilities [Line Items]
Fair Value of Assets		2,663
Collateral (Received)/Held
Financial Instruments		0
Cash		0
Net Amounts		$ 2,663

INVESTMENTS - REPURCHASE AGREEM

INVESTMENTS - REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS ACCCOUNTED FOR AS BORROWINGS (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Repurchase agreements accounted for as secured borrowings [Line Items]
Securities sold under agreement to repurchase	$ 1,897	$ 1,882
Expense in securities sold under agreement to repurchase	13,446	14,228
Initial Margin
Repurchase agreements accounted for as secured borrowings [Line Items]
Expense in securities sold under agreement to repurchase	7	5
Overnight and Continuous
Repurchase agreements accounted for as secured borrowings [Line Items]
Securities sold under agreement to repurchase	0	0
Up to 30 days
Repurchase agreements accounted for as secured borrowings [Line Items]
Securities sold under agreement to repurchase	1,897	1,882
30–90 days
Repurchase agreements accounted for as secured borrowings [Line Items]
Securities sold under agreement to repurchase	0	0
Greater Than 90 days
Repurchase agreements accounted for as secured borrowings [Line Items]
Securities sold under agreement to repurchase	0	0
U.S. Treasury and agency securities
Repurchase agreements accounted for as secured borrowings [Line Items]
Securities sold under agreement to repurchase	1,897	1,882
U.S. Treasury and agency securities | Overnight and Continuous
Repurchase agreements accounted for as secured borrowings [Line Items]
Securities sold under agreement to repurchase	0	0
U.S. Treasury and agency securities | Up to 30 days
Repurchase agreements accounted for as secured borrowings [Line Items]
Securities sold under agreement to repurchase	1,897	1,882
U.S. Treasury and agency securities | 30–90 days
Repurchase agreements accounted for as secured borrowings [Line Items]
Securities sold under agreement to repurchase	0	0
U.S. Treasury and agency securities | Greater Than 90 days
Repurchase agreements accounted for as secured borrowings [Line Items]
Securities sold under agreement to repurchase	$ 0	$ 0

CLOSED BLOCK - Summarized Finan

CLOSED BLOCK - Summarized Financial Information for Closed Blocks (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
CLOSED BLOCK LIABILITIES:
Future policy benefits, policyholders’ account balances and other	$ 6,904	$ 6,958
Policyholder dividend obligation	0	19	$ 38	$ 52
Other liabilities	269	271
Total Closed Block liabilities	7,173	7,248
ASSETS DESIGNATED TO THE CLOSED BLOCK:
Fixed maturities, available for sale, at fair value (amortized cost of $3,864 and $3,923)	3,908	4,070
Fixed maturities, available for sale, amortized cost	3,864	3,923
Mortgage loans on real estate	1,837	1,720
Policy loans	772	781
Cash and other invested assets	235	351
Other assets	192	182
Total assets designated to the Closed Block	6,944	7,104
Excess of Closed Block liabilities over assets designated to the Closed Block	229	144
Amounts included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss):
Net unrealized investment gains (losses), net of policyholder dividend obligation of $0 and $19	55	138
Maximum Future Earnings To Be Recognized From Closed Block Assets and Liabilities	$ 284	$ 282

CLOSED BLOCK - REVENUES AND EXP

CLOSED BLOCK - REVENUES AND EXPENSES (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Mar. 31, 2017
REVENUES:
Premiums and other income	$ 51	$ 54
Net investment income (loss)	73	83
Net investment gains (losses)	1	(15)
Total revenues	125	122
BENEFITS AND OTHER DEDUCTIONS:
Policyholders’ benefits and dividends	126	151
Other operating costs and expenses	1	0
Total benefits and other deductions	127	151
Net revenues (loss) before income taxes	(2)	(29)
Income tax (expense) benefit	0	10
Net Revenues (Losses)	$ (2)	$ (19)

CLOSED BLOCK - RECONCILIATION O

CLOSED BLOCK - RECONCILIATION OF POLICYHOLDER DIVIDEND OBLIGATION (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Mar. 31, 2017
Movement in Closed Block Dividend Obligation [Roll Forward]
Balances, beginning of year	$ 19	$ 52
Unrealized investment gains (losses), net of DAC	(19)	(14)
Balances, End of Period	$ 0	$ 38

INSURANCE LIABILITIES - GMDB an

INSURANCE LIABILITIES - GMDB and GMIB Liabilities and Other Policyholder's Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Mar. 31, 2017
Direct Liability
Balance, beginning of period	$ 8,882	$ 7,035
Paid guarantee benefits	(133)	(123)
Other changes in reserve	(43)	2,104
Balance, end of period	8,706	9,016
GMDB
Direct Liability
Balance, beginning of period	4,080	3,165
Paid guarantee benefits	(101)	(89)
Other changes in reserve	96	187
Balance, end of period	4,075	3,263
GMIB
Direct Liability
Balance, beginning of period	4,802	3,870
Paid guarantee benefits	(32)	(34)
Other changes in reserve	(139)	1,917
Balance, end of period	$ 4,631	$ 5,753

INSURANCE LIABILITIES - GMDB Re

INSURANCE LIABILITIES - GMDB Reinsurance Ceded (Details) - GMDB - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Mar. 31, 2017
Guaranteed Minimum Death Benefit Reinsurance Ceded [Roll Forward]
Balance, beginning of year	$ 2,030	$ 1,558
Paid guarantee benefits	(54)	(43)
Other changes in reserve	62	69
Balance, End of Period	$ 2,038	$ 1,584

INSURANCE LIABILITIES - Derivat

INSURANCE LIABILITIES - Derivative Instruments in Hedges, Liabilities, at Fair Value (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017
Liabilities for Guarantees on Long-Duration Contracts [Line Items]
Total Embedded derivatives liability	$ 5,413	$ 5,862
GMIB reinsurance contract asset, at fair value	9,673	10,488	$ 9,798
GMIBNLG
Liabilities for Guarantees on Long-Duration Contracts [Line Items]
Total Embedded derivatives liability	3,715	4,056
SCS, MSO, IUL features
Liabilities for Guarantees on Long-Duration Contracts [Line Items]
Total Embedded derivatives liability	1,609	1,698
GWBL/GMWB
Liabilities for Guarantees on Long-Duration Contracts [Line Items]
Total Embedded derivatives liability	121	130
GIB
Liabilities for Guarantees on Long-Duration Contracts [Line Items]
Total Embedded derivatives liability	(36)	(27)
GMAB
Liabilities for Guarantees on Long-Duration Contracts [Line Items]
Total Embedded derivatives liability	$ 4	$ 5

