v3.8.0.1
Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Dec. 31, 2015
Movement Analysis of Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs [Roll Forward]      
Balance, beginning of year $ 17,661 $ 16,718 $ 15,971
Capitalization of commissions, sales and issue expenses 2,820 2,845 2,653
Amortization—Impact of assumption and experience unlocking and true-ups 247 445 280
Amortization—All other (1,827) (2,322) (2,400)
Change in unrealized investment gains and losses (190) (199) 477
Foreign currency translation and other 281 174 (263)
Balance, end of year $ 18,992 $ 17,661 $ 16,718