NML VARIABLE ANNUITY ACCOUNT B
N-30D, 1997-08-19
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<PAGE>

June 30, 1997

NORTHWESTERN
MUTUAL LIFE -Registered Trademark-

The Quiet Company -Registered Trademark-


NML Variable Annuity Account B

Nontax-Qualified Annuities
Individual Retirement Annuities
Simplified Employee Pension Plan IRAs
SIMPLE IRAs
Tax Deferred Annuities
457 Deferred Compensation Plan Annuities


[Photo]


NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL
SERIES FUND, INC.

The Northwestern Mutual
Life Insurance Company
720 East Wisconsin Avenue
Milwaukee, WI 53202


SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT
<PAGE>
                                 CONTENTS
 
CONTRACT OWNER PRIVILEGES
 
FREE TRANSFERS AMONG PORTFOLIOS
 
You can change your investment allocation or transfer values among the
divisions. Use the NML Express 800 number, or submit the request form found at
the end of this report. If a pre-authorization form was returned to the Home
Office you may also transfer among the portfolios by phone. Same day changes can
also be accomplished if a request form is faxed to the Home Office.
CONTRACT OWNERS COMMUNICATIONS
 
NML Express gives you convenient 24-hour access to the latest information about
your contract. You receive confirmation statements with each transaction,
quarterly summary statements, timely economic and market summaries in the VA
PERSPECTIVES, and a VA HISTORICALLY PERFORMANCE brochure at year-end.
 
AUTOMATIC INVESTMENT PLAN
 
You can set-up a convenient method of direct investing under our Electronic
Funds Transfer (EFT) Plan. Your bank can transmit money safely and quickly from
your bank checking or NOW account.
 
AUTOMATIC DOLLAR COST AVERAGING PLAN
 
This plan automatically transfers money from the Money Market Portfolio to any
of the portfolios on a monthly or quarterly basis. It theoretically works by
letting the "law of averages" even out marketplace volatility.
 
SPECIAL WITHDRAWAL PRIVILEGE
 
For contracts with a $10,000 balance and money in a surrender category, if any,
you can withdraw an amount without incurring a surrender charge. Beginning on
the first anniversary, the amount available is the lesser of 10% of the contract
accumulation value, or 100% of the contract earnings.
 
OPTIONAL DISABILITY WAIVER OF PURCHASE PAYMENTS
 
This optional benefit continues to pay regular purchase payments into the
contract should you become totally disabled. (May be subject to underwriting).
 
<TABLE>
<S>        <C>
 
           HOW TO GET MORE INFORMATION
           - NML EXPRESS:
                    1-800-519-4NML (1-800-519-4665)
 
           Get up-to-date information about your contract at
           your convenience with your contract number and
           your Personal Identification Number (PIN). Call
           toll-free to review contract values and unit
           values, transfer among portfolios, change the
           allocation and obtain fund performance
           information.
           - INFORMATION ON THE INTERNET:
              WWW.NORTHWESTERNMUTUAL.COM
             For information about Northwestern Mutual Life,
           visit us on our Website.
           - CONTACT YOUR NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL AGENT. . .if
           you have questions about your contract or any of
             the contract owner privileges.
</TABLE>
 
CONTENTS
 
Letter to Contract Owners                                                      1
 
Performance Summary for Separate Accounts                                      2
 
Economic Overview and Outlook                                                  3
 
Money Market Portfolio                                                         4
 
Select Bond Portfolio                                                          6
 
High Yield Bond Portfolio                                                     10
 
Balanced Portfolio                                                            13
 
Index 500 Stock Portfolio                                                     25
 
Growth and Income Stock Portfolio                                             32
 
Growth Stock Portfolio                                                        35
 
International Equity Portfolio                                                38
 
Aggressive Growth Stock Portfolio                                             42
 
Account B Financial Statements                                                45
 
Notes to Financial Statements                                                 49
 
Series Fund Financial Statements                                              51
 
  Money Market Portfolio                                                      51
 
  Select Bond Portfolio                                                       54
 
  High Yield Bond Portfolio                                                   57
 
  Balanced Portfolio                                                          60
 
  Index 500 Stock Portfolio                                                   63
 
  Growth and Income Stock Portfolio                                           66
 
  Growth Stock Portfolio                                                      69
 
  International Equity Portfolio                                              72
 
  Aggressive Growth Stock Portfolio                                           75
 
Notes to Series Fund Financial Statements                                     78
 
Directors and Officers                                                        85
<PAGE>
LETTER TO CONTRACT OWNERS
LETTER TO CONTRACT OWNERS
 
July 31, 1997
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                       <C>
We are pleased to report excellent        In short, circumstances could hardly
investment performance for the            be better, and that is our main
portfolios underlying Northwestern        message to you at this time. While
Mutual's variable annuities for the       there are more reasons for optimism
first half of 1997. The stock market      than for pessimism for the near term,
continued to climb in recent months,      we must all remind ourselves that the
setting record highs time after time,     excellent conditions we are now
and the previously sluggish bond          experiencing simply cannot continue
market has also shown improvement.        forever. In the securities markets, as
                                          in any other market, when prices get
There are good reasons for the            too high, demand drops, and then
strength in the markets: some             prices begin to fall. Even though the
exceptionally good times have resulted    strength in the worldwide economy may
from a convergence of several             be sustainable for a time, stock
important positive trends and events.     prices have been rising at a much
First, the period preceding this          faster pace than economic growth, and
lengthy expansion, from 1969 through      this cannot continue forever.
1982, was dismal. High inflation                   Eventually, it is only
levels stifled growth, and all efforts             logical that equilibrium
to control inflation seemed to fail.               between economic growth and
The term "stagflation" was coined to               stock prices will be
describe the economy's nasty                       restored; we just cannot
condition. Returns from the S&P 500                predict when this will
Index averaged just over 8 percent,                happen. Bearing in mind that
and returns were negative in five of               some surprises are
those 14 years. So the recovery in the             inevitable, we continue to
economy and the stock market that                  invest for the long term, and
began in 1983 started from a very low              we urge you to maintain a
base, and raced quickly right through              long-term view as well.
what we might call normal conditions
to a period that is extraordinarily                [PHOTO]
good.                                                 The variable annuity
Meantime, politics around the world                   contracts on which we are
were changing dramatically. Communism                 reporting have an
has been virtually eliminated, and                    important place in the
capitalism is increasingly embraced                   financial portfolios of
throughout the world. Former communist                many people. Northwestern
countries have adopted much wiser                     Mutual also offers a
labor and tax policies that provide                   variety of other insurance
incentives for people to work, spend                  and investment products
and save. Countries that formerly had                 that may be appropriate
controlled socialist economies are                    for you, including the new
manufacturing goods that people in                    Mason Street family of
other countries want, and freer trade     mutual funds introduced this spring.
policies facilitate movement of           As you consider your financial goals
products between countries. Economic      and requirements, we hope that you
growth in developing countries is         will consider these funds and other
stimulating demand for consumer and       Northwestern Mutual products that may
industrial products, generating           be appropriate for you. Your
further rounds of growth.                 Northwestern Mutual agent stands ready
                                          to provide help as you plan for a
In the United States, companies have      secure financial future.
realized that they must be lean and
aggressive to compete in this global      We thank you for selecting
economy. So they have cut costs and       Northwestern Mutual Life to help you
improved productivity, driving            accomplish your financial goals, and
earnings higher. Even as some             we look forward to working with you
companies are downsizing, economic        for many years.
growth is generating new job
opportunities, reducing unemployment      The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance
and increasing consumer confidence.       Company
New technology is driving productivity
and enabling strong growth and low        [SIGNATURE]
unemployment without triggering
inflation. Cautious Federal Reserve       James D. Ericson, President and
policies are contributing to stable       Chief Executive Officer
growth and low inflation, and similar
economic policies are being pursued by
governments and central banks around
the world.
</TABLE>
 
                                       --
                                       1
<PAGE>
PERFORMANCE SUMMARY
PERFORMANCE SUMMARY  as of June 30, 1997
 
FRONT LOAD CONTRACT
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                 Index       Growth &                             Aggressive
Total return       Money      Select     High Yield              500         Income      Growth     International Growth
at unit value      Market     Bond       Bond         Balanced   Stock       Stock       Stock      Equity        Stock
(as of 6/30/97)    Portfolio  Portfolio  Portfolio    Portfolio  Portfolio   Portfolio   Portfolio  Portfolio     Portfolio
<S>                <C>        <C>        <C>          <C>        <C>         <C>         <C>        <C>           <C>
1 year...........  0.74%      3.83%      16.83%       16.01%     28.54%      26.42%      21.72%     21.30%        -0.17%
5 years..........  15.94%     33.37%     -            74.80%     128.03%     -           -          -             143.99%
  Annualized.....  3.00%      5.93%      -            11.82%     17.92%      -           -          -             19.53%
10 years.........  57.85%     109.57%    -            143.85%    -           -           -          -             -
  Annualized.....  4.67%      7.68%      -            9.32%      -           -           -          -             -
Since
inception........  -          -          47.78%#      -          196.09%*    75.64%#     76.26%#    84.98%^       237.03%*
  Annualized.....  -          -          13.16%       -          17.96%      19.52%      19.65%     15.91%        20.30%
</TABLE>
 
BACK LOAD CONTRACT WITHOUT SURRENDER
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                 Index       Growth &                             Aggressive
Total return       Money      Select     High Yield              500         Income      Growth     International Growth
at unit value      Market     Bond       Bond         Balanced   Stock       Stock       Stock      Equity        Stock
(as of 6/30/97)    Portfolio  Portfolio  Portfolio    Portfolio  Portfolio   Portfolio   Portfolio  Portfolio     Portfolio
<S>                <C>        <C>        <C>          <C>        <C>         <C>         <C>        <C>           <C>
1 year...........  4.05%      7.24%      20.67%       19.82%     32.76%      30.57%      25.72%     25.28%        3.10%
5 years..........  15.76%     33.16%     -            74.53%     127.63%     -           -          -             143.39%
  Annualized.....  2.97%      5.90%      -            11.78%     17.88%      -           -          -             19.47%
10 years.........  51.06%     100.30%    -            133.18%    -           -           -          -             -
  Annualized.....  4.21%      7.19%      -            8.84%      -           -           -          -             -
Since
inception........  -          -          49.87%#      -          191.45%*    78.13%#     78.75%#    86.01%^       231.31%*
  Annualized.....  -          -          13.67%       -          17.67%      20.05%      20.19%     16.06%        19.99%
</TABLE>
 
BACK LOAD CONTRACT WITH SURRENDER
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Total return                                                     Index       Growth &                             Aggressive
with surrender     Money      Select     High Yield              500         Income      Growth     International Growth
charge             Market     Bond       Bond         Balanced   Stock       Stock       Stock      Equity        Stock
(as of 6/30/97)    Portfolio  Portfolio  Portfolio    Portfolio  Portfolio   Portfolio   Portfolio  Portfolio     Portfolio
<S>                <C>        <C>        <C>          <C>        <C>         <C>         <C>        <C>           <C>
1 year...........  -3.95%     -0.76%     12.67%       11.82%     24.76%      22.57%      17.72%     17.28%        -4.90%
5 years..........  11.76%     29.16%     -            70.53%     123.63%     -           -          -             139.39%
  Annualized.....  2.25%      5.25%      -            11.27%     17.46%      -           -          -             19.08%
10 years.........  51.06%     100.30%    -            133.18%    -           -           -          -             -
  Annualized.....  4.21%      7.19%      -            8.84%      -           -           -          -             -
Since
inception........  -          -          44.87%#      -          189.45%*    73.13%#     73.75%#    82.01%^       229.31%*
  Annualized.....  -          -          12.45%       -          17.55%      18.98%      19.11%     15.46%        19.88%
</TABLE>
 
All total return figures are for divisions of NML Variable Annuity Account B and
are based on the change in unit value, which reflects expenses, such as account
charges and fees applied at the contract level; figures for the Back Load
contract with surrender reflect deductions for a maximum 8% withdrawal charge,
declining at a rate of 1% per year. The data reflects an initial contract size
of $10,000 for the Front Load (minimum size) and $1,000 for the Back Load. The
$30 annual contract fee is reflected as .2% of the assets based on an average
contract size of $15,000. Performance data represents past results and is not a
guarantee of future results. Future unit values and investment returns may vary
so an investor's units, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their
original value. Performance for other separate accounts will differ.
 
* Inception date of 12/3/90.
 
# Inception date of 5/3/94.
 
^ Inception date of 4/30/93.
 
Note:  "Standard and Poor's 500" and "S&P 500" are trademarks of The McGraw-Hill
       Companies, Inc. and have been licensed for use by The Northwestern Mutual
       Life Insurance Company. The Series Fund and its Portfolios are not
       sponsored, endorsed, sold or promoted by Standard & Poor's, and Standard
       & Poor's makes no representation regarding the advisability of investing
       in them.
 
                                       --
                                       2
<PAGE>
ECONOMIC OVERVIEW AND OUTLOOK
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
THE ECONOMY
 
During the first half of 1997, the domestic economy continued its seven-year
trend of moderate growth with minimal inflation. Concerns early in the year that
the economy was overheating were allayed by recently released statistics,
particularly a six-month downward trend in producer prices. With new jobs
created by the expanding economy, unemployment is at the lowest level in 24
years, and confident consumers continue to spend and invest. Most economies
throughout the world are exhibiting similar strength, and inflation, even in the
formerly hyperinflationary economies of Latin America, has abated. A vibrant
global economy creates worldwide demand for U.S. goods and also provides
competition that helps keep price increases moderate.
 
The WALL STREET JOURNAL'S semiannual survey of 55 economists indicated a
consensus that the economy still has the strength to post at least one more year
of healthy growth with little inflation. This is a significantly more optimistic
view than the group had at the beginning of the year, when concerns about a
slowdown in 1997 were widespread. In sum, a more favorable economic environment
could hardly be imagined.
 
     Economic Growth
     and Inflation
 
 EDGAR REPRESENTATION OF DATA POINTS USED IN PRINTED GRAPHIC
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CALENDAR YEARS
 
<S>              <C>                      <C>
                    Real Economic Growth   Inflation
 1988                               3.8%        4.4%
 1989                               3.4%        4.6%
 1990                               1.3%        6.1%
 1991                              -1.0%        3.1%
 1992                               2.7%        2.9%
 1993                               2.3%        2.7%
 1994                               3.5%        2.7%
 1995                               2.0%        2.5%
 1996                               2.2%        3.3%
 1997                               2.4%        2.4%
</TABLE>
 
       Source: U.S. Department of Commerce for years 1988 through 1996.
       Year-to-year percentage change in Real Gross Domestic Product is used for
       real economic growth. December-to-December percentage change in the
       Consumer Price Index -- Urban is used for the inflation rate. 1997 is the
       consensus forecast of a group of 55 economists surveyed by the WALL
       STREET JOURNAL.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
THE EQUITY MARKET
 
The equity market's unprecedented strength persisted during the first half of
1997. After a moderate drop in April, stock prices have risen more than 20% to a
series of new highs. The S&P 500 Index has more than doubled since the end of
1994, a mere 30 months ago.
 
The powerful combination of solid economic growth, low inflation and rising
corporate profits continues to drive stock prices. In recent months, the market
strength has broadened to include small and mid-sized companies. Market sectors
that have exhibited particular strength include health care, capital goods,
technology and financial services.
 
While continued economic growth seems likely to fuel further gains in stock
prices, there are signs that some caution is warranted. The market's volatility
has increased: in the first half of 1997, the S&P 500 Index has moved 1% or more
on almost twice as many trading days as the average since 1945. Net inflows of
cash into mutual funds, though still positive, are at lower levels than in 1996.
While there is little reason to anticipate dramatically changing trends,
investors should not necessarily expect the exceptionally high returns of the
last three years to continue.
 
     Annual Total Returns
     from S&P 500 Index
 
EDGAR REPRESENTATION OF DATA POINTS USED IN PRINTED GRAPHIC
 
<TABLE>
<S>                      <C>
12 Months Ending June
6/30/88                      -7.1%
6/30/89                      20.2%
6/30/90                      16.2%
6/30/91                       7.3%
6/30/92                      13.4%
6/30/93                      13.6%
6/30/94                       1.3%
6/30/95                      25.9%
6/30/96                      25.9%
6/30/97                      34.6%
</TABLE>
 
       Source: Standard & Poor's
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
THE BOND MARKET
 
Moderating economic growth and consistent indications that inflation was
unlikely to increase led to strong bond market performance in the second
quarter. With these positive factors in place, interest rates declined, giving
fixed-income investors solid gains after a disappointing year in 1996, which
extended into the first quarter.
 
At the end of June, yields remained above year-end levels, reflecting concern
among some investors that the economy's continued strength will lead to rising
inflation. However, the Federal Reserve Bank's action in early July to leave
interest rates unchanged indicates that the months ahead are likely to be a
period of stability in interest rates and bond prices.
 
     Annual Total Returns from
     Merrill Lynch Domestic Master Index
 
EDGAR REPRESENTATION OF DATA POINTS USED IN PRINTED GRAPHIC
 
<TABLE>
<S>                      <C>
12 Months Ending June
6/30/88                       7.8%
6/30/89                      12.4%
6/30/90                       7.3%
6/30/91                      10.9%
6/30/92                      14.1%
6/30/93                      12.0%
6/30/94                      -1.0%
6/30/95                      12.6%
6/30/96                       5.0%
6/30/97                       8.2%
</TABLE>
 
       Source: Merrill Lynch. The Merrill Lynch Domestic Master Index is an
       unmanaged market value weighted index comprised of U.S. Government,
       mortgage and investment-grade corporate bonds.
 
                                       --
                                       3
<PAGE>
MONEY MARKET PORTFOLIO
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
<TABLE>
<S>                              <C>                                              <C>
Objective:                       Portfolio Strategy:                              Net Assets:
Maximum current income           Achieve stability of capital by investing in     $186,695,365
consistent with liquidity and    short- term debt securities.
stability of capital
</TABLE>
 
MONEY MARKET PORTFOLIO
 
The Money Market Portfolio, which invests only in high quality commercial paper
and other short-term debt securities with maturities generally not exceeding one
year, is the least risky of the Portfolios.
 
In the first half of 1997, money market rates increased modestly, particularly
in response to the Federal Reserve's action in March to increase the Federal
funds rate from 5.25 percent to 5.5 percent. Following the rate increase, the
Money Market Portfolio's maturities, which had previously been kept relatively
short, were lengthened to as much as 60 days in April, in order to lock in the
higher rates. By the end of June, the Portfolio's average maturity was shorter
than the broad universe of money market funds, as rates remained stable with
minimal premiums available for securities with longer maturities.
 
An investment in the Money Market Portfolio is neither insured nor guaranteed by
the U.S. Government and there can be no assurance that the portfolio will be
able to maintain a stable net asset value of $1.00 per share.
 
                                       --
                                       4
<PAGE>
MONEY MARKET PORTFOLIO
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Schedule of Investments
JUNE 30, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     MARKET
                                                      VALUE
MONEY MARKET INVESTMENTS (86.07%)         PAR        (000'S)
<S>                                    <C>         <C>
- --------------------------------------------------------------
AUTOMOBILE REPAIR, SERVICES & PARKING (5.00%)
PHH Corporation, 5.60%, 07/07/1997      9,300,000  $    9,291
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                               9,291
                                                   -----------
CHEMICALS & ALLIED PRODUCTS (4.55%)
American Home Product Co, 5.549%,
 07/29/1997                             3,470,000       3,455
American Home Product Co, 5.55%,
 07/16/1997                             5,000,000       4,988
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                               8,443
                                                   -----------
COMMUNICATIONS (4.85%)
Bellsouth Telecommunications, 5.52%,
 07/03/1997                             9,000,000       8,997
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                               8,997
                                                   -----------
FINANCE LESSORS (4.99%)
BAT Capital Corporation, 5.58%,
 07/23/1997                             9,300,000       9,268
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                               9,268
                                                   -----------
FOOD AND KINDRED PRODUCTS (6.00%)
Anheuser Busch Companies, 6.10%,
 07/01/1997                             2,172,000       2,172
Heinz, H.j. Company, 5.53%,
 07/25/1997                             9,000,000       8,967
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                              11,139
                                                   -----------
GENERAL MERCHANDISE STORES (4.83%)
J.C. Penney Funding Corporation,
 5.54%, 07/30/1997                      9,000,000       8,960
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                               8,960
                                                   -----------
HOLDING AND OTHER INVESTMENT OFFICES (4.84%)
Cargill Incorporated, 5.50%,
 07/10/1997                             9,000,000       8,988
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                               8,988
                                                   -----------
INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT (5.00%)
Xerox Corporation, 5.52%, 07/15/1997    9,300,000       9,280
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                               9,280
                                                   -----------
PERSONAL CREDIT INSTITUTIONS (21.33%)
Beneficial Corp, 5.50%, 07/25/1997      9,000,000       8,967
Ford Motor Credit Company, 5.35%,
 07/07/1997                             8,792,000       8,784
General Electric Capital Corp.,
 5.38%, 07/09/1997                      8,210,000       8,200
GMAC, 7.125%, 05/11/1998                4,600,000       4,627
Household Finance Corporation, 6.20%,
 07/01/1997                             9,000,000       9,000
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                              39,578
                                                   -----------
 
<CAPTION>
                                                     MARKET
                                                      VALUE
MONEY MARKET INVESTMENTS (86.07%)         PAR        (000'S)
<S>                                    <C>         <C>
- --------------------------------------------------------------
PETROLEUM AND COAL PRODUCTS (4.85%)
E. I. Dupont De Nemours, 6.125%,
 07/01/1997                             9,000,000  $    9,000
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                               9,000
                                                   -----------
PRINTING AND PUBLISHING (2.02%)
Dow Jones & Co. Inc., 5.54%,
 07/18/1997                             3,750,000       3,740
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                               3,740
                                                   -----------
SHORT TERM BUSINESS CREDIT (14.12%)
IBM Credit Corporation, 5.52%,
 07/23/1997                             8,000,000       7,973
Motorola Credit Corp, 5.5%,
 08/06/1997                             9,000,000       8,951
Sears Roebuck Acceptance Corp.,
 5.61%, 07/18/1997                      9,300,000       9,275
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                              26,199
                                                   -----------
TOBACCO PRODUCTS (3.69%)
Phillip Morris Companies Inc, 6.375%,
 01/15/1998                             6,850,000       6,853
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                               6,853
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL MONEY MARKET
      INVESTMENTS                                  $  159,736
                                                   -----------
<CAPTION>
 
                                                     MARKET
                                                      VALUE
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES (13.93%)          PAR        (000'S)
<S>                                    <C>         <C>
- --------------------------------------------------------------
AUTO RELATED (2.45%)
Carco Auto Loan Master Trust, 5.705%,
 11/15/1998 (Variable rate; putable;
 coupon indexed to one month
 Commercial Paper rate plus 7.5 basis
 points; reset monthly)                 4,550,000  $    4,550
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                               4,550
                                                   -----------
FINANCE LESSORS (11.48%)
Asset Securitization, 5.53%,
 07/18/1997                             8,100,000       8,079
Receivable Capital Trust, 5.55%,
 07/15/1997                             2,500,000       2,495
Receivable Capital Trust, 5.55%,
 07/10/1997                             1,000,000         999
Receivable Capital Trust, 5.559%,
 07/14/1997                             5,740,000       5,729
REIG Commercial Mortgage Funding,
 5.737%, 12/25/1997                     4,000,000       4,000
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                          $   21,302
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES                      25,852
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL MONEY MARKET PORTFOLIO                   $  185,588
                                                   -----------
</TABLE>
 
    The Accompanying Notes are an Integral Part of the Financial Statements
                       (Prepared from Unaudited Figures)
 
                                       --
                                       5
<PAGE>
SELECT BOND PORTFOLIO
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
<TABLE>
<S>                           <C>                                         <C>
Objective:                    Portfolio Strategy:                         Net Assets:
A stable and relatively high  Invest in high grade corporate bonds, U.S.  $219,802,350
level of long-term total      government bonds and bonds of government
return and preservation of    agencies.
capital
</TABLE>
 
SELECT BOND PORTFOLIO
 
The Select Bond Portfolio invests in high quality debt securities, primarily
government bonds, corporate bonds and mortgage-backed securities. Exposure to
market sectors is adjusted as yield spreads change among the various classes of
securities. Duration and maturities are altered with moderate adjustments in
recognition or anticipation of interest rate changes.
 
During the first quarter of 1997, rising interest rates resulted in lackluster
performance for bond investors. An overweighted position in mortgage-backed
securities and a defensive posture with respect to interest rates enabled the
Portfolio to perform slightly better than the Merrill Lynch Domestic Master
Index. During the second quarter, interest rate risk exposure was increased
slightly to take advantage of declining interest rates. The portfolio benefited
from the strong performance of corporate and mortgage bonds.
 
Corporate bonds should continue to perform well as the economy returns to a
sustainable long-term growth rate; however, mortgage bonds could be vulnerable
to any increase in interest rates.
 
      Percentage Holdings
 
     6/30/97
 
EDGAR REPRESENTATION OF DATA POINTS USED IN PRINTED GRAPHIC
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                           <C>
Corporate Bonds                                     32%
Mortgage-Backed and Asset-Backed Securities         32%
Government and Government Agencies                  34%
Money Market Investments                             2%
</TABLE>
 
The Corporate Bonds sector includes bonds of companies headquartered outside the
United States. The Government and Government Agencies category includes taxable
bonds of domestic and foreign governments and a small position in municipal
bonds. Consistent with the Portfolio's stated parameters, no more than 10% of
the portfolio is invested in foreign securities, and no more than 10% is
invested in high-yield securities.
 
     Performance Relative
     to Merrill Lynch Domestic Master Index
 
EDGAR REPRESENTATION OF DATA POINTS USED IN PRINTED GRAPHIC
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                       SELECT BOND PORTFOLIO            MLDM INDEX
       6/30/87                10,000                      10,000
<S>                    <C>                    <C>                             <C>          <C>
6/30/88                               10,683                          10,784
6/30/89                               12,020                          12,124
6/30/90                               12,787                          13,012
6/30/91                               14,171                          14,429
6/30/92                               16,309                          16,470
6/30/93                               18,394                          18,435
6/30/94                               18,351                          18,244
6/30/95                               20,696                          20,540
6/30/96                               21,731                          21,558
6/30/97                               23,599                          23,321
                                                 Average Annual Total Return
                                                  For Periods Ended June 30,
                                                                        1997
                                                                    One Year   Five Years   Ten Years
Select Bond Portfolio                                                  8.60%        7.67%       8.97%
MLDM Index                                                             8.18%        7.20%       8.84%
</TABLE>
 
Since the Portfolio invests broadly in U.S. Government, mortgage and corporate
bonds, a useful basis for comparing returns is the Merrill Lynch Domestic Master
Index. The index is an unmanaged market value weighted index comprised of U.S.
Government, mortgage and investment-grade corporate bonds. The index measures
the income provided by, and the price changes of, the underlying securities.
 
    This chart assumes an initial investment of $10,000 made on 6/30/87. Returns
shown include deductions for management and other fund expenses, and
reinvestment of all dividends. Returns exclude deductions for separate account
sales loads and account fees. Past performance is not predictive of future
performance. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate, so that your
shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. The
total returns shown on page 2 reflect the deduction of charges for the separate
account.
 
                                       --
                                       6
<PAGE>
SELECT BOND PORTFOLIO
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Schedule of Investments
JUNE 30, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     MARKET
                                                      VALUE
BONDS (97.74%)                            PAR        (000'S)
<S>                                    <C>         <C>
- --------------------------------------------------------------
CORPORATE BONDS (31.75%)
AUTO-RELATED (0.44%)
Hertz Corp., 9.04%, 6/14/00               900,000  $      957
                                                   -----------
BANKS (1.36%)
NationsCredit Grantor Trust, 6.75%,
 8/15/13                                2,917,161       2,929
                                                   -----------
BANK HOLDING COMPANIES (5.78%)
BT Preferred Capital Trust II,
 7.875%, 2/25/27                        6,000,000       5,796
First Union Institutional Capital II,
 7.85%, 1/1/27                          4,750,000       4,649
Security Capital Industrial Trust,
 7.3%, 5/15/01                          2,000,000       1,998
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                              12,443
                                                   -----------
CHEMICALS AND ALLIED PRODUCTS (0.92%)
Dow Capital B.V., 8.5%, 6/8/10          1,800,000       1,987
                                                   -----------
COMMUNICATIONS (2.66%)
Grupo Televisa SA DE CV, 10%, 11/9/97   1,172,000       1,185
++ Tele Communications, Inc., 7.375%,
 2/15/00                                2,000,000       2,017
U.S. West Capital Funding Inc., 7.9%,
 2/1/27                                 1,000,000       1,003
WorldCom, Inc., 7.75%, 4/1/07           1,500,000       1,525
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                               5,730
                                                   -----------
CONSTRUCTION MACHINERY (0.48%)
Bufete Industrial SA ADS, 11.375%,
 7/15/99 (144a)                         1,000,000       1,043
                                                   -----------
DEPOSITORY INSTITUTIONS (0.80%)
Natwest Capital Funding, 12.125%,
 11/15/02                               1,700,000       1,733
                                                   -----------
ELECTRIC SERVICES (8.43%)
Beaver Valley Funding Corp., 8.25%,
 6/1/03                                 1,401,000       1,429
Cleveland Electric Illum Co., 7.375%,
 6/1/03                                   500,000         499
Commonwealth Edison Co., 6.5%,
 4/15/00                                1,000,000         994
++ Korea Electric Power Corporation,
 7%, 2/1/27                             4,000,000       3,907
Long Island Lighting Co., 8.625%,
 4/15/04                                1,000,000       1,026
Long Island Lighting Co., 9.625%,
 7/1/24                                 1,500,000       1,542
Ohio Edison Company, 7.375%, 9/15/02    1,000,000       1,010
++ Pacific Gas & Electric Co., 7.25%,
 3/1/26                                 3,500,000       3,339
Peco Energy Company, 7.75%, 3/1/23      1,150,000       1,158
 
<CAPTION>
                                                     MARKET
                                                      VALUE
BONDS (97.74%)                            PAR        (000'S)
<S>                                    <C>         <C>
- --------------------------------------------------------------
ELECTRIC SERVICES (CONTINUED)
++ Public Service Electric And Gas
 Co., 6.875%, 1/1/03                    2,250,000  $    2,252
Texas Utilities Electric Co., 7.875%,
 3/1/23                                 1,000,000         996
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                              18,152
                                                   -----------
FINANCE (0.75%)
Associates Corp. of North America,
 7.95%, 2/15/10                         1,500,000       1,621
                                                   -----------
FOOD AND KINDRED PRODUCTS (0.72%)
Nabisco Inc., 8%, 1/15/00               1,500,000       1,548
                                                   -----------
GENERAL MERCHANDISE STORES (0.46%)
May Dept Stores Company, 7.45%,
 10/15/16                               1,000,000         993
                                                   -----------
INSURANCE SERVICES (1.92%)
Zurich Capital Trust I, 8.376%,
 6/1/37 (144a)                          4,000,000       4,130
                                                   -----------
MOTION PICTURE (4.13%)
News America Holdings Inc., 8.25%,
 8/10/18                                1,000,000       1,007
Time Warner Entertainment Inc.,
 8.375%, 3/15/23                        1,000,000       1,025
Time Warner Entertainment Inc.,
 8.375%, 7/15/33                        2,000,000       2,033
Time Warner Pass-Through Asset Trust,
 6.10%, 12/30/01 (144a)                 5,000,000       4,789
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                               8,854
                                                   -----------
MOTOR VEHICLES (0.66%)
General Motors Corporation, 8.8%,
 3/1/21                                 1,250,000       1,425
                                                   -----------
PAPER AND ALLIED PRODUCTS (1.05%)
Grupo Industrial Durango, 12.625%,
 8/1/03                                 2,000,000       2,253
                                                   -----------
TOBACCO (1.19%)
Philip Morris Companies, 7.25%,
 1/15/03                                1,000,000       1,008
Philip Morris Companies, 9.25%,
 2/15/00                                  500,000         531
++ RJR Nabisco Inc., 8.625%, 12/1/02    1,000,000       1,023
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                               2,562
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL CORPORATE BONDS                              68,360
                                                   -----------
GOVERNMENT AND AGENCY RELATED BONDS (31.33%)
FOREIGN GOVERNMENT BONDS (7.28%)
Argentina, Republic of, 8%, 12/13/98    2,500,000  $    2,518
Argentina, Republic of, 8.75%, 5/9/02   8,250,000       8,254
+ Argentina, Republic of, 5.695%,
 4/1/01                                 1,423,853       1,383
</TABLE>
 
                                       --
                                       7
<PAGE>
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Schedule of Investments
JUNE 30, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     MARKET
                                                      VALUE
BONDS (97.74%)                            PAR        (000'S)
- --------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                    <C>         <C>
FOREIGN GOVERNMENT BONDS (CONTINUED)
+ Brazil, Republic of, 6.937%,
 4/15/12                                4,250,000  $    3,512
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                              15,667
                                                   -----------
FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AND AGENCIES (24.05%)
Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp.,
 6.5%, 1/1/2012                         6,118,452       6,013
Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp.,
 6.75%, 12/25/23                        5,710,018       5,617
Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 7%,
 3/15/07                                1,875,000       1,876
Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp.,
 7.25%, 4/15/18                         1,599,758       1,610
Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp.,
 7.5%, 1/1/27                           2,901,378       2,915
Federal National Mortgage Assoc.,
 6.5%, 9/25/05                          2,852,454       2,819
Federal National Mortgage Assoc.,
 6.75%, 12/25/23                        3,500,000       3,281
Federal National Mortgage Assoc., 7%,
 6/1/03                                   825,987         831
Federal National Mortgage Assoc.,
 8.4%, 2/25/09                          2,500,000       2,630
Government National Mortgage Assoc.,
 7%, 5/15/23                              438,705         433
Government National Mortgage Assoc.,
 7%, 5/15/23                            2,876,575       2,842
Government National Mortgage Assoc.,
 7%, 6/15/23                            2,596,104       2,565
Government National Mortgage Assoc.,
 7.5%, 1/15/24                            826,305         832
Government National Mortgage Assoc.,
 7.5%, 1/15/24                            799,749         805
Government National Mortgage Assoc.,
 7.5%, 2/15/24                          1,685,227       1,697
Government National Mortgage Assoc.,
 7.5%, 6/15/24                          1,554,281       1,565
Government National Mortgage Assoc.,
 8%, 8/15/26                            9,739,031       9,971
Government National Mortgage Assoc.,
 8.5%, 11/15/24                           309,263         323
Government National Mortgage Assoc.,
 8.5%, 11/15/24                           435,240         454
Government National Mortgage Assoc.,
 8.5%, 11/15/24                           288,357         301
Government National Mortgage Assoc.,
 8.5%, 2/15/25                             14,138          15
Government National Mortgage Assoc.,
 8.5%, 2/15/25                            114,852         120
Government National Mortgage Assoc.,
 8.5%, 3/15/23                             10,445          11
Government National Mortgage Assoc.,
 8.5%, 4/15/26                            356,804         371
<CAPTION>
                                                     MARKET
                                                      VALUE
BONDS (97.74%)                            PAR        (000'S)
<S>                                    <C>         <C>
- --------------------------------------------------------------
FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AND AGENCIES (CONTINUED)
Government National Mortgage Assoc.,
 8.5%, 4/15/26                            308,536  $      321
Government National Mortgage Assoc.,
 8.5%, 5/15/26                            225,173         234
Government National Mortgage Assoc.,
 8.5%, 5/15/26                            697,957         727
Government National Mortgage Assoc.,
 8.5%, 6/15/23                             17,940          19
Government National Mortgage Assoc.,
 8.5%, 6/15/24                            298,572         311
Government National Mortgage Assoc.,
 8.5%, 7/15/24                             72,776          76
Government National Mortgage Assoc.,
 8.5%, 9/15/21                            168,749         177
Government National Mortgage Assoc.,
 8.5%, 9/15/24                             14,378          15
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                              51,777
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL GOVERNMENT BONDS                             67,444
                                                   -----------
MORTGAGE/ASSET BACKED SECURITIES (32.39%)
AUTO-RELATED (3.87%)
Daimler-Benz Vehicle Trust, 5.85%,
 7/20/03                                1,497,442       1,497
CIT RV Owner Trust, 6.25%, 1/15/11      1,210,522       1,212
Eaglemark Trust, 6.75%, 11/15/02
 (144a)                                 1,302,601       1,315
Team Fleet Financing Corporation,
 6.65%, 12/15/02 (144a)                 3,200,000       3,169
Team Fleet Financing Corporation,
 7.35%, 5/15/03 (144a)                  1,125,000       1,141
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                               8,334
                                                   -----------
COMMERCIAL MORTGAGES (24.00%)
+ Kmart CMBS Financing, Inc., 6.391%,
 03/01/07 (144a)                        1,500,000       1,504
+ Kmart CMBS Financing, Inc., 6.791%,
 03/01/07 (144a)                        2,000,000       2,006
Asset Securitization Corporation,
 1.097%, 11/13/26 IO                   52,000,000       3,567
Asset Securitization Corporation,
 1.257%, 11/13/26 IO                   23,208,090       1,037
Chase Commercial Mortgage Securities
 Corp., 7.37%, 6/19/29                  1,000,000       1,017
Chase Commercial Mortgage Securities
 Corp., 7.37%, 6/19/29                  1,750,000       1,756
Credit Suisee First Boston Mortgage
 Securities Corp., 9.5914%, 4/25/25
 (144a)                                   682,000         757
Credit Suisse First Boston Mortgage
 Securities Corp., 7.26%, 6/20/29
 (144a)                                 1,500,000       1,517
</TABLE>
 
                                       --
                                       8
<PAGE>
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Schedule of Investments
JUNE 30, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     MARKET
                                                      VALUE
BONDS (97.74%)                            PAR        (000'S)
- --------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                    <C>         <C>
COMMERCIAL MORTGAGES (CONTINUED)
Credit Suisse First Boston Mortgage
 Securities Corp., 7.28%, 6/20/29
 (144a)                                 1,500,000  $    1,513
Credit Suisse First Boston Mortgage
 Securities Corp., 7.46%, 6/20/29
 (144a)                                 3,500,000       3,531
First Union-Lehman Brothers
 Commercial Mortgage Trust, 7.44%,
 4/18/07                                2,500,000       2,541
First Union-Lehman Brothers
 Commercial Mortgage Trust, 1.307%,
 4/18/27 IO                            39,000,000       3,090
GMAC Commercial Mortgage Securities,
 Inc., 7.81%, 5/1/06 (144a)             5,000,000       5,150
LB Commercial Conduit Mortgage Trust,
 1.248%, 10/25/26 IO                   69,574,883       4,592
Malan Mortgage Securities Trust,
 7.8%, 8/15/05 (144a)                   3,000,000       3,039
Merrill Lynch Mortgage Investors,
 Inc., 7.12%, 6/18/29                   2,500,000       2,489
Merrill Lynch Mortgage Investors,
 Inc., 7.12%, 6/18/29                   4,500,000       4,341
Merrill Lynch Mortgage Investors,
 Inc., 8.154%, 6/18/29                  1,950,000       2,022
Merrill Lynch Mortgage Investors,
 Inc., 8.858%, 6/18/29                  2,000,000       2,016
Midland Realty Acceptance Corp.,
 1.389%, 1/25/29 (144a) IO             14,766,622       1,166
NationsBank Lease Pass Thru Trust,
 7.442%, 1/10/11 (144a)                 3,000,000       3,021
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                              51,672
                                                   -----------
MANUFACTURED HOUSING (1.78%)
Mid-State Trust VI, 7.54%, 7/1/35       1,300,000       1,308
Vanderbilt Mortgage and Finance,
 Inc., 7.19%, 5/7/2005                  2,500,000       2,517
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                               3,825
                                                   -----------
RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGES (2.74%)
BCF L L C Mortgage Pass Thru
 Certificate, 7.75%, 3/25/37 (144a)     3,984,975       3,890
<CAPTION>
                                                     MARKET
                                                      VALUE
BONDS (97.74%)                            PAR        (000'S)
<S>                                    <C>         <C>
- --------------------------------------------------------------
RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGES (CONTINUED)
Rural Housing Trust, 6.33%, 4/1/26      2,076,953  $    2,017
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                               5,907
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL MORTGAGE/ASSET BACKED
     SECURITIES                                        69,738
                                                   -----------
MUNICIPAL BONDS (2.27%)
New Jersey Economic Development
 Authority, 0.00%, 2/15/25             18,000,000       2,347
New Jersey Economic Development
 Authority, 7.425%, 2/15/29             2,500,000       2,520
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL MUNICIPAL BONDS                               4,867
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL BONDS                                    $  210,409
                                                   -----------
<CAPTION>
 
                                                     MARKET
                                                      VALUE
MONEY MARKET INVESTMENTS (2.26%)          PAR        (000'S)
<S>                                    <C>         <C>
- --------------------------------------------------------------
GOVERNMENT (0.23%)
++ U.S. Treasury, 5.08%, 9/4/97           500,000  $      495
                                                   -----------
NONDEPOSITORY INSTITUTIONS (1.20%)
Sears Roebuck Acceptance Corp.,
 5.57%, 8/6/97                          2,600,000       2,586
                                                   -----------
TOBACCO PRODUCTS (0.83%)
Philip Morris Companies, 9%, 5/15/98    1,750,000       1,790
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL MONEY MARKET INSTRUMENTS                      4,871
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL SELECT BOND PORTFOLIO                    $  215,280
                                                   -----------
</TABLE>
 
 + Floating rate security.
 