INSURANCE LIABILITIES - Variabl

INSURANCE LIABILITIES - Variable Annuity Contracts with GMDB and GMIB Features (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
GMDB
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Account Value Invested In General Account	$ 14,214
Account Value Invested In Separate Accounts	92,504	$ 94,672
Net amount at risk, gross	18,707
Net amount at risk, net of amounts reinsured	$ 8,562
Average attained age of contract holders	55 years 2 months 12 days
Percentage of contract holders over age 70	18.30%
GMDB | Minimum
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Range of contractually specified interest rates	3.00%
GMDB | Maximum
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Range of contractually specified interest rates	6.50%
GMDB | Return of Premium
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Account Value Invested In General Account	$ 13,848
Account Value Invested In Separate Accounts	45,136
Net amount at risk, gross	186
Net amount at risk, net of amounts reinsured	$ 186
Average attained age of contract holders	52 years
Percentage of contract holders over age 70	9.70%
GMDB | Ratchet
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Account Value Invested In General Account	$ 107
Account Value Invested In Separate Accounts	9,319
Net amount at risk, gross	117
Net amount at risk, net of amounts reinsured	$ 87
Average attained age of contract holders	67 years
Percentage of contract holders over age 70	40.90%
GMDB | Roll-Up
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Account Value Invested In General Account	$ 64
Account Value Invested In Separate Accounts	3,381
Net amount at risk, gross	2,016
Net amount at risk, net of amounts reinsured	$ 1,378
Average attained age of contract holders	73 years
Percentage of contract holders over age 70	63.70%
GMDB | Roll-Up | Minimum
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Range of contractually specified interest rates	3.00%
GMDB | Roll-Up | Maximum
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Range of contractually specified interest rates	6.00%
GMDB | Combo
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Account Value Invested In General Account	$ 195
Account Value Invested In Separate Accounts	34,668
Net amount at risk, gross	16,388
Net amount at risk, net of amounts reinsured	$ 6,911
Average attained age of contract holders	68 years
Percentage of contract holders over age 70	47.40%
GMDB | Combo | Minimum
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Range of contractually specified interest rates	3.00%
GMDB | Combo | Maximum
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Range of contractually specified interest rates	6.50%
GMIB
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Account Value Invested In General Account	$ 309
Account Value Invested In Separate Accounts	60,459	$ 62,286
Net amount at risk, gross	7,205
Net amount at risk, net of amounts reinsured	$ 1,828
Weighted average years remaining until annuitization	9 months 18 days
GMIB | Minimum
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Range of contractually specified interest rates	3.00%
GMIB | Maximum
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Range of contractually specified interest rates	6.50%
GMIB | Roll-Up
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Account Value Invested In General Account	$ 24
Account Value Invested In Separate Accounts	20,855
Net amount at risk, gross	883
Net amount at risk, net of amounts reinsured	$ 268
Weighted average years remaining until annuitization	1 year 8 months 12 days
GMIB | Roll-Up | Minimum
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Range of contractually specified interest rates	3.00%
GMIB | Roll-Up | Maximum
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Range of contractually specified interest rates	6.00%
GMIB | Combo
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Account Value Invested In General Account	$ 285
Account Value Invested In Separate Accounts	39,604
Net amount at risk, gross	6,322
Net amount at risk, net of amounts reinsured	$ 1,560
Weighted average years remaining until annuitization	8 months 12 days
GMIB | Combo | Minimum
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Range of contractually specified interest rates	3.00%
GMIB | Combo | Maximum
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Range of contractually specified interest rates	6.50%

INSURANCE LIABILITIES - Textual

INSURANCE LIABILITIES - Textual (Details) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2018USD ($)
GMDB
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Account value hedged of variable annuity contracts	$ 54,391
Net amount at risk hedged of variable annuity contracts	7,600
GMIB
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Account value hedged of variable annuity contracts	41,189
Net amount at risk hedged of variable annuity contracts	$ 3,057
Non Affiliated Entity | GMDB
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Amount reinsured with non-affiliates and affiliates	3.40%
Non Affiliated Entity | GMIB
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Amount reinsured with non-affiliates and affiliates	16.60%
Affiliates | GMDB
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Amount reinsured with non-affiliates and affiliates	50.80%
Affiliates | GMIB
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Amount reinsured with non-affiliates and affiliates	58.00%

INSURANCE LIABILITIES - Investm

INSURANCE LIABILITIES - Investment in Variable Insurance Trust Mutual Funds (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
GMDB
Schedule of Fair Value of Separate Accounts by Major Category of Investment [Line Items]
Investment in Variable Insurance Trust Mutual Funds	$ 92,504	$ 94,672
GMDB | Equity
Schedule of Fair Value of Separate Accounts by Major Category of Investment [Line Items]
Investment in Variable Insurance Trust Mutual Funds	76,532	78,069
GMDB | Fixed income
Schedule of Fair Value of Separate Accounts by Major Category of Investment [Line Items]
Investment in Variable Insurance Trust Mutual Funds	2,165	2,234
GMDB | Balanced
Schedule of Fair Value of Separate Accounts by Major Category of Investment [Line Items]
Investment in Variable Insurance Trust Mutual Funds	13,525	14,084
GMDB | Other
Schedule of Fair Value of Separate Accounts by Major Category of Investment [Line Items]
Investment in Variable Insurance Trust Mutual Funds	282	285
GMIB
Schedule of Fair Value of Separate Accounts by Major Category of Investment [Line Items]
Investment in Variable Insurance Trust Mutual Funds	60,459	62,286
GMIB | Equity
Schedule of Fair Value of Separate Accounts by Major Category of Investment [Line Items]
Investment in Variable Insurance Trust Mutual Funds	49,042	50,429
GMIB | Fixed income
Schedule of Fair Value of Separate Accounts by Major Category of Investment [Line Items]
Investment in Variable Insurance Trust Mutual Funds	1,528	1,568
GMIB | Balanced
Schedule of Fair Value of Separate Accounts by Major Category of Investment [Line Items]
Investment in Variable Insurance Trust Mutual Funds	9,762	10,165
GMIB | Other
Schedule of Fair Value of Separate Accounts by Major Category of Investment [Line Items]
Investment in Variable Insurance Trust Mutual Funds	$ 127	$ 124

INSURANCE LIABILITIES - Summary

INSURANCE LIABILITIES - Summary of No-Lapse Guarantee Liabilities and Other Policyholder's Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Mar. 31, 2017
Direct Liability
Balance, beginning of period	$ 8,882	$ 7,035
Paid Guaranteed Benefits	(133)	(123)
Balance, end of period	8,706	9,016
Direct Liability
Direct Liability
Balance, beginning of period	686	1,197
Paid Guaranteed Benefits	(8)
Other changes in reserves	18	93
Balance, end of period	696	1,290
Reinsurance Ceded
Direct Liability
Balance, beginning of period	(664)	(609)
Paid Guaranteed Benefits	0
Other changes in reserves	(11)	0
Balance, end of period	(675)	(609)
Net
Direct Liability
Balance, beginning of period	22	588
Paid Guaranteed Benefits	(8)
Other changes in reserves	7	93
Balance, end of period	$ 21	$ 681

