The profit equalization reserve (PER) is the amount appropriated by an Islamic bank or financial institution out of the mudaraba income before allocating the share of al-mudarib. This reserve aims to maintain a specified level of return on investment (ROI) for investment account holders (IAHs). In other words, it represents a measure of profit stabilization over different financial periods. The PER is also formed for the purpose of increasing owners’ equity.
The investment risk reserve (IRR) refers to the amount appropriated by an Islamic bank or financial institution out of the income of investment account holders (IAHs), after the mudarib share is allocated. This reserve is used as a cushion against future losses that IAHs may incur.
The following table enlists the major differences between the two types of reserve:
| PER | IRR | |
| Source | Mudaraba income | IAH income |
| Stage of appropriation | Before mudarib share is allocated | After mudarib share is allocated |
| Purpose/use | Profit stabilization/smoothing | Cushion against future losses |
| Ultimate beneficiary | IAHs and al-mudarib | IAHs |