++ Partially held by the custodian in segregated account as collateral for open
   futures postions. Information regarding open futures contracts as of June 30,
   1997 is summarized below:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                UNREALIZED
                 NUMBER OF      EXPIRATION     APPRECIATION
ISSUERS          CONTRACTS         DATE           (000'S)
- ---------------  ----------  ----------------  -------------
<S>              <C>         <C>               <C>
U.S. Treasury
 Bond Future         45       September 1997        19
</TABLE>
 
    The Accompanying Notes are an Integral Part of the Financial Statements
                       (Prepared from Unaudited Figures)
 
                                       --
                                       9
<PAGE>
HIGH YIELD BOND PORTFOLIO
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
<TABLE>
<S>                              <C>                                              <C>
Objective:                       Portfolio Strategy:                              Net Assets:
High current income and capital  Generate superior performance by investing in a  $131,411,445
appreciation with moderate risk  diversified mix of fixed income securities
                                 rated below investment grade.
</TABLE>
 
HIGH YIELD BOND PORTFOLIO
Investing in a portfolio of high yield bonds provides investors who can accept a
moderate level of risk with a high level of current income, coupled with the
opportunity for capital gains. The investment approach is credit-driven, with
rigorous industry and credit analysis utilized to identify investment
opportunities in issuers with stable or improving credit fundamentals whose
bonds are rated below investment grade. Securities are actively traded in order
to maximize returns within appropriate parameters of risk, quality, seniority
and duration. In many ways, investing in high yield bonds is akin to equity
investing, since an issuer's financial situation and operational performance are
the key determinants of continued ability to meet obligations to pay interest
and principal. Of particular interest are solid investments in entities that
have the possibility of a positive event, such as a significant improvement in
credit rating or earnings or a change in ownership. When financial performance
falls short of expectations, exposure is normally reduced. In a high-yield
portfolio, some defaults over time are inevitable; diversification across many
holdings mitigates the impact of defaults on the total portfolio.
 
The high yield market continued to perform substantially better than the
investment grade market during the first half of 1997. Favorable economic
conditions, reasonably good corporate earnings and low default rates were major
factors that contributed to strong demand for high yield bonds. Increasingly
broad demand for high yield bonds from mutual funds, insurance companies,
pension funds, foreign investors and issuers of Collateralized Bond Obligations
caused risk premiums to decline.
 
The Portfolio significantly outperfomed both the Lehman Brothers High Yield
Intermediate Market Index and the Portfolio's high yield fund peer group. This
strong performance can be attributed to insightful selection of market sectors
and individual securities, participation in international markets, the inclusion
of preferred stocks, and the absence of any major negative credit developments
in the Portfolio.
 
     Percentage Holdings
     by Industry Sector
 
EDGAR REPRESENTATION OF DATA POINTS USED IN PRINTED GRAPHIC
 
<TABLE>
<S>                     <C>
Technology                    34%
Consumer Staples              20%
Consumer Cyclicals            11%
Transportation                 9%
Basic Materials                8%
Financial                      6%
Energy/Utilities               5%
Cash Equivalents               7%
</TABLE>
 
     Performance Relative
     to Lehman Brothers High Yield Index
 
EDGAR REPRESENTATION OF DATA POINTS USED IN PRINTED GRAPHIC
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                        LEHMAN BROTHERS HIGH YIELD
 
<S>                        <C>                        <C>                             <C>
                           High Yield Bond Portfolio       Intermediate Market Index
5/3/94                                        10,000                          10,000
6/30/94                                       10,110                          10,061
6/30/95                                       11,490                          11,330
6/30/96                                       12,836                          12,465
6/30/97                                       15,684                          14,158
                                                         Average Annual Total Return
                                                          For Periods Ended June 30,
                                                                                1997
                                                                            One Year   Since Inception
High Yield Bond Portfolio                                                     22.19%            15.31%
Lehman Brothers Index                                                         13.58%            11.63%
</TABLE>
 
The total return performance for the High Yield Bond Portfolio is shown in
comparison with the Lehman Brothers High Yield Intermediate Market Index. The
Lehman Brothers index is an appropriate measure of portfolio performance since
it has a quality and maturity profile that resembles the High Yield Bond
Portfolio.
 
    The Lehman Brothers High Yield Intermediate Market Index is made up of
dollar-denominated, nonconvertible, SEC publicly registered fixed rate
noninvestment grade issues. The bonds will have remaining maturities of between
one and ten years and have an outstanding par value of at least $100 million.
Yankee and global bonds (SEC registered) of issuers in G-7 countries are
included. Original issue zero coupon bonds and step-up coupon structures are
also included; however, the index excludes pay-in-kind (PIK) bonds. Each bond
must be rated Ba1 or lower by Moody's Investor Service. If a Moody's rating is
unavailable, the bonds must be rated BB+ or lower by Standard & Poor's, or by
Fitch if an S&P rating is unavailable. A few unrated bonds are included in the
index; to be eligible they must have previously held a high yield rating or have
been associated with a high yield issuer. The index is an unmanaged market value
weighted index and measures the income provided by, and the price changes of,
the underlying securities.
 
    This chart assumes an initial investment of $10,000 made on 5/3/94
(commencement of operations). Returns shown include deductions for management
and other fund expenses, and reinvestment of all dividends. Returns exclude
deductions for separate account sales loads and account fees. Past performance
is not predictive of future performance. Investment return and principal value
will fluctuate, so that your shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less
than their original cost. The total returns shown on page 2 reflect the
deduction of charges for the separate account.
 
                                       --
                                       10
<PAGE>
HIGH YIELD BOND PORTFOLIO
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Schedule of Investments
JUNE 30, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     MARKET
                                                      VALUE
BONDS (73.10%)                            PAR        (000'S)
<S>                                    <C>         <C>
- --------------------------------------------------------------
APPAREL AND TEXTILE (1.73%)
Polysindo International Finance Co.,
 11.375%, 6/15/06                      $2,000,000  $    2,200
                                                   -----------
AUTO RELATED (1.59%)
Speedy Muffler King Inc., 10.875%,
 10/01/06                               2,000,000       2,020
                                                   -----------
BANKS (2.42%)
First Nationwide Holdings Inc.,
 10.625%, 10/01/03                        750,000         829
First Nationwide Parent Holdings,
 12.50%, 4/15/03(144a)                  2,000,000       2,245
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                               3,074
                                                   -----------
BROADCASTING (4.55%)
Azteca Hldgs S.A. De C.V., 11.00%,
 6/15/02(144a)                          2,250,000       2,273
Katz Media Corp., 10.50%, 1/15/07       2,000,000       1,960
TV Azteca S.A. De C.V., 10.50%,
 2/15/07(144a)                          1,500,000       1,538
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                               5,771
                                                   -----------
CABLE TELEVISION (6.51%)
Adelphia Communications Corp., 9.50%,
 2/15/04 (PIK)                          2,547,500       2,458
Adelphia Communications Corp.,
 9.875%, 3/01/07(144a)                  1,000,000         966
+International Cabletel Inc., 11.50%,
 2/01/06                                2,000,000       1,385
International Cabletel Inc., 10.00%,
 2/15/07                                  500,000         509
+Marcus Cable, 14.25%, 12/15/05         3,750,000       2,944
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                               8,262
                                                   -----------
CHEMICALS (1.98%)
Tri Polyta Finance B V, 11.375%,
 12/01/03                               2,500,000       2,506
                                                   -----------
CONSUMER PRODUCTS (2.83%)
+Hedstrom Holdings Inc., 12.00%,
 6/01/09(144a)                          2,175,000       1,294
Riddell Sports Inc., 10.50%,
 7/15/07(144a)                          2,250,000       2,301
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                               3,595
                                                   -----------
CONSUMER STAPLES (0.64%)
North Atlantic Trading Inc., 11.00%,
 6/15/04(144a)                            800,000         810
                                                   -----------
CONTAINERS (1.65%)
VICAP, S.A. De C.V., 11.375%,
 5/15/07(144a)                          2,000,000       2,095
                                                   -----------
FINANCE COMPANIES (2.02%)
Olympic Financial Ltd., 11.50%,
 3/15/07                                2,500,000       2,569
                                                   -----------
 
<CAPTION>
                                                     MARKET
                                                      VALUE
BONDS (73.10%)                            PAR        (000'S)
<S>                                    <C>         <C>
- --------------------------------------------------------------
HEALTHCARE (1.69%)
Quest Diagnostics Inc., 10.75%,
 12/15/06                              $2,000,000  $    2,145
                                                   -----------
LEISURE RELATED (12.16%)
Alliance Gaming Corp., 12.875%,
 6/30/03                                1,500,000       1,695
Casino America Inc., 12.50%, 8/01/03    2,000,000       2,080
Cobb Theatres LLC., 10.625%, 3/01/03    1,000,000       1,110
Cobblestone Holdings, Inc., 0.00%,
 6/01/04                                2,875,000       1,308
Horseshoe Gaming LLC., 9.375%,
 6/15/07(144a)                          1,000,000       1,008
Station Casinos Inc., 10.125%,
 3/15/06                                  500,000         505
Station Casinos Inc., 9.75%,
 4/15/07(144a)                          2,500,000       2,478
Trump Atlantic, 11.25%, 5/01/06         3,000,000       2,925
Trump Hotels & Casino Resorts,
 15.50%, 6/15/05                        2,000,000       2,320
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                              15,429
                                                   -----------
MISCELLANEOUS-BASIC MATERIALS (1.83%)
Cemex S. A., 12.75%, 7/15/06            2,000,000       2,320
                                                   -----------
OFFICE EQUIPMENT (2.42%)
United Stationers Supply Co., 12.75%,
 5/01/05                                2,750,000       3,064
                                                   -----------
OIL-GAS PRODUCERS (3.10%)
Belden & Blake Corp., 9.875%, 6/15/07
 (144a)                                 2,250,000       2,222
Bridas Corp., 12.50%, 6/10/03(144a)     1,500,000       1,710
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                               3,932
                                                   -----------
PAPER (4.36%)
Grupo Indl Durango S.A. De C.V.,
 12.625%, 8/01/03                       2,000,000       2,253
Indah Kiat Finance International,
 10.00%, 7/01/07(144a)                  2,250,000       2,244
Stone Container Corp., 12.25%,
 4/01/02(144a)                          1,000,000       1,030
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                               5,527
                                                   -----------
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES (1.54%)
Kinder-care Learning Center, 9.50%,
 2/15/09                                2,000,000       1,950
                                                   -----------
RAILROAD (2.51%)
+TFM S.A. De C. V., 11.75%,
 6/15/09(144a)                          5,500,000       3,190
                                                   -----------
RETAIL-FOOD (0.80%)
Pathmark Stores Inc., 11.625%,
 6/15/02                                1,000,000       1,010
                                                   -----------
</TABLE>
 
                                       --
                                       11
<PAGE>
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Schedule of Investments
JUNE 30, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     MARKET
                                                      VALUE
BONDS (73.10%)                            PAR        (000'S)
- --------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                    <C>         <C>
SOAPS AND TOILETRIES (2.14%)
Revlon Worldwide Corp., 0.00%,
 3/15/01(144a)                         $4,000,000  $    2,710
                                                   -----------
TELECOMMUNICATIONS (9.21%)
Comtel Brasileira Ltda., 10.75%,
 9/26/04(144a)                          2,000,000       2,140
ITC Deltacom Inc., 11.00%,
 6/01/07(144a)                          2,875,000       2,922
++Mobilemedia Communications Inc.,
 10.50%, 12/01/03                       2,000,000         240
Paging Network Inc., 10.00%, 10/15/08   2,000,000       1,920
+Telewest PLC, 11.00%, 10/01/07         3,000,000       2,160
Wavetek Corp., 10.125%, 6/15/07(144a)   2,250,000       2,309
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                              11,691
                                                   -----------
TRUCKING AND SHIPPING (5.41%)
Greyhound Lines Inc., 11.50%,
 4/15/07(144a)                          3,375,000       3,611
Coach USA Inc., 9.375%, 7/01/07(144a)   2,250,000       2,228
Ryder Trucks, Inc., 10.00%, 12/01/06    1,000,000       1,030
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                               6,869
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL BONDS                                    $   92,739
                                                   -----------
<CAPTION>
 
                                                     MARKET
                                                      VALUE
PREFERRED STOCK (19.03%)                 SHARES      (000'S)
<S>                                    <C>         <C>
- --------------------------------------------------------------
BANKS (1.02%)
California Federated Capital Corp.         50,000  $    1,291
                                                   -----------
BROADCASTING (7.00%)
American Radio Systems Corp. (144a)        21,055       2,232
Chancellor Radio(144a)                     21,200       2,417
Sinclair Capital(144a)                     40,000       4,230
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                               8,879
                                                   -----------
CABLE TELEVISION (4.06%)
Cablevision Systems Corp. (PIK)            49,828       5,156
                                                   -----------
LEISURE RELATED (1.72%)
Alliance Gaming Corp. PIK                  17,461       1,737
Station Casinos Inc.                       10,000         448
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                               2,185
                                                   -----------
<CAPTION>
                                                     MARKET
                                                      VALUE
PREFERRED STOCK (19.03%)                 SHARES      (000'S)
<S>                                    <C>         <C>
- --------------------------------------------------------------
PRINTING AND PUBLISHING (2.81%)
K-III Communications Corp.(144a)           35,000  $    3,561
Time Warner Inc.                                7           1
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                               3,562
                                                   -----------
TELECOMMUNICATIONS (0.42%)
NTL Inc.(144a) (PIK)                        5,160         539
                                                   -----------
UTILITY-GAS (2.00%)
Petroleum Heat & Power Inc.(144a)         103,750       2,542
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL PREFERRED STOCK                          $   24,154
                                                   -----------
<CAPTION>
 
                                                     MARKET
                                                      VALUE
MONEY MARKET INVESTMENTS (6.85%)          PAR        (000'S)
<S>                                    <C>         <C>
- --------------------------------------------------------------
CHEMICALS AND ALLIED PRODUCTS (5.28%)
American Home Products Co., 6.149%,
 7/01/97                               $6,700,000  $    6,700
                                                   -----------
NONDEPOSITORY INSTITUTIONS (1.57%)
Sears Roebuck Acceptance Corp.,
 5.57%, 8/06/97                         2,000,000       1,989
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL MONEY MARKET
     INVESTMENTS                                   $    8,689
                                                   -----------
<CAPTION>
 
                                                     MARKET
                                                      VALUE
COMMON STOCK (1.02%)                     SHARES      (000'S)
<S>                                    <C>         <C>
- --------------------------------------------------------------
APPAREL AND TEXTILE (0.86%)
*Ithaca Industries Inc.                   136,000  $    1,088
                                                   -----------
ELECTRONICS (0.04%)
*Exide Electronics-Warrants                 2,000          50
                                                   -----------
LEISURE RELATED (0.04%)
*Cobblestone Holdings Inc.                  2,875          52
                                                   -----------
PAPER (0.08%)
*SDW Holdings Corp.(144a)                  20,000         100
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL COMMON STOCK                                  1,290
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL HIGH YIELD BOND PORTFOLIO                $  126,872
                                                   -----------
</TABLE>
 
 *Non-Income Producing.
 
 +Deferred interest security that receives no coupon payments until a
  predetermined date at which the stated coupon rate becomes effective.
 
++Defaulted Security.
 
    The Accompanying Notes are an Integral Part of the Financial Statements
                       (Prepared from Unaudited Figures)
 
                                       --
                                       12
<PAGE>
BALANCED PORTFOLIO
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
<TABLE>
<S>                              <C>                                              <C>
Objective:                       Portfolio Strategy:                              Net Assets:
A high level of current income   Achieve consistent returns and low volatility    $2,593,714,448
and capital growth with a low    by diversifying among assets
risk profile
</TABLE>
 
BALANCED PORTFOLIO
 
In order to capitalize on changing financial market and economic conditions, the
Balanced Portfolio's asset allocation is adjusted as appropriate among three
investment classes: stocks, bonds and money market instruments. The equity
portion of the Portfolio is indexed, meaning that the portfolio is designed to
achieve results that approximate the performance of the Standard & Poor's 500
Composite Stock Price Index, which is generally regarded as a good proxy for the
overall U.S. equity market. The bond portion of the Portfolio is actively
managed, with investments in high quality bonds adjusted frequently as to
maturity, market sectors and duration. Liquidity is maintained by holding a
portion of the Portfolio in money market investments, which are high quality
short-term debt securities.
 
The Portfolio benefited from continued emphasis on equities during the first six
months of 1997. Although the stock position was reduced modestly during periods
of particular strength, continued strong prices have increased the percentage
holdings of stock; at the end of the period 57% of the total was invested in
stocks, up from 55% at the end of 1996. A moderate cash position will make it
possible to increase investments in equities or bonds, as market conditions
indicate.
 
A reduction in the percentage held in bonds resulted from the increased value of
stock holdings, rather than from a decision to scale back bond holdings. In
order to take advantage of declining interest rates, durations of the securities
in the portfolio have been adjusted to overweight short-term and long-term
securities and underweight intermediate term bonds.
 
     Percentage Holdings
       6/30/97
 
EDGAR REPRESENTATION OF DATA POINTS USED IN PRINTED GRAPHIC
 
<TABLE>
<S>                          <C>
Equities                           57%
Bonds                              29%
Money Market Investments           14%
</TABLE>
 
     Performance Relative
     to Relevant Indices
 
EDGAR REPRESENTATION OF DATA POINTS USED IN PRINTED GRAPHIC
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                    BALANCED PORTFOLIO  MERRILL LYNCH DOMESTIC MASTER INDEX    S&P 500 INDEX   ML 91-DAY T-BILL
<S>                 <C>                 <C>                                   <C>              <C>
6/30/87                         10,000                                10,000           10,000             10,000
6/30/88                         10,173                                10,784            9,290             10,633
6/30/89                         11,119                                12,124           11,167             11,533
6/30/90                         11,898                                13,012           12,976             12,512
6/30/91                         13,102                                14,429           13,923             13,458
6/30/92                         14,584                                16,470           15,788             14,156
6/30/93                         16,375                                18,435           17,936             14,634
6/30/94                         16,514                                18,244           18,169             15,126
6/30/95                         19,515                                20,540           22,875             15,960
6/30/96                         22,619                                21,558           28,799             16,843
6/30/97                         27,444                                23,321           38,755             17,758
                                                 Average Annual Total Return
                                             For Periods Ended June 30, 1997
                                                                    One Year       Five Years          Ten Years
Balanced Portfolio                                                    21.33%           13.48%             10.62%
S&P 500 Index                                                         34.57%           19.67%             14.51%
MLDM Index                                                             8.18%            7.20%              8.84%
ML 91-Day T-Bill                                                       5.43%            4.64%              5.91%
</TABLE>
 
In the graph, the Portfolio is compared against three indices representing the
three major components of the Portfolio: equities, fixed income, and cash
equivalent investments.
 
    The Merrill Lynch Domestic Master Index is an unmanaged market value
weighted index comprised of U.S. Government, mortgage and investment-grade
corporate bonds. The index measures the income provided by, and the price
changes of, the underlying securities.
 
    The Standard & Poor's 500 Composite Stock Price Index is an unmanaged index
of 500 selected common stocks, most of which are listed on the New York Stock
Exchange. The index is heavily weighted toward stocks with large market
capitalizations and represents approximately two-thirds of the total market
value of all domestic common stocks.
 
    This chart assumes an initial investment of $10,000 made on 6/30/87. Returns
shown include deductions for management and other fund expenses, and
reinvestment of all dividends. Returns exclude deductions for separate account
sales loads and account fees. Past performance is not predictive of future
performance. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate, so that your
shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. The
total returns shown on page 2 reflect the deduction of charges for the separate
account.
 
                                       --
                                       13
<PAGE>
BALANCED PORTFOLIO
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Schedule of Investments
JUNE 30, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                 MARKET VALUE
BONDS (28.50%)                          PAR        (000'S)
<S>                                 <C>          <C>
- -------------------------------------------------------------
CORPORATE BONDS (10.10%)
- ----------------------------------
AEROSPACE AND DEFENSE (0.28%)
Lockheed Corporation, 6.75%,
 3/15/03                            $ 3,000,000  $     2,985
Northrop Grumman Corporation,
 7.75%, 3/1/16                        4,000,000        4,034
                                                 ------------
    TOTAL                                              7,019
                                                 ------------
AUTO-RELATED (0.27%)
Hertz Corp., 9.04%, 6/14/00           4,100,000        4,360
                                                 ------------
BANKS (0.12%)
Nations Credit, 6.75%, 8/15/03        2,917,161        2,929
                                                 ------------
BANK HOLDING COMPANIES (0.74%)
BT Preferred Capital Trust II,
 7.875%, 2/25/27                      6,000,000        5,796
First Union Institutional Captial
 II, 7.85%, 1/1/27                    5,000,000        4,893
Security Capital Industrial Trust,
 7.3%, 5/15/01                        8,000,000        7,993
                                                 ------------
    TOTAL                                             18,682
                                                 ------------
CHEMICALS AND ALLIED PRODUCTS (0.48%)
Dow Cap B.V., 8.5%, 6/8/10            8,200,000        9,054
Nova Chemicals Ltd., 7.25%,
 8/15/28                              3,000,000        2,963
                                                 ------------
    TOTAL                                             12,017
                                                 ------------
COMMUNICATIONS (0.62%)
Tele Communications, Inc., 7.375%,
 2/15/00                              8,000,000        8,069
U.S. West Capital Funding Inc.,
 7.9%, 2/1/27                         4,000,000        4,013
WorldCom, Inc., 7.75%, 4/1/07         3,500,000        3,559
                                                 ------------
    TOTAL                                             15,641
                                                 ------------
CONSTRUCTION MACHINERY (0.10%)
Bufete Industrial SA ADS, 11.375%,
 7/15/99 (144a)                       2,500,000        2,606
                                                 ------------
DEPOSITORY INSTITUTIONS (0.42%)
Natwest Capital Funding, 12.125%,
 11/15/02                            10,450,000       10,653
                                                 ------------
ELECTRIC SERVICES (3.24%)
Beaver Valley Funding Corp.,
 8.25%, 6/1/03                        5,141,000        5,244
Cleveland Electric Illum Co.,
 7.375%, 6/1/03                       2,000,000        1,996
Columbia Gas System Inc., 7.32%,
 11/28/10                             7,571,000        7,529
Commonwealth Edison Co., 6.5%,
 4/15/00                              4,000,000        3,974
Dayton Power & Light Company,
 8.15%, 1/15/26                       5,750,000        5,946
 
<CAPTION>
                                                 MARKET VALUE
BONDS (28.50%)                          PAR        (000'S)
- -------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                 <C>          <C>
ELECTRIC SERVICES (CONTINUED)
Korea Electric Power Corporation,
 7%, 2/1/27                         $ 4,000,000  $     3,907
Long Island Lighting Co., 8.625%,
 4/15/04                              2,700,000        2,769
Long Island Lighting Co., 9.625%,
 7/1/24                               1,500,000        1,542
Ohio Edison Company, 7.375%,
 9/15/02                              3,665,000        3,700
Pacific Gas & Electric Co.,
 5.375%, 8/1/98                       5,000,000        4,962
Pacific Gas & Electric Co., 7.25%,
 3/1/26                               9,050,000        8,634
PECO Energy Company, 7.75%, 3/1/23    8,850,000        8,911
Public Service Electric And Gas
 Co., 6.875%, 1/1/03                  9,000,000        9,008
Texas Utilities Electric Co.,
 7.875%, 3/1/23                       4,000,000        3,984
Southern California Edison Co.,
 7.25%, 3/1/26                       10,000,000        9,530
                                                 ------------
    TOTAL                                             81,636
                                                 ------------
ENERGY (0.24%)
Barrett Resources Corporation,
 7.55%, 2/01/07                       5,000,000        4,974
Petroleos Mexicanos, 8%, 7/1/98
 (144a)                               1,000,000        1,010
                                                 ------------
    TOTAL                                              5,984
                                                 ------------
FINANCE (0.55%)
Associates Corp. of North America,
 7.95%, 2/15/10                       5,550,000        5,996
Crown Cork & Seal Finance Plc,
 6.75%, 12/15/03                      8,000,000        7,877
                                                 ------------
    TOTAL                                             13,873
                                                 ------------
FOOD AND KINDRED PRODUCTS (0.14%)
Nabisco Inc., 8%, 1/15/00             3,500,000        3,611
                                                 ------------
FOOD AND BEVERAGE (0.43%)
Coca Cola Enterprises, Inc., 8%,
 1/4/05                              10,000,000       10,720
                                                 ------------
GENERAL MERCHANDISE STORES (0.16%)
May Department Stores Company,
 7.45%, 10/15/16                      4,000,000        3,971
                                                 ------------
MOTION PICTURE (1.02%)
News America Holdings Inc., 7.5%,
 3/1/00                               6,500,000        6,626
News America Holdings Inc., 8.45%,
 8/1/34                              10,000,000       11,034
Time Warner Entertainment Inc.,
 7.25%, 9/1/08                        1,500,000        1,477
</TABLE>
 
                                       --
                                       14
<PAGE>
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Schedule of Investments
JUNE 30, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                 MARKET VALUE
BONDS (28.50%)                          PAR        (000'S)
- -------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                 <C>          <C>
MOTION PICTURE (CONTINUED)
Time Warner Entertainment Inc.,
 8.375%, 3/15/23                    $ 5,000,000  $     5,125
Time Warner Entertainment Inc.,
 8.375%, 7/15/33                      1,500,000        1,524
                                                 ------------
    TOTAL                                             25,786
                                                 ------------
MOTOR VEHICLES (0.49%)
General Motors Acceptance Corp.,
 6.625%, 10/1/02                      5,000,000        4,951
General Motors Corporation, 8.8%,
 3/1/21                               6,500,000        7,412
                                                 ------------
    TOTAL                                             12,363
                                                 ------------
PAPER AND ALLIED PRODUCTS (0.13%)
Grupo Industrial Durango, 12.625%,
 8/1/03                               3,000,000        3,379
                                                 ------------
TOBACCO (0.40%)
Philip Morris Companies, 9.25%,
 2/15/00                              1,000,000        1,061
Philip Morris Companyes, 7.25%,
 1/15/03                              5,000,000        5,038
RJR Nabisco Inc., 8.625%, 12/1/02     4,000,000        4,093
                                                 ------------
    TOTAL                                             10,192
                                                 ------------
UTILITY (0.35%)
Atlantic City Electric Company,
 6.625%, 8/1/13                       4,000,000        3,683
Petacalco Trust, 10.16%, 12/23/09     5,000,000        5,050
                                                 ------------
    TOTAL                                              8,733
                                                 ------------
    TOTAL CORPORATE BONDS                            254,155
                                                 ------------
GOVERNMENT AND AGENCY RELATED BONDS (13.66%)
FOREIGN GOVERNMENT BONDS (0.64%)
Argentina, Republic of, 8%,
 12/13/98                           $ 3,500,000  $     3,525
Argentina, Republic of, 8.75%,
 5/9/02                               1,000,000        1,001
+Argentina, Republic of, 5.695%,
 4/1/01                               3,984,594        3,871
City Of Moscow, 9.5%, 5/31/00
 (144a)                               7,500,000        7,605
Province of Quebec, 6.5%, 1/17/06     7,500,000        7,212
                                                 ------------
    TOTAL                                             23,214
                                                 ------------
FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AND AGENCIES (13.12%)
Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp.,
 6%, 7/15/07                         19,250,000       18,711
Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp.,
 6.5%, 1/1/12                        22,302,657       21,918
Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp.,
 7%, 3/15/07                          7,250,000        7,252
Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp.,
 7.25%, 4/15/18                       6,811,342        6,854
Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp.,
 7.5%, 1/1/27                        34,040,754       34,195
<CAPTION>
                                                 MARKET VALUE
BONDS (28.50%)                          PAR        (000'S)
- -------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                 <C>          <C>
FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AND AGENCIES (CONTINUED)
Federal National Mortgage Assoc.,
 6.5%, 9/25/05                      $ 6,654,413  $     6,577
Federal National Mortgage Assoc.,
 6.75%, 12/25/23                      6,500,000        6,093
Federal National Mortgage Assoc.,
 7%, 4/1/26                          26,831,394       26,353
Federal National Mortgage Assoc.,
 7%, 6/1/03                           6,476,388        6,516
Federal National Mortgage Assoc.,
 7%, 6/25/10                          8,070,000        7,990
Federal National Mortgage Assoc.,
 8.4%, 2/25/09                       10,910,000       11,477
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 7%, 10/15/23                    26,934           27
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 7%, 10/15/23                    95,587           94
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 7%, 10/15/23                   183,056          181
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 7%, 10/15/23                   103,545          102
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 7%, 10/15/23                   134,277          133
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 7%, 11/15/23                   516,737          511
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 7%, 11/15/23                   661,905          654
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 7%, 11/15/23                   689,066          681
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 7%, 5/15/23                    202,547          200
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 7%, 5/15/23                  5,841,596        5,771
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 7%, 5/15/23                  8,136,634        8,039
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 7%, 5/15/23                    426,184          421
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 7%, 6/15/23                    285,635          282
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 7%, 6/15/23                    666,401          658
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 7%, 7/15/23                    703,364          695
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 7%, 7/15/23                    710,060          702
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 7%, 7/15/23                     52,478           52
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 7%, 8/15/23                     27,732           27
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 7%, 9/15/23                     20,831           21
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 7%, 9/15/23                     34,256           34
</TABLE>
 
                                       --
                                       15
<PAGE>
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Schedule of Investments
JUNE 30, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                 MARKET VALUE
BONDS (28.50%)                          PAR        (000'S)
- -------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                 <C>          <C>
FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AND AGENCIES (CONTINUED)
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 7%, 9/15/23                $   100,663  $        99
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 7%, 9/15/23                    560,301          554
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 7.5%, 1/15/24                  976,424          983
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 7.5%, 1/15/24                  188,328          190
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 7.5%, 11/15/24                 896,363          903
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 7.5%, 2/15/24                1,426,594        1,436
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 7.5%, 3/15/24                1,356,811        1,366
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 7.5%, 4/15/24                  862,489          868
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 7.5%, 5/15/24                  873,899          880
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 7.5%, 5/15/24                1,236,153        1,245
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 7.5%, 5/15/24                1,229,011        1,238
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 7.5%, 6/15/24                1,318,202        1,327
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 7.5%, 8/15/24                  844,844          851
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 7.5%, 8/15/24                  964,250          971
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 7.5%, 8/15/24                1,000,475        1,007
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 7.5%, 8/15/24                  909,059          915
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 7.5, 6/15/24                    34,055           34
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 8%, 4/15/26                 24,183,313       24,759
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 8.5%, 1/15/25                   18,561           19
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 8.5%, 1/15/25                   48,856           51
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 8.5%, 1/15/25                  118,153          123
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 8.5%, 1/15/26                   24,961           26
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 8.5%, 1/15/26                  778,638          810
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 8.5%, 1/15/26                   59,410           62
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 8.5%, 10/15/21                 144,946          152
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 8.5%, 10/15/22                  10,987           12
<CAPTION>
                                                 MARKET VALUE
BONDS (28.50%)                          PAR        (000'S)
- -------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                 <C>          <C>
FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AND AGENCIES (CONTINUED)
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 8.5%, 10/15/22             $    45,574  $        48
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 8.5%, 10/15/22                 199,332          209
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 8.5%, 11/15/24                 182,679          191
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 8.5%, 11/15/25                  22,783           24
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 8.5%, 12/15/22                  48,609           51
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 8.5%, 12/15/24                  24,056           25
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 8.5%, 2/15/25                   98,154          102
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 8.5%, 2/15/25                   16,268           17
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 8.5%, 2/15/25                   39,997           42
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 8.5%, 2/15/25                   38,531           40
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 8.5%, 2/15/26                   45,335           47
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 8.5%, 3/15/26                   23,240           24
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 8.5%, 3/15/26                   14,976           16
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 8.5%, 4/15/26                  777,737          810
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 8.5%, 4/15/26                   86,941           90
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 8.5%, 4/15/26                   71,017           74
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 8.5%, 4/15/26                  135,104          141
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 8.5%, 4/15/26                  767,238          799
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 8.5%, 4/15/26                  775,488          807
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 8.5%, 5/15/22                    7,991            8
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 8.5%, 5/15/26                  803,737          837
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 8.5%, 5/15/26                   35,334           37
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 8.5%, 5/15/26                  654,142          681
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 8.5%, 5/15/26                  920,114          958
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 8.5%, 5/15/26                  731,404          761
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 8.5%, 5/15/26                  460,743          480
</TABLE>
 
                                       --
                                       16
<PAGE>
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Schedule of Investments
JUNE 30, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                 MARKET VALUE
BONDS (28.50%)                          PAR        (000'S)
- -------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                 <C>          <C>
FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AND AGENCIES (CONTINUED)
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 8.5%, 6/15/24              $    19,950  $        21
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 8.5%, 7/15/21                  143,905          151
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 8.5%, 7/15/24                  183,152          191
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 8.5%, 7/15/24                  183,547          191
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 8.5%, 8/15/24                  155,827          163
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 8.5%, 9/15/22                   14,240           15
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 8.5%, 9/15/22                  182,563          191
Government National Mortgage
 Assoc., 8.5%, 9/15/24                  268,049          280
U.S. Teasury, 6.375%, 5/15/99        53,100,000       53,366
U.S. Teasury, 6.625%, 2/15/27        18,500,000       18,095
U.S. Teasury, 6.75%, 8/15/26         24,850,000       24,586
U.S. Teasury, 7%, 7/15/06             1,950,000        2,006
                                                 ------------
    TOTAL                                            320,677
                                                 ------------
    TOTAL GOVERNMENT BONDS                           343,891
                                                 ------------
MORTGAGE/ASSET BACKED SECURITIES (4.55%)
AUTO-RELATED (1.13%)
Eaglemark Trust, 6.75%, 11/15/02
 (144a)                             $ 6,513,006  $     6,576
Team Fleet Financing Corporation,
 6.65%, 12/15/02 (144a)              11,800,000       11,686
Team Fleet Financing Corporation,
 7.35%, 5/15/03 (144a)                3,000,000        3,043
CIT RV Owner Trust, 6.25%, 1/15/11    3,631,565        3,636
Daimler-Benz Vehicle Trust, 5.85%,
 7/20/03                              3,593,862        3,594
                                                 ------------
                                                      28,535
                                                 ------------
CREDIT CARD (0.20%)
Charming Shoppes Master Trust, 7%,
 4/15/03                              5,000,000        5,064
                                                 ------------
MANUFACTURED HOUSING (0.10%)
Vanderbilt Mortgage and Finance,
 Inc., 7.19%, 5/7/2005                2,500,000        2,517
                                                 ------------
COMMERCIAL MORTGAGES (2.62%)
Asset Securitization Corporation,
 1.257%, 11/13/26 IO                 29,311,815        1,310
Chase Commerical Mortgage
 Securities Corp., 7.37%, 6/19/29     2,000,000        2,007
Credit Suisee First Boston
 Mortgage Securities Corp.,
 9.5914%, 4/25/25 (144a)              2,047,000        2,257
<CAPTION>
                                                 MARKET VALUE
BONDS (28.50%)                          PAR        (000'S)
- -------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                 <C>          <C>
COMMERCIAL MORTGAGES (CONTINUED)
Credit Suisse First Boston
 Mortgage Securities Corp., 7.26%,
 6/20/29 (144a)                     $ 3,250,000  $     3,287
Credit Suisse First Boston
 Mortgage Securities Corp., 7.28%,
 6/20/29 (144a)                       3,250,000        3,278
Credit Suisse First Boston
 Mortgage Securities Corp., 7.46%,
 6/20/29 (144a)                       6,000,000        6,053
First Union-Lehman Brothers
 Commerical Mortgage Trust, 7.44%,
 4/18/07                              2,500,000        2,541
First Union-Lehman Brothers
 Commerical Mortgage Trust,
 1.307%, 4/18/27 IO                  40,000,000        3,169
GMAC Commerical Mortgage
 Securities, Inc., 7.81%, 5/1/06
 (144a)                               7,000,000        7,210
+Kmart CMBS Financing, Inc.,
 6.391%, 03/01/07 (144a)              3,500,000        3,510
+Kmart CMBS Financing, Inc.,
 6.791%, 03/01/07 (144a)              4,500,000        4,513
LB Commercial Conduit Mortgage
 Trust, 1.248%, 10/25/26 IO         129,210,496        8,528
Merrill Lynch Mortgage Investors,
 Inc., 7.12%, 6/18/29                 6,000,000        5,974
Merrill Lynch Mortgage Investors,
 Inc., 8.858%, 6/18/29                5,845,000        6,061
Merrill Lynch Mortgage Investors,
 Inc., 8.154%, 6/18/29 (144a)         2,000,000        2,016
Midland Realty Acceptance Corp.,
 1.389%, 1/25/29 (144a) IO           29,533,244        2,333
NationsBank Lease Pass Thru Trust,
 7.442%, 1/10/11 (144a)               2,000,000        2,014
                                                 ------------
                                                      66,061
                                                 ------------
RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGES (0.49%)
BCF L L C Mortgage Pass Thru
 Certificate, 7.75%, 3/25/37
 (144a)                               4,981,218        4,863
Rural Housing Trust, 6.33%, 4/1/26    7,696,945        7,474
                                                 ------------
                                                      12,337
                                                 ------------
    TOTAL MORTGAGE/ASSET BACKED
     SECURITIES                                      114,514
                                                 ------------
MUNICIPAL BONDS (0.19%)
New Jersey Economic Development
 Authority, 0.00%, 2/15/25           20,000,000        2,607
</TABLE>
 
