What is a distinguishing feature of a nonparticipating policy?

A nonparticipating policy is characterized by the fact that policy owners do not share in the insurer's profits. This means that the policyholder does not receive dividends as part of their policy, which is a key distinction from participating policies. In participating policies, policyholders may receive dividends based on the financial performance of the insurance company, effectively allowing them to benefit from its profitability.

The absence of this feature in nonparticipating policies can often result in more straightforward premium structures, as the insurer has a clearer financial profile without the need to account for potential dividends. This can allow for lower administrative costs and more stable premium payments, but the trade-off is that policyholders miss out on any additional financial rewards that could come from the insurer's success.