REINSURANCE AGREEMENTS (Details

REINSURANCE AGREEMENTS (Details) $ in Millions	Feb. 01, 2018USD ($)
Insurance [Abstract]
Percentage of single premium deferred annuities ceded	90.00%
Coinsurance agreement, transferred assets, excluding cash	$ 604
Coinsurance agreement, transferred assets, cash	31
Market value of transferred assets	$ 635

FAIR VALUE DISCLOSURES - Assets

FAIR VALUE DISCLOSURES - Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on Recurring Basis (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Assets:
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale		$ 36,515
Trading securities	$ 13,457	12,628
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring
Assets:
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	33,630	36,358
Other equity investments	14	14
Trading securities	13,457	12,628
Other invested assets	4,324	4,023
Cash equivalents	2,874	2,360
Segregated securities	1,025	825
GMIB reinsurance contract asset	9,673	10,488
Separate Accounts’ assets	119,662	122,315
Total Assets	184,659	189,011
Liabilities
Contingent payment arrangements	11	11
Total Liabilities	6,632	6,565
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Public Corporate
Assets:
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	14,844	14,345
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Private Corporate
Assets:
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	7,058	7,137
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | U.S. Treasury, government and agency
Assets:
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	10,025	13,135
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | States and political subdivisions
Assets:
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	469	481
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Foreign governments
Assets:
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	408	409
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Residential mortgage-backed
Assets:
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	233	251
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Asset-backed
Assets:
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	87	96
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Redeemable preferred stock
Assets:
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	506	504
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Short-term investments
Assets:
Other invested assets	372	768
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Assets of consolidated VIEs/VOEs
Assets:
Other invested assets	2,014	1,302
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Swaps
Assets:
Other invested assets	41	15
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Credit Default Swaps
Assets:
Other invested assets	28	33
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Futures
Assets:
Other invested assets	0	(2)
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Options
Assets:
Other invested assets	1,869	1,907
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | GMxB derivative features’ liability
Liabilities
Features’ liability	3,804	4,164
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | SCS, SIO, MSO and IUL indexed features’ liability
Liabilities
Features’ liability	1,609	1,698
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary
Liabilities
Liabilities of consolidated VIEs/VOEs	1,208	692
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 1
Assets:
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	176	180
Other equity investments	13	13
Trading securities	431	467
Other invested assets	1,691	1,058
Cash equivalents	2,874	2,360
Segregated securities	0	0
GMIB reinsurance contract asset	0	0
Separate Accounts’ assets	116,474	118,983
Total Assets	121,659	123,061
Liabilities
Contingent payment arrangements	0	0
Total Liabilities	1,190	670
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 1 | Public Corporate
Assets:
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 1 | Private Corporate
Assets:
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 1 | U.S. Treasury, government and agency
Assets:
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 1 | States and political subdivisions
Assets:
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 1 | Foreign governments
Assets:
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 1 | Residential mortgage-backed
Assets:
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 1 | Asset-backed
Assets:
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 1 | Redeemable preferred stock
Assets:
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	176	180
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 1 | Short-term investments
Assets:
Other invested assets	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 1 | Assets of consolidated VIEs/VOEs
Assets:
Other invested assets	1,691	1,060
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 1 | Swaps
Assets:
Other invested assets	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 1 | Credit Default Swaps
Assets:
Other invested assets	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 1 | Futures
Assets:
Other invested assets	0	(2)
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 1 | Options
Assets:
Other invested assets	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 1 | GMxB derivative features’ liability
Liabilities
Features’ liability	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 1 | SCS, SIO, MSO and IUL indexed features’ liability
Liabilities
Features’ liability	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 1 | Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary
Liabilities
Liabilities of consolidated VIEs/VOEs	1,190	670
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 2
Assets:
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	32,179	34,991
Other equity investments	0	0
Trading securities	13,021	12,161
Other invested assets	2,601	2,938
Cash equivalents	0	0
Segregated securities	1,025	825
GMIB reinsurance contract asset	0	0
Separate Accounts’ assets	2,831	2,983
Total Assets	51,657	53,898
Liabilities
Contingent payment arrangements	0	0
Total Liabilities	1,627	1,720
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 2 | Public Corporate
Assets:
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	14,724	14,298
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 2 | Private Corporate
Assets:
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	5,949	6,045
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 2 | U.S. Treasury, government and agency
Assets:
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	10,025	13,135
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 2 | States and political subdivisions
Assets:
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	430	441
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 2 | Foreign governments
Assets:
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	408	409
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 2 | Residential mortgage-backed
Assets:
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	233	251
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 2 | Asset-backed
Assets:
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	80	88
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 2 | Redeemable preferred stock
Assets:
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	330	324
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 2 | Short-term investments
Assets:
Other invested assets	372	768
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 2 | Assets of consolidated VIEs/VOEs
Assets:
Other invested assets	291	215
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 2 | Swaps
Assets:
Other invested assets	41	15
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 2 | Credit Default Swaps
Assets:
Other invested assets	28	33
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 2 | Futures
Assets:
Other invested assets	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 2 | Options
Assets:
Other invested assets	1,869	1,907
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 2 | GMxB derivative features’ liability
Liabilities
Features’ liability	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 2 | SCS, SIO, MSO and IUL indexed features’ liability
Liabilities
Features’ liability	1,609	1,698
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 2 | Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary
Liabilities
Liabilities of consolidated VIEs/VOEs	18	22
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 3
Assets:
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	1,275	1,187
Other equity investments	1	1
Trading securities	5	0
Other invested assets	32	27
Cash equivalents	0	0
Segregated securities	0	0
GMIB reinsurance contract asset	9,673	10,488
Separate Accounts’ assets	357	349
Total Assets	11,343	12,052
Liabilities
Contingent payment arrangements	11	11
Total Liabilities	3,815	4,175
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 3 | Public Corporate
Assets:
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	120	47
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 3 | Private Corporate
Assets:
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	1,109	1,092
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 3 | U.S. Treasury, government and agency
Assets:
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 3 | States and political subdivisions
Assets:
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	39	40
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 3 | Foreign governments
Assets:
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 3 | Residential mortgage-backed
Assets:
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 3 | Asset-backed
Assets:
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	7	8
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 3 | Redeemable preferred stock
Assets:
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 3 | Short-term investments
Assets:
Other invested assets	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 3 | Assets of consolidated VIEs/VOEs
Assets:
Other invested assets	32	27
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 3 | Swaps
Assets:
Other invested assets	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 3 | Credit Default Swaps
Assets:
Other invested assets	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 3 | Futures
Assets:
Other invested assets	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 3 | Options
Assets:
Other invested assets	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 3 | GMxB derivative features’ liability
Liabilities
Features’ liability	3,804	4,164
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 3 | SCS, SIO, MSO and IUL indexed features’ liability
Liabilities
Features’ liability	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 3 | Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary
Liabilities
Liabilities of consolidated VIEs/VOEs	$ 0	$ 0

