Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of mutual insurance companies?

Mutual insurance companies are designed to operate for the benefit of their policyholders, who hold ownership in the company. This ownership structure means that profits generated by a mutual insurance company are typically returned to policyholders in the form of dividends, reduced premiums, or enhanced services, rather than being distributed to external shareholders.

The characteristic of being owned by the policyholders is central to the mutual structure, which also emphasizes collective decision-making where members have a voice in the governance of the company and the direction it takes. Additionally, mutual insurance companies explicitly focus on mutual help and support among their members, fostering a sense of community and shared protection.

The option indicating that profits are returned to shareholders is not aligned with the fundamental nature of mutual insurance companies, as they don't have shareholders in the traditional sense like stock companies do. Thus, this answer correctly identifies a characteristic that does not apply to mutual insurance companies.