                                       --
                                       17
<PAGE>
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Schedule of Investments
JUNE 30, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                 MARKET VALUE
BONDS (28.50%)                          PAR        (000'S)
- -------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                 <C>          <C>
MUNICIPAL BONDS (CONTINUED)
New Jersey Economic Development
 Authority, 7.425%, 2/15/29         $ 2,250,000  $     2,268
                                                 ------------
    TOTAL MUNICIPAL BONDS                              4,875
                                                 ------------
    TOTAL BONDS                                  $   717,435
                                                 ------------
<CAPTION>
 
                                                 MARKET VALUE
COMMON STOCK (55.36%)                 SHARES       (000'S)
- -------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                 <C>          <C>
BASIC MATERIALS (2.87%)
Air Products & Chemicals, Inc.           22,900        1,861
Alcan Aluminium Limited                  46,300        1,606
Allegheny Teledyne Inc.                  35,662          963
Aluminum Co. of America                  35,500        2,676
*Armco Inc.                              21,800           84
ASARCO, Inc.                              8,800          270
Avery Dennison Corp.                     21,300          855
B.F. Goodrich Company                    11,000          476
Barrick Gold Corporation                 73,100        1,608
Battle Mountain Gold Company             45,900          261
*Bethlehem Steel Corporation             22,800          238
Boise Cascade Corporation                 9,900          350
Champion International                   19,500        1,077
Cyprus Minerals Co.                      19,100          468
Dow Chemical Company                     49,700        4,330
E.I. du Pont de Nemours & Co.           230,400       14,486
Eastman Chemical Company                 15,875        1,008
Echo Bay Mines Limited Co.               28,500          164
Ecolab, Inc.                             13,200          630
Engelhard Corp.                          29,400          616
*FMC Corporation                          7,600          604
Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold
 Inc.                                    39,500        1,229
Georgia Pacific Corp.                    18,700        1,597
Great Lakes Chemical                     12,300          644
Hercules Incorporated                    20,900        1,001
Homestake Mining Company                 30,000          392
Inco Limited                             34,400        1,034
Inland Steel Industries, Inc.            10,000          261
International Flavors &
 Fragrances, Inc.                        22,600        1,141
International Paper Company              61,400        2,982
James River Corp. of Virginia            17,600          651
Louisiana-Pacific Corporation            22,200          469
Mead Corp.                               10,700          666
Monsanto Company                        120,300        5,180
Morton International, Inc.               29,100          878
Nalco Chemical Company                   13,800          533
Newmont Mining Corporation               31,930        1,245
Nucor Corp.                              17,900        1,011
Phelps Dodge Corporation                 13,300        1,133
<CAPTION>
                                                 MARKET VALUE
COMMON STOCK (55.36%)                 SHARES       (000'S)
- -------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                 <C>          <C>
BASIC MATERIALS (CONTINUED)
Placer Dome Incorporated                 49,000  $       802
Potlatch Corporation                      5,900          267
PPG Industries Inc.                      37,500        2,180
Praxair                                  32,000        1,792
Reynolds Metals Company                  14,900        1,062
Rohm & Haas Company                      13,100        1,180
Sigma-Aldrich Corp.                      20,500          719
Stone Container Corporation              20,300          291
Union Camp Corporation                   14,200          710
Union Carbide Corporation                26,100        1,228
USX-Marathon Group                       17,300          607
W.R. Grace & Co.                         14,900          821
Westvaco Corporation                     20,850          655
Weyerhaeuser Company                     40,600        2,111
Willamette Industries Inc.               11,300          791
Worthington Industries                   19,700          361
                                                 ------------
    TOTAL                                             72,255
                                                 ------------
CAPITAL GOODS (4.72%)
Aeroquip-Vickers Inc.                     5,700          269
AMP Incorporated                         44,936        1,876
*AutoZone, Inc.                          30,800          726
Boeing Company                          146,598        7,779
Briggs & Stratton Corporation             5,200          260
Browning-Ferris Industries Inc.          43,600        1,450
Case Corporation                         15,000        1,033
Caterpillar Inc.                         39,200        4,209
Centex Corporation                        5,900          240
Cincinnati Milacron Inc.                  8,100          210
Cooper Industries, Inc.                  24,200        1,204
Crane Co.                                 9,450          395
Cummins Engine Company, Inc.              8,100          572
Deere & Company                          52,400        2,875
Dover Corporation                        23,000        1,415
Emerson Electric Co.                     91,500        5,038
Fluor Corporation                        17,200          949
Foster Wheeler Corporation                8,300          336
General Dynamics Corporation             12,900          968
General Electric Company                673,700       44,043
General Signal Corporation               10,200          445
Giddings & Lewis Company                  6,800          142
Harnischfeger Industries, Inc.           10,100          419
Honeywell Inc.                           25,900        1,965
Illinois Tool Works Inc.                 50,700        2,532
Ingersoll-Rand Company                   22,400        1,383
Johnson Controls Inc.                    17,000          698
Kaufman & Broad Home Corp.                7,900          139
Laidlaw Transportation Limited           64,200          887
Lockheed Martin Corporation              39,461        4,087
Masco Corporation                        32,800        1,369
McDermott International, Inc.            11,200  $       327
McDonnell Douglas Corporation            43,400        2,973
</TABLE>
 
                                       --
                                       18
<PAGE>
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Schedule of Investments
JUNE 30, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                 MARKET VALUE
COMMON STOCK (55.36%)                 SHARES       (000'S)
- -------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                 <C>          <C>
CAPITAL GOODS (CONTINUED)
Millipore Corp.                           8,900  $       392
Moore Corporation Ltd.                   20,400          402
NACCO Industries, Inc.                    1,700           96
Northrop Grumman Corporation             11,800        1,036
Owens-Corning Fiberglas Corp.            10,600          457
Pall Corporation                         25,766          599
Parker-Hannifin Corporation              15,200          922
Pitney Bowes Inc.                        30,400        2,113
Pulte Corporation                         4,300          149
Raychem Corp.                             9,100          677
Rockwell International Corporation       44,800        2,643
Safety-Kleen Corp.                       11,900          201
*Thermo Electron Corporation             30,500        1,037
Thomas & Betts Corporation               10,900          573
Timken Company                           12,800          455
TRW, Inc.                                26,000        1,477
Tyco International Ltd.                  34,100        2,372
United Technologies Corp.                48,600        4,034
Waste Management Inc.                    92,700        2,978
Westinghouse Electric Corp.             130,000        3,006
                                                 ------------
    TOTAL                                            118,832
                                                 ------------
COMMUNICATION SERVICES (3.38%)
*Airtouch Communications Inc.           102,600        2,809
ALLTEL Corporation                       38,300        1,281
Ameritech Corporation                   112,400        7,636
AT&T Corporation                        331,500       11,623
Bell Atlantic Corporation                89,600        6,798
Bellsouth Corporation                   202,800        9,405
Frontier Corporation                     33,500          668
GTE Corporation                         196,800        8,635
MCI Communications Corporation          140,100        5,363
NYNEX Corp.                              90,000        5,186
SBC Communications Incorporated         187,587       11,607
Sprint Corporation                       88,100        4,636
U S WEST Communications Group            98,100        3,697
*WorldCom Inc.                          177,100        5,667
                                                 ------------
    TOTAL                                             85,011
                                                 ------------
CONSUMER CYCLICAL (5.91%)
American Greetings Corp.                 15,300          568
Armstrong World Industries Inc.           8,400          616
Black & Decker Corporation               19,300          718
Brunswick Corporation                    20,100          628
*Charming Shoppes Incorporated           21,600          113
Chrysler Corporation                    143,700        4,715
Circuit City Stores, Inc.                20,100          715
Cooper Tire & Rubber Company             16,200          356
*Costco Companies, Inc.                  42,951        1,412
<CAPTION>
                                                 MARKET VALUE
COMMON STOCK (55.36%)                 SHARES       (000'S)
- -------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                 <C>          <C>
CONSUMER CYCLICAL (CONTINUED)
*CUC International Inc.                  81,175  $     2,095
CVS Corporation                          34,100        1,748
Dana Corporation                         20,800          790
Darden Restaurants Inc.                  32,700          296
Dayton Hudson Corporation                44,400        2,362
Deluxe Corp.                             16,900          577
Dillards Inc Cl A                        23,200          803
Dow Jones & Company, Inc.                19,800          796
Dun & Bradstreet Corporation             34,800          914
Eaton Corporation                        15,800        1,380
Echlin Inc.                              12,800          461
*Federated Department Stores, Inc.       42,500        1,477
Fleetwood Enterprises, Inc.               7,300          218
Ford Motor Company                      242,500        9,154
*Fruit Of The Loom, Incorporated         15,700          487
Gannett Company Inc.                     28,800        2,844
General Motors Corp.                    154,700        8,615
Genuine Parts Company                    36,975        1,253
Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company           31,800        2,013
Harcourt General                         14,600          695
*Harrahs Entertainment                   21,000          383
Hasbro Inc.                              26,450          751
*HFS Incorporated                        32,200        1,868
Hilton Hotels Corporation                50,600        1,344
Home Depot, Inc.                         98,266        6,774
*ITT Corp.                               23,800        1,453
ITT Industries Inc.                      24,200          623
J.C. Penney Company Inc.                 50,500        2,635
John H. Harland Company                   6,300          144
Jostens, Inc.                             7,900          211
*K Mart Corporation                      99,100        1,214
*King World Productions, Inc.             7,600          266
Knight-Ridder Inc.                       19,200          942
Liz Claiborne, Inc.                      14,600          681
Longs Drug Stores Corp.                   8,000          210
Lowe's Companies, Inc.                   35,400        1,314
Marriott International                   26,200        1,608
Mattel, Inc.                             59,060        2,001
May Department Stores Company            50,100        2,367
Maytag Corporation                       20,500          536
McDonald's Corporation                  142,700        6,894
McGraw-Hill Companies Inc.               20,400        1,200
Mercantile Stores Company                 7,500          472
Meredith Corporation                     11,000          319
National Service Industries, Inc.         9,300          453
*Navistar International Corp.            14,970          258
New York Times Company                   19,800          980
Newell Co.                               32,500        1,288
Nike, Inc.                               59,000        3,444
Nordstrom, Inc.                          16,400          805
</TABLE>
 
                                       --
                                       19
<PAGE>
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Schedule of Investments
JUNE 30, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                 MARKET VALUE
COMMON STOCK (55.36%)                 SHARES       (000'S)
- -------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                 <C>          <C>
CONSUMER CYCLICAL (CONTINUED)
PACCAR Incorporated                      15,890  $       738
Pep Boys - Manny, Moe & Jack             12,400          422
R.R. Donnelley & Sons Company            30,900        1,132
Reebok International Ltd.                11,400          533
Rite Aid Corporation                     25,100        1,252
Rubbermaid, Inc.                         30,600          910
Russell Corp.                             7,800          231
Sears Roebuck & Co.                      80,100        4,305
Sherwin-Williams Company                 35,100        1,084
Snap-On Incorporated                     12,450          490
Springs Industries, Inc.                  4,100          216
Stride Rite Corp.                        10,100          130
Tandy Corporation                        11,100          622
The Gap, Inc.                            57,100        2,220
The Limited, Inc.                        55,400        1,122
The Stanley Works                        18,200          728
Times Mirror Company                     19,100        1,055
TJX Companies, Inc.                      31,800          839
*Toys "R" Us                             59,400        2,079
Tribune Company                          25,200        1,211
VF Corporation                           13,000        1,107
*Viacom Incorporated                     72,356        2,171
Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.                   469,300       15,868
Walgreen Company                         50,400        2,703
Walt Disney Company                     138,136       11,085
Wendys International, Inc.               26,500          687
Whirlpool Corporation                    15,200          829
*Woolworth Corp.                         27,400          658
                                                 ------------
    TOTAL                                            148,684
                                                 ------------
CONSUMER STAPLES (7.48%)
Adolph Coors Co.                          7,800          208
Alberto-Culver Company                   11,400          319
Albertson's, Inc.                        51,400        1,876
American Stores Co.                      29,800        1,471
Anheuser Busch Companies, Inc.          102,200        4,286
Archer Daniels Midland Company          111,118        2,611
Avon Products, Inc.                      27,200        1,919
Ball Corporation                          6,200          186
Bemis Company, Inc.                      10,700          463
Brown-Forman Corp.                       14,100          688
Campbell Soup Company                    95,600        4,780
Cardinal Health Inc.                     22,300        1,277
Clorox Company                           10,600        1,399
Colgate-Palmolive Co.                    60,100        3,922
Comcast Corp.                            66,750        1,427
Conagra Inc.                             49,100        3,149
CPC International Corp.                  29,400        2,714
Crown Cork & Seal Company, Inc.          26,200        1,400
Fleming Companies, Inc.                   7,700          139
Fortune Brands, Inc.                     34,800        1,298
General Mills, Inc.                      33,000        2,149
<CAPTION>
                                                 MARKET VALUE
COMMON STOCK (55.36%)                 SHARES       (000'S)
- -------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                 <C>          <C>
CONSUMER STAPLES (CONTINUED)
Giant Food Inc.                          12,200  $       398
Gillette Company                        113,500       10,754
Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea Co.,
 Inc.                                     7,800          212
H.J.Heinz Company                        75,350        3,476
Hershey Foods Corp.                      31,400        1,737
Kellogg Company                          43,100        3,690
Kimberly-Clark Corporation              115,632        5,753
Pepsico Inc.                            317,800       11,937
Philip Morris Companies, Inc.           499,900       22,183
Pioneer Hi-Bred International            16,900        1,352
Procter & Gamble Company                139,000       19,634
Quaker Oats Company                      27,800        1,248
Ralston Purina Group                     21,800        1,792
Sara Lee Corporation                     98,400        4,096
Seagram Company Ltd.                     75,900        3,055
Supervalu Inc.                           13,700          473
Sysco Corporation                        36,100        1,318
*Tele Communications, Inc.              135,800        2,020
The Coca-Cola Company                   509,100       34,364
*The Kroger Company                      51,600        1,496
Time Warner Inc.                        116,300        5,611
Tupperware Corporation                   12,700          464
*U S West Media Group                   127,800        2,588
Unilever, N.V.                           32,700        7,118
UST Incorporated                         38,100        1,057
Winn-Dixie Stores, Inc.                  30,700        1,144
Wm. Wrigley Jr. Company                  23,800        1,595
                                                 ------------
    TOTAL                                            188,246
                                                 ------------
ENERGY (4.88%)
Amerada Hess Corporation                 19,100        1,061
Amoco Company                           101,700        8,842
Ashland, Inc.                            15,200          705
Atlantic Richfield Company               65,900        4,646
Baker Hughes Inc.                        29,800        1,153
Burlington Resource Inc.                 25,600        1,130
Chevron Corp.                           133,500        9,871
Dresser Industries, Inc.                 36,000        1,341
Exxon Corporation                       508,100       31,248
Halliburton Company                      25,600        2,029
Helmerich & Payne, Inc.                   5,100          294
Kerr-McGee Corporation                    9,900          627
Louisiana Land & Exploration Co.          7,000          400
Mobil Corporation                       161,200       11,264
Occidental Petroleum Corporation         67,300        1,687
*ORYX Energy Company                     21,400          452
Pennzoil Company                          9,500          729
Phillips Petroleum Company               53,800        2,354
*Rowan Companies, Inc.                   17,500          493
Royal Dutch Petroleum Co., ADR          438,800       23,860
*Santa Fe Energy Resources, Inc.         20,400          300
</TABLE>
 
                                       --
                                       20
<PAGE>
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Schedule of Investments
JUNE 30, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                 MARKET VALUE
COMMON STOCK (55.36%)                 SHARES       (000'S)
- -------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                 <C>          <C>
ENERGY (CONTINUED)
Schlumberger Limited                     50,400  $     6,300
Sun Company, Inc.                        14,900          462
Texaco Inc.                              54,100        5,883
Union Pacific Resource Group             51,058        1,270
Unocal Corp.                             51,200        1,987
USX-Marathon Group                       58,800        1,698
*Western Atlas International, Inc.       11,000          806
                                                 ------------
    TOTAL                                            122,892
                                                 ------------
FINANCE (8.44%)
Allstate Corporation                     90,947        6,639
American Express Company                 97,000        7,227
American General Corporation             49,403        2,359
American International Group, Inc.       96,050       14,347
Aon Corporation                          33,250        1,721
Banc One Corporation                     87,410        4,234
Bank of New York Company Inc.            80,200        3,489
BankAmerica Corporation                 146,800        9,478
BankBoston Corporation                   31,300        2,256
Bankers Trust New York Corporation       16,700        1,453
Barnett Banks Inc.                       42,700        2,242
Beneficial Corporation                   11,100          789
Charles Schwab Corporation               35,800        1,457
Chase Manhattan Corporation              89,824        8,719
CIGNA Corporation                        15,400        2,734
Citicorp                                 94,800       11,429
Comerica, Inc.                           22,000        1,496
Conseco Inc.                             39,000        1,443
Corestates Financial Corp.               45,700        2,456
Countrywide Credit Industries,
 Inc.                                    21,400          667
Equifax, Inc.                            30,900        1,149
Fannie Mae                              223,400        9,746
Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp.        146,300        5,029
Fifth Third Bancorp                      21,700        1,781
First Bank System Inc.                   27,500        2,348
First Chicago NBD Corporation            65,205        3,945
First Union Corporation                  58,005        5,365
Fleet Financial Group Inc.               53,719        3,398
General Re Corporation                   16,800        3,058
Golden West Financial Corporation        11,700          819
Great Western Financial
 Corporation                             28,200        1,516
Green Tree Financial Corporation         28,100        1,001
H.F. Ahmanson & Company                  21,600          929
Hartford Financial Services Group
 Inc.                                    24,000        1,986
Household International, Inc.            19,800        2,325
<CAPTION>
                                                 MARKET VALUE
COMMON STOCK (55.36%)                 SHARES       (000'S)
- -------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                 <C>          <C>
FINANCE (CONTINUED)
J.P. Morgan & Company, Inc.              37,900  $     3,956
Jefferson-Pilot Corp.                    14,450        1,010
KeyCorp                                  46,100        2,576
Lincoln National Corporation             21,300        1,371
Loews Corp.                              23,500        2,353
Marsh & McLennan Companies Inc.          33,400        2,384
MBIA Incorporated                         8,800          993
MBNA Corp.                               68,337        2,503
Mellon Bank Corporation                  53,000        2,392
Merrill Lynch & Co.                      67,400        4,019
MGIC Investment Corp.                    24,100        1,155
Morgan Stanley, Dean Witter,
 Discover & Co.                         117,280        5,050
National City Corp.                      45,700        2,399
NationsBank Corp.                       149,422        9,638
Norwest Corporation                      75,800        4,264
PNC Bank Corp.                           68,600        2,855
*Providian Financial Corporation         38,400        1,234
Republic New York Corporation            11,300        1,215
SAFECO Inc.                              25,800        1,205
Salomon Inc.                             22,300        1,240
St. Paul Companies, Inc.                 17,000        1,296
Suntrust Banks Inc.                      45,600        2,511
The Chubb Corporation                    35,600        2,381
Torchmark Corporation                    14,400        1,026
Transamerica Corporation                 13,600        1,272
Travelers Group Inc.                    130,725        8,244
UNUM Corporation                         29,900        1,256
US Bancorp of Oregon                     30,900        1,981
USF&G Corp.                              23,700          569
Wachovia Corporation                     33,800        1,971
Wells Fargo & Company                    18,966        5,111
                                                 ------------
    TOTAL                                            212,460
                                                 ------------
HEALTHCARE (6.39%)
Abbott Laboratories Inc.                158,900       10,607
Aetna Inc.                               30,893        3,163
Allergan Incorporated                    13,400          426
*Alza Corp.                              17,300          502
American Home Products                  130,700        9,999
*Amgen Inc.                              54,100        3,145
Bausch & Lomb Inc.                       11,400          537
Baxter International Inc.                55,800        2,916
Becton, Dickinson & Company              25,200        1,276
*Beverly Enterprises, Inc.               20,300          330
Biomet, Inc.                             23,400          436
*Boston Scientific Corp.                 39,700        2,439
Bristol-Myers Squibb Company            204,900       16,597
C.R. Bard, Inc.                          11,700          425
Columbia/HCA Healthcare
 Corporation                            137,350        5,400
</TABLE>
 
                                       --
                                       21
<PAGE>
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Schedule of Investments
JUNE 30, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                 MARKET VALUE
COMMON STOCK (55.36%)                 SHARES       (000'S)
- -------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                 <C>          <C>
HEALTHCARE (CONTINUED)
Eli Lilly & Company                     112,900  $    12,341
Guidant Corp.                            15,200        1,292
*HEALTHSOUTH Corporation                 70,200        1,751
*Humana, Inc.                            33,300          770
Johnson & Johnson                       272,500       17,542
Mallinckrodt Group                       15,100          574
Manor Care, Inc.                         12,900          421
Medtronic, Incorporated                  49,100        3,977
Merck & Co., Inc.                       246,600       25,523
Pfizer Inc.                             131,900       15,762
Pharmacia & Upjohn Inc.                 103,930        3,612
Schering-Plough Corporation             151,100        7,234
*St. Jude Medical, Inc.                  18,650          727
*Tenet Healthcare Corp.                  61,600        1,821
U.S. Surgical Corporation                14,300          533
United Healthcare Corp.                  37,700        1,960
Warner-Lambert Company                   55,500        6,896
                                                 ------------
    TOTAL                                            160,934
                                                 ------------
MISCELLANEOUS (1.00%)
Allied Signal Inc.                       57,900        4,864
Cognizant Corp.                          34,800        1,409
Corning Inc.                             46,800        2,603
H & R Block, Inc.                        21,300          687
Interpublic Group Cos. Inc.              16,600        1,018
Minnesota Mining & Manufacturing
 Co.                                     85,500        8,721
Service Corporation International        48,200        1,585
Tenneco Inc.                             34,900        1,577
Textron Inc.                             33,800        2,243
Whitman Education Group Inc.             21,200          537
                                                 ------------
    TOTAL                                             25,244
                                                 ------------
TECHNOLOGY (7.84%)
*3COM Corporation                        67,900        3,056
Adobe Systems, Inc.                      14,700          515
*Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.            27,900        1,004
*Amdahl Corporation                      24,800          217
*Andrew Corporation                      18,562          522
*Apple Computer, Inc.                    25,500          363
*Applied Materials Inc.                  37,000        2,620
Autodesk, Inc.                            9,800          375
Automatic Data Processing, Inc.          59,800        2,811
*Bay Networks                            40,400        1,073
*Cabletron Systems Inc.                  31,900          903
*Ceridian Corp.                          16,400          693
*Cisco Systems Incorporated             134,500        9,028
*Compaq Computer Corporation             55,400        5,498
Computer Associates International
 Inc.                                    74,275        4,136
*Computer Sciences Corp.                 15,600        1,125
*Data General Corporation                 8,200          213
*Dell Computer Corp.                     35,800        4,204
<CAPTION>
                                                 MARKET VALUE
COMMON STOCK (55.36%)                 SHARES       (000'S)
- -------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                 <C>          <C>
TECHNOLOGY (CONTINUED)
*Digital Equipment Corporation           32,200  $     1,141
*DSC Communications Corp.                24,000          534
Eastman Kodak Company                    68,200        5,234
EG&G, Inc.                                9,700          218
*EMC Corporation                         50,300        1,962
First Data Corporation                   91,600        4,025
*General Instrument Corp.                28,000          700
Harris Corporation                        8,000          672
Hewlett-Packard Company                 207,500       11,620
Ikon Office Solutions, Inc.              27,600          688
Intel Corp.                             167,900       23,810
*Intergraph Corp.                         9,700           82
International Business Machines
 Corp.                                  211,800       19,102
*LSI Logic Corp.                         28,700          918
Lucent Technologies Inc.                130,543        9,407
*Micron Technology                       42,900        1,713
*Microsoft Corporation                  246,200       31,114
Motorola, Inc.                          121,300        9,219
*National Semiconductor
 Corporation                             28,500          873
Northern Telecom Limited                 52,900        4,814
*Novell, Inc.                            70,700          490
*Oracle Corporation                     138,300        6,967
*Parametric Technology Company           26,100        1,111
Perkin-Elmer Corporation                  8,900          708
Polaroid Corporation                      9,300          516
Raytheon Company                         48,300        2,463
Scientific-Atlanta, Inc.                 15,800          346
*Seagate Technology Inc.                 50,600        1,780
Shared Medical Systems Corp.              5,100          275
*Silicon Graphics                        36,000          540
*Sun Microsystems Inc.                   75,300        2,803
*Tandem Computers Inc.                   24,300          492
Tektronix, Inc.                           6,800          408
*Tellabs Inc.                            36,700        2,051
Temple-Inland Inc.                       11,300          610
Texas Instruments Incorporated           39,000        3,278
*Unisys Corporation                      35,800          273
W.W. Grainger, Inc.                      10,900          852
Xerox Corporation                        66,400        5,237
                                                 ------------
    TOTAL                                            197,402
                                                 ------------
TRANSPORTATION (0.71%)
*AMR Corporation                         18,600        1,721
Burlington Northern Santa Fe Co.         31,333        2,816
Caliber System, Inc.                      8,000          298
CSX Corporation                          44,400        2,464
Delta Air Lines Inc.                     15,000        1,230
*Federal Express Corp.                   23,300        1,346
Norfolk Southern Corporation             25,600        2,579
Ryder System, Inc.                       15,500          512
</TABLE>
 
                                       --
                                       22
<PAGE>
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Schedule of Investments
JUNE 30, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                 MARKET VALUE
COMMON STOCK (55.36%)                 SHARES       (000'S)
- -------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                 <C>          <C>
TRANSPORTATION (CONTINUED)
Southwest Airlines Co.                   29,700  $       768
Union Pacific Corporation                50,100        3,532
*USAir Group, Inc,                       16,100          564
                                                 ------------
    TOTAL                                             17,830
                                                 ------------
UTILITIES (1.73%)
American Electric Power Co. Inc.         38,300        1,609
Baltimore Gas & Electric Co.             30,200          806
Carolina Power & Light Company           31,000        1,112
Central & South West Corporation         43,100          916
Cinergy Corporation                      32,305        1,125
Coastal Corp.                            21,500        1,144
Columbia Gas Systems Inc.                11,300          737
Consolidated Edison Co. of New
 York                                    48,100        1,416
Consolidated Natural Gas Company         19,400        1,044
Dominion Resources Inc.                  36,900        1,351
DTE Energy Company                       29,700          820
Duke Energy Corp.                        73,571        3,527
Eastern Enterprises                       4,200          146
Edison International                     83,900        2,087
Enron Corp.                              52,100        2,126
ENSERCH Corporation                      14,200          316
Entergy Corporation                      47,200        1,292
FPL Group, Inc.                          37,400        1,723
GPU, Inc.                                24,700          886
Houston Industries Incorporated          47,900        1,027
*Niagara Mohawk Power Corporation        29,500          253
Nicor Inc.                               10,200          366
Noram Energy Corporation                 30,500          465
Northern States Power Company            14,100          730
Ohio Edison Company                      31,200          681
ONEOK, Inc.                               5,600          180
P P & L Resources, Inc.                  33,200          662
Pacific Enterprises                      17,400          585
PacifiCorp                               60,300        1,327
PECO Energy Company                      45,500          956
Peoples Energy Corporation                7,200          270
PG&E Corp.                               84,300        2,044
Public Service Enterprise Group,
 Inc.                                    48,800        1,220
Sonat Inc.                               17,600          902
Southern Company                        137,800        3,014
Texas Utilities Company                  46,000        1,584
UNICOM Corp.                             44,100          981
Union Electric Company                   20,900          788
Williams Companies Inc.                  32,150        1,407
                                                 ------------
    TOTAL                                             43,625
                                                 ------------
    TOTAL COMMON STOCK                           $ 1,393,415
                                                 ------------
<CAPTION>
 
                                                 MARKET VALUE
MONEY MARKET INVESTMENTS (15.86%)       PAR        (000'S)
- -------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                 <C>          <C>
CHEMICALS & ALLIED PRODUCTS (0.99%)
American Home Products
 Corporation, 5.63%, 7/22/97         25,000,000  $    24,918
                                                 ------------
    TOTAL                                             24,918
                                                 ------------
FOOD AND KINDRED PRODUCTS (0.87%)
H.J.Heinz Company, 5.53%, 7/24/97    22,000,000       21,922
                                                 ------------
    TOTAL                                             21,922
                                                 ------------
GENERAL MERCHANDISE STORES (1.03%)
+ J.C. Penney Funding Corporation,
 5.51%, 7/7/97                       26,000,000       25,976
                                                 ------------
    TOTAL                                             25,976
                                                 ------------
GOVERNMENT (0.23%)
Government Trust Certificates -
 Greece, 8%, 5/15/98                    857,147          860
+U.S. Teasury, 5.08%, 9/4/97          5,000,000        4,954
                                                 ------------
    TOTAL                                              5,814
                                                 ------------
HOLDING AND OTHER INVESTMENT OFFICES (0.99%)
Cargill Incorporated, 5.52%,
 7/10/97                             25,000,000       24,966
                                                 ------------
    TOTAL                                             24,966
                                                 ------------
INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT (0.38%)
International Business Machines,
 5.3%, 1/13/97                        7,000,000        7,010
                                                 ------------
    TOTAL                                              7,010
                                                 ------------
NONDEPOSITORY INSTITUTIONS (11.74%)
American Express Credit Corp.,
 5.52%, 7/10/97                      25,000,000       24,966
+Asset Securitization Corporation,
 5.53%, 7/18/97                      26,900,000       26,830
Avco Financial Services Inc.,
 5.875%, 10/15/97                     6,800,000        6,800
+BAT Capital Corporation, 5.61%,
 7/17/97                             25,000,000       24,938
Beneficial Corporation, 6.86%,
 11/19/97                             7,800,000        7,832
Beneficial Corporation, 9.375%,
 7/28/97                              5,000,000        5,013
+Ford Motor Credit Company, 5.52%,
 7/23/97                             25,000,000       24,916
General Electric Capital Corp.,
 5.55%, 7/22/97                      25,000,000       24,919
General Motors Acceptance Corp.,
 5.57%, 8/6/97                       25,000,000       24,861
Household Finance Corporation,
 6.2%, 7/1/97                         3,100,000        3,100
IBM Credit Corporation, 5.56%,
 7/30/97                             21,700,000       21,603
International Securitization,
 5.6%, 7/21/97                       25,000,000       24,922
</TABLE>
 
                                       --
                                       23
<PAGE>
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Schedule of Investments
JUNE 30, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                 MARKET VALUE
MONEY MARKET INVESTMENTS (15.86%)       PAR        (000'S)
- -------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                 <C>          <C>
NONDEPOSITORY INSTITUTIONS (CONTINUED)
Philip Morris Capital Co. 5.54%,
 7/15/97                            $25,000,000  $    24,946
+Receivable Capital Trust, 5.56%,
 7/2/97                              25,000,000       24,996
Sears Roebuck Acceptance Corp.,
 5.55%, 7/16/97                      25,000,000       24,941
                                                 ------------
    TOTAL                                            295,583
                                                 ------------
    TOTAL MONEY MARKET INVESTMENTS               $   406,189
                                                 ------------
    TOTAL BALANCED PORTFOLIO                     $ 2,517,039
                                                 ------------
*Non-Income Producing.
+Partially held by the custodian in segregated account as
 collateral for open futures postions. Information regarding
 open futures contracts as of June 30, 1997 is summarized
 below:
</TABLE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     UNREALIZED
                      NUMBER OF                     DEPRECIATION
ISSUERS               CONTRACTS   EXPIRATION DATE      (000'S)
- --------------------  ----------  ----------------  -------------
<S>                   <C>         <C>               <C>
U.S. Treasury Bond        90       September 1997     $     (38)
S&P 500 Stock Index      100       September 1997     $  (1,023)
                                                    -------------
Total                                                 $  (1,061)
</TABLE>
 
    The Accompanying Notes are an Integral Part of the Financial Statements
                       (Prepared from Unaudited Figures)
 
                                       --
                                       24
<PAGE>
INDEX 500 STOCK PORTFOLIO
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
<TABLE>
<S>                              <C>                                              <C>
Objective:                       Portfolio Strategy:                              Net Assets:
Long-term capital appreciation   Invest in a portfolio designed to approximate    $979,419,459
through cost-effective           the composition and returns of the S&P 500
participation in broad market    Index.
performance
</TABLE>
 
INDEX 500 STOCK PORTFOLIO
 
The Index 500 Stock Portfolio is designed to achieve results that approximate
the performance of the Standard & Poor's 500 Composite Stock Price Index. This
composite of 500 stocks of large U.S.-based companies, compiled by Standard &
Poor's Corporation, is generally regarded as a good proxy for the overall U.S.
equity market; the Portfolio therefore enables contract owners to participate in
overall performance of the U.S. equity market. The Portfolio continues to
achieve the objective of matching the results of the S&P 500 before expenses.
 
     Performance Relative
     to S&P 500 Index
 
EDGAR REPRESENTATION OF DATA POINTS USED IN PRINTED GRAPHIC
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                       INDEX 500 PORTFOLIO         S&P 500 INDEX
<S>                               <C>                             <C>              <C>
6/30/87                                                   10,000           10,000
6/30/88                                                    9,655            9,290
6/30/89                                                   10,575           11,167
6/30/90                                                   11,348           12,976
6/30/91                                                   12,425           13,923
6/30/92                                                   13,618           15,788
6/30/93                                                   15,309           17,936
6/30/94                                                   15,459           18,169
6/30/95                                                   19,464           22,875
6/30/96                                                   24,504           28,799
6/30/97                                                   32,942           38,755
Actively managed prior to
4/30/93
Indexed on 4/30/93
                                     Average Annual Total Return
                                      For Periods Ended June 30,
                                                            1997
                                                        One Year       Five Years   Ten Years
Index 500 Stock Portfolio                                 34.44%           19.32%      12.66%
S&P 500 Index                                             34.57%           19.67%      14.51%
</TABLE>
 
On April 30, 1993, the portfolio was indexed to approximate the performance of
the Standard & Poor's 500 Composite Stock Price Index. Before that date, the
portfolio was actively managed.
 
    The Standard & Poor's 500 Composite Stock Price Index is an unmanaged index
of 500 selected common stocks, most of which are listed on the New York Stock
Exchange. The index is heavily weighted toward stocks with large market
capitalizations and represents approximately two-thirds of the total market
value of all domestic common stocks.
 
    This chart assumes an initial investment of $10,000 made on 6/30/87. Returns
shown include deductions for management and other fund expenses, and
reinvestment of all dividends. Returns exclude deductions for separate account
sales loads and account fees. Past performance is not predictive of future
performance. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate, so that your
shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. The
total returns shown on page 2 reflect the deduction of charges for the separate
accounts.
 