FAIR VALUE DISCLOSURES - Textua

FAIR VALUE DISCLOSURES - Textual (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2017
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis Quantitative Disclosure [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale			$ 36,515,000,000
Fair value freestanding contract	$ 1,938,000,000		$ 1,953,000,000
Freestanding contract invested assets (as a percent)	44.80%		48.50%
Fair value adjustments on GMIB asset	$ 118,000,000		$ 69,000,000
Transfers out of Level 3	16,000,000	$ 0
Transfers into level 3	$ 67,000,000	$ 15,000,000
Transfers out of Levels 2 and 3 to total equity (as a percent)	0.40%	0.10%
Investments which the underlying quantitative inputs are not developed by the Company and are not readily available	$ 497,000,000		$ 395,000,000
Percentage of total assets classified as Level 3	29.80%		25.30%
Percentage of assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis	0.30%		0.20%
2016 Acquisition | Contingent Payment Arrangement
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis Quantitative Disclosure [Line Items]
Acquisition-related contingent consideration liability			$ 11,000,000
Revenue growth rate			31.00%
2016 Acquisition | Contingent Payment Arrangement | Minimum
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis Quantitative Disclosure [Line Items]
Discount rate			1.40%
2016 Acquisition | Contingent Payment Arrangement | Maximum
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis Quantitative Disclosure [Line Items]
Discount rate			2.30%
Corporate | Private Available For Sale Corporate Securities | Matrix pricing model
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis Quantitative Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of privately placed, available-for-sale corporate debt securities classified as Level 3	$ 840,000,000		$ 842,000,000
Percentage of Level 3 securities in the corporate fixed maturities asset class	68.30%		73.90%
Asset-backed | Matrix pricing model
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis Quantitative Disclosure [Line Items]
Percentage of Level 3 securities in the corporate fixed maturities asset class
Separate Accounts Assets | Third party appraisal
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis Quantitative Disclosure [Line Items]
Discount rate	6.50%		6.60%
Separate Accounts Assets | Asset-backed
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis Quantitative Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of privately placed, available-for-sale corporate debt securities classified as Level 3	$ 9,000,000		$ 8,000,000
Separate Accounts Assets | Collateralized Mortgage Backed Securities
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis Quantitative Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of privately placed, available-for-sale corporate debt securities classified as Level 3	15,000,000		14,000,000
Separate Accounts Assets | Private Real Estate Fund | Third party appraisal
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis Quantitative Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of privately placed, available-for-sale corporate debt securities classified as Level 3	332,000,000		326,000,000
Separate Accounts Assets | Mortgages | Third party appraisal
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis Quantitative Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of privately placed, available-for-sale corporate debt securities classified as Level 3	$ 1,000,000		$ 1,000,000
Level 1
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis Quantitative Disclosure [Line Items]
Assets measured at fair value on recurring basis (as a percent)	69.90%		69.20%
Level 2
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis Quantitative Disclosure [Line Items]
Assets measured at fair value on recurring basis (as a percent)	29.10%		29.90%
Mortgages and asset-backed securities owned	$ 313,000,000		$ 257,000,000
Level 3
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis Quantitative Disclosure [Line Items]
Assets measured at fair value on recurring basis (as a percent)	1.00%		0.90%
Mortgages and asset-backed securities owned	$ 7,000,000		$ 8,000,000
Fair value disclosures broker priced	95,000,000		97,000,000
Level 3 | Corporate | Matrix pricing model
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis Quantitative Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of privately placed, available-for-sale corporate debt securities classified as Level 3	52,000,000		53,000,000
Level 3 | Separate Accounts Assets | Third party appraisal
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis Quantitative Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of privately placed, available-for-sale corporate debt securities classified as Level 3	332,000,000		326,000,000
Public Fixed Maturities
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis Quantitative Disclosure [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	$ 26,174,000,000		$ 28,826,000,000
Available-for-sale fixed maturity assets measured at fair value on recurring basis (as a percent)	15.00%		16.20%
Private Fixed Maturities
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis Quantitative Disclosure [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	$ 7,456,000,000		$ 7,532,000,000
Available-for-sale fixed maturity assets measured at fair value on recurring basis (as a percent)	4.30%		4.20%

FAIR VALUE DISCLOSURES - LEVEL

FAIR VALUE DISCLOSURES - LEVEL 3 UNOBSERVABLE INPUT RECONCILIATION (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Mar. 31, 2017
Total gains (losses), realized and unrealized, included in:
Transfers into level 3	$ 67,000,000	$ 15,000,000
Transfers out of Level 3	(16,000,000)	0
Level 3 | Corporate
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Opening Balance	1,139,000,000	845,000,000
Total gains (losses), realized and unrealized, included in:
Net investment income (loss)	2,000,000	1,000,000
Investment gains (losses), net	0	0
Subtotal	2,000,000	1,000,000
Other comprehensive income (loss)	(20,000,000)	45,000,000
Purchases	173,000,000	169,000,000
Sales	(116,000,000)	(57,000,000)
Settlements	0
Transfers into level 3	67,000,000	11,000,000
Transfers out of Level 3	(16,000,000)	0
Closing Balance	1,229,000,000	1,014,000,000
Level 3 | State and Political Sub- divisions
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Opening Balance	40,000,000	42,000,000
Total gains (losses), realized and unrealized, included in:
Net investment income (loss)	0	0
Investment gains (losses), net	0	0
Subtotal	0	0
Other comprehensive income (loss)	(1,000,000)	0
Purchases	0	0
Sales	0	0
Settlements	0
Transfers into level 3	0	0
Transfers out of Level 3	0	0
Closing Balance	39,000,000	42,000,000
Level 3 | Commercial Mortgage- backed
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Opening Balance	0	349,000,000
Total gains (losses), realized and unrealized, included in:
Net investment income (loss)	0	0
Investment gains (losses), net	0	31,000,000
Subtotal	0	31,000,000
Other comprehensive income (loss)	0	12,000,000
Purchases	0	0
Sales	0	(68,000,000)
Settlements	0
Transfers into level 3	0	0
Transfers out of Level 3	0	0
Closing Balance	0	324,000,000
Level 3 | Asset- backed
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Opening Balance	8,000,000	24,000,000
Total gains (losses), realized and unrealized, included in:
Net investment income (loss)	0	0
Investment gains (losses), net	0	0
Subtotal	0	0
Other comprehensive income (loss)	0	4,000,000
Purchases	0	0
Sales	(1,000,000)	(1,000,000)
Settlements	0
Transfers into level 3	0	4,000,000
Transfers out of Level 3	0	0
Closing Balance	7,000,000	31,000,000
Level 3 | Redeemable Preferred Stock
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Opening Balance	0	1,000,000
Total gains (losses), realized and unrealized, included in:
Net investment income (loss)	0	0
Investment gains (losses), net	0	0
Net derivative gains (losses)	0	0
Subtotal	0	0
Other comprehensive income (loss)	0	0
Purchases	0	0
Sales	0	0
Settlements	0	0
Activity related to consolidated VIEs	0	0
Transfers into level 3	0	0
Transfers out of Level 3	0	0
Closing Balance	0	1,000,000
Level 3 | Other Equity Investments
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Opening Balance	28,000,000	51,000,000
Total gains (losses), realized and unrealized, included in:
Net investment income (loss)	0	0
Investment gains (losses), net	0	0
Net derivative gains (losses)	0	0
Subtotal	0	0
Other comprehensive income (loss)	0	0
Purchases	4,000,000	4,000,000
Sales	0	(1,000,000)
Settlements	0	0
Activity related to consolidated VIEs	1,000,000	0
Transfers into level 3	5,000,000	1,000,000
Transfers out of Level 3	0	0
Closing Balance	38,000,000	55,000,000
Level 3 | GMIB Reinsurance Asset
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Opening Balance	10,488,000,000	10,314,000,000
Total gains (losses), realized and unrealized, included in:
Net investment income (loss)	0	0
Investment gains (losses), net	0	0
Net derivative gains (losses)	(842,000,000)	(533,000,000)
Subtotal	(842,000,000)	(533,000,000)
Other comprehensive income (loss)	0	0
Purchases	54,000,000	37,000,000
Sales	(27,000,000)	(21,000,000)
Settlements	0	0
Activity related to consolidated VIEs	0	0
Transfers into level 3	0	0
Transfers out of Level 3	0	0
Closing Balance	9,673,000,000	9,797,000,000
Level 3 | Separate Accounts Assets
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Opening Balance	349,000,000	313,000,000
Total gains (losses), realized and unrealized, included in:
Net investment income (loss)	0	0
Investment gains (losses), net	7,000,000	10,000,000
Net derivative gains (losses)	0	0
Subtotal	7,000,000	10,000,000
Other comprehensive income (loss)	0	0
Purchases	3,000,000	3,000,000
Sales	(1,000,000)	(1,000,000)
Settlements	(1,000,000)	(1,000,000)
Activity related to consolidated VIEs	0	0
Transfers into level 3	0	1,000,000
Transfers out of Level 3	0	0
Closing Balance	357,000,000	325,000,000
Level 3 | GMxB derivative features liability
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Opening Balance	(4,164,000,000)	(5,319,000,000)
Total gains (losses), realized and unrealized, included in:
Net investment income (loss)	0	0
Investment gains (losses), net	0	0
Net derivative gains (losses)	440,000,000	490,000,000
Subtotal	440,000,000	490,000,000
Other comprehensive income (loss)	0	0
Purchases	(82,000,000)	(78,000,000)
Sales	2,000,000	1,000,000
Settlements	0	0
Activity related to consolidated VIEs	0	0
Transfers into level 3	0	0
Transfers out of Level 3	0	0
Closing Balance	(3,804,000,000)	(4,906,000,000)
Level 3 | Contingent Payment Arrangement
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Opening Balance	11,000,000	18,000,000
Total gains (losses), realized and unrealized, included in:
Net investment income (loss)	0	0
Investment gains (losses), net	0	0
Net derivative gains (losses)	0	0
Subtotal	0	0
Other comprehensive income (loss)	0	0
Purchases	0	0
Sales	0	0
Settlements	0	(1,000,000)
Activity related to consolidated VIEs	0	0
Transfers into level 3	0	0
Transfers out of Level 3	0	0
Closing Balance	$ 11,000,000	$ 17,000,000

FAIR VALUE DISCLOSURES - UNREAL

FAIR VALUE DISCLOSURES - UNREALIZED GAINS (LOSSES) FOR LEVEL 3 STILL HELD (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Mar. 31, 2017
Change in Accounting Estimate [Line Items]
Investment Gains (Losses), Net	$ 87	$ (11)
Level 3 | Corporate
Change in Accounting Estimate [Line Items]
Net Derivative Gains (losses)	0	0
OCI	(20)	45
Level 3 | States and political subdivisions
Change in Accounting Estimate [Line Items]
Net Derivative Gains (losses)	0	0
OCI	(1)	0
Level 3 | Commercial mortgage-backed
Change in Accounting Estimate [Line Items]
Net Derivative Gains (losses)	0	31
OCI	0	12
Level 3 | Asset-backed
Change in Accounting Estimate [Line Items]
Net Derivative Gains (losses)	0	0
OCI	0	4
Level 3 | GMIB reinsurance contracts
Change in Accounting Estimate [Line Items]
Net Derivative Gains (losses)	0	0
OCI	0	0
Level 3 | Separate Account assets
Change in Accounting Estimate [Line Items]
Net Derivative Gains (losses)	7	10
OCI	0	0
Level 3 | Assets and Liabilities Still Held | Corporate
Change in Accounting Estimate [Line Items]
Investment Gains (Losses), Net	0	0
Net Derivative Gains (losses)	0	0
OCI	(19)	41
Level 3 | Assets and Liabilities Still Held | States and political subdivisions
Change in Accounting Estimate [Line Items]
Investment Gains (Losses), Net	0
Net Derivative Gains (losses)	0
OCI	(1)
Level 3 | Assets and Liabilities Still Held | Commercial mortgage-backed
Change in Accounting Estimate [Line Items]
Investment Gains (Losses), Net	0	0
Net Derivative Gains (losses)	0	0
OCI	0	12
Level 3 | Assets and Liabilities Still Held | Asset-backed
Change in Accounting Estimate [Line Items]
Investment Gains (Losses), Net	0	0
Net Derivative Gains (losses)	0	0
OCI	0	4
Level 3 | Assets and Liabilities Still Held | Subtotal
Change in Accounting Estimate [Line Items]
Investment Gains (Losses), Net	0	0
Net Derivative Gains (losses)	0	0
OCI	(20)	57
Level 3 | Assets and Liabilities Still Held | GMIB reinsurance contracts
Change in Accounting Estimate [Line Items]
Investment Gains (Losses), Net	0	0
Net Derivative Gains (losses)	(842)	(533)
OCI	0	0
Level 3 | Assets and Liabilities Still Held | Separate Account assets
Change in Accounting Estimate [Line Items]
Investment Gains (Losses), Net	7	10
Net Derivative Gains (losses)	0	0
OCI	0	0
Level 3 | Assets and Liabilities Still Held | GMxB derivative features' liability
Change in Accounting Estimate [Line Items]
Investment Gains (Losses), Net	0	0
Net Derivative Gains (losses)	440	490
OCI	0	0
Level 3 | Assets and Liabilities Still Held | Total
Change in Accounting Estimate [Line Items]
Investment Gains (Losses), Net	7	10
Net Derivative Gains (losses)	(402)	(43)
OCI	$ (20)	$ 57