                                       --
                                       25
<PAGE>
INDEX 500 STOCK PORTFOLIO
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Schedule of Investments
JUNE 30, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     MARKET
                                                      VALUE
COMMON STOCK (94.15%)                  SHARES        (000'S)
<S>                                <C>             <C>
- --------------------------------------------------------------
BASIC MATERIALS (4.96%)
Air Products & Chemicals, Inc.           15,100.00 $    1,227
Alcan Aluminum Limited                   30,600.00      1,061
Allegheny Teledyne Inc.                  23,635.00        638
Aluminum Co. of America                  23,500.00      1,771
*Armco Inc.                              13,800.00         53
ASARCO, Inc.                              5,800.00        178
Avery Dennison Corp.                     14,100.00        566
B.F. Goodrich Company                     7,300.00        316
Barrick Gold Corporation                 48,400.00      1,065
Battle Mountain Gold Company             30,400.00        173
*Bethlehem Steel Corporation             15,100.00        158
Boise Cascade Corporation                 6,600.00        233
Champion International                   12,900.00        713
Cyprus Minerals Co.                      12,650.00        310
Dow Chemical Company                     32,900.00      2,866
E.I. du Pont de Nemours & Co.           152,400.00      9,582
Eastman Chemical Company                 10,525.00        668
Echo Bay Mines Limited Co.               18,900.00        109
Ecolab, Inc.                              8,700.00        415
Engelhard Corp.                          19,500.00        408
*FMC Corporation                          5,000.00        397
Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold,
 Inc.                                    26,200.00        815
Georgia Pacific Corp.                    12,400.00      1,059
Great Lakes Chemical                      8,100.00        424
Hercules Incorporated                    13,900.00        665
Homestake Mining Company                 19,900.00        260
Inco Limited                             22,800.00        685
Inland Steel Industries, Inc.             6,600.00        172
International Flavors &
 Fragrances, Inc.                        14,900.00        752
International Paper Company              40,600.00      1,972
James River Corp. of Virginia            11,700.00        433
Louisiana Pacific Corporation            14,700.00        311
Mead Corp.                                7,100.00        442
Monsanto Company                         79,600.00      3,428
Morton International, Inc.               19,300.00        583
Nalco Chemical Company                    9,100.00        351
Newmont Mining Corporation               21,080.00        822
Nucor Corp.                              11,900.00        672
Phelps Dodge Corporation                  8,800.00        750
Placer Dome Incorporated                 32,400.00        531
Potlatch Corporation                      3,900.00        176
PPG Industries Inc.                      24,800.00      1,442
Praxair                                  21,200.00      1,187
Reynolds Metals Company                   9,800.00        698
Rohm & Haas Company                       8,700.00        784
Sigma-Aldrich Corp.                      13,500.00        473
Stone Container Corporation              13,400.00        192
Union Camp Corporation                    9,400.00        470
Union Carbide Corporation                17,200.00        809
 
<CAPTION>
                                                     MARKET
                                                      VALUE
COMMON STOCK (94.15%)                  SHARES        (000'S)
<S>                                <C>             <C>
- --------------------------------------------------------------
BASIC MATERIALS (CONTINUED)
 
USX-Marathon Group                       38,900.00 $    1,123
W.R. Grace & Co.                          9,800.00        540
Westvaco Corporation                     13,750.00        432
Weyerhaeuser Company                     26,800.00      1,394
Willamette Industries Inc.                7,500.00        525
Worthington Industries                   13,050.00        239
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                              48,518
                                                   -----------
CAPITAL GOODS (8.03%)
Aeroquip-Vickers Inc.                     3,800.00        180
AMP Incorporated                         29,772.00      1,243
*AutoZone, Inc.                          20,400.00        481
Boeing Company                           97,066.00      5,151
Briggs & Stratton Corporation             3,400.00        170
Browning-Ferris Industries Inc.          28,800.00        958
Case Corporation                          9,900.00        682
Caterpillar Inc.                         25,900.00      2,781
Centex Corporation                        3,900.00        158
Cincinnati Milacron Inc.                  5,400.00        140
Cooper Industries, Inc.                  16,000.00        796
Crane Co.                                 6,250.00        261
Cummins Engine Company, Inc.              5,300.00        374
Deere & Company                          34,600.00      1,899
Dover Corporation                        15,200.00        935
Emerson Electric Co.                     60,500.00      3,331
Fluor Corporation                        11,400.00        629
Foster Wheeler Corporation                5,500.00        223
General Dynamics Corporation              8,500.00        638
General Electric Company                445,800.00     29,144
General Signal Corporation                6,800.00        297
Giddings & Lewis Company                  4,300.00         90
Harnischfeger Industries, Inc.            6,700.00        278
Honeywell Inc.                           17,200.00      1,305
Illinois Tool Works Inc.                 33,500.00      1,673
Ingersoll-Rand Company                   14,800.00        914
Johnson Controls Inc.                    11,300.00        464
Kaufman & Broad Home Corp.                5,300.00         93
Laidlaw Transportation Limited           42,500.00        587
Lockheed Martin Corporation              26,054.00      2,698
Masco Corporation                        21,700.00        906
McDermott International, Inc.             7,400.00        216
McDonnell Douglas Corporation            28,700.00      1,966
Millipore Corp.                           5,900.00        260
Moore Corporation Ltd.                   12,900.00        254
NACCO Inddustries, Inc.                   1,100.00         62
Northrop Grumman Corporation              7,800.00        685
Owens Corning Fiberglas Corp.             7,000.00        302
Pall Corporation                         17,000.00        395
Parker-Hannifin Corporation              10,050.00        610
Pitney Bowes Inc.                        20,100.00      1,397
Pulte Corporation                         2,800.00         97
Raychem Corp.                             6,000.00        446
</TABLE>
 
                                       --
                                       26
<PAGE>
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Schedule of Investments
JUNE 30, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     MARKET
                                                      VALUE
COMMON STOCK (94.15%)                  SHARES        (000'S)
- --------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                <C>             <C>
CAPITAL GOODS (CONTINUED)
Rockwell International
 Corporation                             29,600.00 $    1,746
Safety-Kleen Corp.                        7,900.00        133
*Thermo Electron Corporation             20,200.00        687
Thomas & Betts Corporation                7,200.00        378
Timken Company                            8,500.00        302
TRW, Inc.                                17,200.00        977
Tyco International Ltd.                  22,600.00      1,572
United Technologies Corp.                32,100.00      2,664
Waste Management Inc.                    61,300.00      1,969
Westinghouse Electric Corp.              86,000.00      1,989
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                              78,586
                                                   -----------
COMMUNICATION SERVICES (5.75%)
*Airtouch Communications Inc.            67,900.00      1,859
ALLTEL Corporation                       25,300.00        846
Ameritech Corporation                    74,400.00      5,055
AT&T Corporation                        219,400.00      7,693
Bell Atlantic Corporation                59,300.00      4,499
Bellsouth Corporation                   134,200.00      6,224
Frontier Corporation                     22,200.00        443
GTE Corporation                         130,200.00      5,713
MCI Communications Corporation           92,700.00      3,549
NYNEX Corp.                              59,600.00      3,434
SBC Communications Incorporated         124,149.00      7,682
Sprint Corporation                       58,300.00      3,068
U S WEST Communications Group            64,900.00      2,446
*WorldCom Inc.                          117,200.00      3,750
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                              56,261
                                                   -----------
CONSUMER CYCLICAL (10.04%)
American Greetings Corp.                 10,100.00        375
Armstrong World Industries Inc.           5,600.00        411
Black & Decker Corporation               12,800.00        476
Brunswick Corporation                    13,300.00        416
*Charming Shoppes Incorporated           13,900.00         73
Chrysler Corporation                     95,100.00      3,120
Circuit City Stores, Inc.                13,300.00        473
Cooper Tire & Rubber Company             10,600.00        233
*Costco Companies, Inc.                  28,407.00        934
*CUC International Inc.                  53,725.00      1,387
CVS Corporation                          22,500.00      1,153
Dana Corporation                         13,800.00        524
Darden Restaurant Inc.                   21,600.00        196
Dayton Hudson Corporation                29,400.00      1,564
Deluxe Corp.                             11,200.00        382
Dillard Department Stores, Inc.          15,400.00        533
Dow Jones & Company, Inc.                13,100.00        526
Dun & Bradstreet Corporation             23,100.00        606
<CAPTION>
                                                     MARKET
                                                      VALUE
COMMON STOCK (94.15%)                  SHARES        (000'S)
<S>                                <C>             <C>
- --------------------------------------------------------------
CONSUMER CYCLICAL (CONTINUED)
Eaton Corporation                        10,400.00 $      908
Echlin Inc.                               8,400.00        302
*Federated Department Stores,
 Inc.                                    28,200.00        980
Fleetwood Enterprises, Inc.               4,800.00        143
Ford Motor Company                      160,500.00      6,059
*Fruit of the Loom, Incorporated         10,400.00        322
Gannet Company Inc.                      19,100.00      1,886
General Motors Corp.                    102,300.00      5,697
Genuine Parts Company                    24,500.00        830
Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company           21,000.00      1,330
Harcourt General                          9,600.00        457
*Harrahs Entertainment                   13,900.00        254
Hasbro Inc.                              17,550.00        498
*HFS Incorporated                        21,300.00      1,235
Hilton Hotels Corporation                33,500.00        890
Home Depot, Inc.                         64,999.00      4,481
*ITT Corp.                               15,800.00        965
ITT Industries Inc.                      16,000.00        412
J.C. Penney Company, Inc.                33,400.00      1,743
John H. Harland Company                   4,200.00         96
Jostens, Inc.                             5,200.00        139
*K Mart Corporation                      65,600.00        804
*King World Productions, Inc.             5,100.00        179
Knight-Ridder Inc.                       12,700.00        623
Liz Claiborne, Inc.                       9,700.00        452
Longs Drug Stores Corp.                   5,300.00        139
Lowe's Companies, Inc.                   23,400.00        869
Marriott International                   17,300.00      1,062
Mattel, Inc.                             39,088.00      1,324
May Department Stores Company            33,200.00      1,569
Maytag Corporation                       13,600.00        355
McDonald's Corporation                   94,500.00      4,566
McGraw-Hill Companies Inc.               13,500.00        794
Mercantile Stores Company                 5,000.00        315
Meredith Corporation                      7,200.00        209
National Service Industries, Inc.         6,100.00        297
*Navistar International Corp.             9,900.00        171
New York Times Company                   13,100.00        648
Newell Co.                               21,500.00        852
Nike, Inc.                               39,000.00      2,277
Nordstrom, Inc.                          10,900.00        535
Paccar Incorporated                      10,570.00        491
Pep Boys - Manny, Moe & Jack              8,200.00        279
R.R. Donnelley & Sons Company            20,400.00        747
Reebok International Ltd.                 7,500.00        351
Rite Aid Corporation                     16,600.00        828
Rubbermaid, Inc.                         20,300.00        604
Russell Corp.                             5,200.00        154
Sears, Roebuck & Co.                     53,000.00      2,849
</TABLE>
 
                                       --
                                       27
<PAGE>
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Schedule of Investments
JUNE 30, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     MARKET
                                                      VALUE
COMMON STOCK (94.15%)                  SHARES        (000'S)
- --------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                <C>             <C>
CONSUMER CYCLICAL (CONTINUED)
Sherwin-Williams Company                 23,200.00 $      716
Snap-On Incorporated                      8,250.00        325
Springs Industries, Inc.                  2,700.00        142
Stride Rite Corp.                         6,700.00         86
Tandy Corporation                         7,400.00        414
The Gap, Inc.                            37,800.00      1,469
The Limited Inc.                         36,700.00        743
The Stanley Works                        12,000.00        480
Times Mirror Company                     12,700.00        702
TJX Companies, Inc.                      21,000.00        554
*Toys "R" Us                             39,300.00      1,376
Tribune Company                          16,700.00        803
VF Corporation                            8,600.00        732
*Viacom Incorporated                     47,856.00      1,436
Wal-Mart Stores Inc.                    310,600.00     10,502
Walgreen Company                         33,300.00      1,786
Walt Disney Company                      91,369.00      7,332
Wendy's International, Inc.              17,500.00        454
Whirlpool Corporation                    10,100.00        551
*Woolworth Corp.                         18,100.00        434
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                              98,389
                                                   -----------
CONSUMER STAPLES (12.72%)
Adolph Coors Co.                          5,100.00        136
Alberto-Culver Company                    7,600.00        213
Albertson's, Inc.                        34,000.00      1,241
American Stores Co.                      19,700.00        973
Anheuser-Busch Companies, Inc.           67,600.00      2,835
Archer Daniels Midland Company           73,570.00      1,729
Avon Products, Inc.                      18,000.00      1,270
Ball Corporation                          4,100.00        123
Bemis Company, Inc.                       7,100.00        307
Brown-Forman Corp.                        9,300.00        454
Campbell Soup Company                    63,300.00      3,165
Cardinal Health Inc.                     14,700.00        842
Clorox Company                            7,000.00        924
Colgate-Palmolive Co.                    39,800.00      2,597
Comcast Corp.                            44,150.00        944
Conagra Inc.                             32,500.00      2,084
CPC International Corp.                  19,500.00      1,800
Crown Cork & Seal Company, Inc.          17,400.00        930
Fleming Companies, Inc.                   5,100.00         92
Fortune Brands, Inc.                     23,000.00        858
General Mills, Inc.                      21,900.00      1,426
Giant Food Inc.                           8,100.00        264
Gillette Company                         75,100.00      7,116
Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea Co.,
 Inc.                                     5,200.00        141
H.J. Heinz Company                       49,850.00      2,299
Hershey Foods Corp.                      20,800.00      1,151
<CAPTION>
                                                     MARKET
                                                      VALUE
COMMON STOCK (94.15%)                  SHARES        (000'S)
<S>                                <C>             <C>
- --------------------------------------------------------------
CONSUMER STAPLES (CONTINUED)
Kellogg Company                          28,500.00 $    2,440
Kimberly-Clark Corporation               76,544.00      3,808
Pepsico Inc.                            210,300.00      7,899
Philip Morris Companies, Inc.           330,800.00     14,679
Pioneer Hi-Bred International            11,200.00        896
Procter & Gamble Company                 92,000.00     12,995
Quaker Oats Company                      18,400.00        826
Ralston Purina Group                     14,400.00      1,184
Sara Lee Corporation                     65,100.00      2,710
Seagram Company Ltd.                     50,200.00      2,021
Supervalue Inc.                           9,100.00        314
Sysco Corporation                        23,900.00        872
*Tele Communications, Inc.               89,900.00      1,337
The Coca-Cola Company                   336,900.00     22,741
*The Kroger Company                      34,200.00        992
Time Warner Inc.                         77,000.00      3,715
Tupperware                                8,400.00        307
*U S West Media Group                    84,600.00      1,713
Unilever, N.V.                           21,700.00      4,715
UST Incorporated                         25,200.00        699
Winn-Dixie Stores, Inc.                  20,300.00        756
Wm. Wrigley Jr. Company                  15,700.00      1,052
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                             124,585
                                                   -----------
ENERGY (8.23%)
Amerada Hess Corporation                 12,600.00        700
Amoco Company                            67,300.00      5,851
Ashland, Inc.                            10,100.00        468
Atlantic Richfield Company               43,600.00      3,074
Baker Hughes Inc.                        19,700.00        762
Burlington Resource Inc.                 16,900.00        746
Chevron Corp.                            88,300.00      6,529
Dresser Industries, Inc.                 23,800.00        887
Exxon Corporation                       336,200.00     20,676
Halliburton Company                      17,000.00      1,347
Helmerich & Payne, Inc.                   3,400.00        196
Kerr-McGee Corporation                    6,600.00        418
Louisiana Land & Exploration Co.          4,600.00        263
Mobil Corporation                       106,600.00      7,449
Occidental Petroleum Corporation         44,500.00      1,115
*ORYX Energy Company                     14,200.00        300
Pennzoil Company                          6,300.00        484
Phillips Petroleum Company               35,600.00      1,558
*Rowan Companies, Inc.                   11,600.00        327
Royal Dutch Petroleum Co., ADR          290,400.00     15,791
*Santa Fe Energy Resources, Inc.         13,500.00        198
Schlumberger Limited                     33,300.00      4,163
Sun Company, Inc.                         9,900.00        307
Texaco Inc.                              35,800.00      3,893
Union Pacific Resource Group             33,792.00        841
</TABLE>
 
                                       --
                                       28
<PAGE>
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Schedule of Investments
JUNE 30, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     MARKET
                                                      VALUE
COMMON STOCK (94.15%)                  SHARES        (000'S)
- --------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                <C>             <C>
ENERGY (CONTINUED)
Unocal Corp.                             33,900.00 $    1,316
USX - U S Steel Group Inc.               11,500.00        403
*Western Atlas International Inc.         7,300.00        535
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                              80,597
                                                   -----------
FINANCE (14.35%)
Allstate Corporation                     60,214.00      4,396
American Express Company                 64,200.00      4,783
American General Corporation             32,725.00      1,563
American International Group,
 Inc.                                    63,550.00      9,493
Aon Corporation                          22,000.00      1,139
Banc One Corporation                     57,845.00      2,802
Bank of New York Company, Inc.           53,100.00      2,310
BankAmerica Corporation                  95,000.00      6,133
BankBoston Corporation                   20,700.00      1,492
Bankers Trust New York
 Corporation                             11,100.00        966
Barnett Banks Inc.                       28,300.00      1,486
Beneficial Corporation                    7,300.00        519
Charles Schwab Corporation               23,700.00        964
Chase Manhattan Corporation              59,456.00      5,771
CIGNA Corporation                        10,200.00      1,811
Citicorp                                 62,700.00      7,559
Comerica, Inc.                           14,500.00        986
Conseco Inc.                             25,800.00        955
Corestates Financial Corp.               30,300.00      1,629
Countrywide Credit Industries,
 Inc.                                    14,100.00        440
Equifax, Inc.                            20,500.00        762
Fannie Mae                              147,800.00      6,448
Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp.         96,800.00      3,328
Fifth Third Bancorp                      14,300.00      1,173
First Bank System Inc.                   18,200.00      1,554
First Chicago NBD Corporation            43,128.00      2,609
First Union Corporation                  38,435.00      3,555
Fleet Financial Group Inc.               35,530.00      2,247
General Re Corporation                   11,100.00      2,020
Golden West Financial Corporation         7,800.00        546
Great Western Financial
 Corporation                             18,600.00      1,000
Green Tree Financial Corporation         18,600.00        663
H.F. Ahmanson & Company                  14,300.00        615
Hartford Financial Services Group
 Inc.                                    15,900.00      1,316
Household International Inc.             13,100.00      1,538
J.P. Morgan & Company, Inc.              25,100.00      2,620
Jefferson-Pilot Corp.                     9,600.00        671
KeyCorp                                  30,500.00      1,704
Lincoln National Corporation             14,100.00        908
<CAPTION>
                                                     MARKET
                                                      VALUE
COMMON STOCK (94.15%)                  SHARES        (000'S)
<S>                                <C>             <C>
- --------------------------------------------------------------
FINANCE (CONTINUED)
Loews Corp.                              15,600.00 $    1,562
Marsh & McLennan Companies Inc.          22,200.00      1,585
MBIA Incorporated                         5,900.00        666
MBNA Corp.                               45,200.00      1,655
Mellon Bank Corporation                  35,000.00      1,579
Merrill Lynch & Co.                      44,600.00      2,659
MGIC Investment Corp.                    16,000.00        767
Morgan Stanley, Dean Witter,
 Discover & Co.                          77,605.00      3,342
National City Corp.                      30,200.00      1,586
NationsBank Corp.                        98,856.00      6,376
Norwest Corporation                      50,100.00      2,818
PNC Bank Corp.                           45,400.00      1,890
*Providian Financial Corporation         24,800.00        797
Republic New York Corporation             7,500.00        806
SAFECO Inc.                              17,100.00        798
Salomon Inc.                             14,800.00        823
St. Paul Companies, Inc.                 11,200.00        854
Suntrust Banks Inc.                      30,200.00      1,663
The Chubb Corporation                    23,600.00      1,578
Torchmark Corporation                     9,500.00        677
Transamerica Corporation                  9,000.00        842
Travelers Group Inc.                     86,465.00      5,453
UNUM Corporation                         19,800.00        832
US Bancorp of Oregon                     20,500.00      1,315
USF&G Corp.                              15,700.00        377
Wachovia Corporation                     22,400.00      1,306
Wells Fargo & Company                    12,533.00      3,378
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                             140,458
                                                   -----------
HEALTHCARE (10.88%)
Abbott Laboratories Inc.                105,200.00      7,022
Aetna Inc.                               20,463.00      2,095
Allergan Incorporated                     8,900.00        283
*Alza Corp.                              11,400.00        331
American Home Products
 Corporation                             86,500.00      6,617
*Amgen Inc.                              35,800.00      2,081
Bausch & Lomb Inc.                        7,500.00        353
Baxter International Inc.                37,000.00      1,933
Becton, Dickinson & Company              16,600.00        840
*Beverly Enterprises, Inc.               13,400.00        218
Biomet, Inc.                             15,500.00        289
*Boston Scientific Corp.                 26,300.00      1,616
Bristol-Myers Squibb Company            135,600.00     10,984
C.R. Bard, Inc.                           7,700.00        280
Columbia/HCA Healthcare
 Corporation                             90,900.00      3,574
Eli Lilly & Company                      74,700.00      8,166
Guidant Corp.                            10,000.00        850
*Healthsouth Corporation                 46,400.00      1,157
</TABLE>
 
                                       --
                                       29
<PAGE>
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Schedule of Investments
JUNE 30, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     MARKET
                                                      VALUE
COMMON STOCK (94.15%)                  SHARES        (000'S)
- --------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                <C>             <C>
HEALTHCARE (CONTINUED)
*Humana, Inc.                            22,000.00 $      509
Johnson & Johnson                       180,300.00     11,607
Mallinckrodt, Inc.                       10,000.00        380
Manor Care, Inc.                          8,500.00        277
Medtronic, Incorporated                  32,500.00      2,633
Merck & Co., Inc.                       163,200.00     16,891
Pfizer Inc.                              87,300.00     10,432
Pharmacia & Upjohn Inc.                  68,805.00      2,391
Schering-Plough Corporation             100,000.00      4,788
*St. Jude Medical, Inc.                  12,400.00        484
*Tenet Healthcare Corp.                  40,800.00      1,206
U.S. Surgical Corporation                 9,500.00        354
United Healthcare Corp.                  24,900.00      1,295
Warner-Lambert Company                   36,700.00      4,560
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                             106,496
                                                   -----------
MISCELLANEOUS (1.71%)
Allied Signal Inc.                       38,300.00      3,217
Cognizant Corp.                          23,100.00        936
Corning Inc.                             31,000.00      1,724
H & R Block, Inc.                        14,100.00        455
Interpublic Group of Cos. Inc.           11,000.00        674
Minnesota Mining & Manufacturing
 Co.                                     56,600.00      5,773
Service Corporation International        31,900.00      1,049
Tenneco Inc.                             23,100.00      1,044
Textron Inc.                             22,400.00      1,487
Whitman Corp.                            14,000.00        354
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                              16,713
                                                   -----------
TECHNOLOGY (13.34%)
*3COM Corporation                        44,900.00      2,021
Adobe Systems, Inc.                       9,700.00        340
*Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.            18,500.00        666
*Amdahl Corporation                      16,400.00        144
*Andrew Corporation                      12,337.00        347
*Apple Computer, Inc.                    16,900.00        241
*Applied Materials Inc.                  24,500.00      1,735
Autodesk, Inc.                            6,500.00        249
Automatic Data Processing, Inc.          39,500.00      1,857
*Bay Networks                            26,700.00        709
*Cabletron Systems Inc.                  21,100.00        597
*Ceridian Corp.                          10,900.00        461
*Cisco Systems Incorporated              89,000.00      5,974
*Compaq Computer Corporation             36,700.00      3,642
Computer Associates International
 Inc.                                    49,175.00      2,738
*Computer Sciences Corp.                 10,400.00        750
*Data General Corporation                 5,400.00        140
*Dell Computer Corp.                     23,700.00      2,783
*Digital Equiipment Corporation          21,300.00        755
*DSC Communications Corp.                15,900.00        354
Eastman Kodak Company                    45,100.00      3,461
<CAPTION>
                                                     MARKET
                                                      VALUE
COMMON STOCK (94.15%)                  SHARES        (000'S)
<S>                                <C>             <C>
- --------------------------------------------------------------
TECHNOLOGY (CONTINUED)
EG&G, Inc.                                6,400.00 $      144
*EMC Corporation                         33,300.00      1,299
First Data Corporation                   60,600.00      2,663
*General Instrument Corp.                18,500.00        463
Harris Corporation                        5,300.00        445
Hewlett-Packard Company                 137,300.00      7,689
Ikon Office Solutions                    18,200.00        454
Intel Corp.                             111,100.00     15,755
*Intergraph Corp.                         6,100.00         52
International Business Machines
 Corp.                                  140,100.00     12,635
*LSI Logic Corp.                         19,000.00        608
Lucent Technologies Inc.                 86,440.00      6,229
*Micron Technology                       28,400.00      1,134
*Microsoft Corporation                  162,900.00     20,586
Motorola, Inc.                           80,300.00      6,103
*National Semiconductor
 Corporation                             18,900.00        579
Northern Telecom Limited                 35,000.00      3,185
*Novell, Inc.                            46,900.00        325
*Oracle Corporation                      91,500.00      4,609
*Parametric Technology Company           17,300.00        736
Perkin-Elmer Corporation                  5,900.00        469
Polaroid Corporation                      6,200.00        344
Raytheon Company                         32,000.00      1,632
Scientific-Atlanta, Inc.                 10,500.00        230
*Seagate Technology Inc.                 33,500.00      1,179
Shared Medical Systems Corp.              3,400.00        184
*Silicon Graphics                        23,900.00        359
*Sun Microsystems Inc.                   49,800.00      1,853
*Tandem Computers Inc.                   16,100.00        326
Tektronix, Inc.                           4,500.00        270
*Tellabs Inc.                            24,300.00      1,358
Temple-Inland Inc.                        7,500.00        405
Texas Instruments Incorporated           25,800.00      2,169
*Unisys Corporation                      23,700.00        181
W.W. Grainger, Inc.                       7,200.00        563
Xerox Corporation                        43,900.00      3,463
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                             130,642
                                                   -----------
TRANSPORTATION (1.20%)
*AMR Corporation                         12,300.00      1,138
Burlington Northern Santa Fe             20,707.00      1,861
Caliber System, Inc.                      5,300.00        197
CSX Corporation                          29,400.00      1,632
Delta Air Lines Inc.                      9,900.00        812
*Federal Express Corp.                   15,400.00        889
Norfolk Southern Corporation             16,900.00      1,703
Ryder System, Inc.                       10,300.00        340
Southwest Airlines Co.                   19,600.00        507
Union Pacific Corporation                33,100.00      2,334
</TABLE>
 
                                       --
                                       30
<PAGE>
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Schedule of Investments
JUNE 30, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     MARKET
                                                      VALUE
COMMON STOCK (94.15%)                  SHARES        (000'S)
- --------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                <C>             <C>
TRANSPORTATION (CONTINUED)
*USAir Group, Inc.                       10,600.00 $      371
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                              11,784
                                                   -----------
UTILITIES (2.94%)
American Electric Power Co. Inc.         25,400.00      1,067
Baltimore Gas & Electric Co.             20,000.00        534
Carolina Power & Light Company           20,500.00        735
Central & South West Corporation         28,600.00        608
Cinergy Corporation                      21,317.00        742
Coastal Corp.                            14,200.00        755
Columbia Gas System Inc.                  7,500.00        489
Consolidated Edison Co. of New
 York                                    31,800.00        936
Consolidated Natural Gas Company         12,800.00        689
Dominion Resources Inc.                  24,400.00        894
DTE Energy Company                       19,600.00        541
Duke Energy Corp.                        48,665.00      2,333
Eastern Enterprises                       2,700.00         94
Edison International                     55,500.00      1,381
Enron Corp                               34,400.00      1,404
ENSERCH Corporation                       9,400.00        209
Entergy Corporation                      31,300.00        857
FPL Group, Inc.                          24,800.00      1,142
GPU, Inc.                                16,300.00        585
Houston Industries Incorporated          31,700.00        680
*Niagara Mohawk Power Corporation        19,500.00        167
Nicor Inc.                                6,700.00        240
Noram Energy Corporation                 17,700.00        270
Northern States Power Company             9,400.00        486
Ohio Edison Company                      20,700.00        452
ONEOK, Inc.                               3,700.00        119
P P & L Resources, Inc.                  22,000.00        439
Pacific Enterprises                      11,500.00        387
PacifiCorp                               39,900.00        878
PECO Energy Company                      30,100.00        632
Peoples Energy Corporation                4,700.00        176
PG&E Corp.                               55,800.00      1,353
Public Service Enterprise Group,
 Inc.                                    32,300.00        808
Sonat Inc.                               11,700.00        600
<CAPTION>
                                                     MARKET
                                                      VALUE
COMMON STOCK (94.15%)                  SHARES        (000'S)
<S>                                <C>             <C>
- --------------------------------------------------------------
UTILITIES (CONTINUED)
Southern Company                         91,200.00 $    1,995
Texas Utilities Company                  30,400.00      1,047
UNICOM Corp.                             29,200.00        650
Union Electric Company                   13,800.00        520
Williams Coompanies Inc.                 21,300.00        932
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                              28,826
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL COMMON STOCK                             $  921,855
                                                   -----------
<CAPTION>
 
                                                     MARKET
                                                      VALUE
MONEY MARKET INSTRUMENT (5.85%)         PAR          (000'S)
<S>                                <C>             <C>
- --------------------------------------------------------------
CHEMICALS & ALLIED PRODUCTS (0.48%)
+American Home Products
 Corporation, 6.15%, 7/1/97        $  4,700,000.00 $    4,700
                                                   -----------
GOVERNMENT (0.51%)
+U.S. Treasury, 5.08%9/4/97           5,000,000.00      4,954
                                                   -----------
NONDEPOSITORY INSTITUTIONS (4.86%)
+Ford Motor Credit Corp., 5.52%,
 7/23/97                             20,000,000.00     19,933
+Household Finance Corp., 5.53%,
 7/10/97                             16,000,000.00     15,978
+Receivable Capital Trust, 5.56%,
 7/16/97                             11,700,000.00     11,672
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                              47,583
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL MONEY MARKET
     INVESTMENTS                                       57,237
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL INDEX 500 STOCK
     PORTFOLIO                                     $  979,092
                                                   -----------
</TABLE>
 
* Non-Income Producing.
 
+Partially held by the custodian in a segregated account as collateral for open
 futures positions. Information regarding open futures contracts as of June 30,
 1997 is summarized below:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                      UNREALIZED
                                                     APPRECIATION
                      NUMBER OF                     (DEPRECIATION)
ISSUER                CONTRACTS   EXPIRATION DATE      (000'S)
- --------------------  ----------  ----------------  --------------
<S>                   <C>         <C>               <C>
S&P 500 Stock Index      111       September 1997       $3,899
S&P 500 Stock Index       14       December 1997       $  (84)
                                                    --------------
Total                                                   $3,815
                                                    --------------
                                                    --------------
</TABLE>
 
    The Accompanying Notes are an Integral Part of the Financial Statements
                       (Prepared from Unaudited Figures)
 
                                       --
                                       31
<PAGE>
GROWTH AND INCOME STOCK PORTFOLIO
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
<TABLE>
<S>                              <C>                                              <C>
Objective:                       Portfolio Strategy:                              Net Assets:
Long-term growth of capital and  Actively manage a portfolio of equity            $325,880,102
income, consistent with          securities with a goal of exceeding the total
moderate investment risk         return of the S&P 500 Index.
</TABLE>
 
GROWTH AND INCOME STOCK PORTFOLIO
 
The Growth and Income Portfolio invests mainly in large-capitalization stocks,
with a focus on seeking the best values in the market based on long-term
earnings forecasts. A sector balance very close to that of the S&P 500 Index is
normally maintained, with the emphasis on undervalued stocks within each sector;
a valuation discipline mandates the sale of stocks regarded as overvalued. More
focus is placed on capital appreciation and dividend growth than on current
dividends. The portfolio is normally fully invested in equity securities.
 
The Portfolio recorded excellent performance during the first six months of
1997, as the market continued to soar, with particular strength in the large
capitalization stocks that are the Portfolio's core holdings. Stock selection in
the telephone and services sectors contributed importantly to performance, with
a particularly large increase in Worldcom, a rapidly growing telecommunications
company. Holdings in the drug industry benefited from FDA approvals of new
drugs; Warner-Lambert, which successfully launched two major new drugs,
performed especially well. Within the technology sector, which is weighted
approximately equal to the S&P 500 Index, the emphasis is on companies involved
in data networking area, which are releasing new products that will assist
companies in building intranet capabilities and upgrading communications
equipment.
 
The Growth and Income Stock Portfolio is managed for Northwestern Mutual by J.
P. Morgan Investment Management, Inc.
 
      Sector Allocation
 
EDGAR REPRESENTATION OF DATA POINTS USED IN PRINTED GRAPHIC
 
<TABLE>
<S>                 <C>
Consumer                  36%
Interest-Sensitive        21%
Industry                  23%
Technology                11%
Energy                     9%
</TABLE>
 
Top 10 Holdings
 
6/30/97
 
EDGAR REPRESENTATION OF DATA POINTS USED IN PRINTED GRAPHIC
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
         COMPANY            % OF NET ASSETS
<S>                         <C>
Procter & Gamble Co.                    3.5%
Warner-Lambert Company                  3.1%
Toys R Us                               2.8%
Cooper Industries                       2.4%
Exxon Corp.                             2.4%
PepsiCo, Inc.                           2.3%
Boeing Company                          2.3%
Worldcom Inc.                           2.3%
Tosco Corp.                             2.2%
AlliedSignal Inc.                       2.2%
</TABLE>
 
     Performance Relative
     to S&P 500 Index
 
EDGAR REPRESENTATION OF DATA POINTS USED IN PRINTED GRAPHIC
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                  GROWTH & INCOME STOCK PORTFOLIO           S&P 500 INDEX
<S>                               <C>                               <C>                             <C>
5/3/94                                                      10,000                          10,000
6/30/94                                                      9,784                           9,845
6/30/95                                                     11,754                          12,394
6/30/96                                                     14,099                          15,604
6/30/97                                                     18,641                          21,000
                                                                       Average Annual Total Return
                                                                        For Periods Ended June 30,
                                                                                              1997
                                                                                          One Year   Since Inception
Growth & Income Stock Portfolio                                                             32.22%            21.79%
S&P 500 Index                                                                               34.57%            26.47%
</TABLE>
 
The Standard & Poor's 500 Composite Stock Price Index is an unmanaged index of
500 selected common stocks, most of which are listed on the New York Stock
Exchange. The index is heavily weighted toward stocks with large market
capitalizations and represents approximately two-thirds of the total market
value of all domestic common stocks.
    This chart assumes an initial investment of $10,000 made on 5/3/94
(commencement of operations). Returns shown include deductions for management
and other fund expenses, and reinvestment of all dividends. Returns exclude
deductions for separate account sales loads and account fees. Past performance
is not predictive of future performance. Investment return and principal value
will fluctuate, so that your shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less
than their original cost. The total returns shown on page 2 reflect the
deduction of charges for the separate account.
 
                                       --
                                       32
<PAGE>
GROWTH AND INCOME STOCK PORTFOLIO
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Schedule of Investments
JUNE 30, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                      MARKET
                                                       VALUE
COMMON STOCK (98.96%)                     SHARES      (000'S)
<S>                                      <C>        <C>
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
BASIC MATERIALS (7.08%)
Albemarle Corporation                      141,300  $    2,976
Allegheny Teledyne Inc.                    189,100       5,106
Aluminum Company of America                 36,900       2,781
E.I. Du Pont De Nemours & Co               100,000       6,288
Union Carbide Corporation                   93,700       4,410
*USG Corporation                            41,500       1,515
                                                    -----------
    TOTAL                                               23,076
                                                    -----------
CAPITAL GOODS (6.68%)
Boeing Company                             135,900       7,211
Cooper Industries Inc.                     156,400       7,781
Johnson Controls Inc.                       70,900       2,911
Waste Management Inc.                      119,600       3,842
                                                    -----------
    TOTAL                                               21,745
                                                    -----------
COMMUNICATION SERVICES (5.99%)
Bell Atlantic Corporation                   35,100       2,663
GTE Corporation                             69,200       3,036
MCI Communications Corporation              78,900       3,020
Sprint Corp.                                64,900       3,415
*Worldcom Inc.                             230,300       7,370
                                                    -----------
    TOTAL                                               19,504
                                                    -----------
CONSUMER CYCLICAL (7.16%)
*Circuit City Stores, Inc. - CarMax
 Group                                      75,800       1,085
Circuit City Stores - Circuit City
 Group                                      91,200       3,243
*Federated Department Stores, Inc.          81,900       2,846
*Fruit Of The Loom, Incorporated            47,600       1,476
General Motors Corporation                  37,500       2,166
General Motors Corporation                  48,200       2,684
*Lear Corp                                  13,500         599
*Toys R Us                                 263,200       9,212
                                                    -----------
    TOTAL                                               23,311
                                                    -----------
CONSUMER STAPLES (13.78%)
General Mills, Inc.                         87,600       5,705
Pepsico Inc.                               204,300       7,674
Philip Morris Companies, Inc                48,800       2,166
Procter & Gamble Company                    66,300       9,365
Ralston Purina Group                        57,400       4,718
*Tele Communications, Inc.                 448,800       6,676
Time Warner Inc.                            95,200       4,593
Unilever, N V                               18,300       3,989
                                                    -----------
    TOTAL                                               44,886
                                                    -----------
ENERGY (8.39%)
Anadarko Petroleum Corporation              44,900       2,694
British Petroleum Co. Ltd                   56,780       4,251
Exxon Corporation                          140,200       8,622
*Input/Output, Inc.                         67,100       1,216
Tosco Corporation                          239,500       7,170
 
<CAPTION>
                                                      MARKET
                                                       VALUE
COMMON STOCK (98.96%)                     SHARES      (000'S)
<S>                                      <C>        <C>
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
ENERGY (CONTINUED)
Valero Energy Corp.                         93,000  $    3,371
                                                    -----------
    TOTAL                                               27,324
                                                    -----------
FINANCE (12.98%)
Advanta Corporation - Class B                  700          25
Banc One Corporation                        95,603       4,631
Citicorp                                    22,500       2,713
Crestar Financial Corp.                     74,600       2,900
Dime Bancorp, Inc.                         114,000       1,995
Fannie Mae                                  54,000       2,356
First Chicago NBD Corporation               83,700       5,064
First Hawaiian, Inc.                        83,800       2,860
Fleet Financial Group Inc.                  23,100       1,461
Marsh & Mclennan Companies, Inc.            82,000       5,853
MBIA Incorporated                            6,800         767
Morgan S D Witter Discover&co Com           69,900       3,010
Nationsbank Corp.                           34,800       2,245
*Providian Financial Corp.                  16,600         533
Salomon Inc                                 44,200       2,459
Washington Mutual, Inc.                     56,900       3,400
                                                    -----------
    TOTAL                                               42,272
                                                    -----------
HEALTHCARE (9.83%)
*Alza Corporation                           99,100       2,874
American Home Products Corporation          86,700       6,633
Columbia/HCA Healthcare Corp.               16,000         629
*Humana, Inc.                              129,600       2,997
Schering-Plough Corporation                 54,000       2,585
United Healthcare Corp.                    122,900       6,391
Warner-Lambert Company                      79,800       9,915
                                                    -----------
    TOTAL                                               32,024
                                                    -----------
INSURANCE (0.73%)
Aegon N.V.                                   7,167         502
Ambac, Inc.                                 24,400       1,864
                                                    -----------
    TOTAL                                                2,366
                                                    -----------
MISCELLANEOUS (2.85%)
*ADT Ltd.                                   73,700       2,432
AlliedSignal Inc.                           81,500       6,846
                                                    -----------
    TOTAL                                                9,278
                                                    -----------
SERVICES (2.43%)
*Circus Circus Enterprises                 156,200       3,846
*First USA Paymentech, Inc.                  2,600          75
International Game Technology              171,200       3,039
*TCI Satellite Entertainment Inc.          123,100         969
                                                    -----------
    TOTAL                                                7,929
                                                    -----------
TECHNOLOGY (13.84%)
Autodesk, Inc.                              89,200       3,417
*Bay Networks, Inc.                        176,100       4,678
*Cabletron Systems, Inc.                    93,400       2,644
*Cisco Systems Incorporated                 31,100       2,088
*Cypress Semiconductor Corporation         154,400       2,239
</TABLE>
 
                                       --
                                       33
<PAGE>
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Schedule of Investments
JUNE 30, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                      MARKET
                                                       VALUE
COMMON STOCK (98.96%)                     SHARES      (000'S)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                      <C>        <C>
TECHNOLOGY (CONTINUED)
*EMC Corporation                            92,600  $    3,611
First Data Corporation                      34,400       1,511
*General Instrument Corp.                  228,500       5,713
Intel Corp.                                 19,900       2,822
International Business Machines             51,600       4,654
*Learning Inc.                               1,900          18
Perkin Elmer Corporation                    24,600       1,957
Sensormatic Electronics Corp.              193,400       2,490
*Sun Microsystems Inc.                      67,700       2,520
Symbol Technologies Inc.                    58,900       1,981
Temple-Inland Inc                           50,900       2,749
                                                    -----------
    TOTAL                                               45,092
                                                    -----------
TRANSPORTATION (3.02%)
CNF Transportation Inc.                     27,900         900
*Coltec Industries Inc.                    187,500       3,656
*Consolidated Freightways Corp.              1,000          16
CSX Corporation                             94,000       5,217
Union Pacific Corporation                      900          63
                                                    -----------
    TOTAL                                                9,852
                                                    -----------
UTILITIES (4.20%)
Allegheny Power System, Inc.                54,900       1,465
Dominion Resources Inc.                     42,200       1,546
Duke Energy Corp.                           29,300       1,405
Enron Corp                                  63,300       2,583
New England Electric Systems                92,000       3,404
Northern States Power Company               63,400       3,280
                                                    -----------
    TOTAL                                               13,683
                                                    -----------
    TOTAL COMMON STOCK                              $  322,342
                                                    -----------
</TABLE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     MARKET
                                                      VALUE
MONEY MARKET INSTRUMENT (1.04%)          SHARES      (000'S)
<S>                                    <C>         <C>
- --------------------------------------------------------------
NONDEPOSITORY INSTITUTIONS (0.98%)
Ford Motor Credit Corp, 5.52%,
 07/23/97                                 500,000  $      498
Household Finance Corp, 5.53%,
 07/10/97                               1,000,000         999
Receivable Capital Trust, 5.559%,
 7/16/97                                1,000,000         998
Sears Roebuck Acceptance, 5.569%,
 8/06/97                                  700,000         696
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                               3,191
                                                   -----------
TOBACCO PRODUCTS (0.06%)
Philip Morris Corporation, 6.15%,
 7/1/97                                   200,000         200
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                                 200
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL MONEY MARKET INSTRUMENTS                 $    3,391
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL GROWTH & INCOME PORTFOLIO                $  325,733
                                                   -----------
*Non-Income Producing.
</TABLE>
 
    The Accompanying Notes are an Integral Part of the Financial Statements
                       (Prepared from Unaudited Figures)
 
                                       --
                                       34
<PAGE>
GROWTH STOCK PORTFOLIO
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
<TABLE>
<S>                              <C>                                              <C>
Objective:                       Portfolio Strategy:                              Net Assets:
Long-term appreciation of        Hold a diversified mix of high quality growth    $217,026,430
capital with moderate risk       stocks of medium and large companies with
                                 above-average potential for earnings growth.
</TABLE>
 
GROWTH STOCK PORTFOLIO
 
The Growth Stock Portfolio is invested in high quality companies of large to
medium capitalization with strong financial characteristics and the ability to
generate internal growth. A key factor in stock selection is the choice of
industries with good earnings potential, based on analysis of economic trends to
determine their impact on various sectors of the economy. Stock selection is
made through "top down" analysis: first industry and market sector choices are
made based on the economic environment, and then the most promising companies
within each sector are selected as holdings. Diversification across 70 to 90
stocks in a wide range of industry groups reduces the Portfolio's risk profile.
 
The Growth Stock Portfolio continued to provide strong returns during the first
half of 1997, reflecting strength in the overall market, particularly in large
capitalization stocks. A strategy of this portfolio is to go beyond the most
familiar "blue chip" names to seek out medium-sized companies with stock prices
that do not yet reflect their potential for growth. In line with this strategy,
changes in focus were made within certain market sectors to increase exposure to
companies that are well positioned for current trends. For example, in the
energy area, performance benefited from a move from multinational oil companies
to oil field service providers; in the automotive group, an increased position
in Borg Warner Automotive provided participation in the increasing popularity of
sport utility vehicles. Specialty retailers such as Kohls Department Stores
benefit from continued strong consumer spending. Fiserv, a provider of
technology services to financial institutions, addresses two important themes:
the increasing importance of technology to businesses and strategic outsourcing.
 
      Sector Allocation
     (EXCLUDING CASH EQUIVALENTS)
 
EDGAR REPRESENTATION OF DATA POINTS USED IN PRINTED GRAPHIC
 
<TABLE>
<S>                             <C>
Consumer Cyclicals                    19%
Consumer Staples/Health Care          18%
Basic Materials/Capital Goods         13%
Energy                                10%
Technology                            11%
Finance                               13%
Other                                 16%
</TABLE>
 
Top 10 Holdings
 
6/30/97
 
EDGAR REPRESENTATION OF DATA POINTS USED IN PRINTED GRAPHIC
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
           COMPANY             % OF NET ASSETS
<S>                            <C>
General Electric Company                   2.4%
Kohls Department Stores                    1.8%
Philip Morris Companies, Inc.              1.8%
Merck & Co., Inc.                          1.8%
AlliedSignal                               1.8%
Microsoft Corporation                      1.8%
Borg Warner Automotive                     1.7%
Procter & Gamble Company                   1.6%
BankAmerica Corporation                    1.6%
Fiserv, Inc.                               1.6%
</TABLE>
 
     Performance Relative to S&P 500 Index
 
EDGAR REPRESENTATION OF DATA POINTS USED IN PRINTED GRAPHIC
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                         GROWTH STOCK PORTFOLIO           S&P 500 INDEX
<S>                      <C>                      <C>                             <C>
5/3/94                                    10,000                          10,000
6/30/94                                    9,884                           9,845
6/30/95                                   11,626                          12,394
6/30/96                                   14,694                          15,604
6/30/97                                   18,707                          21,000
                                                     Average Annual Total Return
                                                      For Periods Ended June 30,
                                                                            1997
                                                                        One Year   Since Inception
Growth Stock Portfolio                                                    27.31%            21.93%
S&P 500 Index                                                             34.57%            26.47%
</TABLE>
 
The Standard & Poor's 500 Composite Stock Price Index is an unmanaged index of
500 selected common stocks, most of which are listed on the New York Stock
Exchange. The index is heavily weighted toward stocks with large market
capitalizations and represents approximately two-thirds of the total market
value of all domestic common stocks.
    This chart assumes an initial investment of $10,000 made on 5/3/94
(commencement of operations). Returns shown include deductions for management
and other fund expenses, and reinvestment of all dividends. Returns exclude
deductions for separate account sales loads and account fees. Past performance
is not predictive of future performance. Investment return and principal value
will fluctuate, so that your shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less
than their original cost. The total returns shown on page 2 reflect the
deduction of charges for the separate account.
 
                                       --
                                       35
<PAGE>
GROWTH STOCK PORTFOLIO
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Schedule of Investments
JUNE 30, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     MARKET
                                                      VALUE
COMMON STOCK (91.82%)                    SHARES      (000'S)
<S>                                    <C>         <C>
- --------------------------------------------------------------
BASIC MATERIALS (3.82%)
Avery Dennison Corporation                 56,200  $    2,255
E.I. du Pont de Nemours & Co.              26,100       1,641
Ecolab, Inc.                               62,700       2,994
PPG Industries Inc.                        23,900       1,389
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                               8,279
                                                   -----------
CAPITAL GOODS (8.67%)
*American Standard Companies, Inc.         40,600       1,817
Boeing Company                             48,400       2,568
Deere & Company                            47,000       2,579
Emerson Electric Co.                       57,800       3,183
General Electric Company                   77,400       5,060
General Motors Class H                     27,100       1,565
*Gulfstream Aerospace                      68,800       2,030
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                              18,802
                                                   -----------
COMMUNICATION SERVICES (1.68%)
MCI Communications Corporation             34,200       1,309
*WorldCom Inc.                             73,200       2,342
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                               3,651
                                                   -----------
CONSUMER CYCLICAL (18.94%)
*Barnes & Noble Inc.                       59,000       2,537
*Borg Warner Automotive                    68,200       3,687
*Federated Department Stores, Inc.         39,500       1,373
Ford Motor Company                         41,100       1,552
Harley Davidson, Inc.                      48,200       2,311
Home Depot, Inc.                           31,700       2,185
*Kohls Department Stores                   72,800       3,854
Mattel, Inc.                               63,281       2,144
McDonald's Corporation                     44,400       2,145
McGraw-Hill Companies Inc.                 26,200       1,541
New York Times Company                     51,100       2,529
Newell Co.                                 81,600       3,233
*OfficeMax, Inc.                           17,800         257
*Promus Hotels                             45,000       1,744
*Scholastic Corp.                          30,300       1,061
Tribune Company                            27,600       1,327
Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.                      59,400       2,008
Walgreen Company                           61,100       3,276
Walt Disney Company                        28,900       2,319
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                              41,083
                                                   -----------
CONSUMER STAPLES (10.06%)
Campbell Soup Company                      52,000       2,600
CPC International Corp.                    19,400       1,791
General Mills, Inc.                        14,600         951
Gillette Company                           19,500       1,848
Hershey Foods Corp.                        35,000       1,936
Pepsico Inc.                               73,000       2,742
Philip Morris Companies                    85,500       3,794
Procter & Gamble Company                   24,200       3,418
 
<CAPTION>
                                                     MARKET
                                                      VALUE
COMMON STOCK (91.82%)                    SHARES      (000'S)
<S>                                    <C>         <C>
- --------------------------------------------------------------
CONSUMER STAPLES (CONTINUED)
Unilever N.V.                              12,600  $    2,747
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                              21,827
                                                   -----------
ENERGY (10.30%)
Amoco Company                              30,200       2,626
British Petroleum Co. Ltd.                 33,200       2,486
Diamond Offshore Drilling Inc.             25,000       1,953
Exxon Corporation                          26,400       1,624
Mobil Corporation                          30,000       2,096
Schlumberger Limited                       20,000       2,500
Texaco Inc.                                20,200       2,197
Tosco Corporation                          79,200       2,371
Transocean Offshore Inc.                   20,400       1,482
Unocal Corp.                               48,600       1,886
*Western Atlas International Inc.          15,300       1,121
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                              22,342
                                                   -----------
FINANCE (13.45%)
Associates First Capital Corporation       55,000       3,053
Banc One Corporation                       36,000       1,744
BankAmerica Corporation                    52,800       3,409
Chase Manhattan Corporation                33,040       3,207
CIGNA Corporation                          11,300       2,006
Citicorp                                   18,600       2,242
First Union Corporation                    27,500       2,544
Franklin Resources                         43,800       3,178
Merrill Lynch & Co.                        28,000       1,670
Morgan Stanley, Dean Witter, Discover
 & Co.                                     64,900       2,795
Travelers Group Inc.                       38,000       2,396
USF&G Corp.                                38,800         931
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                              29,175
                                                   -----------
HEALTHCARE (7.69%)
Eli Lilly & Company                        28,700       3,137
*Healthsouth Corp.                         21,900         546
*Horizon/CMS Healthcare Corp.              31,700         636
Johnson & Johnson                          43,500       2,800
Merck & Co., Inc.                          36,800       3,809
Pfizer Inc.                                25,100       2,999
United Healthcare Corp.                    53,000       2,756
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                              16,683
                                                   -----------
MISCELLANEOUS (2.67%)
Allied Signal Inc.                         44,600       3,746
Dial Corp.                                131,000       2,047
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                               5,793
                                                   -----------
TECHNOLOGY (10.62%)
*Cisco Systems Incorporated                15,000       1,007
*DST Systems, Inc.                         54,400       1,812
First Data Corporation                     61,100       2,685
*Fiserv                                    75,100       3,351
Hewlett-Packard Company                    36,800       2,061
</TABLE>
 
                                       --
                                       36
<PAGE>
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Schedule of Investments
JUNE 30, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     MARKET
                                                      VALUE
COMMON STOCK (91.82%)                    SHARES      (000'S)
- --------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                    <C>         <C>
TECHNOLOGY (CONTINUED)
Intel Corp.                                16,800  $    2,382
International Business Machines            35,200       3,175
Lucent Technologies, Inc.                  15,171       1,093
*Microsoft Corporation                     29,400       3,715
W.W. Grainger, Inc.                        22,400       1,751
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                              23,032
                                                   -----------
TRANSPORTATION (3.14%)
*AMR Corporation                           19,400       1,795
Canadian National Railway Co.              70,500       3,084
*Midwest Express Holdings, Inc.            70,500       1,930
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                               6,809
                                                   -----------
UTILITIES (0.78%)
Sonat Inc.                                 33,000       1,690
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL COMMON STOCK                             $  199,166
                                                   -----------
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     MARKET
                                                      VALUE
MONEY MARKET INVESTMENTS (8.18%)          PAR        (000'S)
<S>                                    <C>         <C>
- --------------------------------------------------------------
HEALTHCARE (0.37%)
American Home Product Corporation,
 6.150%, 07/01/1997                    $  800,000  $      800
                                                   -----------
 
<CAPTION>
                                                     MARKET
                                                      VALUE
MONEY MARKET INVESTMENTS (8.18%)          PAR        (000'S)
<S>                                    <C>         <C>
- --------------------------------------------------------------
GOVERNMENT (0.32%)
+U.S. Treasury, 5.079%, 09/04/1997     $  700,000  $      694
                                                   -----------
NONDEPOSITORY INSTITUTIONS (7.49%)
+Asset Securitization, 5.52%,
 07/17/1997                             6,700,000       6,684
+Ford Motor Credit Corp., 5.52%,
 07/23/1997                             6,100,000       6,079
Sears Roebuck Acceptance Corp.,
 5.57%, 08/06/1997                      3,500,000       3,480
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                              16,243
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL MONEY MARKET INVESTMENTS                 $   17,737
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL GROWTH STOCK PORTFOLIO                   $  216,903
                                                   -----------
*Non-Income Producing.
+Partially held by the custodian in a segregated account as
 collateral for open futures positions. Information regarding
 open futures contracts as of June 30, 1997 is summarized
 below:
</TABLE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     UNREALIZED
                      NUMBER OF      EXPIRATION     DEPRECIATION
ISSUER                CONTRACTS         DATE           (000'S)
- --------------------  ----------  ----------------  -------------
<S>                   <C>         <C>               <C>
S&P 500 Stock Index       19       September 1997       $(16)
</TABLE>
 
    The Accompanying Notes are an Integral Part of the Financial Statements
                       (Prepared from Unaudited Figures)
 
                                       --
                                       37
<PAGE>
INTERNATIONAL EQUITY PORTFOLIO
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
<TABLE>
<S>                           <C>                                         <C>
Objective:                    Portfolio Strategy:                         Net Assets:
Long-term appreciation of     Participate in the growth of foreign        $643,465,873
capital through               economies by investing in securities with
diversification into markets  high long-term earnings potential relative
outside the United States     to current market values.
</TABLE>
 
INTERNATIONAL EQUITY PORTFOLIO
 
The International Equity Portfolio offers contract owners the opportunity to
participate in the growth of companies in countries throughout the world,
particularly those with expanding economies. The Portfolio continues to buy the
shares of undervalued companies internationally, using a disciplined focus on
long-term value.
 
International investors benefited from continued growth in economies and markets
around the world. European markets were quite strong, driven in part by the
rising dollar and by excellent earnings reports, particularly among
pharmaceutical firms, financial service providers and exporters. Markets in
Switzerland, the Netherlands and Germany were the top performers in Europe.
 
In the Pacific region, the Portfolio is concentrated in Hong Kong, where a
market surge in the second quarter can be considered a vote of confidence among
investors that the return of control to China will not erode this vibrant
economy's prospects for growth. The Portfolio benefited from an underweighting
of poorly performing markets in Thailand and the Philippines.
 
The International Equity Portfolio is managed for Northwestern Mutual by
Templeton Investment Counsel, Inc.
 
      Asset Allocation
 
EDGAR REPRESENTATION OF DATA POINTS USED IN PRINTED GRAPHIC
 
<TABLE>
<S>                      <C>
Europe                         60%
Asia                           11%
Australia/New Zealand           7%
Latin America                   8%
Canada                          3%
Non-equity holdings            11%
</TABLE>
 
     Performance Relative
     to the EAFE Index
 
EDGAR REPRESENTATION OF DATA POINTS USED IN PRINTED GRAPHIC
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                   INTERNATIONAL EQUITY
                                         PORTFOLIO                      EAFE INDEX
<S>                            <C>                            <C>                             <C>
4/30/93                                               10,000                          10,000
6/30/93                                               10,118                          10,202
6/30/94                                               12,155                          11,936
6/30/95                                               13,487                          12,175
6/30/96                                               15,569                          13,831
6/30/97                                               19,751                          15,650
                                                                 Average Annual Total Return
                                                                  For Periods Ended June 30,
                                                                                        1997
                                                                                    One Year   Since Inception
International Equity
Portfolio                                                                             26.86%            17.74%
EAFE Index                                                                            13.15%            11.35%
</TABLE>
 
As depicted in the graph, the International Equity Portfolio is compared against
the Morgan Stanley Capital International EAFE ("Europe-Australia-Far East")
Index. The index is composed of approximately 1100 companies in 20 countries in
Europe and the Pacific Basin. The objective of the index is to reflect the
movements of stock markets in these countries by representing an unmanaged
(indexed) portfolio within each country. The indices are constructed so that
companies chosen represent about 60% of market capitalization in each market;
industry composition of the market is reflected; and a cross section of large,
medium, and small capitalization stocks is included, taking into account
liquidity concerns. The index is calculated in U. S. dollars.
 
    On May 3, 1994, the Northwestern Mutual International Equity Fund, Inc. (the
"Fund") merged into the Northwestern Mutual Series Fund, Inc., International
Equity Portfolio (the "Portfolio"). The Portfolio had no assets prior to the
merger. After the merger, the assets of the Portfolio were those of the Fund.
The investment objectives, policies, management and expenses of the Portfolio
are identical to those of the Fund. Accordingly, the performance of the Fund
prior to the merger is included with the performance of the Portfolio in the
graph and total return figures above.
 
    This chart assumes an initial investment of $10,000 made on 4/30/93
(commencement of the Fund's operations). Returns shown include deductions for
management and other fund expenses, and reinvestment of all dividends. Returns
exclude deductions for separate account sales loads and account fees. Past
performance is not predictive of future performance. Investment return and
principal value will fluctuate, so that your shares, when redeemed, may be worth
more or less than their original cost. The total returns shown on page 2 reflect
the deduction of charges for the separate account.
 
                                       --
                                       38
<PAGE>
INTERNATIONAL EQUITY PORTFOLIO
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Schedule of Investments
JUNE 30, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                        MARKET
                                                         VALUE
COMMON STOCK (88.24%)        COUNTRY      SHARES        (000'S)
<S>                         <C>        <C>            <C>
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
AEROSPACE & MILITARY TECHNOLOGY (0.13%)
Hong Kong Aircraft &
 Engineering                H.K.             232,700  $      847
                                                      -----------
AIRLINES (1.29%)
Air New Zealand Ltd. "B"    N.Z.           1,150,000       3,507
+Quantas Airways (144A)
 ADR                        Austrl.          165,000       3,832
Singapore Airlines Ltd.     Sing.            105,000         940
                                                      -----------
    TOTAL                                                  8,279
                                                      -----------
APPLIANCES & HOUSEHOLD DURABLES (1.35%)
Electrolux AB "B" Free      Swe.              48,200       3,478
Thorn PLC                   U.K.           1,816,600       5,140
                                                      -----------
    TOTAL                                                  8,618
                                                      -----------
AUTOMOBILES (4.24%)
Bertrand Faure SA           Fr.                5,642         297
Fiat SPA Ord.               Italy          1,389,000       4,996
Renault SA                  Fr.              405,775      10,278
Volvo Aktiebogelegt, "B"
 Free                       Swe.             433,000      11,592
                                                      -----------
    TOTAL                                                 27,163
                                                      -----------
BANKING & CREDIT (16.47%)
Australia & New Zealand
 Bank Group                 Austrl.          926,097       6,868
+Bancaria de Espania
 Corp., ADR                 Sp.              195,000       5,533
Banco Bradesco SA           Braz.        262,600,000       2,647
Banco de Andulucia          Sp.               30,000       5,100
Banco Itau SA               Braz.            503,000         282
+Banque National de Paris,
 ADR (144A)                 Fr.              146,500       6,044
Barclay's Bank, PLC         U.K.             245,016       4,861
BCO BilboaVizcaya           Sp.              125,200      10,190
BPI SGPS SA                 Port.            201,963       3,935
Canadian Imperial Bank of
 Commerce                   Can.             309,200       7,800
Credit Commercial de
 France                     Fr.               25,500       1,082
Deutsche Bank AG            Ger.             193,600      11,321
HSBC Holdings               U.K.             260,737       7,842
Komercni Bank "A"           Chez.             15,000         778
**Komercni Bank (144A) GDR  Chez.             30,000         623
Korea Long Term Credit
 Bank                       Kor.              74,930       1,156
Merita Limited "A"          Fin.           1,800,000       5,891
National Bank of Canada
 Montreal                   Can.             360,000       4,515
*Panin Bank                 Indo.          5,346,000       3,518
Suisse Group Credit         Swtz.             55,725       7,167
Svenska Hanelsbanken S.A.   Swe.             230,000       7,317
 
<CAPTION>
                                                        MARKET
                                                         VALUE
COMMON STOCK (88.24%)        COUNTRY      SHARES        (000'S)
<S>                         <C>        <C>            <C>
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
BANKING & CREDIT (CONTINUED)
Unibanco Uniao de Bancos    Braz.         28,067,000  $    1,030
                                                      -----------
    TOTAL                                                105,500
                                                      -----------
BROADCAST ADVERTISING PUBLISHING (0.14%)
Marieberg Tidings "A" Free  Swe.              35,000         869
                                                      -----------
BUILDING MATERIALS AND COMPONENTS (2.15%)
Hepworth PLC                U.K.             225,278         885
Pioneer International Ltd.  Austrl.        3,197,946      12,266
Siam City Cement Public
 Co, Ltd.                   Thai.            161,000         653
                                                      -----------
    TOTAL                                                 13,804
                                                      -----------
BUSINESS & PUBLIC SERVICE (2.61%)
Esselte AB, Series "A"
 Free                       Swe.             269,900       6,178
Hyder PLC                   U.K.             371,666       5,010
Hyder PLC Cum. Red. Pfd.    U.K.             401,400         706
Societe Generale de Surv
 Holdings                   Swtz.                885       1,894
Waste Management
 International, PLC         U.K.             310,700       1,422
*+Waste Management PLC,
 ADR                        U.K.             168,000       1,533
                                                      -----------
    TOTAL                                                 16,743
                                                      -----------
CHEMICALS (5.37%)
Bayer AG                    Ger.             157,000       6,038
Courtaulds PLC              U.K.           1,851,700      10,447
European Vinyls Corp. EVC
 International              Neth.             68,985       1,750
Imperial Chemical
 Industries, PLC            U.K.              19,000         264
Rhone Poulenc SA, Series A  Fr.              283,108      11,573
Solvay Et Cie A NPV         Bel.               7,300       4,305
                                                      -----------
    TOTAL                                                 34,377
                                                      -----------
CONSTRUCTION & HOUSING (0.62%)
Kyudendo Corp.              Jpn.              33,000         279
Sirti SPA                   Italy            643,000       3,705
                                                      -----------
    TOTAL                                                  3,984
                                                      -----------
ELECTRICAL & ELECTRONICS (3.70%)
ABB AG Baden Bearer         Swtz.              4,730       7,170
Alcatel Alsthom DG          Fr.               58,519       7,336
Philips Electronic          Neth.            128,400       9,214
                                                      -----------
    TOTAL                                                 23,720
                                                      -----------
ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS, INSTRUMENTS (0.67%)
BICC PLC                    U.K.           1,450,345       4,272
                                                      -----------
ENERGY SOURCES (2.86%)
Hafslund Nycomed "A"        Norw.            170,000       1,022
Repsol SA                   Sp.              122,000       5,168
</TABLE>
 
                                       --
                                       39
<PAGE>
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Schedule of Investments
JUNE 30, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                        MARKET
                                                         VALUE
COMMON STOCK (88.24%)        COUNTRY      SHARES        (000'S)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                         <C>        <C>            <C>
ENERGY SOURCES (CONTINUED)
Saga Petrolium              Norw.            260,000  $    4,937
Societe Nationale Elf
 Aquitane                   Fr.               66,801       7,214
                                                      -----------
    TOTAL                                                 18,341
                                                      -----------
FINANCIAL SERVICES (1.63%)
AXA-UAP SA                  Fr.               47,813       2,977
India Fund, Series "B"      U.K.           1,256,515       2,332
*JF Indonesia Fund, Inc.    H.K.             456,600         589
#Korea International Trust
 IDRU                       Kor.                  52       1,768
Peregrine Investments
 Holdings, Ltd.             H.K.             262,000         539
Thai Fund Inc.              Thai.             71,516       1,100
Thailand International
 Fund                       Thai.                 70       1,164
                                                      -----------
    TOTAL                                                 10,469
                                                      -----------
FOOD & HOUSEHOLD PRODUCTS (2.89%)
Albert Fisher Group PLC     U.K.           6,734,996       4,848
Cafe de Coral Holdings,
 Ltd.                       H.K.           7,672,000       1,971
CP Pokphand Co.             H.K.           2,609,900         817
Hillsdown Holdings          U.K.           1,800,892       5,065
Tate & Lyle, PLC            U.K.              26,000         193
The Oshawa Group Ltd.       Can.             187,300       2,804
Vitro SA NPV                Mex.             768,400       2,850
                                                      -----------
    TOTAL                                                 18,548
                                                      -----------
FOREST PRODUCTS & PAPER (2.95%)
Carter Holt Harvey Ltd.     N.Z.           3,929,357      10,146
Metsa Serla OY "B"          Fin.             277,500       2,260
P.T. Barito Pacific Timber  Indo.            937,000         800
Stora Kapparbergs, Series
 "B"                        Swe.             350,000       5,703
                                                      -----------
    TOTAL                                                 18,909
                                                      -----------
HEALTH & PERSONAL CARE (2.05%)
Astra AB Series "A" Free    Swe.             373,333       6,953
Nycomed ASA Series "A"      Norw.            294,000       4,337
Nycomed ASA Series "B"      Norw.            128,200       1,830
                                                      -----------
    TOTAL                                                 13,120
                                                      -----------
INDUSTRIAL COMPONENTS (1.19%)
BTR PLC                     U.K.           1,899,400       6,496
BTR, PLC "A"                Austrl.          249,000         821
*Granges AB                 Swe.              24,100         319
                                                      -----------
    TOTAL                                                  7,636
                                                      -----------
INSURANCE (3.51%)
Aegon NV                    Neth.            106,192       7,425
ING Groep NV                Neth.            190,000       8,776
London Insurance Group      Can.             325,200       6,270
                                                      -----------
    TOTAL                                                 22,471
                                                      -----------
<CAPTION>
                                                        MARKET
                                                         VALUE
COMMON STOCK (88.24%)        COUNTRY      SHARES        (000'S)
<S>                         <C>        <C>            <C>
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
MACHINERY & ENGINEERING (0.86%)
VA Technologies AG Bearer   Aus.              30,000  $    5,491
                                                      -----------
MERCHANDISING (1.16%)
David Jones Ltd.            Austrl.          742,100       1,028
Koninklijke Bijenkorf
 Beheer                     Neth.             44,098       3,090
Kwik Save Group             U.K.             465,057       2,357
Somerfield PLC              U.K.             318,200         959
                                                      -----------
    TOTAL                                                  7,434
                                                      -----------
METALS & MINING (2.88%)
British Steel PLC           U.K.           1,013,400       2,513
Elkem A S Oslo ord "A"      Norw.            192,000       3,764
Grupo Mexico "B"            Mex.             861,800       3,250
*Inmet Mining Ltd.          Can.             192,500       1,060
+Pechiney ADR "A"           Fr.               48,183         976
Pechiney SA "A"             Fr.               19,000         749
*Union Minerie, NPV         Bel.              65,171       6,109
                                                      -----------
    TOTAL                                                 18,421
                                                      -----------
MISCELLANEOUS MATERIAL/COMMODITIES (0.21%)
Korea Chemical Company,
 Ltd.                       Kor.              16,700       1,371
                                                      -----------
MULTI-INDUSTRY (6.95%)
Amer Group "A"              Fin.             175,000       3,201
Comp Gen de Industrieset
 de Partec                  Fr.                4,500       1,280
Harrisons & Crossfield      U.K.           2,490,000       4,559
Hutchinson Whampoa          H.K.             798,000       6,927
Jardine Matheson Holdings   Sing.          1,212,301       8,607
Jardine Strategic Holdings  Sing.          1,019,055       3,852
Marine Wendel SA            Fr.               11,490       1,174
Nokia Corp., "A"            Fin.              71,000       5,358
Swire Pacific Class "A"     H.K.             472,500       4,269
Swire Pacific Limited "B"   H.K.           3,534,200       5,315
                                                      -----------
    TOTAL                                                 44,542
                                                      -----------
RAILROAD (0.56%)
Brambles Ind. Ltd.          Austrl.          183,500       3,600
                                                      -----------
TELECOMMUNICATIONS (9.26%)
British Telecom             U.K.             608,000       4,513
Cointel CONV Pfd.           Arg.              73,150       4,828
+Compania de
 Telecomunicaciones, ADR    Chile            155,125       5,119
+Phillipine Long Distance
 Telephone, ADR             Phil.             63,500       4,080
*Seat SPA Di Risp           Italy          2,490,000         520
SPT Telecom AS              Chez.             36,000       3,778
Stet Di Risp Non-Conv.      Italy          2,490,000       8,634
+Telebras ADR               Braz.            103,500      15,706
Telefonica de Espania       Sp.              315,000       9,124
</TABLE>
 
                                       --
                                       40
<PAGE>
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Schedule of Investments
JUNE 30, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                        MARKET
                                                         VALUE
COMMON STOCK (88.24%)        COUNTRY      SHARES        (000'S)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                         <C>        <C>            <C>
TELECOMMUNICATIONS (CONTINUED)
+Telefonica del Peru SA
 "B", ADR                   Peru             115,300  $    3,019
                                                      -----------
    TOTAL                                                 59,321
                                                      -----------
TEXTILES-APPAREL (0.35%)
Yizheng Chemical Fibre
 Company                    China         12,469,200       2,221
                                                      -----------
UTILITIES-ELECTRIC & GAS (9.32%)
BG PLC                      U.K.           3,774,400      13,820
*Centrica PLC               U.K.           1,913,200       2,324
*CEZ Ceske Energeticke
 Zavody                     Chez.            101,990       2,817
Electricidad de Caracas     Venz.          4,145,760       6,641
Endesa National de
 Elactric                   Sp.               63,000       5,299
EVN Energie Versorgung      Aus.              38,400       4,948
Hong Kong Electric          H.K.           1,790,000       7,209
Iberdrola SA                Sp.              587,500       7,430
Korea Electric Power Corp.  Kor.              33,000         985
National Power              U.K.             493,764       4,290
Thames Water                U.K.             251,023       2,883
*Veba-Warrants              Ger.               3,000       1,052
                                                      -----------
    TOTAL                                                 59,698
                                                      -----------
WHOLESALE & INTERNATIONAL TRADE (0.87%)
Brierley Investments Ltd.   N.Z.           5,716,091       5,577
                                                      -----------
    TOTAL COMMON STOCK                                   565,346
                                                      -----------
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       MARKET
                                                        VALUE
BONDS (1.69%)                 COUNTRY       PAR        (000'S)
<S>                          <C>        <C>          <C>
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
FEDERAL GOVERNMENT & AGENCIES (0.43%)
U.S. Treasury, 5.125,
 4/30/98                     U.S.       $ 2,757,000  $    2,743
                                                     -----------
 
<CAPTION>
                                                       MARKET
                                                        VALUE
BONDS (1.69%)                 COUNTRY       PAR        (000'S)
<S>                          <C>        <C>          <C>
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
FINANCIAL SERVICES (0.39%)
PIV Financial Investments,
 Ltd.                        H.K        $ 2,750,000  $    2,503
                                                     -----------
TELECOMMUNICATIONS (0.87%)
Nacional Financiera CNV      Mex.           117,802       5,610
                                                     -----------
    TOTAL BONDS                                          10,856
                                                     -----------
</TABLE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       MARKET
MONEY MARKET                                            VALUE
 INVESTMENTS (10.07%)         COUNTRY       PAR        (000'S)
<S>                          <C>        <C>          <C>
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
CHEMICALS & ALLIED PRODUCTS (0.25%)
American Home Products
 Corporation, 7/1/97         U.S.       $ 1,600,000  $    1,600
                                                     -----------
NONDEPOSITORY INSTITUTIONS (9.82%)
Ford Motor Credit Company,
 7/23/97                     U.S.        12,000,000      11,959
Household Finance
 Corporation, 7/10/97        U.S.        12,000,000      11,983
Receivable Capital Trust,
 7/16/97                     U.S.        10,200,000      10,176
Sears Roebuck Acceptance
 Corp, 8/13/97               U.S.        29,000,000      28,808
                                                     -----------
    TOTAL                                                62,926
                                                     -----------
    TOTAL MONEY MARKET
      INVESTMENTS                                        64,526
                                                     -----------
    TOTAL INTERNATIONAL
      EQUITY PORTFOLIO                               $  640,728
                                                     -----------
</TABLE>
 
 * Non-Income Producing
 
** GDR-Global Depository Receipt
 
 + ADR-American Depository Receipt
 
 # IDR-International Depository Receipt
 
    The Accompanying Notes are an Integral Part of the Financial Statements
                       (Prepared from Unaudited Figures)
 
                                       --
                                       41
<PAGE>
AGGRESSIVE GROWTH STOCK PORTFOLIO
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
<TABLE>
<S>                              <C>                                              <C>
Objective:                       Portfolio Strategy:                              Net Assets:
Maximum long-term appreciation   Strive for the highest possible rate of capital  $961,113,543
of capital                       appreciation by investing in companies with
                                 potential for rapid growth.
</TABLE>
 
AGGRESSIVE GROWTH STOCK PORTFOLIO
 
The Aggressive Growth Stock Portfolio owns the stocks of emerging growth
companies, generally with market capitalizations of less than $3 billion. Since
growth stock portfolios tend to react strongly to changes in financial and
economic markets, as well as to changes in the prospects for individual
companies, returns of this Portfolio can vary considerably from time to time. A
higher level of risk (with risk defined as variability of returns over time) is
accepted for the potential of greater long-term returns. The focus in stock
selection is on the individual companies' ability to generate revenue, expanding
profit margins and solid balance sheets; industry sector selection is of
secondary importance.
 
Consistent with the universe of small company stocks, the Portfolio's
performance lagged the broad market averages in the first quarter and benefited
from improved performance of small company stocks in the second quarter. The
Portfolio is concentrated in four sectors in which there are numerous companies
with particularly promising prospects for growth: technology; business services,
consumer cyclicals and health care. In the technology sector, investments in
software, computer services, telecommunication equipment and semiconductors
contributed to solid overall performance. Holdings in the business services area
were increased, as service providers take advantage of the trend to strategic
outsourcing and as new technology in areas such as telecommunications creates
opportunity for increasingly sophisticated services. Among consumer companies,
specialty retailers continue to perform well, reflecting a high level of
consumer confidence. The position in health care issues has been reduced
somewhat in the last six months, in part because of a favorable buyout of a
major holding. Additionally, the Portfolio was restructured to eliminate some
underperforming issues.
 
The outlook for the emerging growth companies that are the focus of this
Portfolio appears favorable, as valuations remain at reasonable levels compared
with larger companies.
 
      Sector Allocation
 
EDGAR REPRESENTATION OF DATA POINTS USED IN PRINTED GRAPHIC
 
<TABLE>
<S>                  <C>
Consumer                   20%
Technology                 30%
Business Services          11%
Health Care                 8%
Energy                      7%
Industrial                  6%
Transportation              5%
Finance                     4%
Cash Equivalents            9%
</TABLE>
 
     Performance Relative to Relevant Indices
EDGAR REPRESENTATION OF DATA POINTS USED IN PRINTED GRAPHIC
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                      AGGRESSIVE GROWTH STOCK PORTFOLIO       WILSHIRE SMALL CAP INDEX
             11/30/90                              10,000                              10,000
<S>                                  <C>                                  <C>
6/30/91                                                           12,593                            13,189
6/30/92                                                           13,994                            15,522
6/30/93                                                           17,133                            19,336
6/30/94                                                           19,354                            20,012
6/30/95                                                           24,448                            23,034
6/30/96                                                           35,003                            28,918
6/30/97                                                           36,545                            36,061
                                                                               Average Annual Total Return
                                                                           For Periods Ended June 30, 1997
                                                                                                  One Year
Aggressive Growth Stock Portfolio                                                                    4.41%
Wilshire Small Cap Index                                                                            24.70%
Wilshire Next 1750 Index                                                                            16.82%
 
<CAPTION>
                                      WILSHIRE NEXT 1750 INDEX
             11/30/90                          10,000
<S>                                  <C>                         <C>
6/30/91                                                  13,186
6/30/92                                                  15,086
6/30/93                                                  19,108
6/30/94                                                  19,670
6/30/95                                                  23,986
6/30/96                                                  30,256
6/30/97                                                  35,344
 
                                                     Five Years    Since Inception
Aggressive Growth Stock Portfolio                        21.17%             21.77%
Wilshire Small Cap Index                                 18.36%             21.52%
Wilshire Next 1750 Index                                 18.56%             21.15%
</TABLE>
 
Since the portfolio invests primarily in small capitalization issues, the
indices that best reflect the portfolio's performance are the Wilshire Next 1750
Index and Wilshire Small Cap Index.
 
    The Wilshire Next 1750 is an unmanaged, equally weighted index. Included in
this index are those stocks which are ranked 750 to 2500 by market
capitalization in the Wilshire 5000. The largest sectors represented in this
index are financial services, consumer services and basic industry. Its average
market capitalization is approximately $689.9 million as of June 30, 1997.
 
    The Wilshire Small Cap Index is a subset of the Wilshire Next 1750 and
includes 250 stocks chosen based upon their size, sector and liquidity
characteristics. Each stock is equally weighted in this unmanaged index. The
average market capitalization is approximately $767.0 million as of June
30,1997. The largest sector weightings include financial services, consumer
services and technology.
 
    On May 3, 1994, the Northwestern Mutual Aggressive Growth Stock Fund, Inc.
(the "Fund") merged into the Northwestern Mutual Series Fund, Inc. Aggressive
Growth Stock Portfolio (the "Portfolio"). The Portfolio had no assets prior to
the merger. After the merger, the assets of the Portfolio were those of the
Fund. The investment objectives, policies, management and expenses of the
Portfolio are identical to those of the Fund. Accordingly, the performance of
the Fund prior to the merge is included with the performance of the Portfolio in
the graph and total return figures above.
 
    This chart assumes an initial investment of $10,000 made on 11/30/90
(commencement of the Fund's operations). Returns shown include deductions for
management and other fund expenses, and reinvestment of all dividends. Returns
exclude deductions for separate account sales loads and account fees. Past
performance is not predictive of future performance. Investment return and
principal value will fluctuate, so that your shares, when redeemed, may be worth
more or less than their original cost. The total returns shown on page 2 reflect
the deduction of charges for the separate account.
 