FAIR VALUE DISCLOSURES - QUANTI

FAIR VALUE DISCLOSURES - QUANTITATIVE INFORMATION ABOUT LEVEL 3 (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Corporate | Minimum | Matrix pricing model
Fair Value Inputs Assets Quantitative Information 1 [Line Items]
Spread over the industry-specific benchmark yield curve	0	0
Corporate | Minimum | Market com-parable companies
Fair Value Inputs Assets Quantitative Information 1 [Line Items]
EBITDA multiples	6.2	5.3
Discount rate	7.20%	7.20%
Cash flow multiples	9	9
Corporate | Maximum | Matrix pricing model
Fair Value Inputs Assets Quantitative Information 1 [Line Items]
Spread over the industry-specific benchmark yield curve	0.0565	0.0565
Corporate | Maximum | Market com-parable companies
Fair Value Inputs Assets Quantitative Information 1 [Line Items]
EBITDA multiples	30.7	27.9
Discount rate	17.00%	17.00%
Cash flow multiples	17.7	17.7
Corporate | Weighted Average | Matrix pricing model
Fair Value Inputs Assets Quantitative Information 1 [Line Items]
Spread over the industry-specific benchmark yield curve	0.0112	0.0125
Corporate | Weighted Average | Market com-parable companies
Fair Value Inputs Assets Quantitative Information 1 [Line Items]
EBITDA multiples	13	12.9
Discount rate	11.30%	11.10%
Cash flow multiples	13.1	13.1
Separate Account assets | Third party appraisal
Fair Value Inputs Assets Quantitative Information 1 [Line Items]
Discount rate	6.50%	6.60%
Capitalization rate	4.60%	4.60%
Exit capitalization rate	5.60%	5.60%
Separate Account assets | Discounted cash flow
Fair Value Inputs Assets Quantitative Information 1 [Line Items]
Spread over the industry-specific benchmark yield curve	0.0228	0.0243
Discount rate	4.624%	4.40%
GMIB reinsurance contracts | Minimum | Discounted cash flow
Fair Value Inputs Assets Quantitative Information 1 [Line Items]
Lapse Rates	1.00%	1.00%
Withdrawal rates	0.00%	0.00%
Utilization rates	0.00%	0.00%
Non-performance risk	0.0005	0.0005
Volatility rates - Equity	9.70%	9.90%
GMIB reinsurance contracts | Maximum | Discounted cash flow
Fair Value Inputs Assets Quantitative Information 1 [Line Items]
Lapse Rates	6.30%	6.30%
Withdrawal rates	8.00%	8.00%
Utilization rates	16.00%	16.00%
Non-performance risk	0.0010	0.0010
Volatility rates - Equity	31.15%	30.90%
GMIBNLG | Discounted cash flow
Fair Value Inputs Assets Quantitative Information 1 [Line Items]
Non-performance risk	0.010	0.010
Volatility rates - Equity	20.00%	20.00%
GMIBNLG | Minimum | Discounted cash flow
Fair Value Inputs Assets Quantitative Information 1 [Line Items]
Lapse Rates	0.80%	0.80%
Withdrawal rates	0.00%	0.00%
Utilization rates	0.00%	0.00%
Forfeiture Rates	0.55%	0.55%
GMIBNLG | Maximum | Discounted cash flow
Fair Value Inputs Assets Quantitative Information 1 [Line Items]
Lapse Rates	26.20%	26.20%
Withdrawal rates	12.40%	12.40%
Utilization rates	16.00%	16.00%
Forfeiture Rates	2.10%	2.10%
GWBL/GMWB | Discounted cash flow
Fair Value Inputs Assets Quantitative Information 1 [Line Items]
Utilization rates	100.00%	100.00%
GWBL/GMWB | Minimum | Discounted cash flow
Fair Value Inputs Assets Quantitative Information 1 [Line Items]
Lapse Rates	0.90%	0.90%
Withdrawal rates	0.00%	0.00%
Volatility rates - Equity	9.70%	9.00%
GWBL/GMWB | Maximum | Discounted cash flow
Fair Value Inputs Assets Quantitative Information 1 [Line Items]
Lapse Rates	5.70%	5.70%
Withdrawal rates	7.00%	7.00%
Volatility rates - Equity	31.15%	30.90%
GIB | Minimum | Discounted cash flow
Fair Value Inputs Assets Quantitative Information 1 [Line Items]
Lapse Rates	0.90%	0.90%
Withdrawal rates	0.00%	0.00%
Utilization rates	0.00%	0.00%
Volatility rates - Equity	9.70%	9.90%
GIB | Maximum | Discounted cash flow
Fair Value Inputs Assets Quantitative Information 1 [Line Items]
Lapse Rates	5.70%	5.70%
Withdrawal rates	7.00%	7.00%
Utilization rates	16.00%	16.00%
Volatility rates - Equity	31.15%	30.90%
GMAB | Minimum | Discounted cash flow
Fair Value Inputs Assets Quantitative Information 1 [Line Items]
Lapse Rates	0.50%	0.50%
Volatility rates - Equity	9.70%	9.90%
GMAB | Maximum | Discounted cash flow
Fair Value Inputs Assets Quantitative Information 1 [Line Items]
Lapse Rates	11.00%	11.00%
Volatility rates - Equity	31.15%	30.90%
Level 3 | Corporate | Matrix pricing model
Fair Value Inputs Assets Quantitative Information 1 [Line Items]
Assets, fair value	$ 52	$ 53
Level 3 | Corporate | Market com-parable companies
Fair Value Inputs Assets Quantitative Information 1 [Line Items]
Assets, fair value	788	789
Level 3 | Separate Account assets | Third party appraisal
Fair Value Inputs Assets Quantitative Information 1 [Line Items]
Assets, fair value	332	326
Level 3 | Separate Account assets | Discounted cash flow
Fair Value Inputs Assets Quantitative Information 1 [Line Items]
Assets, fair value	1	1
Level 3 | GMIB reinsurance contracts | Discounted cash flow
Fair Value Inputs Assets Quantitative Information 1 [Line Items]
Assets, fair value	9,673	10,488
Level 3 | GMIBNLG | Discounted cash flow
Fair Value Inputs Assets Quantitative Information 1 [Line Items]
Liabilities, fair value	3,715	4,056
Level 3 | GWBL/GMWB | Discounted cash flow
Fair Value Inputs Assets Quantitative Information 1 [Line Items]
Liabilities, fair value	121	130
Level 3 | GIB | Discounted cash flow
Fair Value Inputs Assets Quantitative Information 1 [Line Items]
Liabilities, fair value	(36)	(27)
Level 3 | GMAB | Discounted cash flow
Fair Value Inputs Assets Quantitative Information 1 [Line Items]
Liabilities, fair value	$ 4	$ 5