                                       --
                                       42
<PAGE>
AGGRESSIVE GROWTH STOCK PORTFOLIO
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Schedule of Investments
JUNE 30, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     MARKET
                                                      VALUE
COMMON STOCK (91.03%)                   SHARES       (000'S)
<S>                                   <C>          <C>
- --------------------------------------------------------------
BASIC MATERIALS (1.04%)
Cambrex Corporation                       253,000  $   10,057
                                                   -----------
CAPITAL GOODS (4.80%)
*Cuno, Inc.                                94,100       1,576
*Jabil Circuit Inc.                       200,000      16,775
Kaydon Corporation                        180,000       8,933
*Kaynar Technologies, Inc.                194,500       3,525
*Microchip Technology Inc.                228,100       6,786
*Tetra Tech Inc.                          364,200       8,786
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                              46,381
                                                   -----------
COMMUNICATION SERVICES (1.63%)
*LCI International                        302,500       6,617
*Premiere Technologies, Inc.              117,500       3,055
*Tessco Technologies, Inc.                152,600       3,300
*West Teleservices Corporation            185,300       2,733
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                              15,705
                                                   -----------
CONSUMER CYCLICAL (15.16%)
*Blyth Industries, Inc.                   437,100      14,752
*Catalina Marketing Corporation           238,600      11,483
*CUC International, Inc.                  437,775      11,300
*Dollar Tree Stores Inc.                  103,200       5,199
*Dura Automotive Systems, Inc.            225,400       6,311
*Electronic Arts Inc.                     249,200       8,379
Fastenal Co.                              214,100      10,491
*Getty Communications PLC-ADR             322,000       4,750
*HFS Incorporated                         142,900       8,288
*JLK Direct Distribution Inc.-Cl A         14,900         382
*Jones Apparel Group Inc.                 202,800       9,684
*K & G Mens' Center, Inc.                 518,150      11,270
*Kohls Department Stores                  239,500      12,679
*O'Reilly Automotive, Inc.                258,700       9,960
*Pameco Corp.                              27,500         488
*Regal Cinemas Inc.                       322,750      10,651
*Tower Automotive, Inc.                   239,800      10,311
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                             146,378
                                                   -----------
CONSUMER STAPLES (4.04%)
Cardinal Health, Inc.                     198,418      11,359
Clear Channel Communications              150,000       9,225
*Inbrand Corporation                      259,100       7,773
*Robert Mondavi Corporation               224,500      10,608
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                              38,965
                                                   -----------
ENERGY (6.91%)
*BJ Services Company                      165,800       8,891
*EVI Inc.                                 234,000       9,828
*Global Industries Ltd                    442,000      10,325
*Nabors Industries Inc.                   306,000       7,650
*Pride Petroleum Services                 411,800       9,883
Tosco Corporation                         340,600      10,197
Transocean Offshore, Inc.                 136,500       9,913
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                              66,687
                                                   -----------
 
<CAPTION>
                                                     MARKET
                                                      VALUE
COMMON STOCK (91.03%)                   SHARES       (000'S)
<S>                                   <C>          <C>
- --------------------------------------------------------------
FINANCE (4.00%)
*BA Merchant Services Inc.-Cl A           176,000  $    3,355
Capmac Holdings Inc.                      259,100       8,712
CMAC Investment Corp.                     152,800       7,296
Investors Financial Services              200,000       9,500
Money Store, Inc.                         340,750       9,775
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                              38,638
                                                   -----------
MISCELLANEOUS (9.69%)
*ABR Information Services Inc.            205,300       5,954
*Administaff Inc.                         374,600       9,061
*Billing Information Concepts             247,300       8,625
Cintas Corp.                              177,600      12,210
*Corrections Corp of America              271,900      10,808
*Interim Services Inc.                    231,600      10,306
*Intl Network Services                    111,300       2,894
*Learning Tree International Inc.         238,950      10,603
*Robert Half International, Inc.          384,300      18,086
*Nu Skin Asia Pacific, Inc.-Cl A          190,200       5,040
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                              93,587
                                                   -----------
HEALTHCARE (8.82%)
*Capstone Pharmacy Services, Inc.         626,300       6,811
*CRA Managed Care Inc.                    189,900       9,910
*Lincare Holdings Inc.                     93,400       4,016
*Medcath Inc.                             235,800       3,508
*NCS Healthcare Inc.-Cl A                  66,700       2,026
*Occusystems Inc.                         205,900       5,971
*Patterson Dental Co.                     243,350       8,350
*Pediatrix Med Group, Inc.                173,900       7,967
*PhyCor, Inc.                             289,000       9,952
*Quorum Health Group, Inc.                301,800      10,789
*Spine-Tech Inc.                          104,000       3,861
*Sybron Intl Corp.-Wisconsin              300,200      11,970
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                              85,131
                                                   -----------
TECHNOLOGY (30.21%)
*ADC Telecommunications                   329,900      11,010
*Altera Corporation                       189,000       9,545
*American Management Systems, Inc.        319,875       8,557
*Applied Materials, Inc.                   77,000       5,453
AVX Corp.                                 326,200       8,807
Cambridge Technology Partners             422,100      13,507
*CBT Group PLC-ADR                        223,400      14,102
*Ciena Corp.                               63,000       2,969
*Computer Horizons Corp.                  299,350      10,253
Danka Business Systems Plc                269,200      11,004
*DST Systems                              248,300       8,271
*Dupont Photomasks Inc.                    73,300       3,958
First Data Corporation                    248,690      10,927
*Gasonics Intl Corp.                      486,800       6,633
HBO & Co.                                 165,800      11,419
*Hyperion Software                        309,400       6,923
</TABLE>
 
                                       --
                                       43
<PAGE>
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Schedule of Investments
JUNE 30, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     MARKET
                                                      VALUE
COMMON STOCK (91.03%)                   SHARES       (000'S)
- --------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                   <C>          <C>
TECHNOLOGY (CONTINUED)
*Integrated Process Equipment Corp.       303,200  $    7,675
*Kent Electronics Corp.                    54,500       1,999
Methode Electronics Inc.                  469,500       9,331
Molex Inc.                                274,277       9,565
National Data Corporation                 217,900       9,438
*Network General Corp.                    150,000       2,231
Paychex, Inc.                             346,555      13,169
*Peoplesoft, Inc.                         299,900      15,820
*PMC-Sierra Inc.                          348,700       9,153
*RWD Technologies Inc.                     12,900         223
*Saville Systems PLC-ADR                  231,700      12,048
*Sterling Commerce, Inc.                  396,263      13,027
*Sterling Software, Inc.                  259,500       8,109
*Tellabs Inc.                             266,400      14,885
*Transaction Systems Architects           363,200      12,530
*Trident International, Inc.              335,000       6,030
*Vantive Corp.                            111,000       3,136
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                             291,707
                                                   -----------
TRANSPORTATION (4.74%)
*Coach USA, Inc.                          398,300      10,580
*Heartland Express Incorporated           389,500       9,153
*Knight Transportation, Inc.              291,600       7,399
*Swift Transportation Co., Inc.           320,800       9,464
*Wisconsin Central Transportation         245,900       9,162
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                              45,758
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL COMMON STOCK                             $  878,994
                                                   -----------
<CAPTION>
 
                                                     MARKET
                                                      VALUE
MONEY MARKET INVESTMENTS (8.97%)          PAR        (000'S)
<S>                                   <C>          <C>
- --------------------------------------------------------------
CHEMICALS & ALLIED PRODUCTS (0.59%)
American Home Products Co., 6.15%,
 07/01/97                               5,700,000  $    5,700
                                                   -----------
GOVERNMENT (0.12%)
+US Treasury, 5.09%, 09/04/97           1,200,000       1,189
                                                   -----------
NONDEPOSITORY INSTITUTIONS (8.26%)
Asset Securitization, 5.52%,
 07/17/97                              20,000,000      19,951
+Ford Motor Credit Corp., 5.52%,
 07/23/97                              20,000,000      19,933
Household Finance Corp., 5.53%,
 07/10/97                              20,000,000      19,972
Sears Roebuck Acceptance, 5.57%,
 08/06/97                              20,000,000      19,888
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL                                              79,744
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL MONEY MARKET
      INVESTMENTS                                  $   86,633
                                                   -----------
    TOTAL AGGRESSIVE GROWTH
      PORTFOLIO                                    $  965,627
                                                   -----------
</TABLE>
 
*Non-Income Producing
 
+Partially held by the custodian in a segregated account as collateral for open
 futures positions. Information regarding open futures contracts as of June 30,
 1997 is summarized below:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                              UNREALIZED
                           NUMBER OF        EXPIRATION       DEPRECIATION
ISSUER                     CONTRACTS           DATE             (000'S)
<S>                     <C>              <C>               <C>
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
S&P 500 Stock Index               45      September 1997            (243)
</TABLE>
 
    The Accompanying Notes are an Integral Part of the Financial Statements
                       (Prepared from Unaudited Figures)
 
                                       --
                                       44
<PAGE>
NML VARIABLE ANNUITY ACCOUNT B
NML VARIABLE ANNUITY ACCOUNT B
Financial Statements
JUNE 30, 1997
 
STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES
(IN THOUSANDS)
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                                 <C>         <C>
ASSETS
  Investments at Market Value:
    Northwestern Mutual Series Fund, Inc.
      Money Market
       133,371 shares (cost $133,371).............  $ 133,371
      Select Bond
       142,296 shares (cost $166,202).............    169,333
      High Yield Bond
       64,267 shares (cost $70,453)...............     73,843
      Balanced
       1,107,758 shares (cost $1,506,466).........  2,039,383
      Index 500 Stock
       283,113 shares (cost $419,087).............    677,206
      Growth and Income Stock
       142,408 shares (cost $173,558).............    216,318
      Growth Stock
       82,578 shares (cost $108,553)..............    139,474
      International Equity
       282,988 shares (cost $368,448).............    487,023
      Aggressive Growth Stock
       231,577 shares (cost $513,688).............    715,572   $4,651,523
                                                    ---------
Due from Sale of Fund Shares.................................       3,517
Due from Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company..........         260
                                                                ---------
      Total Assets...........................................   $4,655,300
                                                                ---------
                                                                ---------
 
LIABILITIES
  Due to Participants........................................   $   3,523
  Due to Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company..........       3,517
  Due on Purchase of Fund Shares.............................         260
                                                                ---------
      Total Liabilities......................................       7,300
                                                                ---------
EQUITY (NOTE 8)
  Contracts Issued Prior to December 17, 1981................      99,358
  Contracts Issued After December 16, 1981 and Prior to March
   31, 1995..................................................   3,603,170
  Contracts Issued On or After March 31, 1995:
    Front Load Version.......................................     249,985
    Back Load Version........................................     695,487
                                                                ---------
      Total Equity...........................................   4,648,000
                                                                ---------
      Total Liabilities and Equity...........................   $4,655,300
                                                                ---------
                                                                ---------
</TABLE>
 
    The Accompanying Notes are an Integral Part of the Financial Statements
                       (Prepared from Unaudited Figures)
 
                                       --
                                       45
<PAGE>
NML VARIABLE ANNUITY ACCOUNT B
NML VARIABLE ANNUITY ACCOUNT B
Statement of Operations and Changes in Equity
(IN THOUSANDS)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                   COMBINED                MONEY MARKET DIVISION         SELECT BOND DIVISION
                          ---------------------------   ---------------------------   ---------------------------
                           SIX MONTHS                    SIX MONTHS                    SIX MONTHS
                             ENDED        YEAR ENDED       ENDED        YEAR ENDED       ENDED        YEAR ENDED
                            JUNE 30,     DECEMBER 31,     JUNE 30,     DECEMBER 31,     JUNE 30,     DECEMBER 31,
                              1997           1996           1997           1996           1997           1996
                          ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------
<S>                       <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>
INVESTMENT INCOME
  Dividend Income.......  $   193,287    $   170,431    $     3,340    $     5,433    $    10,248    $     5,375
  Annuity Rate and
    Expense
    Guarantees..........       23,147         39,297            623          1,033            873          1,709
                          ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------
  Net Investment
    Income..............      170,140        131,134          2,717          4,400          9,375          3,666
                          ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED
  GAIN ON INVESTMENTS
  Realized Gain on
    Investments.........       16,195         17,426             --             --            734            993
  Unrealized
    Appreciation
    (Depreciation) of
    Investments During
    the Period..........      287,392        314,176             --             --         (5,050)        (1,053)
                          ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------
  Net Gain (Loss) on
    Investments.........      303,587        331,602              0              0         (4,316)           (60)
                          ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------
  Increase in Equity
    Derived from
    Investment
    Activity............      473,727        462,736          2,717          4,400          5,058          3,606
                          ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------
EQUITY TRANSACTIONS
  Contract Owners' Net
    Payments............      340,050        633,824         42,384         69,991         12,029         28,026
  Annuity Payments......       (3,690)        (6,268)           (74)           (82)          (227)          (449)
  Surrenders and Other
    (net)...............     (107,029)      (166,092)        (9,808)       (10,887)        (5,337)       (10,027)
  Transfers from Other
    Divisions or
    Sponsor.............      242,319        334,350         45,956         62,742          6,724         12,644
  Transfers to Other
    Divisions or
    Sponsor.............     (249,363)      (341,164)       (72,066)       (96,594)       (12,574)       (21,333)
                          ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------
Increase in Equity
  Derived from Equity
  Transactions..........      222,287        454,650          6,392         25,170            615          8,861
                          ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------
Net Increase in
  Equity................      696,014        917,386          9,109         29,570          5,673         12,467
EQUITY
  Beginning of Period...    3,951,986      3,034,600        124,369         94,799        163,331        150,864
                          ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------
  End of Period.........  $ 4,648,000    $ 3,951,986    $   133,478    $   124,369    $   169,004    $   163,331
                          ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------
                          ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   ------------
</TABLE>
 
    The Accompanying Notes are an Integral Part of the Financial Statements
                       (Prepared from Unaudited Figures)
 
                                      ---
                                       46
<PAGE>
NML VARIABLE ANNUITY ACCOUNT B
Statement of Operations and Changes in Equity
(IN THOUSANDS)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                HIGH YIELD                                             INDEX 500               GROWTH & INCOME
                               BOND DIVISION            BALANCED DIVISION           STOCK DIVISION             STOCK DIVISION
                         -------------------------  -------------------------  -------------------------  -------------------------
                         SIX MONTHS                 SIX MONTHS                 SIX MONTHS                 SIX MONTHS
                            ENDED      YEAR ENDED      ENDED      YEAR ENDED      ENDED      YEAR ENDED      ENDED      YEAR ENDED
                          JUNE 30,    DECEMBER 31,   JUNE 30,    DECEMBER 31,   JUNE 30,    DECEMBER 31,   JUNE 30,    DECEMBER 31,
                            1997          1996         1997          1996         1997          1996         1997          1996
                         -----------  ------------  -----------  ------------  -----------  ------------  -----------  ------------
<S>                      <C>          <C>           <C>          <C>           <C>          <C>           <C>          <C>
INVESTMENT INCOME
  Dividend Income....... $    2,842   $     4,708   $   91,116   $    91,785   $   21,296   $    10,681   $    4,882   $    13,580
  Annuity Rate and
    Expense
    Guarantees..........        266           289       11,144        20,070        3,044         4,435          885         1,159
                         -----------  ------------  -----------  ------------  -----------  ------------  -----------  ------------
  Net Investment
    Income..............      2,576         4,419       79,972        71,715       18,252         6,246        3,997        12,421
                         -----------  ------------  -----------  ------------  -----------  ------------  -----------  ------------
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED
  GAIN ON INVESTMENTS
  Realized Gain on
    Investments.........         46            39        7,463         9,799        1,055         1,384          409           214
  Unrealized
    Appreciation
    (Depreciation) of
    Investments During
    the Period..........      2,463         1,194      126,457       115,967       87,971        74,302       25,334         8,486
                         -----------  ------------  -----------  ------------  -----------  ------------  -----------  ------------
  Net Gain (Loss) on
    Investments.........      2,509         1,233      133,920       125,766       89,026        75,686       25,743         8,700
                         -----------  ------------  -----------  ------------  -----------  ------------  -----------  ------------
  Increase in Equity
    Derived from
    Investment
    Activity............      5,085         5,652      213,892       197,481      107,278        81,932       29,740        21,121
                         -----------  ------------  -----------  ------------  -----------  ------------  -----------  ------------
EQUITY TRANSACTIONS
  Contract Owners' Net
    Payments............     13,856        15,445       81,562       171,824       55,395        88,137       23,409        40,002
  Annuity Payments......        (68)          (69)      (2,076)       (3,643)        (577)         (933)        (165)         (257)
  Surrenders and Other
    (net)...............     (1,134)         (492)     (52,185)      (92,872)     (11,569)      (16,428)      (3,083)       (2,673)
  Transfers from Other
    Divisions or
    Sponsor.............     13,483         9,064       29,745        38,144       44,595        50,087       24,833        20,255
  Transfers to Other
    Divisions or
    Sponsor.............     (3,533)       (4,139)     (55,340)      (93,322)     (24,718)      (27,976)     (10,496)       (9,131)
                         -----------  ------------  -----------  ------------  -----------  ------------  -----------  ------------
Increase in Equity
  Derived from Equity
  Transactions..........     22,604        19,809        1,706        20,131       63,126        92,887       34,498        48,196
                         -----------  ------------  -----------  ------------  -----------  ------------  -----------  ------------
Net Increase in
  Equity................     27,689        25,461      215,599       217,612      170,404       174,819       64,238        69,317
EQUITY
  Beginning of Period...     46,407        20,946    1,821,194     1,603,582      506,308       331,489      152,389        83,072
                         -----------  ------------  -----------  ------------  -----------  ------------  -----------  ------------
  End of Period......... $   74,096   $    46,407   $2,036,793   $ 1,821,194   $  676,712   $   506,308   $  216,627   $   152,389
                         -----------  ------------  -----------  ------------  -----------  ------------  -----------  ------------
                         -----------  ------------  -----------  ------------  -----------  ------------  -----------  ------------
</TABLE>
 
    The Accompanying Notes are an Integral Part of the Financial Statements
                       (Prepared from Unaudited Figures)
 
                                      ---
                                       47
<PAGE>
NML VARIABLE ANNUITY ACCOUNT B
NML VARIABLE ANNUITY ACCOUNT B
Statement of Operations and Changes in Equity
(IN THOUSANDS)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                      AGGRESSIVE GROWTH
                                    GROWTH STOCK DIVISION       INTERNATIONAL EQUITY DIVISION          STOCK DIVISION
                                -----------------------------   -----------------------------   -----------------------------
                                 SIX MONTHS                      SIX MONTHS                      SIX MONTHS
                                    ENDED        YEAR ENDED         ENDED        YEAR ENDED         ENDED        YEAR ENDED
                                  JUNE 30,      DECEMBER 31,      JUNE 30,      DECEMBER 31,      JUNE 30,      DECEMBER 31,
                                    1997            1996            1997            1996            1997            1996
                                -------------   -------------   -------------   -------------   -------------   -------------
<S>                             <C>             <C>             <C>             <C>             <C>             <C>
INVESTMENT INCOME
  Dividend Income.............    $  1,254        $  3,822        $ 15,386        $ 15,413        $ 42,923        $ 19,634
  Annuity Rate and Expense
    Guarantees................         542             644           2,339           3,631           3,431           6,327
                                -------------   -------------   -------------   -------------   -------------   -------------
  Net Investment Income.......         712           3,178          13,047          11,782          39,492          13,307
                                -------------   -------------   -------------   -------------   -------------   -------------
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN
  ON INVESTMENTS
  Realized Gain on
    Investments...............         302             141             304           1,533           5,882           3,323
  Unrealized Appreciation
    (Depreciation) of
    Investments During the
    Period....................      16,901           8,812          43,993          45,599         (10,677)         60,869
                                -------------   -------------   -------------   -------------   -------------   -------------
  Net Gain (Loss) on
    Investments...............      17,203           8,953          44,297          47,132          (4,795)         64,192
                                -------------   -------------   -------------   -------------   -------------   -------------
  Increase in Equity Derived
    from Investment
    Activity..................      17,915          12,131          57,344          58,914          34,697          77,499
                                -------------   -------------   -------------   -------------   -------------   -------------
EQUITY TRANSACTIONS
  Contract Owners' Net
    Payments..................      17,820          31,093          37,908          63,376          55,687         125,930
  Annuity Payments............         (63)            (76)           (205)           (324)           (235)           (435)
  Surrenders and Other
    (net).....................      (1,733)         (1,841)         (7,851)        (11,636)        (14,329)        (19,236)
  Transfers from Other
    Divisions or Sponsor......      15,724          21,267          29,477          38,185          31,782          81,962
  Transfers to Other Divisions
    or Sponsor................      (7,008)         (5,833)        (14,654)        (29,316)        (48,974)        (53,520)
                                -------------   -------------   -------------   -------------   -------------   -------------
Increase in Equity Derived
  from Equity Transactions....      24,740          44,610          44,675          60,285          23,931         134,701
                                -------------   -------------   -------------   -------------   -------------   -------------
Net Increase in Equity........      42,655          56,741         102,019         119,199          58,628         212,200
EQUITY
  Beginning of Period.........      96,727          39,986         384,775         265,576         656,486         444,286
                                -------------   -------------   -------------   -------------   -------------   -------------
  End of Period...............    $139,382        $ 96,727        $486,794        $384,775        $715,114        $656,486
                                -------------   -------------   -------------   -------------   -------------   -------------
                                -------------   -------------   -------------   -------------   -------------   -------------
</TABLE>
 
    The Accompanying Notes are an Integral Part of the Financial Statements
                       (Prepared from Unaudited Figures)
 
                                      ---
                                       48
<PAGE>
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NML VARIABLE ANNUITY ACCOUNT B
Notes to Financial Statements
JUNE 30, 1997
 
NOTE 1 -- NML Variable Annuity Account B (the "Account") is registered as a unit
investment trust under the Investment Company Act of 1940 and is a segregated
asset account of The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company ("Northwestern
Mutual Life" or "Sponsor") used to fund variable annuity contracts ("contracts")
for tax-deferred annuities, individual retirement annuities and non-qualified
plans. Beginning March 31, 1995, two versions of the contract are offered: Front
Load contracts with a sales charge up to 4% of purchase payments and Back Load
contracts with a withdrawal charge of 0-8%.
 
NOTE 2 -- The preparation of the financial statements in conformity with
generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates
and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and
disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial
statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the
reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Principal
accounting policies are summarized below.
 
NOTE 3 -- All assets of each Division of the Account are invested in shares of
the corresponding Portfolio of Northwestern Mutual Series Fund, Inc. (the
"Fund"). The shares are valued at the Fund's offering and redemption price per
share.
 
The Fund is an open-end investment company registered under the Investment
Company Act of 1940.
 
NOTE 4 -- Annuity reserves are based on published annuity tables with age
adjustment and benefit payments which reflect actual investment experience. For
variable payment plans issued prior to January 1, 1974, annuity reserves are
based on the 1955 American Annuity Table with assumed interest rates of 3% or
5%. For variable payment plans issued on or after January 1, 1974 and before
January 1, 1985, annuity reserves are based on the 1971 Individual Annuity Table
with assumed interest rates of 3 1/2% or 5%. For variable payment plans issued
on or after January 1, 1985, annuity reserves are based on the 1983 Table with
assumed interest rates of 3 1/2% or 5%.
 
NOTE 5 -- Dividend income from the Fund is recorded on the record date of the
dividends. Transactions in Fund shares are accounted for on the trade date. The
basis for determining cost on sale of Fund shares is identified cost. Purchases
and sales of Fund shares for the period ended June 30, 1997 by each Division are
shown below:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                     PURCHASES          SALES
                                  ---------------  ---------------
<S>                               <C>              <C>
Money Market Division...........  $    42,815,737  $    33,842,605
Select Bond Division............       16,062,838        6,122,904
High Yield Bond Division........       25,564,989          406,850
Balanced Division...............      113,317,320       31,048,572
Index 500 Stock Division........       83,909,147        2,755,379
Growth & Income Stock
Division........................       39,871,351        1,359,037
Growth Stock Division...........       26,354,496          863,139
International Equity Division...       58,659,432          815,891
Aggressive Growth Division......       73,938,104       10,350,118
</TABLE>
 
NOTE 6 -- A deduction for annuity rate and expense guarantees is determined
daily and paid to Northwestern Mutual Life as compensation for assuming the risk
that annuity payments will continue for longer periods than anticipated because
the annuitants as a group live longer than expected, and the risk that the
charges made by Northwestern Mutual Life may be insufficient to cover the actual
costs incurred in connection with the contracts.
 
For contracts issued on or after March 31, 1995, for the Front Load version and
the Back Load version, the deduction for annuity rate and expense guarantees is
determined daily at annual rates of 4/10 of 1% and 1 1/4%, respectively, of the
net assets of each Division attributable to these contracts and is paid to
Northwestern Mutual Life. For these contracts, the rates may be increased or
decreased by the Board of Trustees of Northwestern Mutual Life not to exceed
3/4 of 1% and 1 1/2%, respectively.
 
For contracts issued after December 16, 1981 and prior to March 31, 1995, the
deduction is at an annual rate of 1 1/4% of the net assets of each Division
attributable to these contracts. For these contracts, the rate may be increased
or decreased by the Board of Trustees of Northwestern Mutual Life not to exceed
a 1/2% annual rate.
 
For contracts issued prior to December 17, 1981, the deduction is at an annual
rate of 3/4 of 1% of the net assets of each Division attributable to these
contracts. For these contracts, the rate may be increased or decreased by the
Board of Trustees of Northwestern Mutual Life not to exceed a 1% annual rate.
 
Beginning in 1995, Northwestern Mutual Life paid a dividend to certain
contracts. The dividend was re-invested in the Account and has been reflected as
a Contract Owners' Net Payment in the accompanying financial statements.
 
NOTE 7 -- Northwestern Mutual Life is taxed as a "life insurance company" under
the Internal Revenue Code and the operations of the Account form a part of and
are taxed with those of Northwestern Mutual Life. Under current law, no federal
income taxes are payable with respect to the Account. Accordingly, no provision
for any such liability has been made.
 
                                       --
                                       49
<PAGE>
NML VARIABLE ANNUITY ACCOUNT B
Notes to Financial Statements
JUNE 30, 1997
 
NOTE 8 -- Equity Values by Division are shown below
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                              CONTRACTS ISSUED:
                                                   CONTRACTS ISSUED:                     AFTER DECEMBER 16, 1981 AND
                                               PRIOR TO DECEMBER 17, 1981                  PRIOR TO MARCH 31, 1995
                                        ----------------------------------------  ------------------------------------------
                                         ACCUMULATION       UNITS                  ACCUMULATION       UNITS
DIVISION                                  UNIT VALUE     OUTSTANDING    EQUITY      UNIT VALUE     OUTSTANDING     EQUITY
- --------------------------------------  --------------  -------------  ---------  --------------  -------------  -----------
<S>                                     <C>             <C>            <C>        <C>             <C>            <C>
Money Market..........................   $   2.475991         1,252    $   3,099   $   2.291272        35,565    $    81,489
Select Bond...........................       6.969214         1,091        7,601       6.448134        18,443        118,923
High Yield Bond.......................       1.531732           184          281       1.507704        23,864         35,980
Balanced..............................       5.827310         6,420       37,409       5.393201       323,012      1,742,067
Index 500 Stock.......................       3.048228        11,594       35,341       2.949720       154,243        454,975
Growth and Income.....................       1.818681           435          791       1.790179        71,781        128,500
Growth Stock..........................       1.825103           278          507       1.796446        42,263         75,923
International Equity..................       1.914537         2,310        4,423       1.875051       199,219        373,545
Aggressive Growth Stock...............       3.465216         1,536        5,323       3.353096       160,460        538,038
                                                                       ---------                                 -----------
Equity................................                                    94,775                                   3,549,440
Annuity Reserves......................                                     4,583                                      53,730
                                                                       ---------                                 -----------
Total Equity..........................                                 $  99,358                                 $ 3,603,170
                                                                       ---------                                 -----------
                                                                       ---------                                 -----------
</TABLE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                   CONTRACTS ISSUED:                          CONTRACTS ISSUED:
                                               ON OR AFTER MARCH 31, 1995                 ON OR AFTER MARCH 31, 1995
                                                   FRONT LOAD VERSION                         BACK LOAD VERSION
                                        ----------------------------------------  ------------------------------------------
                                         ACCUMULATION       UNITS                  ACCUMULATION       UNITS
DIVISION                                  UNIT VALUE     OUTSTANDING    EQUITY      UNIT VALUE     OUTSTANDING     EQUITY
- --------------------------------------  --------------  -------------  ---------  --------------  -------------  -----------
<S>                                     <C>             <C>            <C>        <C>             <C>            <C>
Money Market..........................   $   1.117169        13,230    $  14,780   $   2.291272        14,294    $    32,751
Select Bond...........................       1.201214         9,085       10,913       6.448134         4,379         28,237
High Yield Bond.......................       1.440503         8,343       12,018       1.507704        16,269         24,529
Balanced..............................       1.496402        32,863       49,176       5.393201        30,992        167,148
Index 500 Stock.......................       1.836538        25,513       46,856       2.949720        43,426        128,094
Growth and Income Stock...............       1.685274        14,226       23,975       1.790179        33,350         59,703
Growth Stock..........................       1.691742        10,158       17,185       1.796446        24,619         44,227
International Equity..................       1.569377        18,838       29,565       1.875051        39,828         74,680
Aggressive Growth Stock...............       1.609960        26,199       42,179       3.353096        37,111        124,436
                                                                       ---------                                 -----------
Equity................................                                   246,647                                     683,805
Annuity Reserves......................                                     3,338                                      11,682
                                                                       ---------                                 -----------
Total Equity..........................                                 $ 249,985                                 $   695,487
                                                                       ---------                                 -----------
                                                                       ---------                                 -----------
</TABLE>
 
                                       --
                                       50
<PAGE>
MONEY MARKET PORTFOLIO
MONEY MARKET PORTFOLIO
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Money Market Portfolio
Financial Statements
(IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
 
STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES
JUNE 30, 1997
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                       <C>
ASSETS
  Money Market Investments (cost
   $185,588)............................  $185,588
  Cash..................................         3
  Due from Sale of Fund Shares..........     1,086
  Interest Receivable...................       299
                                          ---------
    Total Assets........................   186,976
                                          ---------
LIABILITIES
  Due on Purchase of Fund Shares........       233
  Due to Investment Advisor.............        47
                                          ---------
    Total Liabilities...................       280
                                          ---------
NET ASSETS..............................  $186,696
                                          ---------
                                          ---------
REPRESENTED BY:
  Aggregate Paid in Capital (400,000
   shares authorized, $.01 par value;
   186,712 shares outstanding)..........  $186,696
                                          ---------
  Net Assets for 186,712 Shares
   Outstanding..........................  $186,696
                                          ---------
                                          ---------
  Net Asset Value, Offering and
   Redemption Price per Share...........  $   1.00
                                          ---------
                                          ---------
</TABLE>
 
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 1997
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                       <C>
INVESTMENT INCOME
  Income
    Interest............................  $  4,998
                                          ---------
  Expenses
    Management Fees.....................       270
                                          ---------
  Net Investment Income.................     4,728
                                          ---------
NET INCREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING
 FROM OPERATIONS........................  $  4,728
                                          ---------
                                          ---------
</TABLE>
 
    The Accompanying Notes are an Integral Part of the Financial Statements
                       (Prepared from Unaudited Figures)
 
                                      ---
                                       51
<PAGE>
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Money Market Portfolio
Statement of Changes in Net Assets
(IN THOUSANDS)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                           FOR THE
                                             SIX       FOR THE
                                           MONTHS       YEAR
                                            ENDED       ENDED
                                          JUNE 30,    DECEMBER
                                            1997      31, 1996
                                          ---------   ---------
<S>                                       <C>         <C>
INCREASE IN NET ASSETS
  Operations
    Net Investment Income...............  $  4,728    $  7,576
                                          ---------   ---------
      Net Increase in Net Assets
      Resulting from Operations.........     4,728       7,576
                                          ---------   ---------
  Distributions to Shareholders from:
    Net Investment Income...............    (4,728)     (7,576)
                                          ---------   ---------
      Net Decrease in Net Assets
      Resulting from Distributions to
      Shareholders......................    (4,728)     (7,576)
                                          ---------   ---------
  Fund Share Transactions
    Proceeds from Sale of 69,479 and
     122,068 Shares.....................    69,479     122,068
    Proceeds from Shares Issued on
     Reinvestment of Distributions Paid
     (4,728 and 7,576 shares,
     respectively)......................     4,728       7,576
    Payments for 63,809 and 85,918
     Shares Redeemed....................   (63,809)    (85,918)
                                          ---------   ---------
      Net Increase in Net Assets
      Resulting from Fund Share
      Transactions (10,398 and 43,726
      shares, respectively).............    10,398      43,726
                                          ---------   ---------
  Total Increase in Net Assets..........    10,398      43,726
 
NET ASSETS
  Beginning of Period...................   176,298     132,572
                                          ---------   ---------
  End of Period (includes no
   undistributed net investment
   income)..............................  $186,696    $176,298
                                          ---------   ---------
                                          ---------   ---------
</TABLE>
 
    The Accompanying Notes are an Integral Part of the Financial Statements
                       (Prepared from Unaudited Figures)
 
                                      ---
                                       52
<PAGE>
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Money Market Portfolio
Financial Highlights
(FOR A SHARE OUTSTANDING THROUGHOUT THE PERIOD)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                            FOR THE
                              SIX
                            MONTHS
                             ENDED                           FOR THE YEARS
                           JUNE 30,                       ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                             1997      ---------------------------------------------------------
                           (UNAUDITED)   1996        1995        1994        1993        1992
                           ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------
<S>                        <C>         <C>         <C>         <C>         <C>         <C>
SELECTED PER SHARE DATA
  Net Asset Value,
   Beginning of Period...  $   1.00    $   1.00    $   1.00    $   1.00    $   1.00    $   1.00
    Net Investment
     Income..............      0.03        0.05        0.06        0.05        0.03        0.03
    Less Distributions
     from Net Investment
     Income..............     (0.03)      (0.05)      (0.06)      (0.05)      (0.03)      (0.03)
                           ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------
  Net Asset Value, End of
   Period................  $   1.00    $   1.00    $   1.00    $   1.00    $   1.00    $   1.00
                           ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------
                           ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------
  Total Return+..........      2.64%++     5.29%       5.82%       4.03%       2.88%       3.49%
                           ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------
                           ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------
RATIOS AND SUPPLEMENTAL
 DATA
Net Assets, End of Period
 (in thousands)..........  $186,696    $176,298    $132,572    $104,217    $ 12,657    $ 14,091
                           ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------
                           ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------
Ratio of Expenses to
 Average Net Assets......      0.30%*      0.30%       0.30%       0.30%       0.30%       0.30%
                           ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------
                           ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------
Ratio of Net Investment
 Income to Average Net
 Assets..................      5.20%*      5.13%       5.61%       4.64%       2.87%       3.40%
                           ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------
                           ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------
</TABLE>
 
 *Computed on an annualized basis.
 
 +Total Return includes deductions for management expenses; excludes deductions
  for sales loads and account fees.
 
++Reflects total return for the period; not annualized.
 
    The Accompanying Notes are an Integral Part of the Financial Statements
 
                                      ---
                                       53
<PAGE>
SELECT BOND PORTFOLIO
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Select Bond Portfolio
Financial Statements
(IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
 
STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES
JUNE 30, 1997
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                       <C>
ASSETS
  Bonds (cost $207,885).................  $210,409
  Money Market Investments (cost
   $4,861)..............................     4,871
                                          ---------
                                           215,280
  Cash..................................    12,095
  Due from Sale of Securities...........     3,823
  Interest Receivable...................     2,797
  Due from Sale of Fund Shares..........        34
  Due on Futures Variation Margin.......        25
                                          ---------
    Total Assets........................   234,054
                                          ---------
LIABILITIES
  Due on Purchase of Securities.........    14,112
  Due on Purchase of Fund Shares........        84
  Due to Investment Advisor.............        56
                                          ---------
    Total Liabilities...................    14,252
                                          ---------
NET ASSETS..............................  $219,802
                                          ---------
                                          ---------
REPRESENTED BY:
  Aggregate Paid in Capital
   (400,000 shares authorized, $.01 par
   value; 184,710 shares outstanding)...  $211,006
  Undistributed Net Investment Income...     7,394
  Undistributed Accumulated Net Realized
   Loss on Investments..................    (1,151)
  Net Unrealized Appreciation of:
    Investments Securities..............     2,534
    Futures Contracts...................        19
                                          ---------
  Net Assets for 184,710 Shares
   Outstanding..........................  $219,802
                                          ---------
                                          ---------
  Net Asset Value, Offering and
   Redemption Price per Share...........  $   1.19
                                          ---------
                                          ---------
</TABLE>
 
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 1997
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                       <C>
INVESTMENT INCOME
  Income
    Interest............................  $ 7,713
                                          --------
  Expenses
    Management Fees.....................      319
                                          --------
  Net Investment Income.................    7,394
                                          --------
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS) ON
 INVESTMENTS
  Net Realized Gain (Loss) on
   Investments:
    Investment Securities...............     (651)
    Futures Contracts...................      269
                                          --------
      Net Realized Loss on Investments
       for the Period...................     (382)
  Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation
   of:
    Investment Securities...............      750
    Futures Contracts...................       19
                                          --------
      Net Change in Unrealized
       Appreciation for the Period......      769
                                          --------
  Net Gain on Investments...............      387
                                          --------
NET INCREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING
 FROM OPERATIONS........................  $ 7,781
                                          --------
                                          --------
</TABLE>
 
    The Accompanying Notes are an Integral Part of the Financial Statements
                       (Prepared from Unaudited Figures)
 
                                       --
                                       54
<PAGE>
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Select Bond Portfolio
Statement of Changes in Net Assets
(IN THOUSANDS)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                           FOR THE     FOR THE
                                             SIX        YEAR
                                           MONTHS       ENDED
                                            ENDED     DECEMBER
                                          JUNE 30,       31,
                                            1997        1996
                                          ---------   ---------
<S>                                       <C>         <C>
INCREASE IN NET ASSETS
  Operations
    Net Investment Income...............  $  7,394    $ 13,288
    Net Realized Gain (Loss) on
     Investments........................      (382)        569
    Net Change in Unrealized
     Appreciation (Depreciation) of
     Investments for the Period.........       769      (6,987)
                                          ---------   ---------
      Net Increase in Net Assets
      Resulting from Operations.........     7,781       6,870
                                          ---------   ---------
  Distributions to Shareholders from:
    Net Investment Income...............   (13,300)     (7,025)
                                          ---------   ---------
      Net Decrease in Net Assets
      Resulting from Distributions to
      Shareholders......................   (13,300)     (7,025)
                                          ---------   ---------
  Fund Share Transactions
    Proceeds from Sale of 8,571 and
     23,808 Shares......................    10,380      28,507
    Proceeds from Shares Issued on
     Reinvestment of Distributions Paid
     (11,393 and 6,130 shares,
     respectively)......................    13,300       7,025
    Payments for 10,420 and 16,109
     Shares Redeemed....................   (12,692)    (19,186)
                                          ---------   ---------
    Net Increase in Net Assets Resulting
     from Fund Share Transactions (9,544
     and 13,829 shares, respectively)...
     .                                      10,988      16,346
                                          ---------   ---------
  Total Increase in Net Assets..........     5,469      16,191
NET ASSETS
  Beginning of Period...................   214,333     198,142
                                          ---------   ---------
  End of Period (includes undistributed
   net investment income of $7,394 and
   $13,300 respectively)................  $219,802    $214,333
                                          ---------   ---------
                                          ---------   ---------
</TABLE>
 
    The Accompanying Notes are an Integral Part of the Financial Statements
                       (Prepared from Unaudited Figures)
 
                                       --
                                       55
<PAGE>
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Select Bond Portfolio
Financial Highlights
(FOR A SHARE OUTSTANDING THROUGHOUT THE PERIOD)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                           FOR THE
                                             SIX
                                           MONTHS
                                            ENDED
                                          JUNE 30,               FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                            1997      -------------------------------------------------------
                                          (UNAUDITED)   1996        1995        1994        1993       1992
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------   --------   --------
<S>                                       <C>         <C>         <C>         <C>         <C>        <C>
SELECTED PER SHARE DATA
  Net Asset Value, Beginning of
   Period...............................  $   1.22    $   1.23    $   1.06    $   1.15    $  1.14    $  1.18
    Income from Investment Operations:
      Net Investment Income.............      0.04        0.07        0.07        0.06       0.08       0.09
      Net Realized and Unrealized Gain
       (Loss) on Investments............      0.01       (0.04)       0.13       (0.08)      0.05      --
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------   --------   --------
        Total from Investment
         Operations.....................      0.05        0.03        0.20       (0.03)      0.13       0.09
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------   --------   --------
    Less Distributions:
      Dividends from Net Investment
       Income...........................     (0.08)      (0.04)      (0.03)      (0.06)     (0.08)     (0.09)
      Distributions from Realized Gains
       on Investments...................     --          --          --          --         (0.04)     (0.04)
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------   --------   --------
        Total Distributions.............     (0.08)      (0.04)      (0.03)      (0.06)     (0.12)     (0.12)
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------   --------   --------
  Net Asset Value, End of Period........  $   1.19    $   1.22    $   1.23    $   1.06    $  1.15    $  1.14
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------   --------   --------
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------   --------   --------
  Total Return+.........................   3.63%++       3.31%      19.10%      (2.28%)    10.81%      7.74%
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------   --------   --------
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------   --------   --------
 
RATIOS AND SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net Assets, End of Period (in
 thousands).............................  $219,802    $214,333    $198,142    $158,508    $17,485    $15,851
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------   --------   --------
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------   --------   --------
Ratio of Expenses to Average Net
 Assets.................................    0.30%*       0.30%       0.30%       0.30%      0.30%      0.30%
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------   --------   --------
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------   --------   --------
Ratio of Net Investment Income to
 Average Net Assets.....................    6.91%*       6.48%       6.61%       7.02%      6.40%      7.52%
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------   --------   --------
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------   --------   --------
Portfolio Turnover Rate.................    95.61%     195.98%      69.06%     108.00%     67.69%     63.29%
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------   --------   --------
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------   --------   --------
</TABLE>
 
 *Computed on an annualized basis.
 
 +Total Return includes deductions for management expenses; excludes deductions
  for sales loads and account fees.
 
++Reflects total return for the period; not annualized.
 
    The Accompanying Notes are an Integral Part of the Financial Statements
 
                                       --
                                       56
<PAGE>
HIGH YIELD BOND PORTFOLIO
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
High Yield Bond Portfolio
Financial Statements
(IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
 
STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES
JUNE 30, 1997
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                       <C>
ASSETS
  Bonds (cost $90,952)..................  $ 92,739
  Preferred Stock (cost $22,149)........    24,154
  Money Market Investments (cost
   $8,689)..............................     8,689
  Common Stock (cost $1,139)............     1,290
                                          ---------
                                           126,872
  Due from Sale of Securities...........     5,283
  Dividends and Interest Receivable.....     1,610
  Due from Sale of Fund Shares..........       221
                                          ---------
    Total Assets........................   133,986
                                          ---------
LIABILITIES
  Due on Purchase of Securities.........     2,491
  Due to Investment Advisor.............        56
  Accrued Expenses......................        28
                                          ---------
    Total Liabilities...................     2,575
                                          ---------
NET ASSETS..............................  $131,411
                                          ---------
                                          ---------
REPRESENTED BY:
  Aggregate Paid in Capital (400,000
   shares authorized, $.01 par value;
   114,379 shares outstanding)..........  $122,468
  Undistributed Net Investment Income...       435
  Undistributed Accumulated Net Realized
   Gain on Investments..................     4,565
  Net Unrealized Appreciation of
   Investments..........................     3,943
                                          ---------
  Net Assets for 114,379 Shares
   Outstanding..........................  $131,411
                                          ---------
                                          ---------
  Net Asset Value, Offering and
   Redemption Price per Share...........  $   1.15
                                          ---------
                                          ---------
</TABLE>
 
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 1997
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                       <C>
INVESTMENT INCOME
  Income
    Interest............................  $  4,828
    Dividends...........................       323
                                          ---------
      Total Income......................     5,151
                                          ---------
  Expenses
    Management Fees.....................       296
    Custodian Expenses..................        32
    Other Expenses......................        20
                                          ---------
      Total Expenses....................       348
                                          ---------
        Less Custodian Fees:
        Paid Indirectly.................       (32)
                                          ---------
      Total Net Expenses................       316
                                          ---------
  Net Investment Income.................     4,835
                                          ---------
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN ON
 INVESTMENTS
  Net Realized Gain on Investments......     4,137
  Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation
   of Investments for the Period........       914
                                          ---------
  Net Gain on Investments...............     5,051
                                          ---------
NET INCREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING
 FROM OPERATIONS........................  $  9,886
                                          ---------
                                          ---------
</TABLE>
 
    The Accompanying Notes are an Integral Part of the Financial Stataments
                       (Prepared from Unaudited Figures)
 
                                      ---
                                       57
<PAGE>
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
High Yield Bond Portfolio
Statement of Changes in Net Assets
(IN THOUSANDS)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                           FOR THE     FOR THE
                                             SIX        YEAR
                                           MONTHS       ENDED
                                            ENDED     DECEMBER
                                          JUNE 30,       31,
                                            1997        1996
                                          ---------   ---------
<S>                                       <C>         <C>
INCREASE IN NET ASSETS
  Operations
    Net Investment Income...............  $  4,835    $  6,867
    Net Realized Gain on Investments....     4,137       3,638
    Net Change in Unrealized
     Appreciation of Investments for the
     Period.............................       914       2,795
                                          ---------   ---------
      Net Increase in Net Assets
      Resulting from Operations.........     9,886      13,300
                                          ---------   ---------
  Distributions to Shareholders from:
    Net Investment Income...............    (4,103)     (7,126)
    Net Realized Gain on Investments....      (992)     (2,541)
                                          ---------   ---------
      Net Decrease in Net Assets
      Resulting from Distributions to
      Shareholders......................    (5,095)     (9,667)
                                          ---------   ---------
  Fund Share Transactions
    Proceeds from Sale of 25,335 and
     23,742 Shares......................    28,598      26,454
    Proceeds from Shares Issued on
     Reinvestment of Distributions Paid
     (4,456 and 8,840 shares,
     respectively)......................     5,095       9,667
    Payments for 833 and1,697 Shares
     Redeemed...........................      (951)     (1,850)
                                          ---------   ---------
      Net Increase in Net Assets
      Resulting from Fund Share
      Transactions (28,958 and 30,885
      shares, respectively).............    32,742      34,271
                                          ---------   ---------
  Total Increase in Net Assets..........    37,533      37,904
NET ASSETS
  Beginning of Period...................    93,878      55,974
                                          ---------   ---------
  End of Period (includes
   un/(over)distributed net investment
   income of $435 and ($297),
   respectively)........................  $131,411    $ 93,878
                                          ---------   ---------
                                          ---------   ---------
</TABLE>
 
    The Accompanying Notes are an Integral Part of the Financial Statements
                       (Prepared from Unaudited Figures)
 
                                      ---
                                       58
<PAGE>
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
High Yield Bond Portfolio
Financial Highlights
(FOR A SHARE OUTSTANDING THROUGHOUT THE PERIOD)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                           FOR THE                                FOR THE
                                             SIX                                  PERIOD
                                           MONTHS                                 MAY 3,
                                            ENDED         FOR THE YEAR             1994*
                                          JUNE 30,     ENDED DECEMBER 31,         THROUGH
                                            1997      ---------------------    DECEMBER 31,
                                          (UNAUDITED)   1996        1995           1994
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
<S>                                       <C>         <C>         <C>         <C>
SELECTED PER SHARE DATA
  Net Asset Value, Beginning of
   Period...............................  $   1.10    $   1.03    $   0.97       $   1.00
    Income from Investment Operations:
      Net Investment Income.............      0.04        0.09        0.10           0.06
      Net Realized and Unrealized Gains
       (Loss) on Investments............      0.06        0.10        0.07          (0.03)
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
        Total from Investment
         Operations.....................      0.10        0.19        0.17           0.03
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
    Less Distributions:
      Distributions from Net Investment
       Income...........................     (0.04)      (0.09)      (0.10)         (0.06)
      Distributions from Realized Gains
       on Investments...................     (0.01)      (0.03)      (0.01)            --
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
        Total Distributions.............     (0.05)      (0.12)      (0.11)         (0.06)
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
Net Asset Value, End of Period..........  $   1.15    $   1.10    $   1.03       $   0.97
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
Total Return+...........................      8.85%++    19.77%      16.78%          3.02%++
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
 
RATIOS AND SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net Assets, End of Period (in
 thousands).............................  $131,411    $ 93,878    $ 55,974       $ 35,537
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
Ratio of Expenses to Average Net
 Assets.................................      0.62%**     0.60%       0.65%          0.73%**
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
Ratio of Net Investment Income to
 Average Net Assets.....................      9.41%**     9.54%       9.90%          9.40%**
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
Portfolio Turnover Rate.................     89.07%     143.91%     116.57%        119.48%
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
</TABLE>
 
 *Commencement of Operations.
 
 **Computed on an annualized basis.
 
 +Total Return includes deductions for management and other fund expenses;
  excludes deductions for sales loads and account fees.
 
++Reflects total return for the period; not annualized.
 
    The Accompanying Notes are an Integral Part of the Financial Statements
 
                                      ---
                                       59
<PAGE>
BALANCED PORTFOLIO
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Balanced Portfolio
Financial Statements
(IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
 
STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES
JUNE 30, 1997
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                       <C>
ASSETS
  Common Stock (cost $724,418)..........  $1,393,415
  Bonds (cost $708,682).................     717,435
  Money Market Investments (cost
   $406,119)............................     406,189
                                          -----------
                                           2,517,039
  Cash..................................      88,731
  Dividends and Interest Receivable.....      12,470
  Due from Sale of Fund Shares..........         166
                                          -----------
    Total Assets........................   2,618,406
                                          -----------
LIABILITIES
  Due on Purchase of Securities.........      19,545
  Due on Redemption of Fund Shares......       3,909
  Due to Investment Advisor.............         657
  Due on Futures Variation Margin.......         581
                                          -----------
    Total Liabilities...................      24,692
                                          -----------
NET ASSETS..............................  $2,593,714
                                          -----------
                                          -----------
REPRESENTED BY:
  Aggregate Paid in Capital (2,000,000
   shares authorized, $.01 par value;
   1,408,618 shares outstanding)........  $1,809,226
  Undistributed Net Investment Income...      45,054
  Undistributed Accumulated Net Realized
   Gain on Investments..................      62,675
  Net Unrealized Appreciation
   (Depreciation) of:
    Investment Securities...............     677,820
    Index Futures Contracts.............      (1,061)
                                          -----------
  Net Assets for 1,408,618 Shares
   Outstanding..........................  $2,593,714
                                          -----------
                                          -----------
  Net Asset Value, Offering and
   Redemption Price per Share...........  $     1.84
                                          -----------
                                          -----------
</TABLE>
 
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 1997
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                       <C>
INVESTMENT INCOME
  Income
    Interest............................  $36,444
    Dividends (less foreign dividend tax
     of $80)............................   12,238
                                          --------
      Total Income......................   48,682
                                          --------
  Expenses
    Management Fees.....................    3,629
                                          --------
  Net Investment Income.................   45,053
                                          --------
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS) ON
 INVESTMENTS
  Net Realized Gain on Investments:
    Investment Securities...............   45,829
    Index Futures Contracts.............   14,639
                                          --------
      Net Realized Gain on Investments
       for the Period...................   60,468
                                          --------
  Net Change In Unrealized Appreciation
   (Depreciation) of:
    Investment Securities...............  182,460
    Index Futures Contracts.............   (1,062)
                                          --------
      Net Change in Unrealized
       Appreciation of Investments for
       the Period.......................  181,398
                                          --------
  Net Gain on Investments...............  241,866
                                          --------
NET INCREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING
 FROM OPERATIONS........................  $286,919
                                          --------
                                          --------
</TABLE>
 
    The Accompanying Notes are an Integral Part of the Financial Statements
                       (Prepared from Unaudited Figures)
 
                                      ---
                                       60
<PAGE>
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Balanced Portfolio
Statement of Changes in Net Assets
(IN THOUSANDS)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                           FOR THE
                                             SIX      FOR THE
                                           MONTHS       YEAR
                                            ENDED      ENDED
                                          JUNE 30,    DECEMBER
                                            1997      31, 1996
                                          ---------   --------
<S>                                       <C>         <C>
INCREASE IN NET ASSETS
  Operations
    Net Investment Income...............  $ 45,053    $86,649
    Net Realized Gain on Investments....    60,468     27,969
    Net Change in Unrealized
     Appreciation of Investments for the
     Period.............................   181,398    164,495
                                          ---------   --------
      Net Increase in Net Assets
      Resulting from Operations.........   286,919    279,113
                                          ---------   --------
  Distributions to Shareholders from:
    Net Investment Income...............   (86,698)   (83,501)
    Net Realized Gain on Investments....   (29,228)   (35,154)
                                          ---------   --------
      Net Decrease in Net Assets
      Resulting from Distributions to
      Shareholders......................  (115,926)   (118,655)
                                          ---------   --------
  Fund Share Transactions
    Proceeds from Sale of 20,320 and
     51,923 Shares......................    36,197     84,008
    Proceeds from Shares Issued on
     Reinvestment of Distributions Paid
     (65,383 and 77,149 shares,
     respectively)......................   115,926    118,655
    Payments for 31,037 and 73,638
     Shares Redeemed....................   (55,636)   (120,176)
                                          ---------   --------
      Net Increase in Net Assets
      Resulting from Fund Share
      Transactions (54,666 and 55,434
      shares, respectively).............    96,487     82,487
                                          ---------   --------
  Total Increase in Net Assets..........   267,480    242,945
NET ASSETS
  Beginning of Period...................  2,326,234   2,083,289
                                          ---------   --------
  End of Period (includes undistributed
   net investment income of $45,054 and
   $86,699 respectively)................  $2,593,714  $2,326,234
                                          ---------   --------
                                          ---------   --------
</TABLE>
 
    The Accompanying Notes are an Integral Part of the Financial Statements
                       (Prepared from Unaudited Figures)
 
                                      ---
                                       61
<PAGE>
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Balanced Portfolio
Financial Highlights
(FOR A SHARE OUTSTANDING THROUGHOUT THE PERIOD)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                            FOR THE
                                           SIX MONTHS                      FOR THE YEARS ENDED
                                           ENDED JUNE                         DECEMBER 31,
                                            30, 1997     -------------------------------------------------------
                                          (UNAUDITED)      1996        1995        1994        1993       1992
                                          ------------   ---------   ---------   ---------   --------   --------
<S>                                       <C>            <C>         <C>         <C>         <C>        <C>
SELECTED PER SHARE DATA
  Net Asset Value, Beginning of
   Period...............................   $     1.72    $   1.60    $   1.31    $   1.33    $  1.39    $  1.40
    Income from Investment Operations:
      Net Investment Income.............         0.03        0.06        0.07        0.04       0.06       0.06
      Net Realized and Unrealized Gain
       (Loss) on Investments............         0.17        0.15        0.27       (0.05)      0.09       0.01
                                          ------------   ---------   ---------   ---------   --------   --------
        Total from Investment
         Operations.....................         0.20        0.21        0.34       (0.01)      0.15       0.07
                                          ------------   ---------   ---------   ---------   --------   --------
    Less Distributions:
      Distributions from Net Investment
       Income...........................        (0.06)      (0.06)      (0.04)      (0.00)     (0.07)     (0.06)
      Distributions from Realized Gains
       on Investments...................        (0.02)      (0.03)      (0.01)      (0.01)     (0.14)     (0.02)
                                          ------------   ---------   ---------   ---------   --------   --------
        Total Distributions.............        (0.08)      (0.09)      (0.05)      (0.01)     (0.21)     (0.08)
                                          ------------   ---------   ---------   ---------   --------   --------
  Net Asset Value, End of Period........   $     1.84    $   1.72    $   1.60    $   1.31    $  1.33    $  1.39
                                          ------------   ---------   ---------   ---------   --------   --------
                                          ------------   ---------   ---------   ---------   --------   --------
  Total Return+.........................       12.36%++     13.45%      26.39%       0.16%      9.91%      5.61%
                                          ------------   ---------   ---------   ---------   --------   --------
                                          ------------   ---------   ---------   ---------   --------   --------
RATIOS AND SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net Assets, End of Period (in
 thousands).............................   $2,593,714    $2,326,234  $2,083,289  $1,727,127  $68,910    $66,006
                                          ------------   ---------   ---------   ---------   --------   --------
                                          ------------   ---------   ---------   ---------   --------   --------
Ratio of Expenses to Average Net
 Assets.................................        0.30%*       0.30%       0.30%       0.30%      0.30%      0.30%
                                          ------------   ---------   ---------   ---------   --------   --------
                                          ------------   ---------   ---------   ---------   --------   --------
Ratio of Net Investment Income to
 Average Net Assets.....................        3.52%*       3.95%       4.40%       4.78%      4.24%      4.45%
                                          ------------   ---------   ---------   ---------   --------   --------
                                          ------------   ---------   ---------   ---------   --------   --------
Portfolio Turnover Rate.................       18.84%       67.66%      37.28%      42.35%     70.91%     43.28%
                                          ------------   ---------   ---------   ---------   --------   --------
                                          ------------   ---------   ---------   ---------   --------   --------
Average Commission Rate #...............   $   0.0532    $ 0.0320
                                          ------------   ---------
                                          ------------   ---------
</TABLE>
 
 * Computed on an annualized basis.
 
 + Total Return includes deductions for management expenses; excludes deductions
for sales loads and account fees.
 
++ Reflects total return for the period; not annualized.
 
 # Disclosure required for fiscal years beginning after September 1, 1995.
 
    The Accompanying Notes are an Integral Part of the Financial Statements
 
                                      ---
                                       62
<PAGE>
INDEX 500 STOCK PORTFOLIO
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Index 500 Stock Portfolio
Financial Statements
(IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
 
STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES
JUNE 30, 1997
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                       <C>
ASSETS
  Common Stocks (cost $565,215).........  $921,855
  Money Market Investments (cost
   $57,237).............................    57,237
                                          ---------
                                           979,092
  Dividends and Interest Receivable.....       924
  Due from Sale of Fund Shares..........       281
                                          ---------
    Total Assets........................   980,297
                                          ---------
LIABILITIES
  Futures Variation Margin..............       416
  Due to Sale of Fund Shares............       242
  Due to Investment Advisor.............       163
  Accrued Expenses......................        57
                                          ---------
    Total Liabilities...................       878
                                          ---------
NET ASSETS..............................  $979,419
                                          ---------
                                          ---------
REPRESENTED BY:
  Aggregate Paid in Capital (600,000
   shares authorized, $.01 par value;
   409,395 shares outstanding)..........  $599,021
  Undistributed Net Investment Income...     8,186
  Undistributed Accumulated Net Realized
   Gain on Investments..................    11,757
  Net Unrealized Appreciation of:
    Investment Securities...............   356,640
    Index Futures Contracts.............     3,815
                                          ---------
  Net Assets for 409,395 Shares
   Outstanding..........................  $979,419
                                          ---------
                                          ---------
  Net Asset Value, Offering and
   Redemption Price per Share...........  $   2.39
                                          ---------
                                          ---------
</TABLE>
 
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 1997
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                       <C>
INVESTMENT INCOME
  Income
    Dividends (less foreign dividend tax
     of $50)............................  $  7,252
    Interest............................     1,820
                                          ---------
      Total Income......................     9,072
                                          ---------
  Expenses
    Management Fees.....................       842
    Custodian Fees......................        21
    Other Expenses......................        44
                                          ---------
      Total Expenses....................       907
                                          ---------
        Less Custodian Fees:
           Paid by Affiliate............       (20)
           Paid Indirectly..............        (1)
                                          ---------
      Total Net Expenses................       886
                                          ---------
  Net Investment Income.................     8,186
                                          ---------
 
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN ON
 INVESTMENTS
  Net Realized Gain on Investments:
    Investment Securities...............     3,717
    Index Futures Contracts.............     8,382
                                          ---------
      Net Realized Gain on Investments
       for the Period...................    12,099
                                          ---------
  Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation
   of:
    Investment Securities...............   136,930
    Index Futures Contracts.............     3,086
                                          ---------
      Net Change in Unrealized
       Appreciation of Investments for
       the Period.......................   140,016
                                          ---------
  Net Gain on Investments...............   152,115
                                          ---------
NET INCREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING
 FROM OPERATIONS........................  $160,301
                                          ---------
                                          ---------
</TABLE>
 
    The Accompanying Notes are an Integral Part of the Financial Statements
                       (Prepared from Unaudited Figures)
 
                                      ---
                                       63
<PAGE>
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Index 500 Stock Portfolio
Statement of Changes in Net Assets
(IN THOUSANDS)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                           FOR THE     FOR THE
                                             SIX        YEAR
                                           MONTHS       ENDED
                                            ENDED     DECEMBER
                                          JUNE 30,       31,
                                            1997        1996
                                          ---------   ---------
<S>                                       <C>         <C>
INCREASE IN NET ASSETS
  Operations
    Net Investment Income...............  $  8,186    $ 13,866
    Net Realized Gain on Investments....    12,099      17,014
    Net Change in Unrealized
     Appreciation of Investments for the
     Period.............................   140,016      96,274
                                          ---------   ---------
      Net Increase in Net Assets
      Resulting from Operations.........   160,301     127,154
                                          ---------   ---------
  Disributions to Shareholders from:
    Net Investment Income...............   (13,866)     (6,192)
    Net Realized Gain on Investments....   (16,994)     (9,632)
                                          ---------   ---------
      Net Decrease in Net Assets
      Resulting from Distributions to
      Shareholders......................   (30,860)    (15,824)
                                          ---------   ---------
  Fund Share Transactions
    Proceeds from Sale of 41,216 and
     72,277 Shares......................    91,384     134,034
    Proceeds from Shares Issued on
     Reinvestment of Distributions Paid
     (13,658 and 9,021 shares,
     respectively)......................    30,860      15,824
    Payments for 5,538 and 8,757 Shares
     Redeemed...........................   (12,332)    (16,255)
                                          ---------   ---------
      Net Increase in Net Assets
      Resulting from Fund Share
      Transactions (49,336 and 72,541
      shares, respectively).............   109,912     133,603
                                          ---------   ---------
  Total Increase in Net Assets..........   239,353     244,933
 
NET ASSETS
  Beginning of Period...................   740,066     495,133
                                          ---------   ---------
  End of Period (includes undistributed
   net investment income of $8,186 and
   $13,866 respectively)................  $979,419    $740,066
                                          ---------   ---------
                                          ---------   ---------
</TABLE>
 
    The Accompanying Notes are an Integral Part of the Financial Statements
                       (Prepared from Unaudited Figures)
 
                                      ---
                                       64
<PAGE>
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Index 500 Stock Portfolio
Financial Highlights
(FOR A SHARE OUTSTANDING THROUGHOUT THE PERIOD)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                           FOR THE
                                             SIX
                                           MONTHS
                                            ENDED                                 FOR THE YEARS
                                          JUNE 30,                             ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                            1997      ---------------------------------------------------------------------
                                          (UNAUDITED)   1996           1995           1994        1993           1992
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
<S>                                       <C>         <C>         <C>               <C>         <C>         <C>
SELECTED PER SHARE DATA
  Net Asset Value, Beginning of
   Period...............................  $   2.06    $   1.72       $   1.27       $   1.29    $   1.33       $   1.31
    Income from Investment Operations:
      Net Investment Income.............      0.02        0.04           0.04           0.03        0.04           0.03
      Net Realized and Unrealized Gain
       (Loss) on Investments............      0.39        0.35           0.42          (0.01)       0.09           0.03
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
        Total from Investment
         Operations.....................      0.41        0.39           0.46           0.02        0.13           0.06
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
    Less Distributions:
      Distributions from Net Investment
       Income...........................     (0.04)      (0.02)         (0.01)         (0.03)      (0.03)         (0.03)
      Distributions from Realized Gains
       on Investments...................     (0.04)      (0.03)            --          (0.01)      (0.14)         (0.01)
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
        Total Distributions.............     (0.08)      (0.05)         (0.01)         (0.04)      (0.17)         (0.04)
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
  Net Asset Value, End of Period........  $   2.39    $   2.06       $   1.72       $   1.27    $   1.29       $   1.33
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
  Total Return+.........................     20.50%++    22.75%         37.25%          1.21%       9.90%          4.54%
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
 
RATIOS AND SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net Assets, End of Period (in
 thousands).............................  $979,419    $740,066       $495,133       $316,123    $ 25,479       $ 17,288
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
Ratio of Expenses to Average Net
 Assets.................................      0.22%*      0.21%          0.21%          0.24%       0.30%          0.30%
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
Ratio of Net Investment Income to
 Average Net Assets.....................      2.05%*      2.27%          2.51%          3.10%       2.55%          2.61%
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
Portfolio Turnover Rate.................      0.90%       3.45%          3.19%          5.59%      62.69%         39.93%
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
Average Commission Rate #...............  $ 0.0286    $ 0.0306
                                          ---------   ---------
                                          ---------   ---------
</TABLE>
 
 *Computed on an annualized basis.
 
 +Total Return includes deductions for management and other fund expenses;
 excludes deductions for sales loads and account fees.
 
++Reflects total return for the period; not annualized.
 
 # Disclosure required for fiscal years beginning after September 1, 1995.
 
    The Accompanying Notes are an Integral Part of the Financial Statements
 
                                      ---
                                       65
<PAGE>
GROWTH AND INCOME STOCK PORTFOLIO
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Growth and Income Stock Portfolio
Financial Statements
(IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
 
STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES
JUNE 30, 1997
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                       <C>
ASSETS
  Common Stocks (cost $280,494).........  $322,342
  Money Market Investments (cost
   $3,391)..............................     3,391
                                          ---------
                                           325,733
  Cash..................................       256
  Due from Sale of Securities...........     4,979
  Due from Sale of Fund Shares..........       643
  Dividends and Interest Receivable.....       327
                                          ---------
    Total Assets........................   331,938
                                          ---------
LIABILITIES
  Due on Purchase of Securities.........     5,875
  Due to Investment Advisor.............       158
  Accrued Expenses......................        25
                                          ---------
    Total Liabilities...................     6,058
                                          ---------
NET ASSETS..............................  $325,880
                                          ---------
                                          ---------
REPRESENTED BY:
  Aggregate Paid in Capital (400,000
   shares authorized, $.01 par value;
   214,512 shares outstanding)..........  $256,391
  Undistributed Net Investment Income...       169
  Undistributed Accumulated Net Realized
   Gain on Investments..................    27,472
  Net Unrealized Appreciation of
   Investments..........................    41,848
                                          ---------
  Net Assets for 214,512 Shares
   Outstanding..........................  $325,880
                                          ---------
                                          ---------
  Net Asset Value, Offering and
   Redemption Price per Share...........  $   1.52
                                          ---------
                                          ---------
</TABLE>
 
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 1997
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                       <C>
INVESTMENT INCOME
  Income
    Dividends (less foreign dividend tax
     of $24)............................  $ 2,078
    Interest............................      167
                                          --------
      Total Income......................    2,245
                                          --------
  Expenses
    Management Fees.....................      803
    Custodian Fees......................       14
    Other Expenses......................        9
                                          --------
      Total Expenses....................      826
                                          --------
      Less Custodian Fees:
        Paid by Affiliate...............      (11)
        Paid Indirectly.................       (3)
                                          --------
      Total Net Expenses................      812
                                          --------
  Net Investment Income.................    1,433
                                          --------
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN ON
 INVESTMENTS
  Net Realized Gain on Investments......   27,472
  Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation
   of Investments for the Period........   17,523
                                          --------
  Net Gain on Investments...............   44,995
                                          --------
NET INCREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING
 FROM OPERATIONS........................  $46,428
                                          --------
                                          --------
</TABLE>
 
    The Accompanying Notes are an Integral Part of the Financial Statements
                       (Prepared from Unaudited Figures)
 
                                      ---
                                       66
<PAGE>
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Growth and Income Stock Portfolio
Statement of Changes in Net Assets
(IN THOUSANDS)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                           FOR THE
                                             SIX      FOR THE
                                           MONTHS       YEAR
                                            ENDED      ENDED
                                          JUNE 30,    DECEMBER
                                            1997      31, 1996
                                          ---------   --------
<S>                                       <C>         <C>
INCREASE IN NET ASSETS
  Operations
    Net Investment Income...............  $  1,433    $ 2,654
    Net Realized Gain on Investments....    27,472     21,066
    Net Change in Unrealized
     Appreciation of Investments for the
     Period.............................    17,523     11,131
                                          ---------   --------
      Net Increase in Net Assets
      Resulting from Operations.........    46,428     34,851
                                          ---------   --------
  Distributions to Shareholders from:
    Net Investment Income...............    (1,289)    (2,646)
    Net Realized Gain on Investments....    (6,063)   (18,392)
                                          ---------   --------
      Net Decrease in Net Assets
      Resulting from Distributions to
      Shareholders......................    (7,352)   (21,038)
                                          ---------   --------
  Fund Share Transactions
    Proceeds from Sale of 34,160 and
     51,364 Shares......................    48,611     65,912
    Proceeds from Shares Issued on
     Reinvestment of Distributions Paid
     (5,016 and 15,944 shares,
     respectively)......................     7,352     21,038
    Payments for 2,392 and 2,670 Shares
     Redeemed...........................    (3,343)    (3,502)
                                          ---------   --------
    Net Increase in Net Assets Resulting
     from Fund Share Transactions
     (36,784 and 64,638 shares,
     respectively)......................    52,620     83,448
                                          ---------   --------
  Total Increase in Net Assets..........    91,696     97,261
NET ASSETS
  Beginning of Period...................   234,184    136,923
                                          ---------   --------
  End of Period (includes undistributed
   net investment income of $169 and
   $25, respectively)...................  $325,880    $234,184
                                          ---------   --------
                                          ---------   --------
</TABLE>
 
    The Accompanying Notes are an Integral Part of the Financial Statements
                       (Prepared from Unaudited Figures)
 
                                      ---
                                       67
<PAGE>
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Growth and Income Stock Portfolio
Financial Highlights
(FOR A SHARE OUTSTANDING THROUGHOUT THE PERIOD)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                           FOR THE
                                             SIX
                                           MONTHS                                 FOR THE PERIOD
                                            ENDED        FOR THE YEAR ENDED        MAY 3, 1994*
                                          JUNE 30,          DECEMBER 31,             THROUGH
                                            1997      -------------------------    DECEMBER 31,
                                          (UNAUDITED)   1996          1995             1994
                                          ---------   --------   --------------   --------------
<S>                                       <C>         <C>        <C>              <C>
SELECTED PER SHARE DATA
  Net Asset Value, Beginning of
   Period...............................  $   1.32    $  1.21       $  0.98          $  1.00
    Income from Investment Operations:
      Net Investment Income.............      0.01       0.02          0.02             0.01
      Net Realized and Unrealized Gains
       on Investments...................      0.23       0.23          0.29            (0.01)
                                          ---------   --------   --------------   --------------
        Total from Investment
         Operations.....................      0.24       0.25          0.31            (0.00)
                                          ---------   --------   --------------   --------------
    Less Distributions:
      Distributions from Net Investment
       Income...........................     (0.01)     (0.02)        (0.02)           (0.01)
      Distributions from Realized Gains
       on Investments...................     (0.03)     (0.12)        (0.06)           (0.01)
                                          ---------   --------   --------------   --------------
        Total Distributions.............     (0.04)     (0.14)        (0.08)           (0.02)
                                          ---------   --------   --------------   --------------
  Net Asset Value, End of Period........  $   1.52    $  1.32       $  1.21          $  0.98
                                          ---------   --------   --------------   --------------
                                          ---------   --------   --------------   --------------
  Total Return+.........................     18.11%++   19.97%        31.12%            0.34%++
                                          ---------   --------   --------------   --------------
                                          ---------   --------   --------------   --------------
RATIOS AND SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net Assets, End of Period (in
 thousands).............................  $325,880    $234,184      $136,923         $64,700
                                          ---------   --------   --------------   --------------
                                          ---------   --------   --------------   --------------
Ratio of Expenses to Average Net
 Assets.................................      0.63%**    0.62%         0.69%            0.78%**
                                          ---------   --------   --------------   --------------
                                          ---------   --------   --------------   --------------
Ratio of Net Investment Income to
 Average Net Assets.....................      1.12%**    1.44%         1.68%            1.93%**
                                          ---------   --------   --------------   --------------
                                          ---------   --------   --------------   --------------
Portfolio Turnover Rate.................     51.19%     93.92%        80.00%           54.18%
                                          ---------   --------   --------------   --------------
                                          ---------   --------   --------------   --------------
Average Commission Rate #...............  $ 0.0495    $0.0515
                                          ---------   --------
                                          ---------   --------
</TABLE>
 
  *Commencement of Operations.
 
 **Computed on an annualized basis.
 
 +Total Return includes deductions for management and other fund expenses;
  excludes deductions for sales loads and account fees.
 
++Reflects total return for the period; not annualized.
 
 #Disclosure required for fiscal years beginning after September 1, 1995.
 
    The Accompanying Notes are an Integral Part of the Financial Statements
 
                                      ---
                                       68
<PAGE>
GROWTH STOCK PORTFOLIO
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Growth Stock Portfolio
Financial Statements
(IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
 
STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES
JUNE 30, 1997
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                       <C>
ASSETS
  Common Stocks (cost $143,169).........  $199,166
  Money Market Investments (cost
   $17,737).............................    17,737
                                          ---------
                                           216,903
  Due from Sale of Securities...........       606
  Due from Sale of Fund Shares..........       372
  Dividends and Interest Receivable.....       182
                                          ---------
    Total Assets........................   218,063
                                          ---------
LIABILITIES
  Due to Purchase of Securities.........       832
  Due to Investment Advisor.............        89
  Futures Variation Margin..............        63
  Due to Purchase of Fund Shares........        31
  Accrued Expenses......................        22
                                          ---------
    Total Liabilities...................     1,037
                                          ---------
NET ASSETS..............................  $217,026
                                          ---------
                                          ---------
REPRESENTED BY:
  Aggregate Paid in Capital (400,000
   shares authorized, $.01 par value;
   128,497 shares outstanding)..........  $156,767
  Undistributed Net Investment Income...       225
  Undistributed Accumulated Net Realized
   Gain on Investments..................     4,053
  Net Unrealized
   Appreciation(Depreciation) of:
    Investment Securities...............    55,997
  Index Futures Contracts...............       (16)
                                          ---------
  Net Assets for 128,497 Shares
   Outstanding..........................  $217,026
                                          ---------
                                          ---------
  Net Asset Value, Offering and
   Redemption Price per Share...........  $   1.69
                                          ---------
                                          ---------
</TABLE>
 
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 1997
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                       <C>
INVESTMENT INCOME
  Income
    Dividends (less foreign dividend tax
     of $15)............................  $  1,219
    Interest............................       673
                                          ---------
      Total Income......................     1,892
                                          ---------
  Expenses
    Management Fees.....................       466
    Custodian Expenses..................         8
    Other Expenses......................        15
                                          ---------
      Total Expenses....................       489
                                          ---------
        Less Custodian Fees:
           Paid by Affiliate............        (6)
           Paid Indirectly..............        (2)
                                          ---------
      Total Net Expenses................       481
                                          ---------
  Net Investment Income.................     1,411
                                          ---------
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED
 GAIN (LOSS) ON INVESTMENTS
  Net Realized Gain on Investments:
    Investment Securities...............     1,929
    Index Futures Contracts.............     2,294
                                          ---------
      Net Realized Gain on Investments
       for the Period...................     4,223
                                          ---------
  Net Change in Unrealized
   Appreciation(Depreciation) of:
    Investments Securities..............    26,158
    Index Futures Contracts.............      (173)
                                          ---------
  Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation
   of Investments for the Period........    25,985
                                          ---------
  Net Gain on Investments...............    30,208
                                          ---------
NET INCREASE IN NET ASSETS
 RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS..............  $ 31,619
                                          ---------
                                          ---------
</TABLE>
 
    The Accompanying Notes are an Integral Part of the Financial Statements
                       (Prepared from Unaudited Figures)
 
                                      ---
                                       69
<PAGE>
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Growth Stock Portfolio
Statement of Changes in Net Assets
(IN THOUSANDS)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                           FOR THE     FOR THE
                                             SIX        YEAR
                                           MONTHS       ENDED
                                            ENDED     DECEMBER
                                          JUNE 30,       31,
                                            1997        1996
                                          ---------   ---------
<S>                                       <C>         <C>
INCREASE IN NET ASSETS
  Operations
    Net Investment Income...............  $  1,411    $  1,767
    Net Realized Gain on Investments....     4,223       5,039
    Net Change in Unrealized
     Appreciation of Investments for the
     Period.............................    25,985      17,013
                                          ---------   ---------
      Net Increase in Net Assets
      Resulting from Operations.........    31,619      23,819
                                          ---------   ---------
  Distributions to Shareholders from:
    Net Investment Income...............    (1,218)     (1,749)
    Net Realized Gain on Investments....      (799)     (5,031)
                                          ---------   ---------
      Net Decrease in Net Assets
      Resulting from Distributions to
      Shareholders......................    (2,017)     (6,780)
                                          ---------   ---------
  Fund Share Transactions
    Proceeds from Sale of 23,084 and
     45,246 Shares......................    35,642      62,709
    Proceeds from Shares Issued on
     Reinvestment of Distributions Paid
     (1,224 and 4,630 shares,
     respectively)......................     2,017       6,780
    Payments for 12,274 and 1,147 Shares
     Redeemed...........................   (20,717)     (1,603)
                                          ---------   ---------
      Net Increase in Net Assets
      Resulting from Fund Share
      Transactions
       (12,034 and 48,729 shares,
      respectively).....................    16,942      67,886
                                          ---------   ---------
  Total Increase in Net Assets..........    46,544      84,925
 
NET ASSETS
  Beginning of Period...................   170,482      85,557
                                          ---------   ---------
  End of Period (includes undistributed
   net investment income of $225
   and $32, respectively)...............  $217,026    $170,482
                                          ---------   ---------
                                          ---------   ---------
</TABLE>
 
    The Accompanying Notes are an Integral Part of the Financial Statements
                       (Prepared from Unaudited Figures)
 
                                      ---
                                       70
<PAGE>
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Growth Stock Portfolio
Financial Highlights
(FOR A SHARE OUTSTANDING THROUGHOUT THE PERIOD)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                           FOR THE                                FOR THE
                                             SIX                                  PERIOD
                                           MONTHS            FOR THE              MAY 3,
                                            ENDED          YEAR ENDED              1994*
                                          JUNE 30,        DECEMBER 31,            THROUGH
                                            1997      ---------------------   DECEMBER 31,
                                          (UNAUDITED)   1996        1995           1994
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
<S>                                       <C>         <C>         <C>         <C>
SELECTED PER SHARE DATA
  Net Asset Value, Beginning of
   Period...............................  $   1.46    $   1.26    $   1.00       $   1.00
  Income from Investment Operations:
    Net Investment Income...............      0.01        0.02        0.02           0.01
    Net Realized and Unrealized Gains on
     Investments........................      0.24        0.25        0.28             --
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
      Total from Investment
       Operations.......................      0.25        0.27        0.30           0.01
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
  Less Distributions:
    Distributions from Net Investment
     Income.............................     (0.01)      (0.02)      (0.02)         (0.01)
    Distributions from Realized Gains on
     Investments........................     (0.01)      (0.05)      (0.02)            --
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
      Total Distributions...............     (0.02)      (0.07)      (0.04)         (0.01)
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
  Net Asset Value, End of Period........  $   1.69    $   1.46    $   1.26       $   1.00
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
  Total Return+.........................     16.46%++    20.91%      30.82%          1.55%++
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
RATIOS AND SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
  Net Assets, End of Period (in
   thousands)...........................  $217,026    $170,482    $ 85,557       $ 41,868
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
  Ratio of Expenses to Average Net
   Assets...............................      0.52%**     0.57%       0.61%          0.71%**
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
  Ratio of Net Investment Income to
   Average Net Assets...................      1.53%**     1.41%       1.77%          2.30%**
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
  Portfolio Turnover Rate...............     16.32%      37.61%      46.83%         16.51%
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
                                          ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
  Average Commission Rate#..............  $ 0.0532    $ 0.0629
                                          ---------   ---------
                                          ---------   ---------
</TABLE>
 
 * Commencement of Operations.
 