FAIR VALUE DISCLOSURES - CARRYI

FAIR VALUE DISCLOSURES - CARRYING VALUES AND FAIR VALUES OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Mortgage loans on real estate	$ 11,316	$ 10,935
Loans to affiliates	702	703
Policyholders’ liabilities: Investment contracts	44,260	43,805	$ 40,292
Funding Agreements	0	0
Policy loans	3,305	3,315
Separate Account Liabilities	119,868	122,537
Carrying Value
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Mortgage loans on real estate	11,316	10,935
Loans to affiliates	702	703
Policyholders’ liabilities: Investment contracts	3,018	2,068
Funding Agreements	3,014	3,014
Policy loans	3,305	3,315
Short-term and Long-term debt	490	769
Separate Account Liabilities	7,647	7,537
Fair Value
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Mortgage loans on real estate	11,111	10,895
Loans to affiliates	702	700
Policyholders’ liabilities: Investment contracts	2,949	2,170
Funding Agreements	2,962	3,020
Policy loans	4,073	4,210
Short-term and Long-term debt	490	768
Separate Account Liabilities	7,647	7,537
Fair Value | Level 1
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Mortgage loans on real estate	0	0
Loans to affiliates	0	0
Policyholders’ liabilities: Investment contracts	0	0
Policy loans	0	0
Short-term and Long-term debt	0	0
Separate Account Liabilities	0	0
Fair Value | Level 2
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Mortgage loans on real estate	0	0
Loans to affiliates	702	700
Policyholders’ liabilities: Investment contracts	0	0
Funding Agreements	2,962	3,020
Policy loans	0	0
Short-term and Long-term debt	490	768
Separate Account Liabilities	0	0
Fair Value | Level 3
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Mortgage loans on real estate	11,111	10,895
Loans to affiliates	0	0
Policyholders’ liabilities: Investment contracts	2,949	2,170
Policy loans	4,073	4,210
Short-term and Long-term debt	0	0
Separate Account Liabilities	$ 7,647	$ 7,537

REVENUE RECOGNITION (Details)

REVENUE RECOGNITION (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Mar. 31, 2017
Total investment management and service fees
Disaggregation Of Revenue Table [Line Items]
Revenues disaggregated by category	$ 1,052	$ 951
Base fees
Disaggregation Of Revenue Table [Line Items]
Revenues disaggregated by category	726	645
Performance-based fees
Disaggregation Of Revenue Table [Line Items]
Revenues disaggregated by category	6	6
Research services
Disaggregation Of Revenue Table [Line Items]
Revenues disaggregated by category	114	113
Distribution services
Disaggregation Of Revenue Table [Line Items]
Revenues disaggregated by category	180	165
Shareholder services
Disaggregation Of Revenue Table [Line Items]
Revenues disaggregated by category	20	18
Other
Disaggregation Of Revenue Table [Line Items]
Revenues disaggregated by category	6	4
Other income
Disaggregation Of Revenue Table [Line Items]
Revenues disaggregated by category	$ 7	$ 7

SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION PROG72

SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION PROGRAMS - Schedule of Compensation Costs (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Mar. 31, 2017
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Compensation costs	$ 14,043	$ 11,176
Performance Shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Compensation costs	2,598	3,402
Stock Options
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Compensation costs	(920)	9
AB Restricted Units | Alliance Bernstein
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Compensation costs	12,484	7,700
Other compensation plans | Parent Company
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Compensation costs	$ (119)	$ 65

SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION PROG73

SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION PROGRAMS - Textual (Details) - USD ($) shares in Millions, $ in Millions	Mar. 26, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018	Mar. 31, 2017
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Repurchase of AB Holding units		$ 2	$ 31
Alliance Bernstein
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Purchased Holding Units to help fund anticipated obligations under its incentive compensation award program shares (in shares)		0.1	1.3
Repurchase of AB Holding units		$ 2	$ 31
Open market purchase (in shares)			1.2
Open market purchase			$ 28
Restricted holding unit awards granted to employees (in shares)		0.2	0.3
Restricted holding unit awards granted to employees		$ 4	$ 5
Alliance Bernstein | Employees and eligible Directors
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Restricted holding unit awards granted to employees (in shares)		1.1	1.1
AXA Performance Share Plan 2014
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share distributions	$ 20
Share distributions (in shares)	0.8

RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS (Det

RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS (Details) $ in Millions	Jun. 30, 2016USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2018USD ($)joint_venture	Mar. 31, 2018USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
GMIB reinsurance contract asset, at fair value		$ 9,673	$ 9,673	$ 9,798	$ 10,488
Number of real estate joint ventures sold | joint_venture		2
Total purchase price		$ 143
Pre-tax loss on sale of real estate joint venture		0.2
Elimination of long-term debt		203
AXA RE Arizona
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
GMIB reinsurance contract asset, at fair value		7,939	7,939		$ 8,594
Ceded premiums earned affiliated			110	109
Reinsurance effect on claims and benefits incurred amount ceded to affiliates			66	$ 49
AXA Equitable
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Equity method investment, ownership percentage						70.00%
AXA Equitable | Broad Vista
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Amount invested	$ 25
Investment in affiliate		$ 36	$ 36
Saum Sing
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Equity method investment, ownership percentage						30.00%

ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSI75

ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) (CUMMULATIVE GAINS (LOSSES)) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	$ 18,633	$ 19,564	$ 14,505
Unrealized gains (losses) on investments
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	(124)		146
Foreign currency translation adjustments
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	(40)		(42)
Defined benefit pension plans
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	(55)		(46)
Total accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	(219)		58
Less: Accumulated other comprehensive (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interest
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	61		79
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to AXA Equitable
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	$ (158)	$ 598	$ 137	$ 17

ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSI76

ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) (COMPONENTS OF OCI, NET OF TAXES) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Mar. 31, 2017
Net unrealized gains (losses) arising during the period
Change in unrealized gains (losses), net of adjustments (net of deferred income tax expense (benefit) of $(197) and $50)	$ (741)	$ 92
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes	(749)	127
Foreign currency translation adjustments
AOCI Attributable to Parent, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Other comprehensive income (loss), before reclassifications, net of tax	(4)	35
Reclassification from accumulated other comprehensive income, current period, net of tax	0	0
Net unrealized gains (losses) arising during the period
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes	(4)	35
Net unrealized gains (losses) on investments
AOCI Attributable to Parent, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Other comprehensive income (loss), before reclassifications, net of tax	(70)	140
Reclassification from accumulated other comprehensive income, current period, net of tax	(985)	(23)
Net unrealized gains (losses) arising during the period
Adjustments for policyholders’ liabilities, DAC, insurance liability loss recognition and other	314	(25)
Change in unrealized gains (losses), net of adjustments (net of deferred income tax expense (benefit) of $(197) and $50)	(741)	92
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes	(1,055)	117
Reclassification from AOCI, current period, tax	(262)	13
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax, Parenthetical Disclosures [Abstract]
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax	(197)	50
Net gain (loss) arising during the period
AOCI Attributable to Parent, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Other comprehensive income (loss), before reclassifications, net of tax	(4)	0
Amortization of net prior service cost included in net periodic cost
AOCI Attributable to Parent, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Reclassification from accumulated other comprehensive income, current period, net of tax	0	0
Defined benefit pension plans
Net unrealized gains (losses) arising during the period
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes	(4)	0
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax, Parenthetical Disclosures [Abstract]
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax	0	0
AOCI Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Net unrealized gains (losses) arising during the period
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes	(7)	(7)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to AXA Equitable
Net unrealized gains (losses) arising during the period
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes	$ (756)	$ 120