** Computed on an annualized basis.
 
 + Total Return includes deductions for management and other fund expenses;
excludes deductions for sales loads
   and account fees.
 
++ Reflects total return for the period; not annualized.
 
 # Disclosure required for fiscal years beginning after September 1, 1995.
 
    The Accompanying Notes are an Integral Part of the Financial Statements
 
                                      ---
                                       71
<PAGE>
INTERNATIONAL EQUITY PORTFOLIO
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
International Equity Portfolio
Financial Statements
(IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
 
STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES
JUNE 30, 1997
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                       <C>
ASSETS
  Common Stocks (cost $417,953).........  $565,346
  Money Market Investments (cost
   $64,526).............................    64,526
  Bonds (cost $9,026)...................    10,856
                                          ---------
                                           640,728
  Cash..................................        52
  Dividends and Interest Receivable.....     4,536
  Due from Sale of Securities...........     1,900
  Due from Foreign Currency Contracts...     1,250
  Due from Purchase of Fund Shares......       535
                                          ---------
    Total Assets........................   649,001
                                          ---------
LIABILITIES
  Due on Purchase of Securities.........     3,741
  Due on Foreign Currency Contracts.....     1,259
  Due to Investment Advisor.............       361
  Accrued Expenses......................       175
                                          ---------
    Total Liabilities...................     5,536
                                          ---------
NET ASSETS..............................  $643,465
                                          ---------
                                          ---------
REPRESENTED BY:
  Aggregate Paid in Capital (700,000
   shares authorized, $.01 par value;
   373,898 shares outstanding)..........  $476,968
  Undistributed Net Investment Income...    10,575
  Undistributed Accumulated Net Realized
   Gain on Investments..................     6,705
  Net Unrealized Appreciation
   (Depreciation) of:
    Investment Securities...............   149,223
    Foreign Currency Transactions.......        (6)
                                          ---------
  Net Assets for 373,898 Shares
   Outstanding..........................  $643,465
                                          ---------
                                          ---------
  Net Asset Value, Offering and
   Redemption Price per Share...........  $   1.72
                                          ---------
                                          ---------
</TABLE>
 
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 1997
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                       <C>
INVESTMENT INCOME
  Income
    Dividends (less foreign dividend tax
     of $1,242).........................  $ 10,935
    Interest............................     1,635
                                          ---------
      Total Income......................    12,570
                                          ---------
  Expenses
    Management Fees.....................     1,854
    Custodian Fees......................        80
    Other Expenses......................        56
                                          ---------
      Total Expenses....................     1,990
                                          ---------
  Net Investment Income.................    10,580
                                          ---------
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS) ON
 INVESTMENTS AND FOREIGN CURRENCIES
  Net Realized Gain (Loss) on:
    Investment Securities...............     7,636
    Foreign Currency Transactions.......      (328)
                                          ---------
      Net Realized Gain For the
       Period...........................     7,308
                                          ---------
  Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation
   (Depreciation) of:
    Investment Securities...............    60,653
    Foreign Currency Transactions.......        (9)
                                          ---------
      Net Change in Unrealized
       Appreciation for the Period......    60,644
                                          ---------
  Net Gain on Investments...............    67,952
                                          ---------
NET INCREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING
 FROM OPERATIONS........................  $ 78,532
                                          ---------
                                          ---------
</TABLE>
 
    The Accompanying Notes are an Integral Part of the Financial Statements
                       (Prepared from Unaudited Figures)
 
                                      ---
                                       72
<PAGE>
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
International Equity Portfolio
Statement of Changes in Net Assets
(IN THOUSANDS)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                              FOR THE
                                            SIX MONTHS          FOR THE
                                               ENDED          YEAR ENDED
                                             JUNE 30,        DECEMBER 31,
                                               1997              1996
                                          ---------------   ---------------
<S>                                       <C>               <C>
INCREASE IN NET ASSETS
  Operations
    Net Investment Income...............     $ 10,580          $ 12,614
    Net Realized Gain on Investments....        7,308             7,391
    Net Unrealized Appreciation of
     Investments for the Period.........       60,644            61,490
                                          ---------------   ---------------
      Net Increase in Net Assets
      Resulting from Operations.........       78,532            81,495
                                          ---------------   ---------------
  Distributions to Shareholders from:
    Net Investment Income...............      (12,704)           (8,311)
    Net Realized Gain on Investments....       (7,542)          (11,653)
                                          ---------------   ---------------
      Net Decrease in Net Assets
      Resulting from Distributions to
      Shareholders......................      (20,246)          (19,964)
                                          ---------------   ---------------
  Fund Share Transactions
    Proceeds from Sale of 39,677 and
     64,977 Shares......................       63,938            92,514
    Proceeds from Shares Issued on
     Reinvestment of Dividends Paid
     (12,596 and 14,362 shares,
     respectively)......................       20,246            19,964
    Payments for 2,621 and 7,589 Shares
     Redeemed...........................       (4,194)          (10,947)
                                          ---------------   ---------------
    Net Increase in Net Assets Resulting
     from Fund Share Transactions
     (49,652 and 71,750 shares,
     respectively)......................       79,990           101,531
                                          ---------------   ---------------
  Total Increase in Net Assets..........      138,276           163,062
 
NET ASSETS
  Beginning of Period...................      505,189           342,127
                                          ---------------   ---------------
  End of Period (includes undistributed
   net investment income of $10,575 and
   $12,699 respectively)................     $643,465          $505,189
                                          ---------------   ---------------
                                          ---------------   ---------------
</TABLE>
 
    The Accompanying Notes are an Integral Part of the Financial Statements
                       (Prepared from Unaudited Figures)
 
                                      ---
                                       73
<PAGE>
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
International Equity Portfolio
Financial Highlights
(FOR A SHARE OUTSTANDING THROUGHOUT THE PERIOD)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                    FOR THE
                                                                                                    PERIOD
                                              FOR THE                                               MAY 3,
                                            SIX MONTHS                FOR THE YEARS                  1994*
                                          ENDED JUNE 30,           ENDED DECEMBER 31,               THROUGH
                                               1997         ---------------------------------    DECEMBER 31,
                                            (UNAUDITED)          1996              1995              1994
                                          ---------------   ---------------   ---------------   ---------------
<S>                                       <C>               <C>               <C>               <C>
SELECTED PER SHARE DATA
  Net Asset Value, Beginning of
   Period...............................     $   1.56          $   1.35          $   1.19          $   1.22
    Income from Investment Operations:
      Net Investment Income.............         0.03              0.04              0.04              0.02
      Net Realized and Unrealized
       Gain/(Loss) on Investments.......         0.19              0.24              0.13             (0.02)
                                          ---------------   ---------------   ---------------   ---------------
        Total from Investment
         Operations.....................         0.22              0.28              0.17              0.00
                                          ---------------   ---------------   ---------------   ---------------
    Less Distributions:
      Distributions from Net Investment
       Income...........................        (0.04)            (0.03)          --                  (0.02)
      Distributions from Realized Gains
       on Investments...................        (0.02)            (0.04)            (0.01)            (0.01)
                                          ---------------   ---------------   ---------------   ---------------
        Total Distributions.............        (0.06)            (0.07)            (0.01)            (0.03)
                                          ---------------   ---------------   ---------------   ---------------
  Net Asset Value, End of Period........     $   1.72          $   1.56          $   1.35          $   1.19
                                          ---------------   ---------------   ---------------   ---------------
                                          ---------------   ---------------   ---------------   ---------------
  Total Return+.........................        14.41%++          21.01%            14.57%             0.11%++
                                          ---------------   ---------------   ---------------   ---------------
                                          ---------------   ---------------   ---------------   ---------------
RATIOS AND SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net Assets, End of Period (in
 thousands).............................     $643,465          $505,189          $342,127          $292,533
                                          ---------------   ---------------   ---------------   ---------------
                                          ---------------   ---------------   ---------------   ---------------
Ratio of Expenses to Average Net
 Assets.................................         0.71%**           0.81%             0.85%             0.87%**
                                          ---------------   ---------------   ---------------   ---------------
                                          ---------------   ---------------   ---------------   ---------------
Ratio of Net Investment Income to
 Average Net Assets.....................         3.76%**           3.02%             2.68%             2.28%**
                                          ---------------   ---------------   ---------------   ---------------
                                          ---------------   ---------------   ---------------   ---------------
Portfolio Turnover Rate.................         4.36%            17.07%            26.71%            10.97%
                                          ---------------   ---------------   ---------------   ---------------
                                          ---------------   ---------------   ---------------   ---------------
Average Commission Rate#................     $ 0.0007          $ 0.0151
                                          ---------------   ---------------
                                          ---------------   ---------------
</TABLE>
 
 *Commencement of Operations.
 
**Computed on an annualized basis.
 
 +Total Return includes deductions for management and other fund expenses;
  excludes deductions for sales loads and account fees.
 
++Reflects total return for the period; not annualized.
 
 #Disclosure required for fiscal years beginning after September 1, 1995.
 
    The Accompanying Notes are an Integral Part of the Financial Statements
 
                                      ---
                                       74
<PAGE>
AGGRESSIVE GROWTH STOCK PORTFOLIO
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Aggressive Growth Stock Portfolio
Financial Statements
(IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
 
STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES
JUNE 30, 1997
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                       <C>
ASSETS
  Common Stocks (cost $586,863).........  $878,994
  Money Market Investments (cost
   $86,633).............................    86,633
                                          ---------
                                           965,627
  Cash..................................     4,302
  Due from Sale of Securities...........       281
  Due from Sale of Fund Shares..........       261
  Dividends and Interest Receivable.....        90
                                          ---------
    Total Assets........................   970,561
                                          ---------
LIABILITIES
  Due on Purchase of Securities.........     7,800
  Due on Redemption of Fund Shares......     1,039
  Due to Investment Advisor.............       412
  Futures Variation Margin..............       150
  Accrued Expenses......................        47
                                          ---------
    Total Liabilities...................     9,448
                                          ---------
NET ASSETS..............................  $961,113
                                          ---------
                                          ---------
REPRESENTED BY:
  Aggregate Paid in Capital (700,000
   shares authorized, $.01 par value;
   311,045 shares outstanding)..........  $676,197
  Undistributed Net Investment Income...       532
  Undistributed Accumulated Net Realized
   Loss on Investments..................    (7,504)
  Net Unrealized Appreciation of:
    Investment Securities...............   292,131
    Index Futures Contracts.............      (243)
                                          ---------
  Net Assets for 311,045 Shares
   Outstanding..........................  $961,113
                                          ---------
                                          ---------
  Net Asset Value, Offering and
   Redemption Price per Share...........  $   3.09
                                          ---------
                                          ---------
</TABLE>
 
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 1997
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                       <C>
INVESTMENT INCOME
  Income
    Interest............................  $  2,490
    Dividends...........................       494
                                          ---------
      Total Income......................     2,984
                                          ---------
  Expenses
    Management Fees.....................     2,215
    Custodian Expenses..................        14
    Other Expenses......................        27
                                          ---------
      Total Expenses....................     2,256
                                          ---------
        Less Custodian Fees:
           Paid by Affiliate............       (11)
           Paid Indirectly..............        (3)
                                          ---------
      Total Net Expenses................     2,242
                                          ---------
  Net Investment Income.................       742
                                          ---------
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS) ON
 INVESTMENTS
  Net Realized Gain (Loss) on
   Investments:
    Investment Securities...............    (4,427)
    Index Futures Contracts.............     2,113
                                          ---------
      Net Realized Loss on Investments
       for the Period...................    (2,314)
                                          ---------
  Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation
   (Depreciation) of:
    Investment Securities...............    53,471
    Index Futures Contracts.............      (243)
                                          ---------
      Net Change in Unrealized
       Appreciation of Investments for
       the Period                           53,228
                                          ---------
  Net Gain on Investments...............    50,914
                                          ---------
NET INCREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING
 FROM OPERATIONS........................  $ 51,656
                                          ---------
                                          ---------
</TABLE>
 
    The Accompanying Notes are an Integral Part of the Financial Statements
                       (Prepared from Unaudited Figures)
 
                                      ---
                                       75
<PAGE>
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Aggressive Growth Stock Portfolio
Statement of Changes in Net Assets
(IN THOUSANDS)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                           FOR THE
                                             SIX       FOR THE
                                           MONTHS       YEAR
                                            ENDED       ENDED
                                          JUNE 30,    DECEMBER
                                            1997      31, 1996
                                          ---------   ---------
<S>                                       <C>         <C>
INCREASE IN NET ASSETS
  Operations
    Net Investment Income (Loss)........  $    742    $   (210)
    Net Realized Gain (Loss) on
     Investments........................    (2,314)     52,175
    Net Change in Unrealized
     Appreciation of Investments for the
     Period.............................    53,228      56,387
                                          ---------   ---------
      Net Increase in Net Assets
      Resulting from Operations.........    51,656     108,352
                                          ---------   ---------
  Distributions to Shareholders from:
    Net Investment Income...............         0        (572)
    Net Realized Gain on Investments....   (57,365)    (24,986)
                                          ---------   ---------
      Net Decrease in Net Assets
      Resulting from Distributions to
      Shareholders......................   (57,365)    (25,558)
                                          ---------   ---------
  Fund Share Transactions
    Proceeds from Sale of 20,098 and
     64,691 Shares......................    58,729     198,427
    Proceeds from Shares Issued on
     Reinvestment of Distributions Paid
     (20,913 and 8,276 shares,
     respectively)......................    57,365      25,558
    Payments for 7,188 and 3,953 Shares
     Redeemed...........................   (21,198)    (11,867)
                                          ---------   ---------
      Net Increase in Net Assets
      Resulting from Fund Share
      Transactions (33,822 and 69,014
      shares, respectively).............    94,896     212,118
                                          ---------   ---------
  Total Increase in Net Assets..........    89,187     294,912
 
NET ASSETS
  Beginning of Period...................   871,926     577,014
                                          ---------   ---------
  End of Period (includes undistributed
   net investment income/(loss) of $532
   and $(210), respectively)............  $961,113    $871,926
                                          ---------   ---------
                                          ---------   ---------
</TABLE>
 
    The Accompanying Notes are an Integral Part of the Financial Statements
                       (Prepared from Unaudited Figures)
 
                                      ---
                                       76
<PAGE>
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Aggressive Growth Stock Portfolio
Financial Highlights
(FOR A SHARE OUTSTANDING THROUGHOUT THE PERIOD)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                              FOR THE                               FOR THE PERIOD
                                            SIX MONTHS          FOR THE YEARS        MAY 3, 1994*
                                          ENDED JUNE 30,     ENDED DECEMBER 31,         THROUGH
                                               1997         ---------------------    DECEMBER 31,
                                            (UNAUDITED)       1996        1995           1994
                                          ---------------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
<S>                                       <C>               <C>         <C>         <C>
SELECTED PER SHARE DATA
  Net Asset Value, Beginning of
   Period...............................     $   3.15       $   2.77    $   2.00       $   1.91
  Income from Investment Operations:
    Net Investment Income...............           --             --          --             --
    Net Realized and Unrealized Gains on
     Investments........................         0.14           0.49        0.78           0.09
                                          ---------------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
      Total from Investment
       Operations.......................         0.14           0.49        0.78           0.09
                                          ---------------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
  Less Distributions:
    Distributions from Net Investment
     Income.............................           --             --          --             --
    Distributions from Realized Gains on
     Investments........................        (0.20)         (0.11)      (0.01)            --
                                          ---------------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
      Total Distributions...............        (0.20)         (0.11)      (0.01)            --
                                          ---------------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
  Net Asset Value, End of Period........     $   3.09       $   3.15    $   2.77       $   2.00
                                          ---------------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
                                          ---------------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
  Total Return+.........................         5.44%++       17.70%      39.29%          4.47%++
                                          ---------------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
                                          ---------------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
RATIOS AND SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
  Net Assets, End of Period (in
   thousands)...........................     $961,113       $871,926    $577,014       $327,096
                                          ---------------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
                                          ---------------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
  Ratio of Expenses to Average Net
   Assets...............................         0.52%**        0.54%       0.56%          0.58%**
                                          ---------------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
                                          ---------------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
  Ratio of Net Investment Income/(Loss)
   to Average Net Assets................         0.17%**       (0.03%)      0.13%          0.29%**
                                          ---------------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
                                          ---------------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
  Portfolio Turnover Rate...............        32.34%         47.25%      37.84%         21.54%
                                          ---------------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
                                          ---------------   ---------   ---------   ---------------
  Average Commission Rate #.............     $ 0.0538       $ 0.0513
                                          ---------------   ---------
                                          ---------------   ---------
</TABLE>
 
 *Commencement of Operations.
 
 **Computed on an annualized basis.
 
 +Total Return includes deductions for management and other fund expenses;
  excludes deductions for sales loads and account fees.
 
++Reflects total return for the period; not annualized.
 
 #Disclosure required for fiscal years beginning after September 1, 1995.
 
    The Accompanying Notes are an Integral Part of the Financial Statements
 
                                      ---
                                       77
<PAGE>
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
JUNE 30, 1997
 
NOTE 1 -- Northwestern Mutual Series Fund, Inc. (the "Series Fund"), is
registered as a diversified open-end investment company under the Investment
Company Act of 1940. The Series Fund consists of the Money Market Portfolio,
Select Bond Portfolio, High Yield Bond Portfolio, Balanced Portfolio, Index 500
Stock Portfolio, Growth and Income Stock Portfolio, Growth Stock Portfolio,
International Equity Portfolio and the Aggressive Growth Stock Portfolio (the
"Portfolios"). Shares are present offered only to The Northwestern Mutual Life
Insurance Company ("Northwestern Mutual Life") and its segregated asset
accounts.
 
NOTE 2 -- The preparation of the financial statements in conformity with
generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates
and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at
the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and
expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those
estimates.
 
Principal accounting policies are summarized below.
 
NOTE 3 -- Bonds are valued on the basis of prices furnished by a service which
determines prices for normal institutional size trading units of bonds, without
regard to exchange or over-the-counter prices. When quotations are not readily
available, bonds are valued at fair market value determined by procedures
approved by the Board of Directors. Stocks listed on a national or foreign stock
exchange are valued at the final sale price, or final bid price in absence of a
sale. Stocks not listed on a national or foreign stock exchange are valued at
the closing bid price on the over-the-counter market. Money market investments,
other than in the Money Market Portfolio, with maturities exceeding sixty days
but generally not exceeding one year are valued by marking to market on the
basis of an average of the most recent bid prices or yields. Money market
investments with maturities of sixty days or less and all securities in the
Money Market Portfolio are valued on an amortized cost basis or, if the current
market value differs substantially from the amortized cost, by marking to
market.
 
NOTE 4 -- Securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign
currencies are translated into U.S. dollar amounts on the date of valuation.
Purchases and sales of securities and income items denominated in foreign
currencies are translated in U.S. dollar amounts on the respective dates of such
transactions. When the International Equity Portfolio purchases or sells a
foreign security it may enter into a foreign exchange currency contract to
minimize market risk from the trade date to the settlement date of such
transaction. Such foreign exchange currency contracts are marked to market
daily.
 
The International Equity Portfolio does not separately report the results of
operations due to changes in foreign exchange rates on investments from the
fluctuations arising from changes in market prices of securities held. Such
fluctuations are included with the net realized gain or loss from investments.
 
Net realized foreign exchange gains or losses arise from sales of foreign
currencies, currency gains or losses realized between the trade date and the
settlement date on security transactions, the differences between the amounts of
dividends and foreign withholding taxes recorded on the portfolio's books, and
the U.S. dollar equivalent of the amounts actually received or paid.
 
NOTE 5 -- The Select Bond, Balanced, Index 500 Stock, Growth Stock and
Aggressive Growth Stock Portfolios invest in futures contracts as an alternative
to investing in individual securities. The Select Bond, Balanced, Index 500
Stock, Growth Stock and Aggressive Growth Stock could be exposed to market risk
due to changes in the value of the underlying securities or due to an illiquid
secondary market. Futures contracts are marked to market daily based upon quoted
settlement prices. The Portfolios receive from or pay to brokers an amount of
cash equal to the daily fluctuation in the value of the contracts. Such receipts
or payments, known as the "variation margin," are recorded by the Portfolios as
unrealized gains or losses. When the contract is closed, the Portfolios record a
realized gain or loss equal to the difference between the value of the contract
at the time it was opened and the value at the time it was closed.
 
                                       --
                                       78
<PAGE>
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
JUNE 30, 1997
 
NOTE 6 -- Interest income and discounts earned are recorded daily on the accrual
basis and dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date or as soon as
information from foreign issuers is available. Where applicable, dividends are
recorded net of foreign dividend tax. Discounts and premiums on securities
purchased are amortized over the life of the respective securities when required
for federal income tax purposes using the effective interest method. Securities
transactions are accounted for on trade date. The basis for determining cost on
sale of securities is identified cost. For the period ended June 30, 1997,
transactions in securities other than money market investments were:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                       TOTAL        U.S. GOVT
                                                                         TOTAL        U.S. GOVT      SECURITY       SECURITY
                                                                       SECURITY       SECURITY        SALES/         SALES/
PORTFOLIOS                                                             PURCHASES      PURCHASES     MATURITIES     MATURITIES
- -------------------------------------------------------------------  -------------  -------------  -------------  -------------
<S>                                                                  <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>
Select Bond........................................................  $ 210,064,832  $  65,193,563  $ 196,704,941  $ 120,195,869
High Yield Bond....................................................    123,254,231       --           99,605,289       --
Balanced...........................................................    385,163,083    176,958,121    457,374,695    247,778,274
Index 500 Stock....................................................     91,897,788       --           10,786,953       --
Growth and Income Stock............................................    214,399,020       --          165,693,524       --
Growth Stock.......................................................     50,041,289       --           30,096,005       --
International Equity...............................................     71,754,802       --           29,756,637     10,000,000
Aggressive Growth Stock............................................    278,294,684       --          242,309,319       --
</TABLE>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
NOTE 7 -- The Series Fund and its Portfolios are parties to annually renewable
contracts pursuant to which each Portfolio pays a charge for investment
management and administrative services. Each Portfolio pays a monthly fee for
these investment advisory services at an annual rate based on the average daily
net asset values of each Portfolio. For the
Index 500 Stock Portfolio the rate is .20%, and for the Select Bond, Money
Market and Balanced Portfolios the rate is .30%. For the other Portfolios the
rate for the investment advisory fee is graded by the asset size of the
Portfolio according to the following schedule:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                    FIRST $50    NEXT $50
PORTFOLIOS                           MILLION      MILLION       EXCESS
- ---------------------------------  -----------  -----------  -------------
<S>                                <C>          <C>          <C>
High Yield Bond..................         .60%         .50%          .40%
Growth and Income Stock..........         .70%         .60%          .55%
Growth Stock.....................         .60%         .50%          .40%
International Equity.............         .85%         .65%          .65%
Aggressive Growth Stock..........         .80%         .65%          .50%
</TABLE>
 
These amounts are paid to Northwestern Mutual Investment Services, Inc. ("NMIS")
a wholly-owned subsidiary of Northwestern Mutual Life, which is the manager and
investment adviser of the Fund. Northwestern Mutual Life is also a party to the
agreement. Other costs for each Portfolio are paid either by the Portfolios,
Northwestern Mutual Life, or NMIS depending upon the applicable agreement in
place.
 
Certain portfolios pay a portion of their custodian fees indirectly through
expense offset arrangements. Custodian fees are reduced for Portfolios that
maintain compensating balances in non-interest bearing accounts. The portfolios
could have invested the assets used to pay for the custodian fees, had the
assets not been used in the expense offset arrangements. As of June 30, 1997,
the amounts paid through expense offset arrangements are $31,810 in the High
Yield Bond Portfolio, $1,295 in the Index 500 Portfolio, $3,395 in the Growth
and Income Stock Portfolio, $2,435 in the Growth Stock Portfolio and $2,789 in
the Aggressive Growth Stock Portfolio.
 
J. P. Morgan Investment Management, Inc. ("J. P. Morgan") and Templeton
Investment Counsel, Inc. ("Templeton Counsel") have been retained under an
investment sub-advisory agreement to provide investment advice and, in general,
to conduct the management investment program of the Growth and Income Stock
Portfolio and the International Equity Portfolio, respectively. NMIS pays J.P.
Morgan .45% on the first $100 million of the combined net assets for all funds
managed for Northwestern Mutual Life by J.P. Morgan, .40% on the next $100
million, .35% on the next $200 million and .30% in excess of $400 million. NMIS
pays Templeton Counsel .50% on the first $100 million of the combined net assets
for all funds managed for Northwestern Mutual Life by Templeton Counsel and .40%
in excess of $100 million.
 
                                       --
                                       79
<PAGE>
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
Notes to Financial Statements
JUNE 30, 1997
 
NOTE 8 -- The Series Fund has elected to be taxed as a regulated investment
company meeting certain requirements under the Internal Revenue Code. Since it
expects to distribute all net investment income and net realized capital gains,
the Series Fund anticipates incurring no federal income taxes. A net realized
capital loss of $768,562 in the Select Bond Portfolio carried forward from 1995
and is available to offset future net realized capital gains. The amount expires
in 2002. A capital loss carryforward of $569,291 was utilized in the Select Bond
Portfolio during the year ended December 31, 1996. As of June 30, 1997, the
federal income tax basis of investments is the same as the cost basis in the
financial statements except for the International Equity Portfolio. The federal
income tax basis on investments was $493,345,370 for the International Equity
Portfolio. The net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) for federal income tax
purposes are shown below:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                            (IN THOUSANDS)
                                                                                       HIGH YIELD                  INDEX 500
                                                                         SELECT BOND      BOND        BALANCED       STOCK
                                                                          PORTFOLIO     PORTFOLIO    PORTFOLIO     PORTFOLIO
                                                                         ------------  -----------  ------------  -----------
<S>                                                                      <C>           <C>          <C>           <C>
Gross unrealized appreciation..........................................   $    3,152    $   5,634    $  697,820    $ 364,349
Gross unrealized depreciation..........................................         (618)      (1,691)      (19,248)      (7,709)
                                                                         ------------  -----------  ------------  -----------
Net unrealized appreciation............................................   $    2,534    $   3,943    $  677,820    $ 356,640
                                                                         ------------  -----------  ------------  -----------
                                                                         ------------  -----------  ------------  -----------
 
<CAPTION>
 
                                                                                                                  AGGRESSIVE
                                                                          GROWTH AND     GROWTH     INTERNATIONAL   GROWTH
                                                                         INCOME STOCK     STOCK        EQUITY        STOCK
                                                                          PORTFOLIO     PORTFOLIO    PORTFOLIO     PORTFOLIO
                                                                         ------------  -----------  ------------  -----------
<S>                                                                      <C>           <C>          <C>           <C>
Gross unrealized appreciation..........................................   $   46,053    $  57,081    $  168,051    $ 300,549
Gross unrealized depreciation..........................................       (4,205)      (1,084)      (20,668)      (8,418)
                                                                         ------------  -----------  ------------  -----------
Net unrealized appreciation............................................   $   41,848    $  55,997    $  147,383    $ 292,131
                                                                         ------------  -----------  ------------  -----------
                                                                         ------------  -----------  ------------  -----------
</TABLE>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
Taxable distributions from net investment income and realized capital gains in
the Portfolios differ from book amounts earned during the period due to
differences in the timing of capital recognition and due to the reclassification
of certain gains or losses from capital to income.
 
For Federal income tax purposes, net unrealized appreciation(depreciation) on
open futures contracts is required to be treated as realized gains(losses).
 
NOTE 9 -- Dividends from net investment income and net realized capital gains
are declared each year for the Select Bond, High Yield Bond, Balanced, Index 500
Stock, Growth and Income Stock, Growth Stock, International Equity and
Aggressive Growth Stock Portfolios and each business day for the Money Market
Portfolio. Dividend distributions are described below.
 
A dividend was declared on May 12, 1997, payable to shareholders of record on
May 12, 1997. Dividends paid from 1996 net investment income and 1996 net
capital gains were as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                           NET
                                        INVESTMENT   NET CAPITAL
PORTFOLIOS                                INCOME        GAINS
- -------------------------------------  ------------  ------------
<S>                                    <C>           <C>
Select Bond..........................  $ 13,298,619  $    --
High Yield Bond......................       160,082       992,215
Balanced.............................    86,698,498    29,228,140
Index 500 Stock......................    13,865,506    16,994,473
Growth and Income Stock..............        26,286     6,062,555
Growth Stock.........................        14,615       799,017
International Equity.................    12,704,098     7,541,567
Aggressive Growth Stock..............       --         57,364,645
</TABLE>
 
A dividend was declared on June 26, 1997, payable to shareholders of record on
June 26, 1997. Dividends paid from 1997 net investment income:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                 NET INVESTMENT
PORTFOLIOS                                           INCOME
- -----------------------------------------------  ---------------
<S>                                              <C>
High Yield Bond................................       $3,943,225
Growth and Income Stock........................        1,262,918
Growth Stock...................................        1,203,768
</TABLE>
 
NOTE 10 -- Effective April 1, 1996, NML voluntarily reimburses the International
Equity Portfolio for the benefit NML receives from foreign dividend taxes
charged against the Portfolio. The amount reimbursed represents approximately
65% of the foreign dividend tax withheld from the Portfolio. Reimbursements are
recorded when foreign dividend taxes are accrued. This voluntary reimbursement
as of June 30, 1997 was $807,364 and for the period April 1, 1996 through
December 31, 1996 was $921,388.
 
                                       --
                                       80
<PAGE>
TO:  Annuity Administration Division - Annuity & Accumulation Products Dept.
        / / IRA & Personal (Individual Billing) FAX 414-299-2632
        / / Pension, TDA & SEP (Group Billing) FAX 414-299-5123
 
Northwestern
Mutual Life -Registered Trademark-
720 East Wisconsin Avenue
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202
            DEFERRED VARIABLE ANNUITY - TRANSFER OR ALLOCATION CHANGE
 
1.  Contract
 
<TABLE>
<S>                        <C>
 CONTRACT NO.              ANNUITANT (PLEASE PRINT)
</TABLE>
 
2.  Transfer Existing Balances
 
    The minimum amount that may be transferred from any investment division is
    $100 or all of the units in that division, whichever is less. If you want to
    transfer the entire division, indicate "ALL."
 
<TABLE>
<S>                           <C>           <C>           <C>               <C>             <C>
                                              TRANSFER FROM:                           TRANSFER TO:
                                                              Number of                       Percent (Whole
     Investment Division      Dollar Amount       OR      Accumulation Units  Dollar Amount OR Percents Only)
  1. Select Bond              $                                             1 $                            %
  2. International Equity     $                                             2 $                            %
  3. Money Market             $                                             3 $                            %
  4. Balanced                 $                                             4 $                            %
  5. Index 500 Stock          $                                             5 $                            %
  6. Aggressive Growth Stock  $                                             6 $                            %
  7. High Yield Bond          $                                             7 $                            %
  8. Growth Stock             $                                             8 $                            %
  9. Growth and Income Stock  $                                             9 $                            %
 10. Guaranteed Interest Fund+ $                                 N/A        10 $                           %
                         TOTAL $                                              $                        100 %
</TABLE>
 
 Special Instructions:
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
3.  Change Allocation of Future Investments:
 
 Future investments will continue to be allocated as they were prior to the
 transfer shown above, unless new instructions are given below. Please indicate
 in whole percents only, for a total of 100%.
 
<TABLE>
<S><C>           <C>  <C>                       <C>  <C><C>                       <C>
1. Select Bond    %   4. Balanced                %   7. High Yield Bond            %
                 ----                           ----                              ----
   International
2. Equity         %   5. Index 500 Stock         %   8. Growth Stock               %
                 ----                           ----                              ----
3. Money Market   %   6. Aggresive Growth Stock  %   9. Growth and Income Stock    %
                 ----                           ----                              ----
                                                     10. Guaranteed Interest Fund+  %
                                                                                  ----
</TABLE>
 
4.  Effective Date:
 
    This transfer and/or allocation of future investments shall be effective on
    ------------------------------ (INSERT SPECIFIC DATE IF DESIRED). If no date
    is specified, or if this form is not received at NML's Home Office (see
    address in first class mail section) prior to 3:00 p.m. Central time on that
    date, this transfer shall be effective on the date this form is received
    (complete and signed) at NML's Home Office.
 
5.  Signature of Owner(s)/Trustee Required (TITLE MUST BE INCLUDED):
 
  ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Date signed
    -----------------------------
 
  ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Date signed
    -----------------------------
    Trustee's Daytime No.     (  )
               -----------------------------------------------------------------
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                                                                   <C>
                                FOR AGENT'S USE ONLY
     Instructions for this transfer were LINKed on
- ------------------------------ (DATE).
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<S>                                                                                   <C>
                                                                                        (See FAX/LINK Instructions)
 
     GA No.    ---------------------------    Agent No.
- ------------------------------
</TABLE>
 
+   Not available in all states. See Transfer Restrictions section. The
    Guaranteed Interest Fund is not available for all contracts issued in NML
    Separate Account C.
 
                                                                       WORD 6-FE
90-1854 (0196)                                                     (Page 1 of 2)
<PAGE>
                            HOW TO SUBMIT THIS FORM
 
FIRST CLASS MAIL
 
Please mail form to Northwestern Mutual Life, Annuity Services Division, P.O.
Box 2099, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202-9839. See Section 4 (page 1) for effective
date.
 
FAX
 
The completed/signed transfer/change of allocation form may be FAXed to the Home
Office at the number provided at the top of page 1. The original transfer form
is not needed. Please keep for your records. See Section 4 for effective date.
 
LINK
 
NML Agents only: If timing is critical and FAX equipment is unavailable, the
transfer/change of allocation request may be LINKed to the Home Office. You MUST
have a completed, signed transfer form in your possession. The original signed
transfer form must be received in the Home Office within five (5) working days
from the date of the LINK. The effective date will be the date that the LINK is
received in the Home Office. Be sure to complete the "Agent's Use Only" box at
the bottom of the form.
 
                             SIGNATURE INSTRUCTION
 
SIGNATURE BY OWNER
 
All Owners must sign name as it appears in the policy contract. If the Owner's
name has changed since the policy was issued, he/she should add his/her present
surname to his/her name as it appears in the policy contract.
 
SIGNATURE BY ASSIGNEE
 
If the signer of the form is an assignee and the assignee is a bank, savings and
loan association, other financial institution or corporation, an officer must
sign with his/her title. Name of corporate entity must appear above the
signature.
 
SIGNATURE ON BEHALF OF CORPORATION
 
If the signer of the form is a corporation, an officer of the corporation must
sign on behalf of the corporation with his/her title. The name of the
corporation must appear above the signature.
 
SIGNATURE ON BEHALF OF PARTNERSHIP
 
If the signer of the form is a partnership, the name of the partnership must
appear above the signature. A partner other than the Annuitant must sign.
 
SIGNATURE ON BEHALF OF TRUST
 
If the signer of the form is a Trust, the authorized Trustee must sign his/her
name, followed by the word "Trustee." The name of the Trust must appear above
the signature.
 
             + GUARANTEED INTEREST FUND (GIF) TRANSFER RESTRICTIONS
 
Timing Restriction:
 
No transfers into or out of the Guaranteed Interest Fund are allowed for a
period of 365 days following a transfer out of the fund.
 
Amount Restriction:
 
The maximum amount that may be transferred out of the GIF in any one transfer is
limited to THE GREATER OF:
 
- -  20% of the GIF value on the previous anniversary, and
 
- -  amount of the most recent transfer from the Guaranteed Interest Fund.
 
However, in no event will this maximum transfer amount be less than $1,000 or
greater than $50,000.
 
                                                                       WORD 6-FE
90-1854 (0196)                                                     (Page 2 of 2)
<PAGE>
                                     NOTES
 
                                       --
                                       83
<PAGE>
                            NOTES
 
                                       --
                                       84
<PAGE>
DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SERIES FUND, INC.
 
DIRECTORS
James D. Ericson .... President and Chief Executive Officer, Northwestern Mutual
Life,
 ..................................................................... Milwaukee
Martin F. Stein ................ Chairman of the Board, EyeCare One Corporation,
 ..................................................................... Milwaukee
John K. MacIver ........... Partner, Michael Best & Friedrich, Attorneys at Law,
 ..................................................................... Milwaukee
Stephen N. Graff ........................ Retired Partner, Arthur Andersen, LLP,
 ..................................................................... Milwaukee
William J. Blake ........................ Chairman, Blake Financial Corporation,
 ..................................................................... Milwaukee
William A. McIntosh .......... Retired Division Head--U.S. Fixed Income, Salomon
Brothers,
 ................................................................ Kenilworth, IL
 
OFFICERS
James D. Ericson ..................................................... President
Mark G. Doll ........................................ Vice President & Treasurer
Merrill C. Lundberg .................................................. Secretary
Barbara E. Courtney ................................................. Controller
 
                                       --
                                       85
<PAGE>

This report is submitted for the general information of owners of NML Variable
Annuity Account B contracts.  This report is not authorized for distribution to
prospective purchasers of variable annuity contracts unless it is accompanied by
an effective prospectus.  Northwestern Mutual Life variable annuity contracts
are sold through individuals who in addition to being licensed life insurance
agents of Northwestern Mutual Life, are registered representatives of
Northwestern Mutual Investment Services, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of
Northwestern Mutual Life and a registered broker-dealer under the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934 and a member of the National Association of Securities
Dealers, Inc.

90-1776 (6-97)


NORTHWESTERN
MUTUAL LIFE -Registered Trademark-

PO Box 3095
Milwaukee WI  53201-3095


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