COMMITMENT AND CONTINGENT LIA77

COMMITMENT AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES COMMITMENT AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES - Restructuring (Details) - AXA - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Employee Severance
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Balance, beginning of year	$ 23	$ 22
Additions / Expense Incurred	7	17
Cash payments	(3)	(14)
Other reductions	0	(2)
Balance, end of Year	27	23
Facility Closing
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Balance, beginning of year	165	170
Additions / Expense Incurred	0	29
Deferred rent	2	10
Cash payments	(11)	(48)
Interest accretion	1	4
Balance, end of Year	$ 157	$ 165

COMMITMENT AND CONTINGENT LIA78

COMMITMENT AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES (Details) $ / policy in Millions, $ in Millions	1 Months Ended	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended	19 Months Ended
	Feb. 29, 2016$ / policy	Mar. 31, 2018USD ($)legal_actionplaintiff	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)legal_action	Jan. 31, 2013fund
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Unaccrued amounts of reasonably possible range of losses		$ 90
Number of individual actions challenging cost of insurance rate increases | legal_action			7
Number of individual actions challenging cost of insurance rate increases transferred to federal court | legal_action		4
Advances from Federal Home Loan Banks		$ 3,000	$ 3,000
Proceeds from Federal Home Loan Bank Borrowings		1,500	6,762
Repayments of Federal Home Loan Bank Borrowings		1,500	6,000
Letters of credit outstanding		18
Equity financing arrangements with Limited Partnerships		772
Equity financing arrangements with affiliates		222
Mortgage loans on real estate		712
Federal Home Loan Bank of New York Short-Term Funding Agreements Maturing in Less than One Month
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Advances from Federal Home Loan Banks		500	500
Proceeds from Federal Home Loan Bank Borrowings		1,500	6,000
Repayments of Federal Home Loan Bank Borrowings		1,500	6,000
Federal Home Loan Bank of New York Long-Term Funding Agreements Maturing in Less than Four Years
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Advances from Federal Home Loan Banks		1,417	1,244
Proceeds from Federal Home Loan Bank Borrowings		0	324
Repayments of Federal Home Loan Bank Borrowings		0	0
Federal Home Loan Bank of New York Long-Term Funding Agreements Maturing in Less than Five Years
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Advances from Federal Home Loan Banks		204	377
Proceeds from Federal Home Loan Bank Borrowings		0	303
Repayments of Federal Home Loan Bank Borrowings		0	0
Federal Home Loan Bank of New York Long-Term Funding Agreements Maturing in Greater than Five Years
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Advances from Federal Home Loan Banks		879	879
Proceeds from Federal Home Loan Bank Borrowings		0	135
Repayments of Federal Home Loan Bank Borrowings		0	0
Federal Home Loan Bank of New York Long-Term Funding Agreements
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Advances from Federal Home Loan Banks		2,500	2,500
Proceeds from Federal Home Loan Bank Borrowings		0	762
Repayments of Federal Home Loan Bank Borrowings		$ 0	$ 0
Sivolella Litigation
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Loss contingency, number of funds involved in lawsuit | fund				12
Brach Family Foundation Litigation
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Liability for future policy benefits, issue age	70 years
Liability for future policy benefits, amount per policy | $ / policy	1
Number of plaintiffs | plaintiff		2

BUSINESS SEGMENT INFORMATION -

BUSINESS SEGMENT INFORMATION - Reconciliation of Operating Profit (Loss) from Segments to Consolidated (Details) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018USD ($)segmentclient_channel	Mar. 31, 2017USD ($)
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Number of reportable segments | segment	4
Number of main client channels | client_channel	3
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net income (loss) attributable to AXA Equitable	$ (194)	$ (172)
Adjustments related to:
Non-GAAP Operating Earnings	385	147
Interest expense	11	5
Segment Reconciling Items
Adjustments related to:
GMxB features	597	485
Investment (gains) losses	(87)	11
Investment income (gain) loss from certain derivative instruments	(20)	0
Net actuarial (gains) losses related to pension and other postretirement benefit obligations	23	27
Other adjustments	198	(20)
Income tax expense (benefit) related to above adjustments	(139)	(188)
Non-recurring tax items	7	4
Operating Segments | Individual Retirement
Adjustments related to:
Non-GAAP Operating Earnings	298	142
Operating Segments | Group Retirement
Adjustments related to:
Non-GAAP Operating Earnings	70	50
Operating Segments | Investment Management and Research
Adjustments related to:
Non-GAAP Operating Earnings	51	12
Operating Segments | Protection Solutions
Adjustments related to:
Non-GAAP Operating Earnings	26	(34)
Corporate and Other
Adjustments related to:
Non-GAAP Operating Earnings	(60)	(23)
Interest expense	$ 9	$ 4

BUSINESS SEGMENT INFORMATION 80

BUSINESS SEGMENT INFORMATION - Reconciliation of Revenue from Segments to Consolidated (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Mar. 31, 2017
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues	$ 2,031	$ 2,314
Adjustments related to:
Investment expenses	19	19
Operating Segments | Individual Retirement
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues	619	904
Operating Segments | Group Retirement
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues	245	230
Operating Segments | Investment Management and Research
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues	909	742
Operating Segments | Protection Solutions
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues	644	633
Corporate and Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues	197	238
Segment Reconciling Items
Adjustments related to:
GMxB features	(586)	(485)
Investment gains (losses)	87	(11)
Investment income (loss) from certain derivative instruments	20	0
Other adjustments to segment revenues	(104)	63
Intersegment Eliminations
Adjustments related to:
Investment expenses	16	15
Investment management and other fees	$ 23	$ 22

BUSINESS SEGMENT INFORMATION 81

BUSINESS SEGMENT INFORMATION - Reconciliation of Assets from Segment to Consolidated (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total assets	$ 222,424	$ 225,985
Operating Segments | Individual Retirement
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total assets	108,741	120,612
Operating Segments | Group Retirement
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total assets	42,731	40,472
Operating Segments | Investment Management and Research
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total assets	11,345	10,079
Operating Segments | Protection Solutions
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total assets	38,897	34,328
Corporate and Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total assets	$ 20,710	$ 20,494

SUBSEQUENT EVENTS (Details)

SUBSEQUENT EVENTS (Details)	May 02, 2018job	Apr. 20, 2018USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2018USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2017USD ($)
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
GMIB reinsurance contract asset, at fair value			$ 9,673,000,000	$ 10,488,000,000	$ 9,798,000,000
Note
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Principal amount			700,000,000
Term loan
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Principal amount			500,000,000
Subsequent Event | Employee Relocation
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Number of jobs relocated | job	1,050
Subsequent Event | Note
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Pre-paid debt		$ 650,000,000
Principal amount		800,000,000
Subsequent Event | Term loan
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Pre-paid debt		$ 50,000,000
AXA RE Arizona
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
GMIB reinsurance contract asset, at fair value			$ 7,939,000,000	$ 8,594,000,000